Traditions
Its motto is "Abeunt Studia in Mores" which translates literally as "studies become habits" or "practices zealously pursued pass into habits". It can be taken to mean "Studies build one's character".
Its symbol is the heron, a bird traditionally associated with the area. Its alumni are known as "Old Heronians".
Its uniform colour is burgundy, having previously been black, and the school uniform must be worn by all pupils except the sixth form, where students are required to dress formally.
History
Wanstead County High school opened in 1924 as a mixed Grammar school. It was one of the first co-educational secondary schools in England. The site had previously been a rectory.
During the Second World War, the school was evacuated to Newent. On 15 February 1957, over 150 pupils suffered food poisoning. Until 1965 it was administered by the Essex Education Committee. In the 1960s, the school had around 800 boys and girls, with 250 in the sixth form.
The school buildings were extended in 1964 and again in 1974 when the science and humanities block was built.
In 2013, the school received a "Requires Improvement" rating from Ofsted. The report stated that 'Achievement is not yet good. Students are not making good enough progress in a number of subjects including modern foreign languages, business studies and geography.'
In 2025, the school received a "Good" rating from Ofsted. The report stated that 'The school has worked well to ensure that the quality of education is effective, and pupils’ behaviour is strong. Pupils feel safe and enjoy coming to school. Sixth-form students exhibit exceptionally strong, mature attitudes to their education.'
