[1] In 1881, Stansfeld enrolled on courses for female school teachers, taught by Martina Bergman-Osterberg, and she was recruited as an instructor for Hampstead Physical Training College in 1885.
She played a leading role in founding the Ling Association, for the promotion of Swedish gymnastics, in 1899 and later established their library and courses, and was their President from 1910 to 1920.
She began with 13 students and developed Bedford into an exclusive women's physical training college.
[1][3] Stansfeld's contribution to physical education was recognised in her appointment as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 1939 Birthday Honours.
[4] Her legacy is still remembered with the Margaret Stansfeld Building, named in her honour, forming part of Bedford College.