[citation needed] It was named in honor of the 11th-century Queen Margaret of Scotland, the patron saint of education.

The significance of this name is reflected in many St. Margaret's traditions, such as the use of bagpipes in formal ceremonies, along with their athletic team nickname, the Tartans.

There are 26 Advanced Placement courses offered in history, math, science, art, language, theatre, music and other subjects.

[5] St. Margaret's sports teams are called the Tartans, and they compete as members of the Orange Coast League in the CIF Southern Section.

Additionally, the boys cross country team won the CIF Division 5 State Championship in 2010, 2011, and 2018.

St. Margaret's boasts highly competitive men's and women's lacrosse programs, the school's only Division 1 CIF Southern Section sports.

In 2011, St. Margaret's constructed a performing arts center, which includes the Hurlbut Theater and houses the music, dance, and theatre departments.