Hill House
Secular
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
National Curriculum (England)Hill House is an independent, family-run school in London for boys and girls aged 4 to 13 that provides a broad-based education within a diverse and inclusive community.
Curriculum
Term structure
Teaching approach
Founded on the principles of mutual respect, understanding, and peaceful co-existence, the school believes that a child's mind is a fire to be kindled rather than a vessel to be filled. It aims to foster a lifelong love of learning by encouraging pupils to think critically, challenge assumptions, and explore real-world concepts in a warm, nurturing, and inclusive environment. The school remains under the day-to-day control of the founding Townend family.
Programmes
The school follows a traditional English curriculum, with small class sizes designed to prepare pupils for entrance and scholarship examinations to senior schools. The academic journey is structured by age: Small School (Reception, ages 4-5), Lower School (Year 1, age 5-6), Middle School (Year 2, age 6-7), Upper School (Years 3-4, ages 7-9), Transitus (Year 5, age 9-10), and Senior School (Year 6, age 10-11), followed by Lower and Upper Sixth Form (Years 7-8, ages 11-13).
Student support
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Hill House offer?
- Hill House offers National Curriculum (England).
- How much is tuition at Hill House?
- Annual tuition at Hill House is £22.7K–£29K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What ages does Hill House teach?
- Hill House enrolls students aged 4 to 13.
- Is Hill House co-educational?
- Hill House is a co-ed school.
- Where is Hill House located?
- Hill House is an international school in London, United Kingdom.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2025-2026| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Small School (Reception) | 4–5 | £22.7K |
| Lower School (Year 1) | 5–6 | £23.8K |
| Middle School (Year 2) | 6–7 | £23.8K |
| Upper School (Year 3 & 4) | 7–9 | £25.6K |
| Transitus (Year 5) | 9–10 | £27.9K |
| Senior School (Year 6) | 10–11 | £27.9K |
| Lower Sixth Form (Year 7) | 11–12 | £29K |
| Upper Sixth Form (Year 8) | 12–13 | £29K |
Other fees(1)
| Bus / transport· To School Bus Service (optional, fees not specified) | — |
|---|
Admissions
The main point of entry is at age four (Reception), though pupils may join at any stage throughout the year if places are available. The admissions process requires a school tour, followed by a 'Getting to Know You' session for younger applicants or an academic and pastoral assessment for older children. Successful applicants are invited to familiarisation events prior to their start date.
Calendar
The school operates on a three-quarter system: Winter (September to December), Spring (January to March), and Summer (April to July). Each quarter includes a mid-term break.
Facilities
About the campus
The school operates across multiple locations in Chelsea, including sites at Flood Street, Cadogan Gardens, and Hans Place. Facilities include dedicated spaces for music and drama, such as the Founders’ Hall for showcases, and access to a purpose-built chalet in Switzerland. The school also utilizes local venues for sports and swimming.
Co-curriculars
The school offers a variety of Friday clubs and extensive opportunities in the arts, including drama, dance, and music ensembles such as cello, piano, harp, guitar, and woodwind. Sports are a significant component of school life, with pupils participating in activities like swimming and cricket, including representation in the London Youth Games. Additionally, pupils have the unique opportunity to attend courses at the school's purpose-built chalet in Glion, Switzerland.
- Edmund TownendHeadmaster
As the Headmaster of Hill House School, he oversees the school's operations and communicates regularly with parents through newsletters.
- Mr Chris CarlsonUndermaster and Pastoral Director
As the Undermaster and Pastoral Director, he holds a senior leadership position focused on the school's pastoral care and administration.
- Miss Karen TrautDirector of Studies
As the Director of Studies, she is responsible for the academic curriculum and educational standards at the school.
- Mrs Janet TownendDirector of Admissions
As the Director of Admissions, she manages the school's enrollment process and prospective student inquiries.
- Mrs Melanie RickardsHeads of House Middle School
As the Head of House for the Middle School, she oversees the students and operations within that specific division.
- Miss Ria de GiorgiHeads of House Lower School
As the Head of House for the Lower School, she oversees the students and operations within that specific division.
- Mrs Beth HealdHeads of House Small School
As the Head of House for the Small School, she oversees the students and operations within that specific division.
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