South Hampstead High School

The school is guided by the values of Aspiration, Creativity, Kindness, Courage, and Commitment. It aims to foster a culture of curiosity and joyful scholarship, encouraging pupils to think independently and imaginatively. The school focuses on enabling girls to thrive intellectually and personally, preparing them to be forward-looking, responsible, and active participants in a rapidly changing world.

The school offers a comprehensive academic curriculum from the Junior School through to the Sixth Form. The Sixth Form provides 24 subjects at A Level and includes an intellectual enrichment programme. The curriculum is supported by a wide range of academic activities, including lectures, competitions, and partnerships, designed to ignite a joy in learning across all stages.

The school consistently achieves excellent academic results, with approximately 80% of students progressing to Russell Group universities and over 80% typically securing their first-choice university. A significant proportion of students receive offers from Oxbridge each year. Pupils are prepared for a wide range of future paths, including careers in the arts, business, law, medicine, science, and technology.

The school maintains a dedicated department for student support and academic access, led by a Head of Student Support and Academic Access. This team includes a Junior School SENDCo, Higher Level Teaching Assistants, and school counsellors to provide coherent, focused support for pupils' long-term academic and personal development.

Entry to the school is competitive and involves an examination, interview, and review of school reports. Prospective families are encouraged to attend an Open Day to experience the school environment. A non-refundable fee is required for entrance examinations, and a registration deposit is payable upon the acceptance of a place.

The school operates on a three-term academic year (Autumn, Spring, and Summer). Terms typically begin in early September, January, and April, with half-term breaks in October, February, and May/June. The school day generally concludes at 12:30 pm on the final day of each term.

The school operates across two main sites in London, with a 4-acre sports ground located a 10-minute walk away. Sporting facilities include netball and tennis courts, a fitness suite, a dance studio, and a premier league cricket pitch. The Senior School building features a seventh-floor indoor garden oasis, with plans to develop the roof terrace for outdoor learning and wellbeing. Both sites provide bike and scooter racks for student use.

There are over 140 clubs and societies available, ranging from academic enrichment and student-led campaigns to creative and sporting pursuits. Offerings include a student magazine, robotics, experimental science, various music ensembles such as chamber choirs and a ukulele orchestra, and numerous sports teams. Pupils are encouraged to participate in activities to develop new skills, engage with different year groups, and take initiative through leadership roles.