The King Alfred School

Founded in 1898, the school is committed to progressive education, prioritizing a child-centred, relational, and non-authoritarian approach. It emphasizes the development of the whole child, encouraging individual growth at a natural pace rather than through competitive testing. The school promotes rational, scientific thinking, co-education, and a collaborative relationship between tutors and pupils to prepare students for socially responsible lives.

The school offers a broad curriculum that aligns with the UK National Curriculum while incorporating cross-curricular projects and enquiry-based learning. Lower School (Reception–Year 6) features specialist teaching in subjects such as French, Art, Music, PE, and Information Technology. The Upper School (Years 7–11) curriculum includes six core subjects and three optional GCSE subjects. The Sixth Form (Years 12–13) offers a range of A Level courses, the UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma in Performing & Production Arts, and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).

The school achieves academic success without unnecessary pressure, focusing on maximizing the potential of each individual. Students progress through the school naturally, with the transition from Lower to Upper School not dependent on assessments or examinations. The school maintains a strong record of student destinations and higher education progression.

The school maintains a child-centred approach, focusing on the emotional, physical, and social development of students alongside their academic progress. It employs a pastoral care system across the Lower and Upper Schools and Sixth Form to support student well-being. The school also teaches a PSHE programme based on neuroscience, positive psychology, and mindful awareness to help students manage their mental health and relationships.

The school is non-selective at entry and welcomes students from Reception through to the Sixth Form. The primary entry points are at age 4 (Reception), age 11 (Year 7), and age 16 (Sixth Form), though occasional places may be available in other year groups, excluding Years 11 and 13. The application process involves submitting a form with a registration fee, followed by a meeting with the relevant Head of School and a class visit for prospective students.

The school operates on a three-term academic year (Autumn, Spring, and Summer). Each term includes a half-term break, and the school year typically concludes in early July. Staff INSET days are scheduled at the beginning of terms and occasionally during the year.

The school is located on two green, wooded sites in Hampstead, London, featuring a village-green atmosphere where Lower School classrooms open directly onto play areas. Campus facilities include a dedicated Design Technology building with a forge, a computer suite, a library, and the Phoenix Theatre, which is used for drama, performances, and conferences. The grounds also include an amphitheatre and various outdoor learning spaces.

Students participate in a wide range of enrichment activities and after-school clubs. In the Upper School, students take part in 'Choice' afternoons, which offer a variety of non-academic activities. Lower School students have opportunities to join choirs, an orchestra, and a flute group, with private instrumental and singing lessons available. Additionally, the school hosts annual community events, such as 'KAStonbury'.