Hampstead School, located in London, has been rated as good in its recent inspection conducted on April 19 and 20, 2023. The school provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where pupils are encouraged to think big, work hard, and be kind. This ethos is reflected in the positive behavior of students, who show respect for one another and for adults. The school celebrates diversity and has a zero-tolerance policy for unkind or discriminatory behavior.
The curriculum at Hampstead School is broad and balanced, designed to be accessible to all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities. The provision for these students is particularly strong, ensuring that they achieve well alongside their peers. The curriculum prepares pupils effectively for their future educational and career paths, with sixth-form students achieving notably high results.
Pupils are taught essential life skills through a structured program that covers personal, social, health, citizenship, and relationships education. This program equips them with knowledge about relationships and safety risks. Additionally, a well-structured careers education program helps students make informed choices about their futures, including dedicated work experience opportunities in Year 10 and Year 12.
The school has made significant efforts to design an ambitious curriculum. Pupils in Year 9 have a wide range of subjects to choose from, and this choice continues into the sixth form, where courses cater to various abilities and interests. Subject content is carefully considered, with a focus on developing analytical skills in English and building on previous learning in mathematics. Teachers demonstrate strong subject knowledge, although there are instances where lesson tasks do not align closely with the intended learning outcomes, which can lead to gaps in pupils' knowledge.
Reading is prioritized at Hampstead School, with many pupils receiving additional support to improve their reading skills. The school has a well-resourced library that fosters a love for reading among students. The behavior management systems in place are effective, resulting in a calm and orderly environment conducive to learning. High attendance rates reflect pupils' positive attitudes toward their education.
Leaders at the school are committed to the wider development of pupils, regularly reviewing and updating personal development programs to ensure relevance. Strong relationships between teachers and pupils encourage open discussions about any issues or concerns. The school offers a variety of extracurricular clubs and activities, although participation rates are low, particularly among older students.
Governors have a solid understanding of the school's strengths and areas for improvement, providing support and challenge to school leaders. Staff feel valued and benefit from ongoing training and development opportunities. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with a dedicated team ensuring a strong culture of safety within the school. Staff are vigilant and know how to report concerns, while leaders adapt the curriculum to address local safeguarding issues.
To improve further, the school should focus on ensuring that teachers select the most appropriate tasks for delivering new content and checking understanding. Additionally, strategies should be implemented to increase participation in enrichment activities, allowing more pupils to benefit from diverse experiences. Overall, Hampstead School demonstrates a commitment to providing a high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for all its students.
