St Christopher’s School, operating from a picturesque Victorian villa in London, offers a unique educational experience for girls aged four to eleven. With a non-denominational ethos, the school is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. The institution prides itself on its ability to blend traditional academic excellence with innovative teaching methods, preparing students for the challenges of the modern world.
The school is currently under the interim leadership of Mark Maddocks, who has been instrumental in maintaining its high standards. With a background in classics from St Anne’s College, Oxford, and experience in law before transitioning to education, Maddocks brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role. His previous positions at Northwood College for Girls Junior School GDST and Notting Hill Prep have equipped him with the skills necessary to guide St Christopher’s through this transitional period. From April 2025, Christopher Hammond will take over as headmaster, bringing his extensive experience from Abercorn School and other prestigious institutions.
Entrance to the school is highly competitive, with around 250 applications for up to 40 places in reception each year. The selection process focuses on identifying curiosity and engagement in prospective students, ensuring that those admitted are well-suited to the school’s dynamic learning environment. The school’s commitment to academic excellence is evident in its preparation for the 11+ exams, with tailored guidance provided from Year 5 onwards. Many students go on to attend some of London’s top academic schools, including Francis Holland, Channing, and Godolphin & Latymer.
St Christopher’s has been recognised for its inspirational educational experience, having been shortlisted for the Times Educational Supplement Prep School of the Year. The teaching staff are highly motivated and supported in their professional development, ensuring they remain at the forefront of educational innovation. The curriculum is designed to provide ‘future-facing skills’ through a cross-curricular approach that integrates languages, arts, science, and technology. This approach encourages creative thinking and problem-solving, with projects such as programming robots and choreographing dance battles showcasing the school’s commitment to blending creativity with technical skills.
The school places a strong emphasis on outdoor learning, with an open-air classroom and termly Heath Days on nearby Hampstead Heath. These activities aim to develop pupils’ agency and responsibility for their environment and community. The school’s facilities include all-weather courts for sports such as netball and football, as well as access to nearby Parliament Hill and Primrose Hill for cricket and athletics.
The creative arts are an integral part of the curriculum at St Christopher’s. Students explore various media in a spacious art room, with art history taught as a distinct subject. Partnerships with organisations like the Wallace Collection provide additional inspiration for budding artists. Music is another area of strength, with every pupil participating in one of three choirs and many taking individual instrumental lessons.
Inclusion is a key focus at St Christopher’s, with recent initiatives aimed at promoting diversity across all areas of school life. Approximately half of the pupils are from ethnic minority or mixed-race backgrounds, reflecting the school’s commitment to creating an inclusive community. Charitable activities are also encouraged, with significant funds raised for causes such as Ukrainian refugees and a partnership school in Sierra Leone.
The wellbeing of students is prioritised alongside academic achievement. Emotional-literacy support assistants offer one-to-one sessions for pupils who need additional support, while mindfulness practices are incorporated into daily routines. Parents are also engaged through workshops on topics like friendships and sibling rivalry.
The demographic of St Christopher’s parents has evolved over time, now encompassing professionals from new media and other contemporary industries alongside traditional sectors like banking and law. This shift reflects changing perceptions of what constitutes a good education in today’s world.
Overall, St Christopher’s School provides an exciting and forward-looking education for girls in London. With its strong leadership team and commitment to innovation and inclusion, it continues to be a leading choice for families seeking an inspiring educational environment.
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