Portland Place School, located in the heart of London, offers a unique educational experience that caters to a diverse range of students. As a non-selective school, it welcomes children who can cope with its mainstream curriculum, providing a nurturing environment that is ideal for those who might find larger schools overwhelming. The school begins its intake at year 6, offering a one-form entry for parents who wish to avoid the 11+ exams or have recently relocated to the capital. The main entry point, however, is year 7, where the school expands to three forms. Prospective students undergo assessments in Maths and English, along with a 20-minute interview with the head. For those entering years 8 to 10, assessments also include Science.
The school does not have a sixth form, so at 16, students transition to other prestigious institutions such as St Paul’s, South Hampstead High, and Highgate, among others. Many choose DLD College, which shares the same educational group, Alpha Plus.
Teaching and learning at Portland Place School are characterised by small class sizes, with a maximum of 16 students per class, allowing for personalised attention. The school prides itself on challenging bright pupils while providing ample support for those who are less academically inclined. The curriculum is enriched with innovative teaching methods, such as the use of digital exercise books and virtual reality headsets in language classes. The Strive programme encourages students to expand their knowledge beyond the classroom, with activities like reading recommended books and attending cultural events.
The school supports children with mild to moderate learning needs, ensuring they can thrive in a mainstream environment. The Learning Lab offers targeted support for specific learning difficulties, and the SEND team includes a dedicated EAL teacher. With around 20% of pupils being bilingual, the school is well-equipped to support international families.
The creative arts department is a vibrant hub of activity, offering subjects like Art, Design, Drama, and Music. The school provides free musical instruments and lessons for year 7 students, and music remains a compulsory subject until year 9. Drama is inclusive, with every year group participating in the annual show. The art department benefits from its central location, with trips to cultural landmarks like Tate Modern and the British Museum.
Despite limited outdoor space, the school excels in sports, utilising nearby Regent’s Park and other top-notch facilities. Students participate in a variety of sports, including football, rugby, and tennis, and the school fields teams against other schools across London. The school’s inclusivity is evident in its sporting achievements, with students excelling in athletics and dance at national levels.
Founded in 1996, Portland Place School was established as an alternative to larger, exam-focused independent schools. It is housed in two buildings in Marylebone, offering a light and airy environment conducive to learning. The school’s ethos is to be small, caring, and inspirational, with a focus on innovation. The hybrid school, launched in 2020, offers a mix of online and on-site learning, catering for students with various needs.
Pastoral care is a priority, with a friendly and purposeful atmosphere. The school maintains good relationships between staff and pupils, and wellbeing is integrated into the curriculum. Behaviour is generally very good, with clear policies in place for discipline. The school uniform is simple yet smart, and students have a say in school matters through the school council.
The pupil cohort is diverse, with students travelling from various London boroughs. The school’s central location makes it accessible by public transport, and the lively newsletter keeps the community informed about events and activities. Parents appreciate the caring nature of the teachers, and students often express sadness when it’s time to leave.
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