Herne Hill School, located at the heart of London, is a co-educational day school catering for boys and girls aged two to seven. The school operates with a non-denominational ethos, welcoming children from all faiths and backgrounds. Since its establishment in 1976 by the vicar’s wife of St Paul’s Church, the school has flourished, maintaining strong links with the church while celebrating various festivals and services.
Under the leadership of Ngaire Telford since 2016, who has been part of the school since 2009, Herne Hill School has seen significant development. Originally from New Zealand, Telford brings a wealth of experience in child development and education. Her commitment to providing exceptional early learning experiences is evident in the school’s expansion and the introduction of innovative facilities like the woodland playground area.
The school offers a welcoming environment for its young pupils, divided into three stages: kindergarten for two-year-olds, pre-reception for three-year-olds, and reception for four-year-olds. The kindergarten is housed in a beautifully refurbished building with art spaces and a beach-style sand area. The main site accommodates three- to seven-year-olds in classrooms designed for free-flow learning with access to outdoor areas. Class sizes are kept small, typically between 18 to 20 pupils, ensuring individual attention and fostering a nurturing atmosphere.
The curriculum at Herne Hill School is creatively structured to engage young minds while preparing them for future academic challenges. The early years curriculum is tailored to be age-appropriate and stimulating, incorporating subjects like Literacy, Maths, and French through interactive activities. Literacy lessons often involve drama and creative writing projects, while Maths sessions include problem-solving discussions that captivate children’s interest. French is taught through games and songs, making language learning an enjoyable experience.
Artistic expression is highly encouraged at the school, with numerous creative projects integrated across subjects. The school’s performing arts space hosts regular music and drama performances, offering pupils opportunities to explore their talents. A wide selection of musical instruments is available for class use, and individual lessons are offered in piano, violin, cello, and ukulele.
The school’s commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its comprehensive support system. The Head of Learning Support and a specialist teacher provide assistance to pupils requiring additional help or showing signs of learning differences. English as an Additional Language (EAL) tuition is also available as needed.
Physical education plays a vital role in the school’s programme, with a dedicated PE teacher overseeing activities both on-site and off-site. The woodland area serves as an enchanting space for outdoor learning and play, featuring a mini running track, woodworking benches, and a fire pit for summer barbecues. The Astroturf playground includes a climbing wall, encouraging physical activity among pupils.
Herne Hill School ensures smooth transitions for its pupils as they move on to their next educational stage at age seven. Many students continue their education at local schools such as Alleyn’s, St Dunstan’s, Rosemead, Dulwich College, Dulwich Prep, JAGS Junior School or GDST schools like Sydenham High and Streatham & Clapham High School. Some opt for state sector schools like Dulwich Hamlet or East Dulwich primaries. The headteacher remains actively involved in guiding parents through this process to ensure the best fit for each child.
The school’s ethos is encapsulated by its ‘Golden Rules’ of honesty, kindness, and sharing—principles that guide behaviour and underpin pastoral care and wellbeing initiatives throughout the institution. Parents appreciate this focus on care and consideration, noting that their children understand acceptable behaviours clearly.
Herne Hill School stands out as an institution where childhood is celebrated through engaging learning experiences within a supportive community. It continues to thrive independently amidst an educational landscape increasingly dominated by larger organisations.
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