Francis Holland School
39 Graham Terrace, London, SW1W 8JF
Pupils
741
Ages
4 - 18
Gender
Girls
Type
Primary & Secondary
Head Teacher
Mrs Alexandra Haydon
Boarding / Day
Day
Fees
£7,050 to £7,750
ISC Associations
GSA, AGBIS, ISBA, HMC
Religion
Anglican
Bursaries
Available
About Francis Holland School
Francis Holland School is a well-regarded educational establishment that caters to girls aged four to 18. The school places a strong emphasis on social and intellectual readiness from the very beginning, particularly at the 4+ entry level. Prospective students are not expected to write their names but should be able to listen to a story and recount its essence. The school seeks girls who are eager to grasp opportunities and are willing to ‘have a go’. Recognising that small differences in age can lead to significant developmental variations, the school now involves its Special Educational Needs (SEN) team to provide tailored support.
From September 2024, the school will merge with The Hampshire School, Chelsea, to form Francis Holland Prep. This merger will see the school relocating to The Hampshire School’s current 20,000 sq ft site in Chelsea, SW3.
The school begins discussions about future schools in Year 5, or Year 4 if learning needs are involved. Junior pupils compete with external candidates for senior school places, a change from the previous automatic entry system. This shift has elevated the senior school’s status, making it a positive choice for about half of the pupils, while the rest move on to other day schools such as James Allen’s Girls’ School, Alleyn’s, Marymount International School, Godolphin and Latymer School, and City of London School for Girls. A few pupils also opt for boarding schools like St Mary’s School Ascot, Wycombe Abbey, and Downe House, or specialist dance and performing arts schools.
The school is known for its welcoming atmosphere, despite a few quirks like a sudden step down into reception. The school’s layout is straightforward, occupying most of one side of a quadrangle that bounds the playground. The junior and senior schools share some facilities, but with no expectation that the majority of junior pupils will move on to the senior school, it remains philosophically a separate entity.
Academically, the school is not as selective as its progress and results might suggest. There is no setting, and the school relies on well-differentiated teaching, a testament to the staff and leadership. Reception to Year 2 pupils enjoy a half-day every Friday. The school acknowledges that Year 6 can be challenging, with weekly tests in the autumn term leading up to the 11+. However, teachers strive to make this period enjoyable, and there are plenty of staff to support the pupils.
Lessons are designed to boost thinking from an early age, with philosophy and debating included in the curriculum. Religion is also an integral part of the school day. The focus is on literacy and numeracy, with class teachers delivering a significant proportion of lessons. Geography, History, and Science are introduced in Years 1 and 2, with PE and Music taught by specialists. Ballet is on the curriculum for all, and computing languages are introduced in Year 3, when pupils also start working with the junior school’s STEM specialist.
The school supports pupils with English as an Additional Language (EAL) and those with learning needs such as dyslexia, ASD, and ADHD. Early interventions are a priority, with one-to-one and in-class/small-group support available. The school also has a disabled loo and currently supports one pupil with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).
The power of positive thinking is reinforced through numerous references to a growth mindset in teaching and displays. This approach helps boost the appetite for extra-curricular activities, with some pupils participating in a club every day. The school has adjusted its homework policy to allow two days for completion and no weekend homework. Achievements are recognised in assemblies and on notice boards, with house points fostering a sense of competition.
If things become overwhelming, a Place2Be counsellor is available to help. The school’s layout, with its charming mix of old and new elements, adds to its appeal. Classrooms are large and bright, filled with colourful work. Creative STEM sessions inspire girls early on, with activities ranging from building moving cars to coding.
While the school may not be the best fit for cut-throat sporting competitive types, its performing arts programme is exceptional. Drama and music are strong, with ambitious annual productions. Ballet, compulsory in the first three years, is run by a legendary teacher who sends several girls to specialist schools each year.
Overall, the school is a hardworking place with a heart, focusing on innovative teaching and a strong emphasis on Maths and English, while also offering a broad range of other activities. The girls grow up believing in themselves, and rightly so.
To receive updates about this school including exam results, senior staff changes and open days please bookmark it using the button at the end of this review.
ISI Review
Francis Holland School, Sloane Square, is a prestigious independent day school for girls located in London. Established in 1881 by Reverend Canon Francis Holland, the school has a rich history and has evolved significantly over the years. It serves students aged 4 to 18, with a junior school for younger pupils and a senior school for older students, both situated on the same campus. The school is governed by a charitable trust and aims to provide a challenging and stimulating curriculum within a supportive and caring environment. The school emphasizes the importance of personal development, encouraging students to cultivate self-confidence, resilience, and respect for others.
The student body is diverse, with girls coming from families with professional and business backgrounds, representing various religious denominations and nationalities. The school has identified a number of pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as those for whom English is an additional language. The school is committed to supporting all students, ensuring that they receive the necessary assistance to thrive academically and personally.
The recent inspection highlighted the excellent quality of the pupils' academic achievements. Students consistently achieve high grades in GCSE, IGCSE, and A-level examinations, surpassing national averages for similar cohorts. The school has successfully fostered an environment that promotes independent thought and enthusiasm for learning. Pupils demonstrate outstanding attitudes towards their studies, showing high levels of skill and understanding across all areas of learning. The school also excels in extra-curricular activities, with many students achieving notable success in ballet, sports, music, drama, and debating.
In terms of personal development, the school provides a nurturing environment that fosters self-confidence and strong social skills. Pupils exhibit excellent spiritual understanding and moral integrity, treating each other and staff with kindness and consideration. The school promotes a strong sense of community, and students take pride in their school. They are respectful of diverse beliefs and cultures, and their behavior is exemplary.
The inspection report included recommendations for further improvement, particularly in the junior school. It suggested that the marking of pupils' work in subjects taught by senior school specialists should be more frequent and constructive, enabling students to understand how to improve their work. This feedback is aimed at enhancing the already high standards of academic achievement and personal development.
The school's commitment to academic excellence is evident in its curriculum, which is designed to challenge and engage students. The teaching staff is highly qualified and dedicated, providing high-quality instruction that meets the needs of all learners. The school encourages a culture of inquiry and intellectual curiosity, allowing students to explore subjects deeply and develop critical thinking skills. The use of innovative teaching methods and resources contributes to a dynamic learning environment.
In the early years foundation stage, pupils demonstrate strong communication skills and a solid foundation in literacy and numeracy. As they progress through the junior school, they continue to develop their knowledge and skills, engaging in thoughtful discussions and debates on complex topics. The curriculum is designed to foster a love of learning, and students are encouraged to take risks and learn from their mistakes.
The senior school builds on this foundation, with students benefiting from a wide range of subjects and opportunities for personal growth. The school places a strong emphasis on developing leadership skills, and students are encouraged to take on responsibilities within the school community. This includes participation in extra-curricular activities, where they can collaborate with peers and develop teamwork skills.
The school's commitment to the well-being of its students is evident in its pastoral care system. The staff is dedicated to supporting the personal development of each pupil, ensuring that they feel valued and respected. The school promotes a growth mindset, encouraging students to view challenges as opportunities for learning. This approach helps students develop resilience and a positive attitude towards their education.
In addition to academic and personal development, the school emphasizes the importance of community service and social responsibility. Pupils are encouraged to engage in charitable initiatives and support those less fortunate. This commitment to service is aligned with the school's Christian ethos, fostering a sense of empathy and compassion among students.
The school also prioritizes the physical and mental health of its pupils. It provides a safe and healthy environment, promoting good nutrition and physical activity. The extensive extra-curricular program includes a variety of sports and fitness activities, allowing students to stay active and develop healthy habits. The school also offers support for mental well-being, with resources available for students to discuss their concerns and seek guidance.
Overall, Francis Holland School, Sloane Square, is a thriving educational institution that excels in academic achievement and personal development. Its commitment to fostering a supportive and challenging environment enables students to reach their full potential. The school's emphasis on values such as respect, kindness, and social responsibility prepares pupils to become confident, capable individuals who are well-equipped for the future. The recent inspection affirmed the school's strengths while providing constructive feedback for continued improvement, ensuring that it remains a leading choice for girls' education in London.
Read full review
What Others Say
Francis Holland School Location
Advertising Partners
Recent School Posts
Browse by features
Last Updated: 8 October 2024