Situated within London, Notting Hill and Ealing High School is a prominent educational institution known for its dedication to fostering academic excellence and personal growth among its students. As a non-denominational school, it offers an inclusive environment for girls aged four to 18, ensuring a comprehensive education from the early years through to A-levels. The school has consistently demonstrated impressive academic results, with its recent performance in the Times 2024 Parent Power Rankings placing it at 23rd, a significant improvement from its 40th position in 2023.
The school’s academic achievements are noteworthy. In 2024, the GCSE results showed that 91% of students achieved grades 9-7, while A-level results boasted 70% achieving A*/A grades, with an impressive 95% securing A*-B grades. These figures reflect the school’s commitment to high academic standards and its ability to nurture talent across various disciplines. The entrance criteria are rigorous, requiring prospective students to demonstrate proficiency in English and Maths, with additional requirements for modern languages at higher entry levels.
The teaching and learning environment at the school is designed to go beyond the traditional curriculum. The school encourages intellectual curiosity and critical thinking, providing students with opportunities to engage in innovative projects and research initiatives. For instance, students have participated in STEM conferences and collaborated on greenSTEM research projects with postgraduate students from Imperial College London. The school’s emphasis on fostering a nurturing yet outward-looking environment is evident in its strong links with other schools both locally and internationally.
The arts and extracurricular activities play a vital role in the school’s ethos. Music is exceptionally well-regarded, offering a diverse range of genres from indie rock to a cappella. The school also provides numerous workshops with composers and professional musicians, allowing students to explore their musical talents. The art department showcases high-quality work throughout the school, with inventive textiles and stunning linoprints on display. Drama is another area where the school excels, with student-led productions that are both bold and impressive.
Sports are an integral part of the school’s offering, with a wide range of activities available to students. The school has seen significant improvements in sports engagement over recent years, with 97% of Year 7 students representing the school in various competitions. Notably, the U16 netball team reached the England finals this year, while the U13 water polo team became national champions. The school’s approach to sports is inclusive, ensuring that every girl can find a sport they love without any hierarchy or gender stereotypes.
Pastoral care at the school is highly praised by parents and students alike. The pastoral team works closely with parents to support each girl’s individual needs, helping them feel safe and secure as they navigate their educational journey. The school’s focus on positive mental health is evident through initiatives such as digital wellbeing programmes and peer mentoring systems. Inclusivity is also a key aspect of the school’s culture, with a diversity council organising events throughout the year to celebrate different faiths and cultures.
The leadership at Notting Hill and Ealing High School is set for change in 2025, with Rebecca Irwin serving as acting headteacher for the spring term before Allison Saunders takes over in the summer term. Saunders brings a wealth of experience from her previous roles at St Catherine’s in Twickenham and St Helen’s in Northwood.
In terms of university destinations, most students proceed directly to higher education after completing their A-levels, with many opting for Russell Group universities such as Bath, Bristol, and UCL. The school’s guidance on university applications is highly regarded by parents, starting conversations about future pathways as early as Year 10.
Overall, Notting Hill and Ealing High School provides a well-rounded education that balances academic rigour with personal development opportunities. Its commitment to fostering curious and passionate learners is evident across all aspects of school life, from academics to extracurricular activities.
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