St Helen’s School, located in Northwood, offers a comprehensive education for girls aged three to 18. As part of the London 11+ Consortium, the school employs a rigorous selection process for entry at 11+, involving a cognitive ability test and interview. With around 460 applicants vying for approximately 100 places, the competition is intense. The school also offers occasional places throughout the year, with a requirement for an interview and a reference from the current school. For sixth form entry, applicants need seven GCSEs at grade 6 or above, with specific requirements for A-level subjects.
The school boasts a strong academic record, with 84% of GCSE results in 2023 achieving grades 9-7, and 65% of A-level results at A*/A. The school is not at the top of the highly competitive north London academic scene, but it is certainly on an upward trajectory. The focus is on value-added education and ensuring the happiness of the students, with a noticeable increase in academic rigour and exploration. Lessons are meticulously planned and executed, with an emphasis on refining English language teaching and integrating art into the curriculum.
The nursery, Little Gables, and key stage 1, Gables, are housed in converted buildings on site, each with its own playground. The atmosphere is cosy and play-based, with a strong dedication to learning evident even among the youngest students. The prep school, for years 3 to 6, is a purpose-built facility with a fabulous library at its heart. The school places a strong emphasis on languages, with French taught from year 1 and options to study German, Spanish, Mandarin, Latin, Italian, and Japanese at various stages.
Most students take 10 GCSEs, with the option to include a practical subject such as Art or Drama. In the sixth form, around half of the students start with four A-levels, with many dropping one along the way. The school has high hopes for its new STEM building and a new head of physics to further enhance its offerings in these areas.
Extra-curricular activities are a significant draw for parents and students alike. The school offers a wide range of clubs and societies, with an extended lunch break allowing students to participate without feeling rushed. The Combined Cadet Force, Duke of Edinburgh Award, and Young Enterprise are popular, along with numerous trips and visits from professionals in various fields. The music department is thriving, with a new director of music and a state-of-the-art music centre. Drama is also a strong focus, with big performances and a soon-to-be-expanded drama studio.
The school’s sports facilities are extensive, with vast playing fields, floodlit courts, and a large indoor pool. A wide range of sports is offered, with hockey, badminton, rugby, and cross country being particularly successful. More niche offerings, such as kickboxing and yoga, are available for sixth formers.
Pastoral care is a priority, with exemplary behaviour and clear boundaries. The school has a strong focus on inclusivity, with societies for every religion and ethnicity represented within the school, as well as LGBTQ+ support. The school is culturally diverse, with a significant proportion of students from Indian backgrounds.
The school supports 76 girls on means-tested bursaries, with a hardship fund and a range of scholarships available. The ethos of the school, founded at the end of the 19th century, remains focused on education for the whole child. The school grounds are spacious and well-maintained, with a rolling renovation programme ensuring modern facilities.
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