Northbourne Park School, located in the picturesque countryside of Kent, offers a unique blend of traditional British education with a modern twist. The school caters to children aged two to 13, providing a nurturing environment that encourages both academic and personal growth. With its co-educational setup, the school welcomes students from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of inclusivity and community.
The school begins its educational journey with a nursery that accommodates up to 20 children. Around two-thirds of these young learners continue into reception, while others transition to local state primaries. The school is academically non-selective, allowing children to join at various points, with years 3, 5, and 7 being particularly popular. Prospective students are invited for taster days, which include an informal assessment and a chat with the headteacher, alongside a review of school reports.
A distinctive feature of Northbourne Park is its French programme, the Section Française Bilingue, which attracts around 30 French-speaking students in years 7 and 8. This programme offers a rigorous curriculum that includes assessments in Maths and English, as well as an interview with the headteacher and the French programme lead. The programme allows students to experience the best of both worlds, with subjects like Science, Music, Art, and Humanities taught in English, while preparing for French qualifications.
The school boasts a strong track record of academic success, with many students leaving at the end of year 6 to attend local grammar schools. Of those who sit the 11-plus exam, over 80% pass, according to the school. Others continue their education at 13+ in a variety of independent schools, including prestigious institutions such as St Edmund’s, Benenden, and Eton. The school also celebrates the achievements of its French-speaking students, who often return to their collèges after successfully completing exams at the Lycée Français of London and Cambridge English exams.
The school’s campus is a charming blend of history and nature, with its main building being an architectural melange in an Elizabethan style. The pre-prep section is housed in the Old Rectory, a cosy and secluded spot that fosters creativity and exploration. The grounds are a haven for outdoor activities, featuring a forest school, woodland areas, and a pirate ship, all of which are adored by the pupils.
The transition from pre-prep to prep is supported by weekly visits to the prep’s forest school and lunch sessions, helping to ease any apprehensions. The prep school offers a broad curriculum with specialist teaching in subjects like Art, Design Technology, and Science from year 3, and Geography, Religious Studies, History, and Spanish from year 5. The small class sizes, with a maximum of 20 students, allow teachers to cater to different abilities effectively.
The school places a strong emphasis on music, offering a diverse curriculum that includes everything from reggae to baroque. The annual musical production is a highlight, with pupils eagerly participating in performances. The art studio is an eclectic space filled with inspiring projects, while the design technology workshop is equipped with modern tools like a 3D printer.
Sport is an integral part of life at Northbourne Park, with a focus on inclusivity and competition. Pupils participate in a range of sports, including rugby, football, hockey, and cricket, with impressive results. The school also offers a variety of extra-curricular activities, from fencing to nature conservation, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Boarding is a popular option, with around 50% of prep pupils choosing to board. The school offers flexible boarding arrangements, catering for both local and international students. The boarding experience is enriched with a variety of activities, ensuring pupils are engaged and supported throughout their stay.
Overall, Northbourne Park School provides a well-rounded education that prepares pupils for the next steps in their academic journey. The school’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment is evident in its diverse curriculum and vibrant community. To receive updates about this school including exam results, senior staff changes and open days please book mark it using the button at the end of this review.
