Nottingham High School, located in the heart of Nottingham, is a selective co-educational day school that offers a rich tapestry of academic and extra-curricular opportunities. While it is known for its academic rigour, the school is not solely for the super bright. Children who are in the top third of their class at primary school have a fighting chance of gaining admission. The selection process involves exams in English, Maths, and reasoning, and all external candidates are interviewed. The school is committed to spotting potential rather than just assessing current ability.
The school boasts impressive academic results, with 82% of students achieving grades 9-7 at GCSE and 59% securing A*/A at A level in 2023. The school prides itself on being the most academic in the East Midlands, but it also emphasises the importance of supporting students beyond the classroom. This support includes subject clinics, enrichment activities like Olympiads and essay competitions, and the availability of teachers for one-to-one sessions. The school encourages a strong work ethic, and students are motivated by their peers to excel.
The curriculum is broad and balanced, with popular subjects at GCSE including History, Geography, and Drama. All students take a language, choosing from French, German, and Spanish. At A level, students can choose from a traditional menu of subjects, with Sciences, Economics, and Maths being the most popular. The school also offers the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), although there is room for improvement in supervision, which the school is addressing.
The arts and extra-curricular activities are a significant part of school life. The school offers a wide range of clubs and societies, from fencing to journalism, and has a strong music department with facilities that include a standalone music building and a soundproofed room for drums. Drama productions are a highlight, with recent performances including Little Shop of Horrors and Alice in Wonderland. The school also offers impressive trips, ranging from sports tours to curriculum-led excursions.
Sport is an area of ongoing development, with rugby, hockey, and cricket being the mainstays for boys, and hockey, netball, and cricket for girls. The school promotes inclusivity in sports, with high participation rates and a variety of options available, especially at sixth form. Facilities include a sports hall, courts, and a swimming pool, with additional access to local clubs.
The school’s ethos and heritage are deeply rooted in its history, having been founded in 1513. The atmosphere is traditional yet not stuffy, with a strong sense of community and a focus on inclusivity. The school celebrates all faiths and festivals, and students are encouraged to be themselves. The pastoral care system is robust, with a vertical tutor group system that ensures students are well-supported throughout their time at the school.
Parents and students appreciate the school’s unpretentious and unassuming nature. The student body is diverse, with many parents working in Nottingham’s hospitals and universities. The school works hard to keep fees reasonable and offers means-tested bursaries to extend the range of parental income.
In summary, Nottingham High School offers a stunning blend of academic excellence and a wide array of opportunities beyond the classroom. It is a school where students can thrive academically while also exploring their interests and developing a strong sense of community. 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.
