Curriculum

foster a lifelong love of words

The aim of the English department is to foster a lifelong love of words, language, and the power of literature and stories. We believe that through a dynamic process of deconstructing the work of others and constructing their own, pupils develop the ability to communicate feelings, ideas, and information to a variety of audiences in creative and impactful ways. By engaging with texts from diverse countries, cultures, historical periods, and perspectives, we aim to provide children with a vast wealth of contextual knowledge to draw upon both in school and beyond.

Our curriculum combines this rich contextual knowledge with a rigorous approach to teaching essential skills, forming the foundation of each child’s English journey through the school. This holistic approach ensures that our pupils not only excel academically but also develop a deep appreciation for the richness and diversity of human expression.

In Year 5, preparation for the ever-changing and demanding 11+ and 13+ pre-tests takes on increased importance. While we believe that exam success is a natural by-product of excellent teaching, we also recognize the importance of early preparation. By starting the process in Year 5, we allow pupils to become familiar with the expectations and ensure a seamless transition to higher levels of learning.

In Years 7 and 8, pupils follow the Common Entrance Syllabus, which, while structured, allows for interpretative flexibility. This flexibility enables us to continue nurturing our educational ethos even as pupils progress into the Upper School. By maintaining our focus on fostering a love of language and literature, we ensure that our pupils are well-prepared for both academic success and a lifelong engagement with the written word.

we make Maths captivating for all our pupils

The aim of our Maths department is to create inquisitive, independent, resilient, and skilful mathematicians who possess a genuine passion for this vital subject. Through engaging practical activities, exposure to relevant real-life material, and an emphasis on the process rather than simply the end result, we make Maths captivating for all our pupils, ensuring a sense of achievement is experienced at every level.

Throughout the school, the acquisition of efficient mental maths strategies is prioritized, supporting pupils in all aspects of their mathematical journey. These strategies are foundational, enabling pupils to approach problems with confidence and agility.

Starting in Year 5, we meticulously prepare pupils for the 11+ and Common Entrance examinations. Our approach ensures that they are well-equipped to meet the demands of these assessments, fostering both competence and confidence.

Beyond the classroom, we endorse the use of online platforms such as Atom Learning, MyMaths, and Mangahigh. These resources support pupils’ understanding and reinforce their learning both at home and at school, offering a comprehensive approach to mathematical education.

In a world where technology is at our fingertips, our focus extends beyond creating human calculators. Instead, we aim to develop creative mathematical thinkers with a practised penchant for problem-solving. By nurturing these skills, we ensure that pupils leave NHP not only proficient in mathematics but also equipped with the ability to apply their knowledge innovatively in various contexts. This holistic approach prepares our pupils to navigate the complexities of the modern world with confidence and creativity.

cultivate a climate of enquiry

The aim of the Science department is to cultivate a climate of enquiry where children are equipped with the necessary skills to investigate the world around them effectively and feel comfortable formulating and expressing new ideas. We strive to create an environment that encourages curiosity and a love for scientific exploration, ensuring that our pupils are prepared to engage with the complexities of the natural world.

We strive for our pupils to become scientifically literate, enabling them to make informed judgments on scientific matters they encounter in the news and in their everyday lives. Our curriculum requires children to recall an extensive and substantial range of facts. While lessons focus on acquiring this knowledge, we are equally mindful of the importance of assimilating and understanding the underlying concepts. This dual approach ensures that pupils not only memorize information but also comprehend the principles that form the foundation of scientific knowledge.

Specialist Science teaching begins in Year 3, providing early exposure to the discipline. From Year 7 onwards, the three branches of Science—Chemistry, Physics, and Biology—are taught as separate subjects. This specialization allows for a deeper and more focused exploration of each area, preparing pupils for more advanced study.

As our pupils leave NHP, we expect them to have developed a genuine excitement about Science, sparking a lifelong interest and enthusiasm for further scientific challenges at their senior schools and beyond. Our goal is to instill a sense of wonder and a robust skill set that will empower them to pursue scientific inquiry with confidence and curiosity throughout their lives.

a passion for learning new languages

In the Languages department, our goal is to cultivate a passion for learning new languages and to foster a genuine interest in the countries where these languages are spoken. For classical languages, we aim to instill an appreciation of their relevance in today’s world.

Our lessons are designed to be varied, inclusive, and entertaining. We encourage pupils to collaborate and share their ideas, becoming active and inquisitive learners who take responsibility for their own learning. Creativity is often incorporated into our lesson plans alongside a focus on achieving high academic standards.

French is taught from Reception to Year 5 by specialist teachers, providing a strong foundation in the language from an early age. Latin is introduced in Year 5, offering pupils a glimpse into the classical world. Starting in Year 6, pupils begin learning Spanish, expanding their linguistic abilities, and Greek is offered on a selective basis to pupils in Years 7 and 8.

While all languages require the rigorous learning of vocabulary and grammatical rules, our curriculum also emphasizes the cultural and historical contexts of these languages. This approach helps anchor the pupils’ learning, providing a broader understanding and purpose. By exploring foreign cultures and histories, pupils gain a more comprehensive perspective, making their language studies more meaningful and engaging.

Ultimately, our aim is to develop not only proficient language learners but also culturally aware individuals who appreciate the richness and diversity of the world. As they progress through their studies, we hope our pupils will carry forward their passion for languages and the cultural insights they have gained, applying them in their future academic pursuits and personal lives.

The Humanities syllabus at NHP

The Humanities syllabus at NHP is structured around three core areas: History, Geography, and Theology, Philosophy, and Religion (formerly known as Religious Studies). Starting in Year 5, these subjects are taught by dedicated subject specialists, ensuring that students receive a focused and high-quality education in each discipline. We take great pride in offering a diverse and contemporary curriculum that goes beyond the traditional confines of the UK. Our approach emphasizes the importance of an engaging and comprehensive curriculum, enabling children to explore History, Geography, and TPR from a global perspective. This broadens their understanding and appreciation of different cultures, events, and belief systems around the world.

In the Upper School, History, Geography, and TPR are integrated to create a cohesive and interconnected learning experience. These subjects collaborate closely to develop a ‘joined-up approach’ to the Humanities, often using specific locations as thematic anchors for their studies. This interdisciplinary method allows students to examine complex topics from multiple perspectives, enriching their critical thinking and analytical skills. By exploring a region’s historical context, geographical features, and theological or philosophical significance, students gain a deeper and more holistic understanding. This strategy not only enhances their academic knowledge but also fosters a greater appreciation for the interconnectedness of human experiences across the globe. Through this approach, we aim to equip our students with the skills and perspectives necessary to navigate and contribute meaningfully to an increasingly interconnected world.

History

History at NHP aims to foster a sense of wonder and awe about the past in children, making historical stories relevant and connected to their future. Our approach to teaching History goes beyond the traditional “read, remember, regurgitate” method; instead, we focus on promoting creative thinking skills. Students are encouraged to question, evaluate, analyze, debate, and experience historical narratives, all while honing their ability to write coherently and fluently. To stimulate natural curiosity and bring History to life, we incorporate a variety of engaging activities such as drama, trips, research projects, inquiries, films, and artifact handling. These hands-on experiences not only make learning more interactive and enjoyable but also help students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the past, connecting it meaningfully to their present and future.

Geography

Discussion and debate are integral to the Geography department’s questioning approach, fostering an environment that leads to independent discovery. We aim to teach Geography in a way that will influence our pupils’ actions for the rest of their lives, encouraging them to be deeply observant and develop a critical understanding of significant concepts such as ‘sustainable development’ and ‘interdependence’. By engaging students in thoughtful discussions and lively debates, we enable them to explore geographic concepts actively and critically. This approach not only enhances their analytical skills but also instills a sense of responsibility and awareness about global issues. Our goal is for students to carry these insights with them, applying their knowledge and understanding to make informed, conscientious decisions throughout their lives. Through this immersive and interactive method, we strive to cultivate geographically literate individuals who are well-prepared to navigate and positively impact an interconnected and ever-changing world.

Theology, Philosophy, Religion

An enquiry-based approach to learning blends comfortably with the NHP mindset. During their time with us in the Lower and Middle School, pupils will focus on each of the main world religions in a four-step process of questioning, engagement, investigation and evaluating. Whilst fostering an ethos of tolerance, open-mindedness, empathy and curiosity, we explore themes such as commitment, family, faith, support, belonging and identity. This also gives the children the opportunity to explore their own sense of faith and spirituality and their personal understanding of God.
In the Upper School, TPR is planned alongside History and Geography and, using locations, such as India or China, as anchors, pupils explore the impact and importance of religion within the specific context and period of history.
As part of their learning, children will visit a range of different places of worship and meet visiting practitioners and priests from different religions in assemblies and workshops.

an integral part of NHP’s Thinking School curriculum

Philosophy for Children (P4C) is an integral part of NHP’s Thinking School curriculum and is taught to every year group in the school, starting in Reception. P4C is a discussion-based subject designed to encourage children to think critically, caringly, creatively, and collaboratively. The teacher provides the class with a stimulus from which a philosophical question is created. The children then discuss the chosen question, developing their communication skills along with the ability to think and reason independently.

The content of P4C is largely dictated by the children’s responses to the stimuli, fostering a student-centered learning environment. However, teachers also have the flexibility to introduce questions or specific stimuli that guide pupils towards discussing particular philosophical issues. This approach allows the teacher to tailor lessons to the class’s needs, providing opportunities to develop different skills and linking the content to other curriculum areas, especially PSHE and the Humanities. By connecting philosophical discussions with other subjects, we ensure a cohesive and interdisciplinary learning experience.

While P4C promotes a wide range of skills, we particularly aim to develop collaborative learners, independent thinkers, and inquiring minds. Our goal is for pupils to become curious and engaged individuals who are eager to explore and discuss the big and small questions in life. After all, the etymology of Philosophy is the love of knowledge and wisdom, and through P4C, we strive to instill this love in our pupils, encouraging them to seek understanding and wisdom throughout their lives.

a personalised teaching and learning programme

Children with specific educational needs, identified either prior to entry or during their time at the school, are given additional support from our highly-experienced Learning Enrichment Department (LED). The SENCo works with the teachers, teaching assistants, child and parents to monitor progress and offer advice and support.

Typically our learning support is delivered through in-class differentiation or small group work. In the event that a child requires individual specialist tuition, parents may choose to engage with one of our team of external specialists who work during the school day at NHP and can provide a wide variety of support in conjunction with parents.

Music

Music is an irresistible force at NHP. From Early Years onwards, our pupils fill the school with the sound of joyful singing! Our vibrant curriculum ensures that pupils are immersed in the joy and discipline of music from an early age, instilling a love and reverence for musical expression that we hope will stay with them throughout their lives.

A typical music lesson is filled with song, movement and dynamic interaction. Specialist music teachers employ a variety of games and repertoire that encourage pupils to explore pitch, pulse and rhythm physically before singing and playing instruments. This hands-on approach helps pupils internalize vital musical concepts in a fun and engaging way. Additionally, over 150 individual lessons are taught each week by a team of highly qualified visiting music staff. Our performing ensembles include orchestra, violin group, guitar club, recorder ensemble, Little Strings club and various rock bands for middle and upper school pupils.

Our choral program is equally impressive; at present we run Senior, Middle and Lower School Choirs, Recital Choir for our most accomplished singers and Cubs Choir for Reception children. In addition, we also run Notting Hill Children’s Community Choir, at which NHP pupils join forces with singers from five local primary schools. Our choirs have performed in both local and national festivals and at venues including St John’s Smith Square, Royal Albert Hall, London Palladium and Royal Festival Hall. Senior Choir has even appeared on Channel 5 News singing backing vocals for the world-famous rock band Foreigner.

There is an abundance of both formal and informal performance opportunities throughout the year for children at every stage of their development. Our weekly Early Morning Recitals, assembly performances, annual musical productions and Christmas and Easter concerts all have the same aim: to allow children to shine, grow in confidence and relish all that music-making contributes to life!

Drama

Drama is an integral part of life at NHP. Starting in Reception, students have the chance to freely express themselves in a nurturing setting during their weekly drama lessons. This dedication to drama helps foster creativity and builds essential skills from a young age, providing a solid foundation and a clear sense of identity. Through drama, NHP pupils collaborate to tell stories, uncover hidden talents, and develop confidence, communication, and empathy. Most importantly, drama at NHP is a source of immense joy, allowing students to experience the excitement of performance while building valuable life skills. The year is filled with drama highlights, including Lower School nativities and Christmas shows, the Middle School pantomime and musical, the Year Six end-of-year celebration, and culminating with a spectacular end-of-year performance by our Upper School theatre club.

NHP Performing Arts Overview

Art & Design Technology

Art, craft, and design are integral aspects of the children’s learning at NHP, serving to hone skills of self-expression and imagination while providing mindful and kinesthetic benefits through making and doing. These creative pursuits are crucial for developing well-rounded individuals who can think critically and creatively.

The school boasts two dedicated art rooms, one in the Lower School and one in the Upper School. Starting in Year 4, students take art and design classes in a bright, industrial, bespoke state-of-the-art facility. This facility is equipped with a full design and technology function, sewing machines for textile work, and an in-house kiln for ceramics, providing a comprehensive environment for various artistic endeavors. Here, children explore a wide range of materials, experiment with diverse techniques, and acquire practical skills. They are introduced to artists from different periods and styles, which helps them develop their aesthetic appreciation and master their unique approach.

As students acquire skills and knowledge, they gain the confidence to express their creativity and individuality through art, craft, and design. The school celebrates pupils’ artistic endeavors through displays around the school, end-of-term shows, exhibitions, and participation in competitions. This not only showcases their work but also instills a sense of pride and accomplishment. Additionally, gifted artists receive support to apply for art scholarships at their chosen senior schools. NHP has a history of successful scholarship applications, with past students earning art scholarships to prestigious institutions such as Brighton College, Francis Holland NW1, Marlborough College, and Queen’s College.

The children’s particular passions and interests are enhanced and encouraged through a variety of after-school and lunchtime clubs. These clubs offer opportunities for pupils to explore new activities, deepen existing interests, and develop new skills in a supportive and engaging environment. From sports and arts, to technology and academics, there is something for everyone, ensuring that each child can find a club that excites and inspires them.

In addition to these regular term-time clubs, the external provider, The Foxes Club, runs holiday camps exclusively for NHP children and their siblings on our school site. These camps provide extended opportunities for children to immerse themselves in their favourite activities and try out new ones, all while making new friends and having fun. The camps are designed to be both educational and entertaining, offering both sports activities and/or arts and crafts, allowing children to continue learning and growing, even during school holidays.

To illustrate the variety and breadth of clubs available to our pupils, we have provided links to past club timetables. Whether a child is interested in joining a sports team, participating in a drama production, learning a new language, or exploring the world of coding, there is a club that can help them pursue their passions and develop their skills.

For parents who are in need of childcare after school hours, we run our in-house Wraparound Care. This runs Monday to Thursday every week during term time until 5.45pm.

School Clubs

YEAR 4
In Year 4, students embark on a two-night residential trip to Cumlington Manor in Shropshire. Here, they take part in a range of challenges and team-building activities, helping to strengthen friendships and develop independence. These three days are vital for building self-esteem and resilience.

YEAR 5
In Year 5, the children travel to Mill on the Brue in Somerset for a five-day stay. Surrounded by forests and beautiful countryside, they engage in a wide range of activities, from climbing and canoeing to survival skills and sustainable living.

YEAR 6
In Year 6, our pupils travel abroad for the first time, visiting Normandy for a French cultural trip. Here, they have the chance to experience French cuisine and lifestyle, while also enjoying some sightseeing and participating in activities such as visiting a farm, making bread and butter, and exploring the beautiful Normandy coast.

YEAR 7
In Year 7, pupils embark on a week of high-intensity adventure at the National Outdoor Centre in Snowdonia, Wales. This internationally renowned centre has been at the forefront of outdoor education for over 60 years and is committed to challenging young people through adventurous experiences. The children take part in gorge scrambling, mountain climbing and a wide range of other activities.

YEAR 8
After their final exams, Year 8 students embark on the eagerly awaited trip to Cornwall. Here, they spend a joyful week on the beach, engaging in various water sports such as surfing, coasteering and raft-building. This is the perfect way to create lasting memories together as a cohort before leaving NHP and starting their next chapter.

Other Trips
We offer several optional adventure trips throughout the year, as well as our annual Easter ski trip to Saas-Fee in Switzerland and a summer sailing trip to the Isle of Wight, both of which take place in the first week of the respective holidays. These trips are open to all abilities, from beginners to advanced, and are incredibly fun!

Our termly adventure trips offer pupils a unique chance to step outside the classroom and into the great outdoors, where they can explore, challenge themselves, and build essential life skills. Held over one weekend each term, these optional trips introduce children to exciting activities in locations such as Dorset, Somerset, East Sussex and the Peak District.

Each trip is designed to inspire resilience, teamwork and independence through engaging activities. Children are given the chance to face their fears and challenge themselves through a wide variety of outdoor activities such as survival skills, water sports, hiking and rock climbing. With every adventure, students gain practical skills, from map-reading to team coordination, all while building their self-confidence and social skills.

Safety is our top priority. We always work with experienced companies and professional instructors guide students through age-appropriate challenges in a secure environment, encouraging them to set goals and celebrate every achievement.

As our adventure trips are open to a range of year groups, they foster stronger peer connections and create lasting memories, adding a sense of adventure and discovery to each child’s school experience.

At NHP pupils enjoy a creative and progressive computing and digital literacy curriculum that equips them with essential skills for an increasingly digital world.

Computing
Our curriculum begins with foundational skills, such as simple algorithms taught offline and online through tools like Beebots and iPads. Pupils explore image and video editing and progress through middle school with block coding on platforms like Scratch Jr. and MakeCode Arcade, alongside simple data processing. Computational thinking is woven throughout the curriculum, helping pupils develop skills like problem decomposition and pattern recognition. In the upper school, students tackle more advanced topics, including game design in block code, 3D computer-aided design, Python programming, binary systems, and the history of computing.

Digital Literacy
Digital literacy is a core focus across the school with separate lessons for the KS1 and KS2 students. Pupils learn how computers work, how to navigate essential software like Microsoft Office and Teams, and engage in lessons on e-safety. Metacognitive tools are introduced to encourage pupils to plan, monitor, and evaluate their use of technology effectively. Older pupils deepen their understanding of topics such as artificial intelligence, exploring how it influences their world. Lessons often link to PSHE, covering critical discussions on online safety, cyberbullying, media balance, social media, safe gaming, and ecommerce.

Enrichment and Competitions
Pupils participate in challenges like the Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge and the Oxford University Computing Challenge, achieving notable success. A recent partnership with Sway AI has provided valuable insights into social media and AI and two of our pupils have been invited to join an international workshop looking at these topics. We also collaborate with Blueshift to offer exciting extracurricular clubs in areas such as music technology, LEGO robotics, and JavaScript coding.