Hampstead Hill School

Founded in 1949, Hampstead Hill School is an independent co-educational nursery and preparatory school serving children aged 2 to 11+ in the heart of Hampstead, London. The school's motto, "Mighty Oaks From Little Acorns Grow", reflects its ethos of nurturing young learners through a values-driven approach centred on Respect, Kindness, Community, Curiosity, and Conservation. Split across two sites—the historic Grade I listed St Stephen's Hall on Pond Street housing the Nursery and Pre-Prep, and All Hallows Hall on Courthope Road for the Preparatory School, which opened in September 2024—Hampstead Hill School combines academic rigour with a warm, child-centred environment. The school is non-selective, with capacity for approximately 521 pupils, and operates as an independent mainstream primary school inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate rather than Ofsted. Fee levels vary by age and hours, so families should check the school's latest schedule before applying.

Established over 75 years ago in 1949, Hampstead Hill School has built a long-standing reputation in the Hampstead community as a nurturing, family-oriented independent primary school. The school's mission centres on developing "respectful, community centred children who are curious to learn, kind to others and the planet and understand the importance of sustainability and conservation." This philosophy underpins every aspect of school life, from curriculum design to behaviour expectations, and is embodied in the school's five core values: Respect, Kindness, Community, Curiosity, and Conservation.

Led by headteacher Anne Napier, alongside founding principal and director Andrea Taylor and director Lewis Taylor, the school takes a child-centred approach that prioritises self-esteem, happiness, and respectful relationships. Pupil voice is actively encouraged, contributing to a supportive and inclusive atmosphere where children feel heard and valued. The school's commitment to sustainability and conservation is woven into everyday learning, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to education that prepares pupils to be responsible global citizens.

The physical environment reinforces the school's ethos. The Nursery and Pre-Preparatory School are housed in St Stephen's, a magnificent Grade I listed former church that provides a unique and inspiring setting for early learners, along with the adjacent School Hall. The recently opened Preparatory School at All Hallows Hall on Courthope Road offers pupils in Years 3 and above access to the vast green spaces and amenities of neighbouring Hampstead Heath, supporting the school's emphasis on outdoor learning and social and emotional development. The blend of historic architecture and proximity to nature creates a distinctive learning environment that balances tradition with a modern, progressive outlook.

As an independent school not subject to statutory testing or DfE performance tables, Hampstead Hill School does not publish SATs results or national ranking data. The school is inspected by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, and recent insights from ISI reports suggest that teaching provides a strong foundation in key skills, with structured plans ensuring effective education delivery. The school's curriculum is designed to combine academic excellence with social confidence, delivered through high-quality teaching and enriching curricula across a broad range of subjects including Mathematics, English, Science, and the Arts.

The school's non-selective admissions policy means it welcomes children of all abilities and backgrounds, with a focus on ensuring every child receives the individual attention necessary to thrive. Positive attitudes and good behaviour are encouraged throughout the school, supported by the values-based framework that guides interactions and learning. Dedicated support is provided for pupils with special educational needs, ensuring that all children can access the curriculum and make progress according to their individual starting points.

While the school does not cater to secondary-age pupils, its Preparatory School prepares Year 6 leavers for a range of selective and non-selective secondary schools across London, including independent schools and state grammar schools. The school's curriculum and pastoral approach aim to equip pupils with not only academic skills but also the confidence, resilience, and independence needed to succeed in their next educational setting.

Hampstead Hill School offers a rich extracurricular programme designed to support pupils' social development and allow them to explore interests beyond the core curriculum. Current clubs include Drama, Gymnastics, iBrick (engineering), Chess, and Fencing, with opportunities for pupils to socialise, build key skills, and develop discipline and focus. Extracurricular music lessons are available for pupils who already play an instrument or wish to begin their musical journey, with peripatetic music teachers visiting All Hallows Hall regularly for Prep School pupils.

Physical education is a key component of the school's offer, providing pupils with opportunities to develop confidence, strength, and engage in healthy competition. Prep School pupils participate in regular PE lessons on Hampstead Heath or at the Royal Free Recreation Centre when weather does not permit outdoor play. Weekly PE sessions are designed to facilitate controlled, competitive sport while promoting teamwork, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills. The school's proximity to Hampstead Heath is a significant asset, offering extensive green space for outdoor play, learning, and special events.

Annual highlights include a Sponsored Walk for Prep School pupils on Hampstead Heath, culminating in a picnic at the historic Kenwood House, which supports local charities and fosters community spirit. Sports Day brings Pre-Prep and Prep School pupils together for a day of team activities and friendly competition, reinforcing the school's values of teamwork and respect. During school holidays, Hampstead Hill School partners with Active Day Camps, which offers specialist programmes in Chess, Dance, Cookery, and Engineering.

Facilities at St Stephen's and All Hallows Hall are tailored to the needs of different age groups, with dedicated spaces for Early Years, Pre-Prep, and Prep sections. The school values outdoor spaces highly, recognising their role in supporting children's social and emotional development, and makes full use of the natural environment on its doorstep.

Hampstead Hill School operates a non-selective admissions policy, welcoming families from across Hampstead and the wider Camden area. As an independent school, admissions are managed directly by the school rather than through the local authority, and there is no catchment area or distance-based allocation system. Families interested in securing a place should contact the school directly via the Pre-Prep and Nursery line (020 7435 6262), the Prep School line (020 3031 9960), or email office@hampsteadhillschool.co.uk.

Termly fees vary depending on the child's age and the hours selected. Families should check the school's current fee schedule for the latest tuition levels, sibling-discount details, deposit requirements and payment options. Fees are normally payable in termly instalments, with additional charges potentially applying for selected school trips and after-school clubs. One term's notice in writing is required before a pupil is withdrawn, or fees may be charged in lieu.

The school does not publish detailed information on the number of applications or offers for each year group, and as a non-selective independent school, it is generally accessible to families able to meet the fee requirements. However, given its long-standing presence in Hampstead and its reputation as a nurturing, community-focused school, prospective families are advised to register early and contact the school well in advance of their desired entry point to discuss availability and the admissions process.

Hampstead Hill School offers a distinctive independent primary education in the heart of one of London's most sought-after neighbourhoods. Its values-driven ethos—centred on Respect, Kindness, Community, Curiosity, and Conservation—creates a warm, supportive environment where children are encouraged to develop academically, socially, and emotionally. The school's non-selective admissions policy ensures it is accessible to a broad range of families, while its child-centred approach and commitment to individual attention mean that every pupil is known and supported.

The historic setting of St Stephen's and the new Prep School at All Hallows Hall, alongside the proximity to Hampstead Heath, provide a unique and inspiring backdrop for learning. The broad extracurricular offer, strong pastoral care, and focus on outdoor education reflect a holistic approach to child development that goes beyond exam results. For families seeking an independent primary school with a strong community ethos, a focus on sustainability and values, and a supportive atmosphere that prepares children for the next stage of their education, Hampstead Hill School reviews consistently highlight its strengths in these areas.

While the school does not publish performance data in the same way as state schools, its long history, experienced leadership, and positive ISI inspection insights suggest a stable and well-regarded institution. Parents considering Hampstead Hill School should weigh the fees against the benefits of small class sizes, individual attention, a broad curriculum, and the school's distinctive values-based approach. For those able to commit to independent school fees, Hampstead Hill School represents a well-established, community-oriented option in Hampstead.

Is Hampstead Hill School a good school?

Hampstead Hill School is a well-established independent nursery and preparatory school with a long history in Hampstead, dating back to 1949. It is not inspected by Ofsted but by the Independent Schools Inspectorate, and recent insights from ISI reports suggest positive outcomes in teaching, pupil behaviour, and welfare. The school's values-driven approach, non-selective admissions, and child-centred ethos make it a strong choice for families seeking a nurturing, community-focused independent primary education. However, as with any school, suitability depends on individual family priorities, including the ability to meet fee requirements and alignment with the school's educational philosophy.

How do I apply to Hampstead Hill School?

Admissions to Hampstead Hill School are managed directly by the school. Prospective families should contact the school via the Pre-Prep and Nursery line (020 7435 6262), the Prep School line (020 3031 9960), or by email at office@hampsteadhillschool.co.uk. The school operates a non-selective admissions policy, so there is no entrance examination, but families are advised to register early and contact the school well in advance of their desired entry point to discuss availability and the admissions process. A deposit is required for current pupils transitioning to the Prep School.

What are the fees at Hampstead Hill School?

Fees at Hampstead Hill School vary by age group and hours selected, so families should check the school's latest fee schedule for current tuition, sibling-discount and deposit details. Fees are normally payable in termly instalments. Additional charges may apply for certain school trips and after-school clubs. One term's notice in writing is required before withdrawing a pupil, or fees may be charged in lieu.

Does Hampstead Hill School have a sixth form?

No, Hampstead Hill School is a nursery and preparatory school catering for children aged 2 to 11+. It does not have a secondary phase or sixth form. Year 6 pupils leave the school to attend secondary schools across London, including independent schools and state grammar schools.

What is the school's approach to Special Educational Needs (SEN)?

Hampstead Hill School provides dedicated support for pupils with special educational needs, ensuring that all children can access the curriculum and make progress. The school's child-centred approach and emphasis on individual attention help support pupils with a range of learning needs. Families with specific SEN requirements are encouraged to contact the school directly to discuss the support available and how the school can meet their child's needs.