Address: 2 Arkwright Road, Hampstead, London, NW3 6AE
Website: www.devonshirehouseschool.co.uk
Founded: 1989
Number of pupils: 550
Ages: 2-13 years
Fees: (termly) £3,697 to £7,816
Head Teacher: Mr Henry Keighley-Elstub
Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational
Entrance Procedure: Non-selective
Contact: Mrs Helen Ridard, Head of Admissions, 020 7435 1916
Email: [email protected]
School Visits: We organise several Open Mornings per term. Alternatively, contact Admissions to arrange a private tour.
The Curriculum
Children follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. There is a balance between adult-directed teaching and child-initiated learning. In both indoor and outdoor environments, children learn through play-based and hands-on experiences.
Games & the Arts
Specialist subjects start from the Nursery School with Music, Games and French, all taught by qualified teachers once a week. Physical education is extended to twice a week for 3 to 4 years old children.
Pastoral Care
With a clear focus on well-being, children grow in confidence, self-belief and resilience during their two years in Nursery School. Time is dedicated to mindfulness activities such as breathing techniques, yoga poses, and movement breaks, as well as enjoying the therapeutic benefits of nature in our on-site outdoor learning areas.
Recent Scholarships
Nursery School children move to our Lower School at the age of four. From there, we cater to children’s most unique pathways. Pupils win scholarships to a wide range of day and boarding schools every year.
Head Teacher’s Philosophy
We believe that learning and play represent a symbiotic relationship, one feeding the other.
Children learn as much from studying bugs in our wild area as they do in the classroom. The great outdoors is critical to a child’s development and at Devonshire House, we ensure that the children spend as much time outdoors as possible.
Outstanding Characteristics
Every child has a unique character and we embrace them all. Children grow, learn and play in a safe environment. Our grounds are spacious and include an on-site forest school where children learn to take risks. ‘Pupils leave the school as confident, resilient young people who have strong self-esteem and a well-developed understanding of how to improve their own learning.’ (ISI Report).
