ethos
Headmaster Chris Hutchinson has been at the school for over a decade. Described as 'one of the loveliest people' by a parent, he is warm, visible around campus, and calls himself 'the Optimist in Chief'. He is not grade-driven, focusing instead on the journey and experience of pupils. His background includes head of physics at Clifton College, housemaster at Wellington, and headship at Newcastle School for Boys. The school aims to provide a holistic education within an inclusive, diverse community reflective of Greater London.
teaching
The curriculum is broad and suits a wide range of abilities. GCSE options include German and Japanese; maths is the most popular A-level. BTECs are available in sport, media and business. Most pupils take 10 GCSEs and results are described as impressive at both GCSE and A-level. Extra support is available for those who need it, including one-on-one guidance outside lesson times for pupils with learning differences such as dyslexia. The most gifted pupils are stretched. Leavers have gone on to study architecture, actuarial science, law, mechanical engineering and psychology, with some joining apprenticeship schemes.
pastoral
A perpendicular house system forms the heart of the school; every pupil from Year 7 is assigned a physical house to check into each morning. Housemasters and housemistresses work alongside tutors to challenge and support pupils. Staff described as knowing every pupil individually. Sixth formers participate in a bespoke 'bridge to life' programme covering mental health, university life and gender equality. There is a noted absence of teenage 'coolness' or cockiness among the pupil body.