Northaw School

Northaw School. Founded in the late Victorian era, it is an independent, co-educational institution in Hertfordshire offering day and boarding education from nursery through to the sixth form. The school has evolved from its original establishment as a preparatory school for boys to its current status, maintaining a reputation for a broad curriculum within a historic yet modernized setting. It operates under the governance of a board of trustees and is a member of the Independent Schools Council.

History

The school was founded in 1884 by Arthur Dunn, initially operating as a preparatory school for boys destined for major public schools such as Eton and Harrow. Its early years were spent in London before relocating to its permanent home in the Northaw village in 1907, acquiring a former country house and estate. Throughout the 20th century, it gradually expanded its age range and facilities, notably becoming fully co-educational in the 1970s. Key developments included the addition of a dedicated preparatory department and later a sixth form, with the school celebrating its centenary in 1984 with visits from dignitaries including Margaret Thatcher.

Campus and facilities

The school occupies a 100-acre rural estate featuring a mix of historic and modern architecture. The central building is a listed Victorian mansion, which houses administrative offices, the main assembly hall, and several classrooms. Modern additions include the Harrington Building, a purpose-built teaching block for STEM subjects, and the Forbes Centre, which contains a sports hall, swimming pool, and performing arts studio. The grounds also feature extensive playing fields, all-weather pitches, tennis courts, and a chapel. Boarding houses, including West House and The Grange, are situated within the campus.

Academic profile

The school follows the National Curriculum for England, preparing pupils for GCSE and A-Level examinations. It is known for strong results in the sciences and modern foreign languages, with a high proportion of leavers progressing to Russell Group universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. The sixth form offers a wide range of A-Level subjects and an Extended Project Qualification programme. Specialist teaching begins in the preparatory department, and the school maintains a learning support department for pupils with specific educational needs.

Extracurricular activities

A strong emphasis is placed on the Combined Cadet Force, with contingents for the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force. The school competes in major sports fixtures in rugby, hockey, and cricket, with tours to destinations like South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. The Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme is popular, and numerous clubs operate, including debating, orchestra, and drama, with regular productions staged in the Forbes Centre. Community service partnerships with local organizations such as the Northaw Parish Council are also encouraged.

Notable alumni

Alumni, known as Old Northawians, include figures from various fields. In public service and the military, this includes High Court judge Sir Anthony May and Victoria Cross recipient Major John Gilroy. In the arts, alumni comprise Academy Award-winning cinematographer David Watkin and novelist Fay Weldon. The world of sport is represented by former England rugby international Mike Slemen and Olympic rower Tim Foster. In business, notable figures include former BBC Chairman Sir Christopher Bland.

Category:Educational institutions established in 1884 Category:Private schools in Hertfordshire Category:Day and boarding schools in England