The creative spirit is at the core of a child’s learning. As a Thinking School, we weave creative learning techniques and lesson plans throughout all our subjects to ensure every child’s creativity is nurtured appropriately.
When it is time for that creativity to bear its fruit, our excellent curriculum is ready. We pride ourselves not only on the high level of teaching at NHP, but also on the young talent we have been able to foster here. Whether it’s art, music, drama or design, we provide a safe, supportive workshop in which children can discover what makes their heart sing.
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 internalise 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.
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 endeavours. 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 endeavours through displays around the school, end-of-term shows, exhibitions, and participation in competitions. This not only showcases their work but also instils 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.
