Alleyn's Hampstead school opens with 500 pupils

Alleyn's Hampstead began its academic year on September 8, admitting its inaugural cohort of 500 pupils. The independent school caters to students aged between two and 16 and is operating from three separate locations within the borough: Rosslyn Hill, Netherhall Gardens, and Fitzjohn's Avenue. The establishment is an outpost of a south London institution, with its new facilities prepared over the summer in former North Bridge House school buildings.

New facilities and school life

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Founding headteacher Aidan Sproat-Clements, who has been on site since mid-August, described the opening as a "lovely moment". Improvements to the Rosslyn Hill site include a new dining room and seating areas designed to foster a welcoming atmosphere, alongside a sixth-form cafe named Ned's Kitchen. A Victorian villa on Fitzjohn's Avenue has been refurbished for junior pupils, featuring a new dining space, a library in the garden, and a refurbished school hall, all presented in a child-focused style to create a nurturing environment.

The school plans to hold an official launch event in October. At this event, four school houses will be named, selected from suggestions provided by the community that have links to Hampstead. Mr Sproat-Clements expressed his privilege in leading the school community and working with dedicated colleagues, noting the warmth felt from pupils, including a group of year 11 girls who visited him. He also aims to sample the school's specially commissioned ice cream.

Headteacher's goals

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Mr Sproat-Clements has set a personal goal to learn the names of all 350 senior school pupils by Christmas. To achieve this, he plans to engage with students by attending maths or music lessons across all classes. He will also familiarise himself with the 150 nursery and junior pupils at the other school sites. He stated that connecting with the students is the most effective way to learn their names and considers it his primary objective.

Mr Sproat-Clements acknowledged the significant responsibility involved in running a school and ensuring the best outcomes for young people. He described his role as a "lovely job" and noted his husband's observation of his high level of excitement for the position.