Enhancing the curriculum
Here at North Bridge House Hampstead Senior School, we believe in the importance of educating the whole child so that his or her true potential can be fulfilled. We strive to build character and develop skills in our students, by providing a breadth of learning experience that takes them way beyond than the curriculum itself.
From our timetabled enrichment programme to as many as 50 school trips a year, students are immersed in opportunities and cultures which widen their global perspective and broaden their future horizons. Our exceptional range of clubs and societies is designed to cater to a diverse array of interests, from creative and musical pursuits to sports and STEM, and is available before, during and after school hours.
Our co-curricular offerings go beyond the clubs to include nationally recognised programmes like LAMDA and DofE. These programmes help students to develop confidence, communication skills, and leadership abilities, and provide opportunities for teamwork and personal growth. Students also lead on and participate in a range of charitable events, and many join our Sustainability and Pride & Diversity Councils to contribute to our universally aware and inclusive school community.
Our clubs timetable varies every term, which means that students have the opportunity to try different activities and seasonal sports throughout the year. We believe that this approach encourages young people to explore new interests and broaden their skillset.
OUR POPULAR CLUBS & EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Sustainability Council.
Hampstead Senior’s Sustainability Council have implemented a number of successful initiatives, including a pollinator-friendly garden and allotment, growing food for use in our school canteen.
Our dedication to sustainability was recognised when we were chosen by Cognita to be one of the pilot schools to work with an external company called Sustainability at School. This organisation specialises in helping schools deliver sustainability education and reduce their carbon footprint.
Most recently, the Sustainability Council have engaged the entire school community in reducing waste and increasing recycling, introducing initiatives such as bringing reusable water bottles to school, installing new recycling bins, and eliminating all single-use plastic in the dining room through our catering company.
By Summer 2024, the sustainability council's efforts had yielded impressive results. Data collected from our refuse provider revealed that we had increased our recycling rate from 16% to 37%.
As we look ahead to setting and achieving new sustainability goals, our vision is not just to reduce our environmental impact today, but to inspire the next generation to care for our planet. Through our ongoing efforts, we strive to equip our students with the knowledge and skills they need to become responsible global citizens who are passionate about preserving our world for future generations.
Debate Club.
Debate Club encourages students to analyse information, communicate effectively, and work collaboratively.
In honing their oracy and critical thinking skills, students enjoy growing their ability to construct and defend arguments. These skills are not only beneficial for academic success but are also highly valued in the workplace. According to our graduates, participating in the club was beneficial for both exam preparation and university applications.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Award is very popular with North Bridge House students and every year, pupils embark on this nationally recognised programme.
DofE is a particularly rewarding programme, growing strength of character as students work towards progressive levels of achievement: Bronze, Silver and Gold. The various Volunteering, Physical, Skills and Expedition sections of the programme see students work both independently and as part of a team, embracing challenges and making memories for life.
Performing arts.
The performing arts truly thrive at NBH Hampstead Senior and there are many extra-curricular opportunities in acting, musical theatre, production & technical arts.
Annual school productions play a crucial role in helping students develop both on stage and backstage talent, clear communication, self-confidence, and teamwork. The bringing together of drama, dance and music always makes for a spectacular show and a great many hours goes into rehearsals, whether students are memorising lines or working on set and costume design.
Students who participate in our ever-popular LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art) classes are known for achieving 100% Distinctions and Merits. LAMDA proves a great way for all students, not just actors and musicians, to increase their confidence and improve their communication skills, positively impacting academic performance and social interactions.