Nottingham High School

Encouraging intellectual curiosity to champion individual growth

School Overview

With a rich history of over 500 years, Nottingham High School is one of the most well-reputed schools in the United Kingdom. The school believes in encouraging individuality and intellectual curiosity in every student with the aim of creating an environment where they feel safe and valued.

A Brief Snapshot of its 500-year History 

1513

The School was founded as the “Free School” by Dame Agnes Mellers and held in St Mary’s Church in the Lace Market. The School’s Foundation Charter was granted by King Henry VIII.

1594

The second Charter was signed by Queen Elizabeth I.

1838-41

John Peake Knight attended the School. He went on to become the inventor of roadside traffic lights in 1868.

1868

The new School was built and opened in its current location on Arboretum Street. It changed its name from The Free Grammar School to Nottingham High School.

1898-01

Writer D. H. Lawrence attended the School.

1905

The Preparatory School was started, catering to pupils aged 8 to 11.

1964-65

The Founder Hall and swimming pool were built to commemorate the 450th Anniversary of the school.

1984

The Duke of Edinburgh visited the School to officially open the Simon Djanogly Science Building.

1992

The Djanogly Design and Technology block was built through the generosity of Sir Harry and Lady Helen Djanogly, Local textile manufacturer.

1997

The Lady Carol Djanogly music building was opened.

2008

Lovell House Infant School was created for the education of children from 4 to 7 Years.

2013

The School celebrated its 500th Anniversary.

2015

The School became Co-Educational.

2021

Nottingham High School is awarded The Sunday Times East Midlands Independent School of the Decade

Student Life

Every student’s individual journey is of equal importance at Nottingham High School, which works towards providing high standards of education. Famous sportsmen, entrepreneurs, inventors and engineers have been part of this institution that holds a high academic repute in the city of Nottingham.

Students are given various opportunities to gain skills that will prepare them for life and also help them explore themselves individually. The school wants students to leave the campus as well-rounded and confident individuals ready to play their part in society.

School Philosophy and Values

The pedagogy is designed to offer maximum opportunity to students striving for the highest standards. A safe and vibrant school environment allows pupils to explore and experiment, develop their individuality and identify their talents without inhibitions.

Students’ well-being is kept as a top priority through a strong emphasis on individual care. A rich and balanced curriculum focusses on the holistic development of students. The lessons are creative in nature which leads to a fun and engaging learning environment. 

Day trips, excursions, school events, contests and exchange programmes are organised to help students learn life skills like resilience, communication, collaboration, decision-making and critical thinking.

The school focusses on building a culture of mutual respect and tolerance to cater to and nurture students from diverse backgrounds.

Awards and Recognitions

A number of initiatives taken by the school have received recognition in the domain of education. 

Sunday Times East Midlands Independent Secondary School of the Decade – awarded in 2021

Independent School of the Year award for Healthy Eating – awarded in 2020

Topped the regional ranking for three years in a row 

Public Benefit

We are committed to making a positive impact on society.

As an integral part of the community, the school undertakes a huge amount of work providing voluntary service, educational opportunities and support for a wide variety of schools, community groups, individuals and charities.

Community Outreach

The school offers a variety of events, training and experiences for pupils and teachers.

It endeavours to host students and teachers for various events and activities, sharing resources and expertise with the local community. From science days to author visits and university advice sessions to sports festivals, the events cover a broad spectrum of skills and interests for all.

The end goal is to be able to see a genuinely positive impact for all involved. Visitors are able to enjoy the valuable free sessions led by our passionate school community, and students will gain practical skills and insights by getting involved.