Hurtwood House stands out as a Sixth Form specialist. It accepts students for the final two years of school, many of whom join from other top schools seeking a fresh challenge and more freedom. Hurtwood’s ethos is encapsulated by its “passion for creativity and academic excellence”. On the academic side, Hurtwood is exceptionally strong. It offers about 25 A Level subjects and encourages flexible combinations – from Maths, Physics and Chemistry to Drama, Media and Photography – tailoring programmes to each student’s strengths. Class sizes are small (often 6–8 students), and teaching is personalized and seminar-style. The academic results are stellar: over half of all A Level grades are A*–A and the school has a track record of securing students places at Oxbridge, Russell Group, and top American universities. What’s different is how those results are achieved. Hurtwood doesn’t feel like a conventional school; it feels more like a college. Students call teachers by their first names, manage more of their own time, and are treated as young adults. There is a respectful, relaxed atmosphere – “less formal and less institutional than traditional public schools” – which students find empowering. Yet this freedom is balanced with excellent pastoral support and structure where needed. Most students live on campus (around 90% board) in converted country houses and lodges that give a homely, communal feel. Boarding staff understand the needs of 16–18 year-olds, providing oversight but also allowing them to learn self-reliance in a safe setting. Weekends at Hurtwood are vibrant: with half of the community new each year, everyone is keen to socialise – house activities, parties, trips to London (the school runs buses to the city) are common, fostering a very inclusive social scene. Perhaps Hurtwood’s biggest draw is its Creative and Performing Arts programme. The school is famous for drama, film, music and art. It has professional facilities: an on-site theatre, music recording studios, art & fashion studios, and even a digital editing suite for film. The volume and quality of productions is “breathtaking” – multiple major drama productions a year, frequent concerts, a fashion show, student-produced films (Hurtwood’s Film Academy is led by industry professionals and alumni include Oscar-winning filmmakers). Creative students find Hurtwood to be paradise – they can immerse themselves in their passion while still getting top-notch academic teaching. However, one misconception to dispel: Hurtwood is not only for “arty” students. True, a lot of aspiring actors, musicians, dancers, etc., come here (and go on to prestigious conservatoires and art schools), but equally many Hurtwood students focus on sciences, economics or languages and proceed to traditional universities. The key is that Hurtwood’s environment suits mature, self-motivated students. Those who thrive here are typically those ready for a bit more responsibility and individuality in Sixth Form. The school actively encourages personal initiative – be it forming a new club, launching a student magazine, or organizing charity events. With half the student body joining new each year, everyone arrives at Hurtwood as a “new girl or boy,” creating an instant common ground and breaking cliques that might exist in long-established schools. This fresh start and diverse intake (students come from all over the UK and abroad, including many from top GCSE schools) make Hurtwood socially welcoming. By graduation, Hurtwoodians are well-prepared for university life: they’ve experienced two years of greater independence, made decisions about balancing work and play, and pursued their passions to a high level. In essence, Hurtwood House offers two transformative years where students can truly “discover themselves and learn how to get the best out of themselves,” supported by caring staff in a dynamic environment.
Why Choose Hurtwood House?
- Sixth Form Specialists: Hurtwood focuses exclusively on Years 12 and 13, meaning all resources – teaching, facilities, pastoral care – are dedicated to these crucial pre-university years. There are no younger students, so Sixth Formers are the center of attention, and the curriculum and schedule are tailored for them. Classes run on a college timetable rather than a strict 8am–4pm school day, giving flexibility for independent study or rehearsals.
- Outstanding Academics: Despite its informal vibe, Hurtwood is “exceptionally strong academically with an outstanding record of A-level results,” consistently in the top tier of schools. For example, in 2023 over 55% of grades were A*/A, and the school frequently ranks among the top 5 co-ed boarding schools for A Levels. Whether your child is aiming for Medicine or Fine Art, the academic guidance and results at Hurtwood will support those ambitions.
- Unrivalled Creative Arts: Hurtwood House provides “outstanding opportunities for the aspiring actor, singer, artist, fashion designer, dancer or film-maker.” Facilities and coaching for performing arts are at a professional level – from its fully-equipped theatre and media editing suites to its numerous showcases and connections to the creative industry. Students with talents in drama or music often choose Hurtwood to take those to the next level (the school has produced West End actors, film directors, chart-topping musicians). Even for those who simply enjoy creative hobbies, Hurtwood’s vibrant arts scene is hugely enriching.
- University-Style Environment: The transition from GCSE to A Level often coincides with teenagers desiring more independence. Hurtwood’s environment is deliberately akin to a “stepping-stone between school and university”. There’s no uniform; students manage free periods; they are addressed as young adults. This fosters self-discipline and confidence. Importantly, half the students are new each year, which means your child will integrate easily as everyone in Lower Sixth is starting Hurtwood together – it’s a level playing field socially.
- Top Pastoral Care for 16–18: With greater freedom comes carefully structured support. Hurtwood houses are small (around 30–40 per boarding house), and houseparents provide a family atmosphere. According to the Student-Parent Handbook, “one of the main characteristics of Hurtwood is its strong boarding ethos” where staff believe sixth-formers still need guidance and a safe, supervised environment even as they enjoy more freedoms. The result is students who feel trusted but also know there’s always someone to turn to. Many parents find this an ideal balance, especially for those who might outgrow the strict rules of a 13–18 school but still benefit from pastoral oversight.
- Consistently Highly Ranked: Hurtwood House has built a formidable reputation. It’s regularly featured in media as one of the most successful and innovative schools in Britain – described as “one of England’s most successful and exciting public schools.” Small class teaching, expert teachers (many come from industry or top academia), and excellent facilities ensure it maintains that standard year after year. For families, the lack of internal competition from younger year groups means every opportunity (prefect positions, lead roles in productions, etc.) is open to your child in Sixth Form – a great boost for university applications and personal growth.
