Our school

Nonsuch is a highly successful and selective grammar school for girls aged between 11 and 18 years.  Opened in May 1938 and standing in 22 acres of beautiful grounds on the edge of Nonsuch Park, we aim to provide a caring, happy and stimulating environment in which students can attain the highest levels of academic and personal achievement. Teachers and support staff joining Nonsuch comment on the excellent behaviour and positive attitude to learning of our students and on the warm and co-operative relationships between staff.

Attainment and achievement at Nonsuch are excellent. Summer 2023 saw GCSE results
where 68.7% of grades were at 9-8 and  86.1% of all grades were 9-7.  98.8% of all grades attained grade 5 or above.   At A-Level students achieved 18.8% A* and 53.3% A*-A grades - again placing the school amongst the highest performing schools nationally.  

Our mission

The school’s aim is to empower our young women and enrich their lives to ensure they aspire to take their centre stage place in the world. We want students to enjoy learning, to become independent and effective learners and to achieve academic success in an atmosphere that fosters positive relationships and mental health, promotes equality and celebrates diversity. Our curriculum is broad and balanced; it provides intellectual challenge, develops creativity and curiosity and empowers our students to articulate their thinking confidently.  The curriculum and extra-curricular opportunities promote social and cultural enrichment and a strong sense of community.  The advice and guidance enables students to make wise, informed and ambitious choices. We promote the values of positivity, respect, integrity, courage and endeavour.  We want our students to engage with the local and wider community in the belief that they can make a difference.

Our curriculum

On entry, all students follow an academic programme including a Modern Foreign Language (German, French or Spanish) and Latin.  The range of subjects taken for GCSE is broadened by the opportunity to continue with a second language or start an additional language. Students study the three separate sciences and have the opportunity to take up Astronomy or Photography or to choose an appropriate Technology, Arts, Humanities or Modern Foreign Language course. Initially, students are taught in forms, with smaller groups for practical subjects.

The vast majority of students continue their studies in the large Sixth Form, for which external candidates may apply.  Courses may be chosen from around 21 subjects. In addition, students take options from the elective menu: many Year 12 students take the Extended Project Qualification and some students opt for classes in dissection, Arts award or Sports Leader award accreditation among other options. Candidates are prepared for Oxbridge entry or for admissions tests, for example BMAT (for Medicine) and LNAT (for Law), as appropriate. The vast majority of students proceed to higher education or professional training.

A comprehensive tutorial programme (including citizenship, careers and health education) supports the curriculum for all students, who are encouraged to assume responsibility for their studies through regular homework and negotiated target setting.  Opportunities for active citizenship abound: students in each year group take part in community outreach and fundraising for local, national and global charities. They assume leadership roles within school also representing their peers on the School Council and all Sixth form students belong to the Sixth Form Committee which holds regular Forum meetings.  Sixth form students make an invaluable contribution to the community life of the School, serving as school officials and prefects, leading the house system and supporting younger students as mentors.

Artistic, dramatic, musical and sporting talents are fostered. Many students have instrumental lessons; choirs and orchestras flourish, together with many clubs and societies. All opportunities are taken for visits in this country and abroad to widen further the educational experience.   Membership of a range of sports teams is encouraged and many Nonsuch students play sports at County and National level. 

The School’s commitment to excellence in girls’ education is reflected in the breadth of the curriculum, the outstanding examination results and the number of extra-curricular activities on offer. Most importantly, of course, the School’s success is visible in the confidence and enjoyment of girls who leave us to continue their studies and to carve their niche in 21^st century society, as well as the excellent alumni network which supports our Careers and Networking events.

Resources and school site

The School is fortunate in having exceptional and well-resourced accommodation for all subject areas. We have 11 fully resourced Science labs, 4 ICT rooms and an Astronomy Dome on the roof which is also used by astronomers in the local community. Our offer of 3 modern languages and Latin is supported by a bespoke language lab and GCSE and A level language students benefit from weekly meetings with Foreign Language Assistants. The Sixth Form Study Area and Learning Resource Centre further enhance the facilities available to students.

A skilled team of administrative staff, technicians and cover supervisors work closely with the teaching staff. This team includes pastoral administrators, an Emotional Literacy Support Assistant, first aiders and a librarian.  Our cafeteria is used by students and staff at mid-morning and lunchbreak, supplemented by a concession in the sixth form area and outside provision called “The Lunch Box.”  There is a private day care Nursery on the School site which is used by some staff.  The school is adjacent to a David Lloyd Sports and Leisure Centre which staff are able to use free of charge during off peak hours in term time.