Welcome To Helvetia – ‘Nil Sine Deo’
We are an independent private school for girls aged 4-11 years old.
The school was founded in January 1889 and is proud of the fact that it has been run by the same family for 135 years. We are still housed in the original town house and our aim is to provide a unique learning experience in which to develop every child to their potential. Helvetia is a wonderful place to learn and grow. The teachers love their work and the atmosphere is vibrant, happy and welcoming. The girls are happy and engaged in their learning. They love and care for their school.
Helvetia is caring and nurturing as we have a dedicated team of staff and we develop our girls academically, socially, personally and spiritually. We have high expectations of the girls and the small class sizes allow for every child to receive individual attention with each having a chance to shine. We maintain a relaxed atmosphere in which all pupils can excel. Good manners and integrity are key values that are regarded highly and provide an excellent basis for education.
Following the National Curriculum, we aim to get the best out of every student regardless of their academic abilities. All girls have one of six form teachers in the morning and study Literacy, Numeracy and Singing. In the afternoons, specialist teachers enthuse the girls with subjects such as Science, Humanities, I.T., Music, Drama, Art and Craft, Dance, Gymnastics and Games.
A firm foundation for Key Stage 1 pupils is reading and each child reads individually to their teacher on a daily basis. From year 3, the girls are tested every term in the three core subjects and at this stage, the girls study French and learn recorder. They also have the opportunity to have piano, flute or clarinet lessons.
All girls work very hard to attain the required grades and the skills taught set the girls on a promising path for the future. All girls go on to achieve excellent academic success and are well-prepared to transfer to the secondary school of their choice. Helvetia is a family and develops the girls into confident, well-rounded individuals who are very secure in themselves as they are proud of their work and their achievements, both on a personal and academic level. Many are keen to take on roles with responsibility both at secondary school and within the community.
The bright blue uniform dress and straw hats worn by the girls in summer are a delight to behold when they are seen by the public whilst on school visits. Likewise, the winter uniform is very smart and is proudly worn by all the girls.