Isn’t it remarkable how a school can evolve? Today we are standing in front of Nower Hill High School. This academy school has a rich history and a vibrant present.
Nower Hill High School started as Headstone Council School in 1929. The original red brick building stood on Pinner Road. Back then the school had four houses. They were named after famous Harrow residents. The houses were Byron Becket Shaftesbury and Manor. Each house had its own color. They were Green Blue Red and Orange respectively.
In 1974 the school’s name officially changed. It became Nower Hill High School. This marked a new chapter in the school’s journey.
Two significant additions honor dedicated staff. The music block and sports hall form the Gristwood Centre. It is named after Mr F.R.H Gristwood. He served the school with distinction. The Maths block and 6th Form facilities are named after Howard Freed. He was a former headteacher.
Nower Hill High School began admitting sixth form students in 2006. This expanded the educational opportunities offered. In 2011 Nower Hill High School converted to academy status.
Student input shaped the house system in 2015. New houses were introduced. Students chose the names. The houses became Bannister Nightingale Franklin King Shabazz and Gandhi. Each house has its own color. They are orange blue green red purple and yellow.
The school crest holds historical symbolism. The left side features the Middlesex coat of arms. It displays three Anglo-Saxon swords. These seaxes connect the school to the region’s past.
Nower Hill High School has seen many headteachers. Mr C.J. Boyden was the first. He served from 1929 to 1943. H.W.J. Manson followed from 1943 to 1963. Mr E.J.R. Dey then took over from 1963 to 1969. Mr F.R.H. Gristwood led from 1969 to 1983. Mr S.P. Hensby was headteacher from 1983 to 1999. Mr H. Freed served from 2000 to 2013. Mr C.J. Livesey held the position from 2013 to 2019. Ms Louise Voden was headteacher from 2019 to 2024. Ms Joanne Skelhorne is the current headteacher since 2024.
Nower Hill High School is a large school. It has over 2000 students. Around 324 students are in each year group. The sixth form is part of the Harrow Sixth Form Collegiate.
Nower Hill High School continues to achieve. In a recent Ofsted inspection it was rated as outstanding in every category. This reflects the dedication of the school community. The school’s motto is “Service not self”.
Nower Hill High School stands as a testament to enduring educational values. Its history reflects adaptation innovation and a commitment to its students. It is a place where history and progress meet.