Hammersmith Academy

Opened in September 2001, Hammersmith Academy stands as a testament to innovative education. Hammersmith Academy is a beacon of creativity, specializing in digital media and information technology. This isn’t just any school. Hammersmith Academy is jointly sponsored by two prestigious institutions: the Worshipful Company of Mercers, the oldest livery company in London, and the Worshipful Company of Information Technologists, the 100th. This unique partnership speaks to the academy’s dedication to blending tradition with cutting-edge technology. Imagine a school where a state-of-the-art theatre sits alongside cutting-edge digital editing suites and IT labs. Hammersmith Academy boasts these and more. A sports hall, library, and fitness suite round out the facilities. This academy isn’t just about academics; it’s about providing a well-rounded education. Hammersmith Academy arose from a need for more local school choices in the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham. In 2006, a mere 38% of local children attended state schools in the borough. This prompted the council to launch its Schools of Choice program. Hammersmith Academy was a key part of this initiative. The academy also boasts a unique house system. Students are divided into Lovelace, Attenborough, Johnson, McQueen, and Khan houses. These names honor inspirational figures from various fields, including mathematician Ada Lovelace, biologist David Attenborough, NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson, film director Steve McQueen, and architect Louis Khan. Even royalty has graced the halls of Hammersmith Academy. In 2015, Prince William visited as part of the Princess Diana anti-bullying campaign, focusing on cyberbullying and LGBTQ+ issues. More recently, in 2022, Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi toured the academy and later praised it on BBC news.