It has been my privilege to lead Northampton School since its opening, having been part of the project team from our very first application to the Department for Education in 2018. Before that, I spent over 20 years as a Senior Leader at Northampton School for Boys (NSB), gaining invaluable experience that has helped shape our vision here at Northampton School.

As both a parent and an educator within the NSB Trust, I have seen first-hand what makes our schools so successful. My own children attended NSB — one followed the university route and now works for an architect’s firm, while the other chose an apprenticeship and now works in the city. These experiences give me a unique insight into what truly helps young people thrive.

At Northampton School, we aim to provide a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment built on mutual respect, high expectations, and a commitment to excellence. We encourage leadership, healthy competition, and personal growth — celebrating success both inside and outside the classroom. Our philosophy of Nurturing Success is at the heart of everything we do. Every student, regardless of their starting point, is supported to make exceptional progress. Those who excel are given opportunities for greater challenge through lessons and a wide range of extracurricular activities, while students with specific educational needs receive tailored support guided by the Northamptonshire SEND Ranges.

Our state-of-the-art facilities include a Dance and Drama Studio, nine music practice rooms, a Sports Hall, Fitness Studio, All-Weather Pitch, extensive playing fields and specialist areas for Science, Design Technology, Art, and Music.

At Northampton School, we inspire our students to dream big, aim high, work hard, and achieve greatness — and we’re just getting started.

As Deputy Headteacher for Quality of Education, my role focuses on what happens in our classrooms — the heart of learning at Northampton School.

Our school is built around a strong, traditional, and academic curriculum that offers both breadth and depth. It is ambitious and aspirational for every student, with no compromises or gimmicks — just high-quality teaching and a shared commitment to success.

Throughout Key Stage 3, students study a wide range of subjects, including English, Mathematics, Science, Design Technology (including Food and Nutrition), Computer Science, Spanish, History, Geography, Religious Education, Physical Education, Art, Music, Dance, Drama, and Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE).

As students move into Key Stage 4, they begin to specialise. The vast majority follow the English Baccalaureate pathway, studying a core of English, Mathematics, Science, History or Geography, and Spanish, alongside their chosen GCSE options. Our curriculum is designed to develop intellectual curiosity, a love of learning, and an understanding of each student’s role in a wider world. It also upholds the British Values of Democracy, the Rule of Law, Respect, Tolerance, and Individual Liberty.

At Northampton School, we believe that great teaching transforms lives. All our teachers take part in an annual programme of professional development focused on the principles of effective teaching and learning. This enables us to continually reflect, refine, and improve classroom practice — ensuring that every student receives the highest quality education.

At Northampton School, we are united by a shared belief: that with the right teaching, care, and challenge, every young person can achieve extraordinary things.

FARID CHARIDINE - DEPUTY HEADTEACHER

As Deputy Headteacher with oversight of Behaviour and Attitudes, my role is to help create a culture of strong discipline, safety, and respect across Northampton School. I don’t do this alone — every member of staff is committed to upholding the highest standards of behaviour so that all students can learn and thrive in a calm, supportive, and respectful environment.

We have established a strong culture of excellent behaviour through our Behaviour Curriculum, which ensures that expectations are taught explicitly and consistently across the school. Our NS Standards outline how students should conduct themselves — from how they learn in class and move around the site, to how they treat others and our environment. Staff model these behaviours every day, ensuring that respect, responsibility, and pride are at the heart of school life.

When students occasionally fall short of our standards, we use a system of reminders, guidance, and appropriate sanctions to support them in making better choices. Rewards and recognition also play a key role, reinforcing positive behaviour and helping every student understand what it means to be part of our community.

Respect for all, by all, is fundamental. Every student deserves to feel safe and valued, and we are determined to maintain a bullying-free, disruption-free learning environment. We expect all students to strive for excellence in everything they do — because “it’ll do” simply won’t do.

Our pastoral support is central to student wellbeing. Every student joins a tutor group led by a dedicated form tutor — their first point of contact for both academic and personal support. Tutors are supported by a Head of Year, who oversees the progress and welfare of all students in the year group. We have also invested heavily in our Inclusion Centre, which provides wellbeing support and targeted assistance for students with additional needs, ensuring that everyone can flourish.

Our aim is simple: to build a school culture where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to become the very best version of themselves — academically, personally, and socially. We will give you the opportunities to excel and, in time, I look forward to seeing you competing at the highest levels.

EMMA BARNETT-VINCENT - ASSISTANT HEADTEACHER

As Assistant Headteacher for Personal Development, I am proud to champion a vision where success is nurtured in every child. At Northampton School, we are committed to developing the whole person — equipping each student with an outstanding foundation for their future.

We believe that success looks different for everyone, and we celebrate all achievements — whether academic, creative, sporting, or personal. Every student becomes part of one of our four Houses — Bason, Harris, Kay, or Walker — named after the founding governors of the school and the NSB Trust. Our vibrant inter-house competitions foster teamwork, healthy competition, and school spirit — qualities we see as key drivers of success.

Beyond the classroom, we place great importance on extracurricular life. Participation in clubs and activities builds confidence, friendships, and resilience, while also enhancing academic achievement. From crochet club to indoor rowing, and with a growing programme in our specialisms of Performing Arts and Sport, there is something for everyone.

We also place a strong emphasis on careers education and future pathways. Through a carefully planned programme of guidance, workshops, employer engagement, and enrichment opportunities, we help students explore their aspirations and make informed choices. Whether aiming for university, apprenticeships, or direct employment, our careers provision ensures every student is supported to take their next steps with confidence and clarity.

Though we are still a young school, our achievements already speak volumes — from spectacular stage productions like Matilda and Beauty and the Beast, to county cup victories in football and the launch of NS Fest, our community celebration of the Arts. These milestones reflect the passion and ambition of our students and staff.