Ages 
An unusual and individual alternative to the more pressured environments of some other north London establishments. Be ready to subscribe fully to the school’s approach and ethos. For those who do, as one parent put it, ‘it’s just joyous’.
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Overview & data
- Pupil numbers
- 720 ·
- Sixth form numbers
- 123 ·
- Religion
- None
- Fees
- £23,475 - £28,857 pa
- Local authority
- London Borough of Barnet
Headteacher
Head
Robert Lobatto
Since 2013, Robert Lobatto, a ‘gentle and thoughtful’ north Londoner who attended Haberdashers’ Boys, then read history at Oxford. Describes his school experience as ‘the antithesis of nurturing’, which later wound up informing his educational
Entrance
Not academically selective, but sign up as early as possible for reception entry. Forty places are offered on a rolling basis following family visit and play-based assessment. Around 120 applications for between 10 and 12 places at year 7, though
- Open days
- September, October and November
Exit
A handful leave at year 7, just under a third (14-15) of the cohort after GCSE, largely to local state options but some to independent schools such as Francis Holland. Wide range of destinations and courses after sixth form, including Russell Group
Latest results
In 2025, 48 per cent 9-7 at GCSE/level 2; 48 per cent A*/A at A level (77 per cent A*-B).
A level - Average points score (2024)
What is this?
These figures tell you the average grade and average points that pupils achieved in their academic qualifications. A maximum of 60 points are available for a grade A* at A level.
Teaching & learning
Many schools are frustrated by the narrow constraints of results-driven education but KAS has consciously chosen a different path that gives children the freedom to actually enjoy school - ‘running around having the time of their lives’, as one
- Qualifications taken in 2024
- A level
- EPQ
- GCSE
Learning support & SEN
Child-centred, flexible approach very sympathetic to supporting a wide range of SEN including ADHD and social anxiety. However, the focus on self-regulation means perhaps not the best place for a child with complex needs, particularly in the lower
Arts & extracurricular
The arts are what KAS is best known for, and with good reason – drama is ‘the life force’ of the school, embodying its focus on collaboration and creativity, and teachers appreciate the ‘really supportive parents’ who offer invaluable expertise
Sport
‘Not the sportiest school ever,’ admit pupils, although it participates in ISA competitions (we spotted a few trophies) and PE is offered at GCSE and A level. Year 9s can also undertake a sports leadership programme. The general vibe is more about
Ethos & heritage
Founded by parents in Hampstead in 1898, the original aim was to provide an education based on what was best for the child and encourage learning for its own sake. Part of the progressive movement, KAS sees its kindred schools as Bedales in Hampshire
Pastoral care, inclusivity & discipline
Parents welcome the increased structure that the head has introduced to enable children to thrive in this less overtly-managed environment - ‘More freedom brings more opportunities to go off the path,’ he notes - it’s all part of the learning
Mobile phone policy
A clear mobile phone policy is a really important part of modern schooling. This school has provided us with their policy.
Mobile phone policy
Provided by the school and not part of our review No phones in lower school (reception to year 6). In years 7-9, phones are collected at the beginning of the day and returned at home time. In years 10 and 11, phones are deposited in monitored phone lockers to support the development of self-management. Sixth formers are also allocated phone lockers.
Pupils & parents
Parent body welcoming to newcomers and mostly very engaged with school life, praising the ‘really responsive’ dialogue between home and school. Before and after school, grounds are full of parents chatting. Not many ‘City uniforms’ but plenty of
Money matters
Some bursary support is available, primarily at year 7 and sixth form entry.
- Fee information
- £23,475 - £28,857 pa
The last word
An unusual and individual alternative to the more pressured environments of some other north London establishments. Be ready to subscribe fully to the school’s approach and ethos. For those who do, as one parent put it, ‘it’s just joyous’.
