The Harrodian School


The Harrodian School is an independent day school in Barnes, South-west London. Formerly the site of Harrods Sports Club, the original premises has been extended and converted for educational purposes. The school opened in September 1993 with just 65 pupils; by 2011 the roll had grown to 925.

History

The Harrodian school was founded by Lady Eliana and Sir Alford Houstoun-Boswall with 65 pupils and 12 staff.
Until 1988 the site had been a clubhouse and sports ground for employees of Harrods department store, and known as the Harrodian Club. While the store's owner Mohamed Al-Fayed sold the grounds, he was not happy that the school took the name, and in fact challenged this in court.
Eliana Houstoun-Boswall was the founding headmistress, but in 1996 was left by her husband after her affair with a teacher became public. The publicity again prompted Harrods to object to the school's perceived connection to them. She has gone on to found another independent school - Hampton Court House.
By September 2010 the school had grown to 1500 pupils and 120 members of staff.
In 2011 long-serving principal Peter Thompson died.

Fees & charges

As of 2015 the school charges tuition fees of : £4,431/£13,293 ; £5,076/£15,228 ; £5,867/£17,601 and £6,766/£20,298. In addition to tuition fees, charges are made for: lunch; insurance and registration, these additional charges amount to approximately £1,000/year.

Notable former pupils