NHGS is focused on enabling students to achieve the highest academic qualifications possible. However, this purpose does not exclude our commitment to the personal, social, moral, physical, cultural, ethical and spiritual development of each student. The staff are very committed to supporting a wide range of activities.

Music is very strong in the school. Students can participate in the instrumental tuition scheme, ABRSM exams, the school orchestra, concert band, junior band, three choirs and many smaller ensembles. There are termly school concerts, a biennial Grand Concert at the Victoria Theatre and a biennial music tour to a European country.

Throughout the year there are fixtures for football, rugby, netball, hockey and basketball at all levels. The school has a very good reputation for athletics, cross-country and rugby league. There are internal house competitions and external league and cup competitions.

There is one major drama production each year involving students from all years. There is usually a Lower School production and First Bow Sixth Form companies organise productions with younger students. There is a Christmas Concert and a Drama Festival for Lower School Year groups.

Educational visits are organised throughout the year to productions, museums, galleries and other places of interest in the UK. The school is working towards achieving the International School Award and there are a variety of visits to other countries. In 2006-07 there was a Photography visit to Paris, a Language visit to Germany, a rugby tour to France and a Government & Politics visit to Washington USA.