HBO Constructs On‑Set School for Child Stars, Prepping 8–10‑Year “Harry Potter” Series Production
HBO begins filming its decade-long “Harry Potter” series at Leavesden with planning approval for a massive on-set school for child actors. The facility accommodates 150‑600 pupils and aligns with the 8–10 year production plan
image for illustrative purpose
As filming of HBO’s live-action Harry Potter series officially began in July 2025, Warner Bros. Studios at Leavesden—home to the original films—has received planning approval to build a temporary on-site school for its young cast.
The mobile classroom setup, accommodated in portacabins, is designed to meet UK legal standards and serve as an educational hub for the duration of the series—expected to run 8 to 10 years, one book per season. It can hold up to 600 pupils during large-scale scenes, though day-to-day enrollment will be closer to 150 students.
Operating from around 5:30 am to 8:30 pm on weekdays, the school will accommodate long shooting schedules—including night shoots and reshoots. Structured to balance existing curriculum requirements with filming needs, the facility reflects a production on pace to span the entirety of the iconic seven-book saga.
Leading the cast are newly cast child actors Dominic McLaughlin (Harry), Alastair Stout (Ron), and Arabella Stanton (Hermione), all spotted from a pool of over 32,000 audition tapes. Additional cast announcements include John Lithgow, Janet McTeer, Paapa Essiedu, and Nick Frost.
Boasting a decade-long commitment, HBO’s production schedule is strategically designed to mirror the progression of its actors—from children to teenagers—while complying with on-set tutor regulations.
