"Our educational philosophy is centred around what we call The Hartland Way. This is an incredibly strong and unwavering focus on the very best learning and teaching experience and high academic standards coupled with exceptional pastoral care and an extensive range of enrichment opportunities to ensure that our students grow and develop personally as well as academically."
Students in Key Stage 4 engage in a rigorous academic programme designed to prepare them for GCSE and IGCSE examinations. They follow a core curriculum that includes English, Mathematics, and Sciences, alongside a range of elective subjects tailored to their interests and future aspirations. Elective subjects offered include History, Geography, Business Studies, Computer Science, Art and Design, Drama, Music, Physical Education, and Modern Foreign Languages. This stage emphasizes the development of independent learning skills, critical thinking, and a global perspective. The dedicated faculties, renowned for their subject knowledge and pedagogical skills, ensure that students are well-supported and challenged to achieve their highest potential. Furthermore, students benefit from a structured programme that helps them make informed decisions regarding their subject choices and future educational pathways.
Students in Years 10 and 11 have access to a diverse range of extra-curricular activities that complement their academic pursuits and foster personal growth. These activities include traditional sports such as rugby, football, and swimming, as well as a wide variety of other options like chess, sailing, art, debating, drama, textiles, horse riding, and skiing. Additionally, students can participate in the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Scheme and Model United Nations. The Music and Drama departments offer peripatetic lessons in numerous instruments and disciplines, with the LAMDA drama programme being particularly popular. Moreover, charity work is an integral part of the school's philosophy, with students engaging in various initiatives to support the community and develop a sense of social responsibility.
Each student is supported by a cohesive pastoral team, which includes form tutors and newly appointed Heads of Year who monitor progress, general well-being, and set challenging targets. Form tutor groups are mixed and work closely with the House System, which promotes a competitive yet encouraging reward system. This approach not only recognises students' hard work and achievements within the school but also celebrates their accomplishments outside of it. High expectations are set for effort, commitment, behaviour, uniform, and appearance, fostering a positive work ethic among students. Additionally, student leadership pathways, such as the Student Council, Diversity Working Party, and Executive Student Leadership Team, are integral features of life at Hartland, encouraging a sense of responsibility and community spirit among students.
The day starts with a Tutorial with the Form Tutor. This time is spent looking at PSHE topics and the Form Tutor getting to know the students. The time is also spent on House competition challenges, building the community spirit across the secondary school.
The first lessons focus on core subjects like English, Mathematics, and Science. As students prepare for their GCSE exams, the lessons are more intensive, involving critical thinking, application of concepts, and problem-solving exercises.
Students then attend elective subjects, which may include options like business studies, history, or modern languages. These subjects allow students to explore areas of personal interest and gain deeper knowledge in chosen fields.
After a busy morning, students enjoy a break where they can grab a snack and relax with their peers. This is also a time to socialize and recharge for the next round of lessons.
The next session focuses on humanities and social sciences, where students explore global perspectives, engage in debates, and build their research skills.
Students move on to practical and creative subjects like art, music, or physical education. These lessons balance academic rigour with opportunities to explore creative talents and maintain physical health.
Language lessons are next, where students enhance their skills in Arabic or another modern foreign language. This session is dedicated to building communication skills and cultural understanding.
Students gather for lunch, enjoying a well-earned break. The lunch break provides time for relaxation, informal activities, and catching up with friends.
In the afternoon, students engage in subject-specific intensive sessions aimed at reinforcing key concepts and preparing for upcoming assessments. This may include extended coursework, project work, or revision for exams.
The final lesson of the day continues with students engaging in subject-specific intensive sessions aimed at reinforcing key concepts and preparing for upcoming assessments. This may include extended coursework, project work, or revision for exams.
The day concludes with enrichment programmes, where students can choose from a wide range of extracurricular activities such as debating, robotics, sports, or drama. These programmes are designed to develop well-rounded skills and foster personal growth.
Our care encompasses a holistic approach, integrating rigorous academics, diverse extra-curricular activities, and comprehensive pastoral support. The supportive environment, fostered through mixed form tutor groups and the House System, helps students feel secure, valued, and part of a close-knit community.
