Academics at Hatherop

Building on our senior school entrance successes from last year, pupils and staff have started the year with a real focus on high expectations. One of the school aims states that we challenge and support each child to achieve amazing things academically and this will be the focus for this academic year.

Changes in our curriculum

This September has seen changes to the curriculum with the return of Latin and the addition of a sixth English lesson in Prep 3-6. History and Geography now have two lessons in the upper school to ensure a breadth and depth of knowledge. In R.E, there is a renewed focus on the elements of Theology, Philosophy and Ethics, encouraging pupils to think, debate and reason. In Modern Foreign Languages, younger pupils are being introduced to other languages and cultures such as Italian and Spanish. Pupils also now have the opportunity to spend time on their Art and Computing topics with a double lesson slot each week.

We have continued our H.I.L.T (Hatherop Individualised Learning Time) programme this year, with pupils spending time on reinforcing core skills in English and Maths, preparing for exams, and building up a breadth of knowledge, understanding and skills to help support them in their educational journey. Individulised support in Music, Sport and Art is also provided, helping pupils develop their talents and interests in creative and physical ways.

New Initiatives

Another new initiative has been the introduction of Atom Learning, an online platform supporting English, Maths and Reasoning skills. Primarily aimed at supporting pupils towards the ISEB Common Pre-Test, this platform is providing pupils with opportunity to practice and apply key skills and knowledge both in school and at home.

Interview practice has also been introduced, helping pupils prepare for senior school entry. An ex-Prep School Headmaster will be visiting the school later this term to put the children through their interview paces, ensuring that they demonstrate the quiet confidence and maturity that we are so proud of here at Hatherop.