At the Prep School, we believe that learning should be the ultimate adventure offer an exciting and broad curriculum which goes well beyond the National Curriculum.
With our school strapline of ‘Inspiring Minds’ at the heart of all we do, we place significant importance on developing each child as a skilful and positive learner.
Through the PSB (Pre Senior Baccalaureate) framework, we understand that every child is an individual and we encourage the children to take control of their own learning from the moment they join the School. Children at the Prep School embrace their learning with enthusiasm and confidence.
Through the PSB core skills: Thinking & Learning, Reviewing & Improving, Independence, Collaboration, Leadership and Communicating our aim is develop each child as a skilled and positive learner – allowing them opportunities to be challenged; grow in confidence and develop their love of learning.
Lessons are planned to ensure there is a tailored level of challenge, valuing each child’s strengths and areas for development. Units of work are designed to hook the children’s interests and active questioning allows them to fully immerse themselves and inspire their learning.
Our ever-evolving curriculum stretches beyond the classroom and is designed to fully immerse children in their learning through sport, creative performing arts, music and OAKS with the use of integrated technology, special subject and cross-curricular days, trips and visits; competitions, in addition to our extensive co-curricular programme.
These opportunities optimise their potential through enhancing their learning and ensuring there is greater breadth and depth in their understanding.
Every day is filled with learning opportunities for our students, both in and beyond the classroom.
Our comprehensive curriculum is delivered by passionate and highly qualified subject specialists who work with dedication to ensure every child leaves Ashford School with a distinguished academic record.
All children learn differently and have unique aspirations. We encourage all students to aim high and take a keen interest in their learning so they can be the best they can be. We focus on optimising the achievements of every child and on developing them as strong and rounded young people.
Our Curriculum Philosophy:
-
The development of secure literacy and numeracy skills lies at the heart of our curriculum.
-
We have designed an inclusive and comprehensive curriculum offering a broad range of stimulating courses. Academic rigour and challenge opportunities are embedded in programmes of study.
-
Our curriculum helps children both to appreciate and to understand the past and the present, whilst encouraging them to embrace innovation in the ever changing world around us.
-
Staff promote the importance of reading, scholarship and the development of lifelong learning.
-
We encourage positive learning habits so that all students can reach their full potential.
-
Our curriculum empowers students to think creatively and critically so that they can make informed choices about their future.
SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM
Sixth Form Prospectus:
Adventurous Learning means taking risks, being challenged to think, and learning from your mistakes.
In the Sixth Form, we expect you to embrace opportunities and challenges, to take responsibility, and to lead others. In this way, you will develop both academically and personally. The Sixth Form curriculum is designed to provide a mixture of challenge and support, so that you continually extend yourself, becoming better equipped for life beyond Ashford School.
There are certain activities that form the “core” curriculum, with which we expect all students to engage:
- Your academic courses (A levels, BTEC Sport, EAL, Short Courses)
- Wider academic development (e.g. after-school talks, extension clubs, debating, wider reading)
- Physical exercise and sport
- Social, Moral, Spiritual, Cultural (SMSC) programme
- The School House system
In addition, there are plenty of other opportunities to pursue your passions. These include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Sports teams, Music, Drama
- A wide range of other activities (ranging from rock climbing to rock bands)
- Formal leadership opportunities (e.g. peer mentoring, volunteering, prefectship)
- Extended Project Qualification
The majority of our students study three subjects at A level and complement these with various other learning. There are numerous possible combinations of all that is on offer, so the challenge may be in deciding what to leave out each term!
