Highly Able & Talented Students (HATS)
When students join the school in Year 7, they undertake a comprehensive entrance assessment which identifies those eligible for our Scholarship Programme as 'Highly Able and Talented Students' (HATS). These students are invited to participate in a fortnightly lunchtime club run by our Scholarships Coordinator, where they engage collaboratively and independently in research projects, problem-solving activities, quizzes, and exploration of new academic subjects and ideas.
Upon progression to Form 4 (Year 9), enrichment activities become more specialised, increasingly delivered by individual academic departments. Students have access to an extensive range of super-curricular opportunities and are encouraged to choose activities aligned with their personal interests and academic strengths. They regularly receive invitations to participate in masterclasses, competitions, lectures, and tailored educational trips. Clubs such as book clubs, chess clubs, puzzle clubs, and science clubs further complement these experiences.
Academic Scholars and HATS students also benefit from half-termly lectures delivered by distinguished Alumni, Academics, and Staff members, covering diverse and engaging topics.
Additionally, Scholars enjoy an annual Scholars' trip, the Scholars' Essay Competition, and visits to prestigious universities such as Oxford and Cambridge, all designed to broaden horizons and raise academic aspirations. Our extensive programme includes day trips, weekend excursions, and international academic enrichment tours.
Should a student express a particular interest in any specific competition or activity, the school is committed to offering guidance, support, and facilitating connections with like-minded peers and supportive staff members. As students advance into senior years, they are warmly encouraged—and supported—to initiate and lead their own clubs, fostering leadership skills and independence.
Highly able students may also choose to study additional GCSE subjects such as Greek, Further Mathematics, or an extra modern foreign language in their own time, with the school supporting them through examination entry and preparation.
Students receive regular updates on upcoming events and opportunities through a dedicated Teams group, enabling informed and enthusiastic participation.
Academic Scholars are permitted to hold one additional special talent award in Art, DT, Music, Drama, or Sport. They are expected to carefully balance their commitments to exemplify excellence in both academic and extracurricular fields.