Sixth Form
Welcome from Rob
Director of Sixth Form
Hampton Court House Sixth Form
I am delighted to welcome you to the Sixth Form at Hampton Court House. Here at HCH, Sixth Form is an invaluable step towards adulthood, and we aim to provide you with an outstanding, tailored education to prepare you for life beyond school.
When I look back on my own Sixth Form days, I remember them as pretty magical Suddenly, you ’ re exclusively studying subjects you chose, to a whole new level of depth Every stage of a good education opens up new vistas of realisation of how much is still to discover To me - and I hope to you - that could not be a more exciting prospect
So, as you would expect, Sixth Form is a very different experience from the sort of schooling you will have been used to Every new Year 12 student feels a distinct step up in intellectual challenge compared with GCSE, but this is complemented by a whole new feeling of independence, and a later start than the rest of the school You will have six periods per week of each A Level subject, together with bespoke small-group tuition and guidance from the Sixth Form team That leaves you with a considerable amount of independent study time Using that time productively and well is one of the most valuable lessons you can learn as a Sixth Former
Our priorities for you are threefold First, we are here to help you develop as a socially, morally, culturally and spiritually educated young adult, who can balance independence with hard work and responsibility, work with family and social life Secondly, we will support you in maximising your academic achievement Thirdly, we will give you the very best possible guidance in your move to university and beyond, together with unrivalled opportunities for leadership and co-curricular enrichment
As I am sure you already know, there is something very special about Hampton Court House We know what we do works: in 2023, 40% of our A Level grades were A* or A and pupils enjoyed a 100% Oxbridge and Russell Group application success rate, with similar levels of success in 2024 But just as you learn from us, we will learn so much from you You are a vital leader in our community, and I know you will live up to that role in a way which is unique to you We will be here for you all the way
I feel incredibly lucky to be here at HCH; I hope you do too I am so much looking forward to working with you over the coming weeks, months and years
With warmest regards,
Robert Armiger Director of Sixth Form rwa@hchnet co uk
Hampton Court House Sixth Form
GCSE and A Levels 2024
Hampton Court House is celebrating yet another extraordinary year of exam results. 30% of A Level grades were awarded A*/A, resulting in a 100% Russell Group application success rate. Our GCSE results were equally strong. Over 50% of all grades awarded were grades 9-8 (A*) with 31% attaining a grade 9 (top 1/3 of A*). 76% of all GCSE grades were awarded 9-7 (A*/A)
University Destinations & Career Pathways
Courtiers go on to some of the UK’s leading universities and acceptance onto their firstchoice courses (the lists below are non-exhaustive)
Destinations
University of Cambridge
London School of Economics
Imperial College London
King's College London
University of Edinburgh
University of Manchester
University of Bath
University of St Andrews
University of Southampton
University of Exeter
Courses
Biomedical Science
Natural Sciences
Aerospace Engineering
International
Development
Mathematics
Economics
Engineering
Music
English
Computer Science
Sixth Form - Preparation for life
Sixth Form- Preparation for life
Physical activity improves your mental wellbeing; exercise releases ‘feel-good’ endorphins in the brain which can improve your mental alertness, energy, and mood. We are extremely fortunate to have green spaces in our beautiful setting nestled in Bushy Park near East Molesey on the Southwest London and Surrey borders. Through our varied sports programme we encourage young people to find a sport they love and will play for life. Our Sixth Form students also benefit from a tailor-made functional fitness and gym programme with light weights and flexibility sessions run by specialist trainers.
Experts agree that many of the post-pandemic generation of young people are at risk of declining mental health. We know that positive mental health enables us to thrive both academically and personally. We prioritise the positive mental health and wellbeing of each member of our community. Our Sixth Form pupils participate in a mental health programme to help them understand how to manage their own wellbeing; know how to take positive action to prevent poor mental health where possible; and learn how to support others.
We value individuality, originality, and independence; we provide inspirational, traditional lessons with content-driven teaching. We believe the genius of creative expression is built upon the confidence of sure foundations. Academic excellence is developed in all our students through our commitment to an intellectual, creative and questioning environment. Our unique and progressive approach has led to outstanding academic outcomes and students achieving preferred Russell Group or Oxbridge placements - growing our ypung people both academically and personally.
Young people enter a challenging, competitive world beyond the school setting. We provide our students with the best possible grounding to take on life’s challenges beyond the school setting. Leadership, self-awareness and oracy skills are part of our bespoke enrichment programme in order that they may influence and shape the future. The concept of servant leadership and facilitating others through leadership is key to our ethos. Each student has different passions and we provide one to one leadership coaching to build on these and enable leadership that is ready to change the world.
Cultural Literacy
At HCH we believe in indulging in the pleasure of learning and encourage our students to obtain a broad knowledge and understanding of a range of topics. We believe in engaging our students’ academic curiosity beyond the curriculum and enhancing their present learning capacity as part of their continuous journey towards becoming their adult selves. We provide regular opportunities for our young people to engage in conversations with invited speakers and with one another on a range of topics of contemporary interest, whilst also equipping them with the necessary skills and confidence for life beyond HCH.
Research shows that compassion is an antidote to isolation and creates a sense of belonging. It helps reduce stress, brings a fresh perspective, deepens friendships, and enables “giving back” to our communities. Our guiding principles are compassion, courage, curiosity and creativity, and this is reflected in our inner curriculum based on empathy, emotional literacy and emotional intelligence. Our students are encouraged to recognise their privilege by offering service to the school an local communities by volunteering and raising funds for charities, as well as other means of understanding and caring for those around them.
A Level Options
Art & Photography
Art and Photography A Level at Hampton Court House enables students to develop an extensive range of technical skills and explore new processes and media Drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, textiles, model making, printing and installation, animation and film are the areas covered over the A Level course
Assessment structure
Component 1 Component 2 A practical investigation (1000 - 3000 word illustrated essay, 60%) Coursework project (alongside a final piece created during a 15 hour exam, 40%)
Degree and career pathways
A-level Art and Photography lay excellent foundations for a career in the creative industries, idea development skills, the ability to 'think outside the box' and the observational skills learnt through this subject are considered valuable in a whole spectrum of professions. There are many art-related career paths that Art A-levels can ultimately lead to, although even for those students focusing on more scientific subjects, Art can provide a welcome and useful contrast that equips them with a complementary set of skills.
Biology
Eve Blackwood Head of Art eb@hchnet.co.uk
Biology involves the study of a wide range of exciting topics, ranging from molecular biology to the study of ecosystems from microorganisms to mammoths. A Level Biology covers the following topics: biological molecules, cells, organism substance exchange, genetic information, variations and relationships, energy transfer, organism response to internal and external environmental changes, populations, evolution and the control of gene expression.
Assessment structure
Practical assessments
Paper 1 Paper 2 Paper 3
A minimum of 12 assessed practicals throughout the course Topics 1 - 4 (2 hours, 35%) Topics 5 - 8 (2 hours, 35%) Topics 1 - 8 (2 hours, 30%)
Degree and career pathways
Biology A Level can lead to careers in medicine, research, biotechnology, environmental science, pharmacology, forensic science, genetics counseling, healthcare administration, veterinary science, conservation and education offering opportunities to explore the intricacies of life sciences and contribute to advancements in various sectors.
Thomas McCarthy-Ward Head of Science
tjmw@hchnet.co.uk
A Level Options
Chemistry
Chemistry provides an important foundation for a vast array of scientific disciplines and careers. Topics covered include: atomic structure, amount of substance, bonding, energetics, kinetics, equilibria, thermodynamics, elements and periods of periodic table, organic chemistry, practical assays,
Assessment structure
Practical assessments
Paper 1 Paper 2 Paper 3
A minimum of 12 assessed practicals throughout the course
Inorganic and physical chemistry (2 hours, 35%)
Organic and physical chemistry (2 hours, 35%)
General (2 hours, 30%)
Degree and career pathways
Chemistry A Level can lead to careers in pharmaceuticals, chemical engineering, research, environmental science, healthcare, or further studies in chemistry or related fields, offering opportunities to contribute to advancements in various industries.
Computer Science
Thomas McCarthy-Ward Head of Science tjmw@hchnet.co.uk
The course will provide an opportunity for students to be creative, innovative, collaborative while developing their own individual project skills. Taking the Computer Science A Level at Hampton Court House opens up myriad job prospects in this digital age
Assessment structure
Paper 1
Paper 2
Paper 3
Computer systems (2.5 hours, 40%)
Algorithms and programming (2.5 hours, 40%)
Non-examined assessment project (20%)
Degree and career pathways
Computer Science A Level can lead to careers in software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, AI, and more, or further studies in computer science or related fields, offering opportunities for technological innovation and advancement
Andrew Evans Head of Computer Science aev@hchnet.co.uk
A Level Options
Drama
Hampton Court House Sixth Form
Our A Level Drama and Theatre programme immerses students in the practical and theoretical aspects of theatrical expression Through creating, performing, and analysing drama, students develop their creativity, independence, and understanding of various theatrical styles and contexts. They learn to integrate research and analysis from live productions into their own work, while also experiencing the collaborative nature of theatre-making.
Assessment structure
Written exam
Practical coursework
Practical exam
Degree and career pathways
Drama & theatre (3 hours, 40%)
Creating original drama (30%)
Making theatre (30%)
Drama A Level can lead to careers in acting, directing, playwriting, theatre production, education, casting, arts administration, therapy, criticism, design, stage management, or further studies in theatre, performing arts, or related disciplines
Economics
Alice Goodman Director of
Performing Arts ago@hchnet co uk
“Economics is concerned with how society sets about meeting people’s demands for things they want to consume ” - Prof John Sloman The fascinating Economics A Level course at Hampton Court House covers financial markets and government policy to supply, demand, economic theory alongside micro, macro and international economics.
Assessment structure
Paper 1
Paper 2
Paper 3
Markets and business behaviour (2 hours, 35%)
The national and global economy (2 hours, 35%)
Microeconomics and macroeconomics (2 hours, 30%)
Degree and career pathways
Economics A Level can pave the way for careers in finance, banking, consulting, policy analysis, market research, data analysis, or further studies in economics, business administration, or related fields
Tom Roberts Head of Humanities
twr@hchnet co uk
A Level Options
Hampton Court House Sixth Form
English Literature at Hampton Court House covers the comprehensive array of essential concepts and skills including argument, reference and technical understanding, analysis of language, structure and form, contextual analysis, comparative analysis and appreciation of alternative views and critical perspectives.
Assessment structure
Paper 1
Paper 2(B)
Non-examined assessment
Degree and career pathways
Love through the ages (3 hours)
Texts in shared contexts: modern times (2 5 hours)
Independent critical study: texts across time (2500 words)
English Literature A Level can lead to careers in writing, publishing, journalism, editing, teaching, advertising, public relations, content creation, library sciences, academia, or further studies in literature, creative writing, journalism, or related fields, offering opportunities for storytelling and critical analysis
Chloe Fabregas
Head of English
cfa@hchnet co uk
French at Hampton Court House is centred around an authentic cultural and native-speaking environment The A Level programme covers Francophone societies and the changes, cultures, challenges and politics therein, in addition to the study of French film and literature.
Assessment structure
Paper 1
Paper 2
Paper 3
Reading and listening comprehension (2 5 hours)
Writing (2 hours)
Oral exam (approx 25 minutes)
Degree and career pathways
French A Level can lead to careers in translation, teaching, diplomacy, journalism, tourism, international business, and more, or further studies in French language and literature
Clarisse Gheur
Head of Languages
clg@hchnet co uk
A Level Options
Geography
Hampton Court House Sixth Form
From computer-based mapping and working with data to problem solving and field work, Geography A Level at Hampton Court House prepares students to be forward-thinking and future-ready global citizens.
Assessment structure
Paper 1
Paper 2
Paper 3
Non-examined assessment
Degree and career pathways
Physical (2 hours 15 mins, 30%)
Human (2 hours 15 mins, 30%)
Synoptic investigation (2 hours 15 mins, 20%)
3-4,000 word investigation (20%)
Geography A Level can lead to careers in urban planning, environmental consulting, cartography, GIS analysis, conservation, disaster management, sustainable development, tourism, logistics, or further studies in geography, environmental science, urban planning, or related fields, offering opportunities to understand and address global challenges
History
Tom Roberts
Head of Humanities
twr@hchnet co uk
The fascinating History course covers the following historical periods and themes: The Tudors: England, 1485 - 1603, the Cold War (c. 1945 - 1991) and the historical investigation on the African American Civil Rights Movement.
Assessment structure
Paper 1
Paper 2
Non-examined assessment
Degree and career pathways
Breadth study (2 hours 30 mins, 40%)
Depth study (2 hour 30 mins, 40%)
Historical investigation (4,500 word enquiry, 20%)
History A Level can lead to careers in teaching, museum curation, archival work, historical research, journalism, law, public policy, heritage management, publishing, or further studies in history, archaeology, archival studies, or related fields, offering opportunities to explore the past and its impact on the present
Tom Roberts
Head of Humanities
twr@hchnet co uk
A Level Options
Hampton Court House Sixth Form
The OCR A Level Latin course is a comprehensive programme designed to cultivate transferable skills while deepening understanding of the Latin language and its rich historical context. This course aims to inspire a lifelong passion for the Classical world by offering an engaging curriculum that explores ancient literature, values, and society
Assessment structure
Paper 1
Paper 2
Paper 3
Paper 4
Unseen translation (1 hour 45 mins, 33%)
Prose composition or comprehension (1 hour 15 mins, 17%)
Prose literature (2 hours, 25%)
Verse literature (2 hours, 25%)
Degree and career pathways
Studying Latin can open doors to careers in academia, law, linguistics, translation, archaeology, classical studies, publishing, library sciences, or further studies in Latin, ancient history, classics, or related fields, offering opportunities to delve into the ancient world and its influence on modern society
Mathematics
Victoria Rwabeh Teacher of Latin vrw@hchnet co uk
A mix of Pure and Applied Mathematics, pure Mathematics covers topics such as algebra, graphs, calculus and trigonometry Applied Mathematics is a combination of Mechanics and Statistics
Assessment structure
Paper 1
Paper 2
Paper 3
Pure unit (2 hours, 33%)
Pure & mechanics unit (2 hours, 33%)
Pure & statistics unit (2 hours, 33%)
Degree and career pathways
Mathematics A Level can lead to careers in finance, engineering, data analysis, computer science, actuarial science, statistics, operations research, education, cryptography, or further studies in mathematics, applied mathematics, or related fields, offering opportunities to solve complex problems and make significant contributions across various industries
Nick
Edwards Head
of Maths ned@hchnet co uk
A Level Options
Further Mathematics
Taken alongside A Level Mathematics, Further Mathematics is designed to stretch and challenge able mathematicians introducing new techniques and concepts such as complex numbers and matrices. Further Mathematics provides excellent preparation for degree courses in Mathematics and other mathematical subjects.
Assessment structure
Year 13 4 units (90 minutes each)
Degree and career pathways
Further Mathematics A Level can open doors to careers in advanced research, mathematical modeling, finance, engineering, computer science, cryptography, data analysis, actuarial science, statistics, or further studies in mathematics, theoretical physics, engineering, or related fields, offering opportunities to tackle intricate mathematical challenges and drive innovation in various industries.
Music
Nick Edwards Head of Maths
ned@hchnet.co.uk
The A level music course is designed to allow learners to pursue their own musical interests. Learners develop skills in the three distinct but related disciplines of performing, composing and appraising, whilst having flexibility to specialise in either performing or composing Learners may choose to apportion 10% of their assessment to either performing or composing as an in-depth study. Learners will engage with both classical and popular music. All learners will study the development of the symphony, engaging with landmark orchestral repertoire, which is important in developing knowledge and understanding of musical elements and language in context.
Assessment structure
Component 1
Component 2
Component 3
Performing (25-35%)
Composing (Non-examined assessment)
Appraising (2 hours 15 mins, approx 40%)
Degree and career pathways
Studying Music at A Level can lead to careers as a musician, composer, music teacher, music therapist, sound engineer, music producer, conductor, arts administrator, music journalist, or further studies in music performance, composition, musicology, or related fields, offering opportunities for artistic expression and cultural enrichment.
Steffi Carter
Head
of Academic Music
sca@hchnet.co.uk
A Level Options
Philosophy
Philosophy is the study of knowledge, and how we know things. It is a deeply interesting, analytical and demanding subject. While many Philosophy A levels (usually named Philosophy & Ethics) are essentially extended Religious Studies qualifications, our offer is academic philosophy intended as a suitable groundwork for undergraduate study. You will read Aristotle, Plato, Kant, Descartes and Mill, among many others, and learn how to think as a philosopher.
Assessment structure
Paper 1 Paper 2 Ethics & epistemology (3 hours, 50%).
Metaphysics of mind & metaphysics of God (3 hours, 50%)
Degree and career pathways
Philosophy A Level can pave the way for careers in academia, law, ethics consulting, journalism, public policy, writing, research, critical thinking, education, or further studies in philosophy, law, political science, or related fields, offering opportunities to explore fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and morality.
Physics
Tom Roberts Head of Humanities
twr@hchnet.co.uk
Physics at Hampton Court House is underpinned by the key concepts with optional specialisms. Topics covered include: measurements and their errors, particles and radiation, waves, mechanics and materials, electricity, further mechanics and thermal physics, fields and their consequences and nuclear physics. Optional specialisms include astrophysics, medical physics, engineering physics, turning points and electronics
Assessment structure
Practical assessments
Paper 1 Paper 2 Paper 3
A minimum of 12 assessed practicals throughout the course
Periodic motion (2 hours, 34%)
Thermal physics (2 hours, 34%)
Practical skills and data analysis (2 hours, 32%)
Degree and career pathways
Physics A Level can lead to careers in research, engineering, aerospace, telecommunications, renewable energy, medical physics, data analysis, education, or further studies in physics, engineering, astrophysics, or related fields, offering opportunities to understand the fundamental laws of the universe and drive technological advancements.
Thomas McCarthy-Ward Head of Science
tjmw@hchnet.co.uk
A Level Options
Politics
Politicians have a huge power over us, but how much power do we have over our politicians? Studying A Level Politics will provide insight into political beliefs central to an understanding of the modern world. Analytical and evaluative skills will be developed in relation to awe inspiring topics prevalent in this current, fraught political climate.
Assessment structure
Paper 1
Paper 2
Paper 3
UK Politics (2 hours, 33.3%)
UK Government (2 hours, 33.3%)
Comparative politics (2 hours, 33.3%)
Degree and career pathways
Studying Politics at A Level can open doors to careers in government, public administration, international relations, diplomacy, political consulting, journalism, law, advocacy, non-profit organisations, or further studies in politics, international studies, law, or related fields, offering opportunities to engage with pressing societal issues and shape public policy.
Psychology
Tom Roberts Head of Humanities
twr@hchnet.co.uk
Psychology A Level covers a range of interesting areas of research including human and animal attachment to psychopathology, for example the development of phobias and OCD. A Level Psychology at Hampton Court House is a brilliant introduction into the scientific study of mind and human behaviour.
Assessment structure
Paper 1
Paper 2
Paper 3
Introductory topics (2 hours, 33.3%)
Psychology in context (2 hours, 33.3%)
Issues and options in psychology
Degree and career pathways
Psychology A Level can lead to careers in clinical psychology, counselling, research, human resources, education, marketing, social work, forensic psychology, health psychology, or further studies in psychology, psychiatry, counselling psychology, or related fields, offering opportunities to understand human behaviour and contribute to individual and societal well-being.
Laraib Saeed Head of Psychology lsa@hchnet.co.uk
A Level Options Spanish
Hampton Court House Sixth Form
Taught by expert native speakers, topics covered include the Spanish Civil War, Spain under Franco and the transition from a dictatorship to democracy and the evolution of Spanish society Additionally, themes such as multiculturalism, immigration, politics, culture and art in the Spanish-speaking world.
Assessment structure
Paper 1
Paper 2
Paper 3
Reading and listening comprehension (40%)
Writing (30%)
Oral exam (30%)
Degree and career pathways
Studying Spanish at A Level can open doors to careers in translation, interpretation, international business, tourism, diplomacy, teaching, journalism, cultural exchange programs, hospitality management, or further studies in Spanish language and literature, offering opportunities for crosscultural communication and global engagement
EPQ (Extended Project Qualification
Clarisse
Gheur
Head
of Languages clg@hchnet co uk
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) will help students prepare for the rigorous study required for success at the UK’s leading universities. Developing independent research skills, the ability to summarise and analyse different texts and produce extended pieces of work are highly valued by leading academic institutions
A successfully completed EPQ is viewed favourably by the country's leading universities and employers At Hampton Court House, every student in Year 12 commences the EPQ through developing an initial idea, undertaking preliminary research and completing a work plan in the Autumn Term Students further develop their idea at the end of Year 12, at which point students have the option of whether to take their EPQ through to accreditation
Rob Armiger Director of Sixth
Form
rwa@hchnet co uk
Transition to Higher Education
Our Sixth Form is intended as a stepping-stone to post-18 independence. Sixth Formers have a lot of autonomy, within a framework of first-class care and support.
In Sixth Form, students have several weekly small-group tutorials, typically in groups of around five These focus on a range of skills, knowledge and understanding required for university, including UCAS, independent living, relationships, and academic mentoring The sessions are as follows: a weekly pastoral session with the form tutor; a weekly careers / UCAS session with Tessa Bartholomew, our Sixth Form Enrichment lead and Mental Health lead; a weekly academic/co-curricular tutorial with either the Head of Sixth Form or another senior member of staff.
All Sixth Formers are expected to begin work towards the EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) - an A Level in its own right, which is undertaken independently as academic preparation for undergraduate study. This is highly-valued by the top universities.
Sixth Formers are expected to play a full and active role in the life of the wider school, including leadership of younger students, running and participating in clubs, delivering assemblies etc
Open Mornings held weekly during term-time. Visit our website for further information and to register your place.