Sixth Form Prospectus by Harrow International School Hong Kong

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

PROSPECTUS

SIXTH FORM 1

HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

A MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD

WELCOME TO THE SIXTH FORM It may be hard to imagine, as you have yet to complete your GCSE examinations, but you will soon be entering a new chapter of your school life. The final chapter, where everything you have worked so hard for throughout your school career, culminates into a two year period preparing you with the qualifications you need to embark on the next part of your educational journey. I am positive university will be one of the most memorable and enjoyable times of your life, as it was mine. Having the freedom to choose your subjects, deciding what to wear to lectures, where to live and when to socialise with friends, are just some of the many aspects of university life you will enjoy. You are almost at your end goal but you still have a couple of years to go and these years are crucial. At Harrow Hong Kong, life in the Sixth Form is different to the rest of the School. You will have developed strong working relationships with your teachers, which will be further strengthened by smaller class sizes and a shared passion for subjects – both of which are key to succeeding at A-level. At Harrow Hong Kong we offer the traditional GCSE and A-level qualifications, the ‘gold standard’ of the British education system which are recognised worldwide. We have a wide variety of subjects you can study which will prepare you for your chosen university course. You can speak to Ms Morris, Head of Sixth Form, Mrs Tyley, Assistant Head of Sixth Form, your House Master / House Mistress, Heads of Department and School staff to guide you in your decision making, and I encourage you to draw on the wealth of knowledge and experience around you. There are also a raft of Super-Curriculum and Co-curricular Activities and classes for you to participate in. They are an integral feature of your Sixth Form education and a Harrow experience and will broaden your horizons and strengthen your university applications. I am confident by the time you leave us, not only will you be proud of your academic results, but you will also be ambitious, openminded, compassionate, creative, independent and well prepared to take on future challenges in life beyond school. I wish you well. Ms. Ann Haydon

HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

A MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF SIXTH FORM

INTRODUCTION TO THE SIXTH FORM Whether you have already been a pupil at the School, or you are about to embark on your A-level studies as a new pupil, we welcome you warmly to the Sixth Form at Harrow Hong Kong. This is an exciting time as you start to look ahead to your lives and careers after secondary education. The final years (Years 12 and 13) are critically important in preparing you for life beyond Harrow Hong Kong. Sixth Form life at Harrow Hong Kong will be a memorable and exciting experience where you will develop new skills and new perspectives on your education and life beyond school. We believe in supporting all pupils to achieve the very best A-level outcomes leading to entry into top universities globally, as well as developing key traits such as communication skills, confidence and resilience. We are committed to supporting and challenging you in all facets of your Sixth Form education, from your academic studies, Extended Project Qualification and co-curricular activities, to navigating you through your options for Higher Education and equipping you with the necessary skills to achieve future success. We are ready to enable you to reach the very best of your potential and help prepare you to become leaders of the future, whichever path you choose to take. I am always available to talk through options with you and I look forward very much to working with you and helping you to realise your ambitions. Ms. Jo Morris

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

“ The Sixth Form support at Harrow Hong Kong is unrivalled. We had lots of speakers coming out from top universities, the UCAS Roadshow, information sessions from Deans and key admissions staff from across the world, a careers fair and so much more to help me make my decision.” David, Alumni

HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

AT A GLANCE Proven track record of university entrance to Oxbridge, Medicine courses and Russell Group Universities

Specialist teachers practitioners

who

are

outstanding

Timetabled Super Curriculum lessons Oxbridge, Law Programmes

and

Biomedical

Sciences Outstanding pastoral care tailored to Sixth Form pupils’ needs

The majority of pupils go to their first choice university

One to one university support and advice

Over 15 A-level subjects

Tailored careers guidance and alumni links

Small class sizes emulating the university environment

Key leadership roles within the School Weekly boarding

Majority of pupils apply to Russell Group and competitive universities across the world Huge range of academic societies and CoCurricular Activities

Sports centre swimming pool

with

25m

indoor

heated

Superb Performing Arts, Art, Music and Science facilities

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

A-LEVELS AND THE CURRICULUM Harrow Hong Kong pupils follow a two-year A-level programme, with most pupils taking three A-levels plus the EPQ. However, some pupils, predominantly taking Further Mathematics, are able to take four A-levels by agreement with the Deputy Head - Academic. We offer A-levels in the following subjects: • Art • Biology • Chemistry • Chinese • Economics • English Literature • French

• Geography • History • Mathematics and Further • Mathematics • Music • Philosophy and Religious • Studies

• Politics • Physics • Psychology • Spanish • Theatre Studies

Due to the mix of modular and linear A-levels, pupils will receive guidance and support to ensure they optfor the best combination of subjects for them and their aspirations after Harrow. Achieving the top grades in three A-levels is of paramount importance in the new landscape of post-16 education. All subjects are offered subject to demand and availability. Each subject has 10 lessons of teaching time per fortnight, with either one or two Subject Teachers. The School encourages Years 12 and 13 pupils to embark on an Extended Project Qualification, with one lesson per week. This is viewed extremely favourably by universities as it equips pupils with many of the skills needed for successful undergraduate study not covered by AS-level or A-level courses; how to undertake research, referencing, selecting appropriate sources, time management, presentation skills, and keeping a log of work. It is also a useful way of showing your interest in a particular area. There is also at least one period per week where all pupils in Years 12 and 13 are free. At that time, we invite visiting speakers and representatives from different universities from around the world to come into the School to talk about their subject area or their institution. It is during this time that pupils are given general advice and guidance about applying for higher education. The Head of Sixth Form is always available to talk through options with individuals. In addition, all pupils follow the Harrow Hong Kong Facing Challenges programme designed to help prepare pupils for life after School. For further information on the curriculum, please see our Sixth Form Information Booklet.

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ADMISSIONS CRITERIA The Sixth Form at Harrow Hong Kong is rewarding and challenging. We stretch our pupils to be the very best they can be and encourage them to try new activities whilst pursuing excellence in all that they do. Our Sixth Form pupils are academic, charitable and get involved with all aspects of School life. •

Pupils must have eight GCSEs at grades A*-C or grades 9-5 (new GCSE grading system); and

•

The expectation is that you will have grades A*/A or 9-7 (new GCSE grading system) in the subjects that you wish to study at A-level.

•

Certain subjects have other specific entry requirements if you did not study them at GCSE (e.g. Economics and Politics), or due to their content (Mathematics/Further Mathematics). Further details are available from the Deputy Head- Academic.

If you are applying from a School that does not offer GCSEs or only allows you to take fewer than eight GCSEs, please speak with our Admissions Team and we will consider your application on a case by case basis.

UNIVERSITY SUPPORT We support our pupils in their university applications wherever they decide to apply with many often applying to more than one country. We currently have alumni studying in the UK (Oxford, Cambridge, LSE, UCL, Imperial College, Bristol, Durham and many other Russell Group institutions), the US (Yale, Columbia, UPenn, UC Berkeley, NYU and others), Hong Kong (HKU, CUHK and HKUST), Canada (University of Toronto and McGill) and Australia (University of Sydney). There is a programme of preparation in Year 12 and all pupils have a double period on their timetable for this purpose. We invite academics and universities into School to give taster lectures and information about their institutions. The Sixth Form team is always available to give individual advice. For pupils wishing to study in the US the process starts earlier as colleges require transcripts of academic performance from Year 10. There is a dedicated member of the Sixth Form team with responsibility for advising pupils on their US applications.

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

A HAPPY COMMUNITY Deciding to apply to Oxford or Cambridge Universities can feel pretty daunting. Even if you have the top grades in your chosen subjects, you still face fierce competition from the brightest minds across the world. Places are extremely limited, and the application process is as tough as it gets, so if you want to stand a chance of being accepted you need to do your research and be as prepared as possible. At Harrow Hong Kong, our dedicated staff will guide you through the Oxbridge application process and what you should do each step of the way to prepare. We identify our most gifted pupils and invite them to take part in activities to challenge themselves academically and to develop their confidence in debate and discussion, skills which are essential for the interview. In the first term of Year 12 there is an information session with our own successful applicants – alumni currently at Oxford or Cambridge - and also a visit from an admissions tutor from Oxford or Cambridge who, comes to talk about what they look for in a successful applicant. In Year 12, all pupils applying to Oxford or Cambridge are put on a full programme of personal support throughout the process. They are assigned a Tutor – a subject expert who monitors a personalised programme of study to stretch the pupil beyond the demands of A-level. Pupils attend individual and small-group sessions, designed to model the Oxbridge tutorial system and, later on, are given extensive formal mock interview practice. Most Oxbridge applicants are required to undertake course-related admissions tests for which they receive guidance and support. The tests are taken in School in October of Year 13.

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DECISION TIMELINE IF YOU ARE AN EXISTING HARROW HONG KONG PUPIL

IF YOU ARE NEW TO HARROW HONG KONG

Read this brochure to find out what Harrow Hong Kong can offer you in the next stage of your education. Read through the subject pages and draw up a shortlist.

Read this brochure, visit us, speak to your peers to find out what Harrow Hong Kong can offer you.

Attend the Sixth Form Open Evening in October. Look around, ask questions and keep an open mind!

Go through the subject pages in the Year 12 Information Booklet and draw up a shortlist.

Ask for advice. You will find it everywhere at the School from the Head of Sixth Form, Heads of Department, HMs, Tutors, Subject Teachers and alumni.

Attend the Sixth Form Open Evening in October. Look around, ask lots of questions, get to know subject teachers and Heads of Department.

In November, there will be taster lessons for subjects not offered at IGCSE. Pupils will indicate which subjects they wish to study at A-level during a one-to-one meeting with a member of the Senior Leadership Team. This will provide an indication of the subjects pupils want to study across the year group.

Ask for advice. You will find it everywhere at the School from the Deputy Head Academic, Head of Sixth Form to the Heads of Department. Feel free to contact them at any time.

In November, the School holds a Careers Fair. It is a great opportunity to learn more about professions you are interested in.

Mock examinations will take place in January and will provide a better insight into which subjects you are likely to do well in at IGCSE level. You will be able to discuss your options with a member of the Senior Leadership Team and the Head of Sixth Form.

At the end of January, the online options portal will open for pupils for approximately one week, to enter their chosen A-level subjects. The process will be explained to pupils in tutorials and parents will receive an email detailing the online options process. After the mock examination results, pupils may wish to have further discussions with teachers and change one or two choices.

Concentrate on your IGCSE examinations, enjoy your holiday and wait for your excellent results!

Fill in the online application form along with your chosen A-level subjects. on the website harrowschool.hk.

The admissions process will involve taking 30-minute papers in the subjects you wish to study, plus a 30-minute English paper, an interview with the Deputy Head - Academic and the Head of Sixth Form and for those who haven’t studied GCSEs, a 1.5hr computerised assessment will also be required.

Concentrate on your examinations, enjoy your holiday and wait for your excellent results!

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

THE EPQ At Harrow Hong Kong, the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is open to all pupils and is a popular option. It provides an opportunity for pupils to study a topic of their choice and to make their university application stand out by gaining additional UCAS points and demonstrating a true passion in their chosen area. Universities look positively at an EPQ for its rigorous academic content as well as the self discipline and independent research involved. For applications to the most competitive courses, there is evidence that a very good EPQ can be a definite advantage in helping to select the best pupils as it demonstrates intellectual curiosity. The pattern emerging in the UK is for pupils to take three A-levels plus the EPQ. We need our pupils to be able to compete with those UK pupils for places at top Universities. Pupils are supported with a series of taught skills such as independent learning, time management, project proposal, project management, presentation skills. They also have a project supervisor to guide them through the whole process. Previous projects have included: • Rewriting a scene from Shakespeare’s King Lear from a feminist perspective. • An investigation into the manufacturing of biodegradable starch-based plastic for less developed countries. • An overview and evaluation of the RSA cryptosystem. • Should we use animals for testing cosmetics? • To what extent has foreign aid in the Kingdom of Swaziland increased access to modern day healthcare?

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SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

ALUMNI CASE STUDY

KERRY LUI CLASS OF 2017 Law, Cambridge University “Harrow Hong Kong literally changed my life.” This is what I always start with whenever someone asks me about the School. This is no exaggeration as Harrow Hong Kong has expanded my academic capacity and personal growth for a brighter future. Teachers at Harrow Hong Kong are passionate in their teaching and are always available when pupils come for help. For example, during revision for A-levels, I remember I practised a lot of essay questions. I emailed them to all of my subject teachers and always received a prompt reply with detailed comments. Moreover, teachers are very willing to devote their personal time when pupils are in need, such as break time, lunch time or even organising clinic sessions for pupils after School. Their professional teaching and patience allow each individual pupil to achieve academic excellence regardless of ability. I always appreciated how my teachers taught me from someone who was not particularly smart in academic development to attaining strong A-level grades. For Year 12 and 13 pupils, the main focus is very much on application of University. In addition to strong grades, the other key factor is a personal statement. At Harrow Hong Kong there is a tutor for each small group of Year 13 pupils. This means the tutor could easily follow up the progress of the personal statement and give advice for each pupil, making sure we receive enough support. Pupils here also have a very healthy attitude, in other words, it is normal to see everyone is hard working, self-disciplined and generous in helping their peers. Being a day girl did not stop me from building up strong friendships with pupils from different year groups, especially in this welcoming environment where ‘diversity’ is always embraced. One unique thing about Harrow Hong Kong is that the School focuses on developing Leadership Attributes through a variety of extra-curricular activities, ranging from sports, arts to community service. For instance, the ‘Kids-for-Kids’ programme would enable pupils to become more compassionate and aware of social needs. Therefore, it develops a sense of social responsibility in which we would use our knowledge and leadership to contribute and serve the community in the future. Additionally, there is a tight relationship between the School and parents notably through Friends of Harrow. Mock interviews and Careers Fairs are arranged every year to assist pupils in developing a better communication skills. This means pupils are equipped with the ability to present themselves in better ways besides just showing a certificate with good results. I applied for UK universities through UCAS and received an interview from University of Cambridge. The opportunity and honour to be Head Girl enhanced my confidence and I maintained a clear mindset in all circumstances. Moreover, mock interviews arranged by the School equipped me with a better mentality for a Cambridge interview. It was a short two-years at Harrow Hong Kong but every day at School was fruitful and transformed me into a better person. I feel very blessed and lucky that I received an unconditional offer from Lucy Cavendish College at University of Cambridge to read Law. This could not have happened without the assistance and support from Harrow Hong Kong. I will always speak of the School with much gratitude from the bottom of my heart.

HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

ALUMNI UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS

UNITED STATES

CANADA

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∙ ∙ ∙ ∙

Babson College Barnard College Boston University Chicago Columbia Cornell University Dartmouth College Duke Emory Fordham Loyola Marymount Michigan Northeastern New York University Oklahoma Penn State University Southern California University of California, Berkeley University of California, Davis University of California, Santa Barbara University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of San Francisco University of Vermont University of Pennsylvania Yale

McGill University University of British Columbia University of Toronto York University

OTHERS

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University of Sydney National University of Singapore International Medical University The Paris Institute of Political Studies Chulalongkorn University, Thailand Thammasat University Rotterdam School of Management Erasmus University

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

UNITED KINGDOM

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Bartlett School of Architecture Bath Birmingham Bristol Brunel Buckingham Cambridge Cardiff Central St Martin’s Durham UEA Edinburgh Essex Exeter Glasgow Hull York Medical School Imperial College Italia Conti Kent King’s College London Leeds Leicester Liverpool John Moores

HONG KONG

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London School of Economics Loughborough Manchester Newcastle Nottingham Nottingham Trent Oxford Oxford Brookes Portsmouth Reading Royal Holloway Royal Veterinary College Sheffield SOAS Southampton St Andrews Surrey Trinity Laban Conservatoire University of the Arts London University College London UWE Warwick

∙ ∙ ∙ ∙ ∙

City University of Hong Kong Chinese University of Hong Kong University of Hong Kong Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Hong Kong Polytechnic University

CHINA

∙

Tsinghua University

HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

“ The best things about life in the Sixth Form are the cocurricular activities and the leadership opportunities. Also, being a Prefect, we ensure that pupil voices can always be heard by the Senior Leadership Team. Throughout the five years that I have been here, I’ve watched Harrow grow and I’ve grown with it. ” Michelle, Year 13

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

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LEARNING SPACES

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

Sixth Formers are fortunate to have their own new dedicated space with discussion areas, modern study carrels, computers and a large writing wall, enabling them to collaborate and share ideas with one another. The Sixth Form Centre encourages pupils to conduct themselves with increased independence, with the expectation that they manage their own time and study effectively. Sixth Form pupils also have their own careers area in the library with literature on universities all around the world, subject-specific journals and information on future careers.

HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

ACADEMIC

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

Our Sixth Form pupils go on to study at the most elite universities all over the world. A-levels are internationally recognised and respected and our pupils benefit from the depth of the subjects they’re most passionate about whilst enjoying the breadth of our SCAs, which offer the best of both worlds. Our dedicated Sixth Form team assists pupils in applying to prestigious institutions all over the world, from Oxbridge, UC Berkeley, Yale, UPenn and Toronto to Hong Kong University and Sydney.

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STEAM

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

The Sciences, Mathematics and the Arts are a huge part of life at Harrow Hong Kong. Almost 75% of our graduates go on to study a STEAM-related degree. These subjects are immersed with the pupils’ School day are and integral to the SCA programme. There are a number of STEAM opportunities for Sixth Form pupils to participate in, not only as part of their curriculum, but also outside of formal lessons if they have a passion for it. We have clubs such as: STEAM, CAD-CAM, Science Documentary and Robotics, Mathematics and Computing, Animation, Computer programming, Numberland, Fourth Dimension and Project Euler. There are also plenty of competitions that pupils enter throughout Years 12 and 13, including Olympiads in Biology, Mathematics and Physics, located in the UK.

HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

LEADERSHIP At Harrow Hong Kong’s Sixth Form there are many leadership opportunities throughout Years 12 and 13. In Year 12, pupils are offered the opportunity to become a Peer Mentor to help those in the lower year groups. Further opportunities are offered through our extensive range of Co-Curricular Activities such as MUN, Duke of Edinburgh, Young Enterprise, LAMDA examinations, Music, Drama and Sport.

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

In Year 13, the Head Girl, Head Boy and Prefects play an essential role in daily School life. The Prefect Team is responsible for presiding over the School Council, organising tours, assisting with Parents’ Evenings, monitoring Prefect Duties and supporting the work of pupils lower down the School. As the most senior pupils in the School, they act as a link between staff, pupils and between year groups. Heads of Houses lead School Houses across the year groups on all events, bringing energy, enthusiasm and a strong sense of competition which characterises the Harrow House system. Prefects may assist in a number of roles including working with Form Groups and Departments.

HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

CURIOSITY

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

Weekly lectures and seminars aim to educate pupils in walks of life that are different to their own. Key pastoral issues relevant to Sixth Form, (such as responsibility as a citizen) and high level academic topics which broaden the mind, and encourage a respect for academia are also covered. We have had taster lectures from visiting academics on topics such as: • • • •

Interdisciplinary Perspectives: Why You Should Study Liberal Arts How fast are your reaction times? Dental plaque: the good, the bad and the ugly Bat avionics

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CREATIVE EXPRESSION

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

Pupils don’t necessarily have to take A-level Art to participate in it. Many of our Sixth Form pupils choose to take Art as part of the SCA and Co-Curricular programme. A wide variety of Art-based activities provide a chance for exploration and experimentation with a range of visual mediums outside the academic setting which encourage pupils to problem solve and collaborate on large scale projects. Activities include learning to spray paint, photography, printing, paint a mural, silk scarf painting, anime and graphic novels, animation and extreme doodling. In addition, the Art department is involved with the annual community day with other local schools and for the past four years, has held Live Art inter-House and inter-school competitions.

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DRAMA Drama is a key component of the wider education offered at Harrow Hong Kong. It encompasses all of the Leadership Attributes, while also equipping pupils with key skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. Sixth Form pupils have numerous chances to get involved in SCA Drama activities; two major productions are performed each year and there is an increasing number of smaller performance events. The Sixth Form also have their own annual drama production which includes performing and also behind the scenes roles for those who do not wish to be in the spotlight. They can improve their technical theatre skills and design props for the productions. The School is a member of the International Schools Theatre Association, which enables us to offer exciting opportunities such as short-term artists-in-residence and regular trips to Drama festivals around Asia. Frequent trips are run to see high quality professional theatre being performed in Hong Kong. There is also the chance to sit LAMDA exams in Acting and Musical Theatre at Harrow Hong Kong.

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

MUSIC The School offers a varied and exciting co-curricular Music programme led by highly experienced musicians and teachers who continually strive to create and maintain a balance between excellence and inclusivity. Whilst the most able pupils are stretched with a challenging repertoire and leading ensembles, pupils who wish to perform with others and gain invaluable ensemble performance experience are also catered for in a variety of ways. There is a busy rehearsal schedule each week with major concerts and performance opportunities each term that give the diversity of musical ensembles a platform to showcase their work. The Autumn Term also features a traditional Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols that gives the top choirs the opportunity to lead the festive music. A recital series runs through the year which affords the most talented pupils the opportunity to perform solos.

HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

INSTRUMENTAL LESSONS Individual music lessons are offered in all the usual orchestral and keyboard instruments and singing. Our team of visiting specialists are highly qualified and experienced in their particular field and can guide pupils’ learning from complete beginners to advanced levels. We currently offer specialist tuition in the following: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Cello Viola Violin Double Bass Clarinet Flute Saxophone Horn Trombone Trumpet Tuba Orchestral Percussion Drum Kit Piano Guitar (Classical, Acoustic and Electric) Singing

INSTRUMENTAL ENSEMBLES Continually going from strength to strength, the Upper School Orchestra is the main ensemble for the many talented instrumental musicians in the School. There is a minimum standard of instrumental expertise required and entry is dependent upon audition. A regular and consistent commitment to rehearsals is also expected. Recent repertoire has included Bizet’s Carmen Suite, Beethoven’s 1st Symphony and lighter items such as the theme from ET. Other ensemble opportunities where Sixth Formers get heavily involved are: • • • • • • • •

Big Band Pop Orchestra Soul Bands Wind Ensemble Guitar Ensemble Saxophone Ensemble Samba Brass Group

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PASTORAL CARE

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

Pastoral care is at the heart of everything we do here at Harrow Hong Kong. Our aim is to continually enhance a culture where every pupil is accepted and respected for who they are. To enable this, we aim to promote positive and responsible behaviour from pupils while providing appropriate support for those pupils facing issues that cause them and their parents concern. We understand that times have changed and that teenagers are under a significant amount of pressure in the age of the internet and social media. In addition, we aim to provide an environment in which high standards of food, medical care and safety contribute towards pupils’ wellbeing. However, it is of vital importance that the School and parents work effectively together as a partnership to guide pupils through the adolescent years. The House Master or House Mistress-parent-pupil relationship is the key to this.

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THE HOUSE SYSTEM

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

The quality of relationships and community life, and the personal formation of character are fundamental to life at Harrow Hong Kong. All pupils, whether day or boarders, are members of a House. The Houses provide rich opportunities for interacting with pupils from a wide range of backgrounds and for developing more profound relationships with teachers and each other. This comes in part from the daily challenge of living with other people, through which pupils come to understand empathy and consideration for others. The real strength of a House is the vertical integration of different year groups, which effectively creates a large family unit, allowing responsibilities to fall to older pupils to care for and support younger pupils. The result is the creation of a close-knit, family atmosphere in which boarders feel that it is their home during term time, and in which all pupils feel happy, secure and valued.

HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

BOARDING

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

Boarding is a unique quality at Harrow Hong Kong as we are the only school in Hong Kong to offer such a huge benefit. The boarding environment enables greater emphasis to be placed on the importance of community as well as the care and support of the individual. Boarding in the Sixth Form is highly popular as it replaces travel time to and from School, provides pupils the opportunity to participate in dedicated boarding Co-Curricular Activities, with additional non-classroom contact with teachers in activities onsite. Boarding encourages pupils to learn to live together unselfishly while growing as individuals, celebrating differences and forging relationships that can last a lifetime. The camaraderie and sense of community that develop in a House, allied to the close support from outstanding role models, help pupils to feel happy, secure and valued. For those pupils whose first language is not English, total immersion in an English-speaking environment can lead to natural fluency. Weekly boarding in the Sixth Form is also excellent preparation for pupils as they look to start university life in the not too distant future. 39

HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

SPORT Participation in physical activity is essential at Harrow Hong Kong, keeping our pupils healthy and active. Our pupils leave having found at least one sporting activity that they enjoy and will want to continue in the future. Many leave with a genuine love of a wide range of activities and choose to pursue them at university and beyond. The excellent facilities at the School include a full-sized 4G astro-turf rugby and football pitch, and a double indoor Sports Hall which hosts two basketball courts, eight badminton courts, volleyball and a stage space for fencing lanes. There are also four tennis courts, three netball courts, an outdoor volleyball court, a fitness suite with free weights, machine weights and cardio vascular machines, a dance studio and an indoor competition swimming pool. We have over 30 sporting activities for a Sixth Form pupil to choose from.

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

• • • • • • • • • •

Aerobics Athletics Badminton Basketball Circuits Cricket Dance Fencing Fitness room Football

• • • • • • • • • •

Gymnastics Health-related exercise Indoor Hockey Kung Fu Lifesaving Move for Life Netball Pinnacle Athletes Rugby Rounders

• • • • • • • • • •

Running Softball Swimming Tennis Track and Field Triathlon Taekwondo Volleyball Water polo Yoga

HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

“ Harrow Hong Kong Sixth Form gave me so much independence. You’re allowed to have your own initiative and do things for yourself. The teachers will support you, but you don’t have to rely on them for everything. ” Finn, Year 13

CO-CURRICULAR We offer a superb range of Super Curriculum opportunities at Harrow Hong Kong’s Sixth Form. We firmly believe that a busy Sixth Form pupil is a happy Sixth Form pupil. Participation in a range of activities is strongly encouraged as we know it will all contribute to their learning beyond the syllabus, soft skills, leadership qualities and making new friends.

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

Here is a sample of what is on offer: • Duke of Edinburgh

• Senior debating

• Model United Nations

• Sixth Form school production

• Nine music ensembles

• Music ensembles, orchestra and Senior Choir

• Three choirs

• History and Politics discussion group

• Eleven STEAM clubs

• Peer mentoring programme

• Sports Clubs

• Young Enterprise Scheme

• LAMDA 43

HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

CHARITY AND SERVICE Service is a fundamental principle of leadership and the School provides pupils with opportunities to work selflessly for the betterment of others in nurturing compassionate leaders. There is an expectation that pupils demonstrate a willingness to give their time and effort to benefit another individual or group without expectation of reward or return. The School’s growing regular community service links include those with the Crossroads Foundation, Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centre of the Tuen Mun Hospital, the Kids4Kids buddy reading programme in local schools in the Tuen Mun area, and the Community Services Division of the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, working with intellectually disabled adults and an after-

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

school care programme for local children. Sixth Formers also work tirelessly to raise as much money as possible for the School’s pupil-chosen charities (which change each year). Fundraising ideas are shared between pupils, collated by Sixth Formers and put into action. The Sixth Form are a key component of the Long Ducker, the main annual charity event at the School and a long-standing tradition adopted from Harrow UK. They are involved with the planning as well as participating in the Long Ducker and we see many of them run the gruelling 15.5km Maclehose trail. Charity activities are also embedded within the Sixth Form timetable as part of the Super-Curriculum programme and are highly popular among Sixth Form pupils.

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LINKS WITH THE LOWER SCHOOL

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

Our Sixth Form pupils play a strong part in the lives of the Lower School children. Sixth Form and Lower School pupils alike cherish the time they spend together. Sixth Formers are integral to the annual Early Years Sports Day, where they set up every course and support three and four year olds in running their races, from start to finish. They can often be found reading to Lower School pupils and assisting them with their literacy skills. Our Head Boy and Head Girl in both the Lower and Upper Schools meet regularly to discuss wider School issues and the older Head Boy and Head Girl are also mentors to the Lower School Head Boy and Head Girl. Sixth Formers are fully aware that they are role models for the rest of the School and take great pride in having this responsibility.

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TRIPS AND EXPEDITIONS Adventure starts early at Harrow Hong Kong and remains a key aspect of School life. A variety of trips and expeditions take place during the School holidays. These are typically abroad and range from curriculum-based trips, to adventure, cultural and service expeditions. Here is a list of some of the exciting trips the Sixth Form had the opportunity to participate in, within one school year:

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• World Volunteer Laos Eco-Bungalow Project • Snow sports trip to Hakuba • Scuba Diving: the Great Barrier Reef • Adventure & Service: Himalayas, Nepal • Science trip to NASA Orlando, Florida • Language and Culture Immersion Trip to Taiwan • History trip to Seoul • Northeast USA College Tour • Sport: New Zealand Netball tour 49

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INDUCTION

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Sixth Form induction is vital for any Sixth Former in order to make a smooth transition into A-level studies. In Year 11 pupils enjoy a Sixth Form Open Evening in October where they are able to meet Heads of Department and current Year 12 and 13 pupils as well as get an overview of the Sixth Form experience. After their IGCSE examinations they come back into school for a programme of introduction to life in the Sixth Form which includes A-level subjects ‘taster days’ and team building activities. There is a further induction day at the beginning of Year 12.

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AN EDUCATION FOR LIFE

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At Harrow Hong Kong’s Sixth Form we are developing leaders for the future. Pupils are given the opportunity to organise and administer, to lead, to work as part of a team, and to take responsibility for themselves and for others. In the Sixth Form, the dynamic shifts to one reflecting the move into young adulthood, and the daily School experience is noticeably different, preparing pupils well for their next move beyond Sixth Form. We aim to inspire pupils to always be the best they can be, try new activities, help within their community, think of the wider world and people around them, always be kind to others and to push their boundaries every day.

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ALUMNI - WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Each Sixth Form leaver automatically becomes a Harrow Hong Kong alumni member with privileged access to Harrow alumni contacts database. Whether Sixth Form leavers wish to attend School Alumni events, network, offer their services at a School event, seek work experience or simply ask for advice, they are encouraged to keep in touch with the school via the Alumni and Development Office.

OLIVER DUFFY THE BIOCHEMIST Oliver left Harrow Hong Kong in 2017 to attend Imperial College London to study Biochemistry. He is currently working as an analyst at a private bank in their investment products department. In the future, he would like to continue doing further research in Biochemistry, work for a biotech start up firm, work in an investment bank or a fund house, all the while hoping to travel and see as much of the world as possible.

CALUM MOORE THE ENTREPRENEUR Calum finished his A-levels at Harrow Hong Kong in 2014 and went on to study Investment Finance in Real Estate at Reading University. He now works for a consultancy called Arcadis, specialising in financial appraisals and investment advice in Property Development, based in London. Next year he will qualify as a Chartered Development Surveyorafter which he plans to start his own residential development company.

SAMANTHA LI THE LAWYER After gaining a first class degree in Law from Durham University in 2018, Samantha will be undertaking her LPC equivalent in Hong Kong. She has already been offered a training contract at Shearman & Sterling where she would like to initially focus on Finance and Capital Markets.

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ISABELLA KONG THE ENVIRONMENTALIST For her A-levels Isabella took Geography, Economics and Mathematics and received A*s in all three subjects. She is now at the University of Cambridge reading Geography. After Isabella graduates, she is thinking of pursuing a Masters in Urban Planning, Public Policy (or may perhaps work at a Think Tank) or environmental science related fields.

SOPHIE YAU THE DOCTOR Sophie was one of the first pupils studying at Harrow Hong Kong when it opened in 2012, obtaining 4A*s at A-level. She was also a scholar at the School, holding the Outstanding Scholarship for Talent in Music, Honorary Sixth Form Scholarship and Academic Scholarship. She is currently in Year 3 studying Medicine at the Chinese University of Hong Kong and is a member of the Asian Medical Students Association Hong Kong (AMSAHK) as a Director of Medical Education. Over the past years, she has initiated the Mental Health Project and numerous events to improve medical pupils’ wellbeing and raise awareness amongst the public. The Project was recently awarded the Rex Crossley Award in Montreal and gained global recognition.

KEVIN CHAU THE INVESTMENT BANKER Kevin is in his final year at LSE, studying Economics. He has already received a job offer from Credit Suisse in their Finance division and is looking forward to returning to Hong Kong to start his job.

DAVID STEVENSON THE FINANCIER In his final year, in addition to being Head Boy, David studied Maths, Physics and Economics for A-levels and achieved A grades in all three. His A-levels helped grow his curiosity and enthusiasm for Economics and Physics whilst providing him with a great foundation for further study. He is currently at Bristol University studying Economics and Politics (BSc) with a view to pursuing a career in Finance.

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“ I chose Harrow Hong Kong for two reasons: A-levels enabled me to choose the subjects I was passionate about and the weekly boarding provision was enough to enable me to spread my wings and be independent but remain close to my family. ” Kevin, Alumni

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHY STUDY A-LEVELS? When studying for A-levels at Harrow Hong Kong, you will be in a challenging academic environment and will develop a rich understanding of your subjects with like-minded pupils. Whether you choose to go to university in the UK or anywhere else in the world, A-level qualifications are the gold standard of a British education and will allow you to be considered for entry to top educational institutions.

HOW HAVE YOUR PUPILS PERFORMED IN RECENT A-LEVEL EXAMINATIONS? Harrow Hong Kong pupils have an outstanding track record in their A-level exams. In 2018, 30% of all grades achieved by Year 13 pupils were A*, 61% were A*/A and almost 85% were A*-B. Pupils in Year 13 achieved 60 A* grades and 65 A grades overall. Thirty-two pupils achieved A*/A grades in all their subjects.

WHAT CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES DO YOU OFFER? Our motto, Leadership for a better world, immerses Harrow Hong Kong pupils in co-curricular activities, providing a diverse range of opportunities through sport, charity, volunteering, expeditions, drama, art, music, cultural and academic extension. Whether acquiring debating skills through Model United Nations, performing in school productions, playing rugby or netball in New Zealand, volunteering with one of our Charities, performing music in public venues, or building an eco bungalow in Laos, our Leadership programme provides breadth and opportunity for a holistic education, preparing our pupils for life beyond Harrow.

WHAT FACILITIES DOES THE SCHOOL HAVE? The School is located in a magnificent crescent-shaped building with impressive facilities including a dedicated Sixth Form Centre, high-quality Science laboratories, a Library and Learning Lounge, studios for Art, Music, Drama and Dance, and excellent sporting facilities including a 25m indoor swimming pool, sports hall, well-equipped fitness room, state of the art 4G astro and tennis courts.

WHAT LINKS DO YOU HAVE WITH OTHER SCHOOLS? Harrow is one of the most recognised names in education worldwide. Harrow School in London has, since 1572, provided a prestigious education in the UK for British pupils and pupils from many countries around the world. Since 1998, the Harrow education has been provided outside the UK through Harrow International Schools in Bangkok, Beijing, Hong Kong and Shanghai. We enjoy hosting and competing against a number of schools in Hong Kong, ranging across the curriculum from Sport Fixtures to Mathematics challenges. We also have strong links with local state schools (secondary and primary), host community days and operate a weekly primary reading scheme for charity throughout the year.

WHAT IS THE BACKGROUND OF YOUR TEACHING STAFF? The School has over 140 teachers and teaching assistants. The majority of the teachers are British with some from Commonwealth and European countries. Our staff has a blend of collective experience from the UK and international schools worldwide, combining the best of a British education in a vibrant international setting.

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WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ‘LINEAR’ AND ‘MODULAR’? Over the past few years there has been much talk of A-level reform, and linear and modular A-levels. Between 2001 and 2016, assessment at A-level followed a ‘modular’ format; this meant that pupils could sit examinations for small chunks of their course at various points over the two-year A-level course, with each examination counting towards the final grade. The modular system allowed re-sits of those examinations, with the best score in each counting towards the final grade. ‘Linear’ assessment occurs when pupils sit examinations at the end of the two year course, with no opportunity for re-sits. Any external assessment taken prior to the end of the two-year course will not count towards the final grade in Year 13.

SHOULD I STUDY THREE OR FOUR A-LEVELS? IS IT BETTER TO HAVE HIGHER GRADES IN THREE A-LEVELS THAN SLIGHTLY LOWER GRADES IN FOUR? Universities in the UK only ever require three subjects and their conditional offers for entry into their courses are always three-grade offers, though occasionally, those taking four A-levels may receive a fourgrade offer. Whilst there is no requirement for pupils to take four subjects, those who do are likely to benefit from greater academic enrichment and variety. It is also perfectly normal for many pupils to be unsure about their future destinations and courses; therefore many prefer to keep their options open with the express intention of dropping one of their four at the end of Year 12. Keeping options open is especially important if pupils have chosen subjects that are new to them. Taking four A-levels allows pupils to develop organisational and time management skills, even though the rigours of four A-levels can be very demanding. However, many pupils find that they prefer to dedicate their time to maximising their performance and aiming for top grades in just three subjects. We strongly encourage all pupils to consider taking the EPQ in addition to their chosen three or four A-levels. The taught element of the EPQ and the skills that pupils gain throughout the course will be extremely useful for further study at university and are unable to be covered in any other A-level course.

I WANT TO STUDY MATHEMATICS, ENGINEERING OR ECONOMICS AT UNIVERSITY. DO I NEED FURTHER MATHEMATICS? There is a significant amount of misinformation surrounding the need to study Further Mathematics for certain degree courses. The most authoritative advice on this can be found here: furthermaths.org.uk/ universities. We encourage both pupils and parents to read this information carefully as well as to check up-to-date information on individual university websites. We do advise those pupils with a realistic chance of studying straight Economics at LSE and Cambridge to take Further Mathematics. Many universities state that Further Mathematics is desirable, but not essential, for these courses. It stands to reason that those pupils who have studied Mathematics to a more advanced level will be at a greater advantage when applying for these courses and we can expect that many competitor candidates from other schools applying to the top universities will also have studied Further Mathematics. However, our stance is that this question is the wrong way round. The pupils for whom Further Mathematics is most appropriate are those who genuinely excel in and love Mathematics. The course entails very difficult mathematics, and lots of it, so it is this subject passion that is critical to the selection of the course, as opposed to the long-term potential vision of studying these courses

HARR OW INTERN ATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

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HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG

HARROW INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HONG KONG 38 Tsing Ying Road, Tuen Mun, New Territories, Hong Kong Tel: (+852) 2824 9099 Fax: (+852) 2824 9928

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