Our College Values

Challenge
We are not afraid to accept new ideas and overcome problems
Respect
We know that everybody is equally important
Concern for the environment
We respect our environment and keep it free from graffiti and litter
Achievement
We take pride in our own achievements and help others to achieve
Justice and Fairness
We treat everyone equally and fairly
Effort
We always try to do the best we can
Respect for Truth
We value honesty and always try to do what is right
Tolerance
We respect the views and beliefs of others

Enjoy and Achieve

Students in Food Technology class Teaching and learning have always been our highest priority. The core subjects of English, Maths, Science, ICT & Technology are at the centre of the curriculum.

Students have the opportunity to enjoy a diversity of subjects from Performing Arts to Modern Languages. Teaching at Hartsdown encourages the use of different strategies, encompassing different learning styles and technologies. Teachers frequently attend courses and in-college training to keep up-to-date with the ever-changing developments in education and their performance in the classroom is assessed regularly.

The progress of students is constantly monitored by the Heads of Houses, subject leaders and teachers. Good progress is recognised and rewarded and where necessary, underachievement is acted upon. Parents/carers are also kept informed of their child’s progress through Work Reviews, Reports, Parents’ Evenings and Performance Review Days. It is essential for students to take responsibility for their own learning and we encourage self-assessment and target setting across the curriculum.

Students in Food Technology class Students with additional education needs are identified when they join the college. Extra help is given for those with mild learning difficulties, more intensive support is available in our Family Support Unit. We also have a specialist unit for the hearing-impaired.

Homework tasks are recorded on the college website for parents/carers to view. Homework and worksheets are on the college’s Virtual Learning Environment (Sharepoint), so that students can access them at home as well as in lessons. Weekly homework clubs and after-school study support groups help students complete their work. For a number of years we have also provided extensive and intensive programmes of revision lessons during the Easter and May holidays for students taking external exams.