The Programme

A Transformative Journey Toward Life, Not Just University

Preparing for Life HCH Sixth Form Programme: Winner of 2025 Talk Education Innovation in Education Award

At Hampton Court House, we believe the Sixth Form is far more than a stepping stone to higher education — it is a formative period for growing in maturity, confidence, and purpose.

Our distinctive and award-winning Preparing for Life Sixth Form programme is designed to support each student in emerging not only as an outstanding scholar, but also as a thoughtful leader, a resilient individual, and a socially engaged citizen.

We see the Sixth Form as a bridge, you will be empowered to take ownership of your learning and life. Academic success is essential — and it is delivered through small classes, specialist teachers, and rigorous expectations. But equally important are the pillars that underpin the programme:

• Physical Health
• Mental Health
• Academic
• Leadership
• Cultural Literacy

These pillars are woven into every individual’s journey. In cultivating a balanced, values‑driven experience, we nurture minds, bodies, and character in equal measure.

The Pillars in Detail

Academic

Outstanding academic outcomes remain central to our Sixth Form. These are achieved not only through your dedication and the support of expert teachers with whom you build great relationships with, but also through the reinforcing impact of our other pillars. As a result, students excel academically while being prepared for life beyond the classroom.

We combine inspiring, traditional teaching with a fresh, content-rich approach that sparks curiosity and creativity. Here, academic excellence grows naturally in a culture that encourages questioning, exploring ideas, and original thinking. With our supportive and inspiring approach, as well as our excellent subject specialist teachers, you’ll thrive not just academically, but personally — developing the confidence and independence to make your mark on the world, just like many of our students who progress to top institutions such as Oxbridge and Russell Group universities.

Physical Health

There is a wealth of evidence that supports our belief that physical strength is deeply connected to mental wellbeing: a healthy body supports a high-performing mind. Exercise isn’t just good for the body — it clears the mind, lifts the mood and builds resilience.

Strength-based training improves concentration and academic performance, and functional fitness also has lasting benefits of building muscle mass, bone density and strength in a sustained way, improving any other physical activity you choose and your health as you move into adulthood. Whether it’s strength training, mobility work or simply moving in nature, you will build stamina and focus for both academic and personal challenges.

Set within the breathtaking surroundings of Bushy Park, our school offers open green space right on our doorstep — a rare privilege in Southwest London. Our diverse sports programme encourages every student to find an activity they genuinely enjoy and can carry with them far beyond their school years, with personalised fitness pathways and weights programme designed by expert coaches and led by specialist trainers. Movement here isn’t just a lesson — it’s a lifelong tool for wellbeing.

Mental Health

We believe that emotional resilience is essential to thriving, both in your studies and in life. That’s why mental wellbeing is woven into everything we do in the Sixth Form. Positive mental health strengthens your connection with others and deepens your understanding of yourself. Through developing self-awareness and self-efficacy, you’ll be better equipped to manage both academic demands and leadership challenges – and contribute positively to your community.

You’ll take part in a dedicated mental health and wellbeing programme, where you’ll learn how to manage stress, protect your mental health, and support others. It’s about building real tools for real life — self-awareness, empathy, and the strength to handle whatever comes your way. You’ll also have access to one-to-one mentoring, peer support, quiet spaces for reflection, mindfulness sessions, and regular check-ins with staff who genuinely care. In a world that doesn’t slow down, we make time for what matters most: you.

Leadership

In the Sixth Form at HCH, you’re not just a student, you’re a leader. In an AI-driven world, human-centred, socially intelligent leadership matters more than ever. Through the principles of servant leadership, you’ll learn to be empathetic, reflective, and empowering, helping the different people you lead to become the best they can be. Our bespoke leadership programme focuses on servant leadership — leading by supporting and empowering others — because true leadership is about lifting those around you.

Whether as a mentor, prefect, House captain, or wellbeing ambassador, you’ll take on real responsibility and make a genuine impact. Through one-to-one coaching, inspiring guest speakers, and hands-on challenges, you’ll sharpen your communication, decision-making, and moral courage, you’ll build on your passions, find your voice, and learn how to shape the future with confidence— skills that go far beyond the classroom.

Community

Making a difference is part of who we are. You’ll be part of a community where giving back really matters. We’ll encourage you to recognise the positive impact you can make – through volunteering, charity work, and contributing to both our school and the wider community. At HCH we believe that privilege must go hand in hand with compassion. You’ll mentor younger pupils, lead community projects, raise funds for causes you care about, and take real action on the issues that matter. These experiences don’t just benefit others — they shape you.

You’ll build empathy, humility, emotional intelligence and a deep sense of belonging. We believe that compassion is powerful. It connects us, grounds us, and reminds us of our shared responsibility to each other. Giving back is fundamental to your own wellbeing and to the wellbeing of our wider community. Contributing through volunteering and service builds a strong sense of identity and purpose, helping you understand your role and the impact of social leadership and responsibility. You will leave HCH with more than just qualifications — you’ll leave with the courage to make a positive impact.

Cultural Literacy

We want you to fall in love with learning itself, sparking curiosity that stretches beyond your A-Levels.

Cultural Literacy is a powerful driver of social mobility, and we know that learning goes far beyond the classroom. You’ll dive deep into the arts, global issues, and different cultures — whether through live performances, international trips, guest lectures, or creative projects.

Regular cultural outings and thought-provoking conversations with speakers and peers will challenge your thinking and open your mind, broadening academic and personal horizons. Here, you’ll gain not only knowledge but also the confidence and skills to navigate an ever-changing world with empathy and curiosity, becoming an informed, engaged young person with the skills to connect and network widely.

A Level Options Brochure