Week B

Introduction to the High Achievers Programme

At Highdown School and Sixth Form Centre we strive to ensure we provide an inclusive education for all students.  As a result high achievement is celebrated and students are encouraged to stretch themselves to the best of their ability.  Highdown ensures that students who excel in any area of life are recognised and encouraged to develop their full potential.

High Achievers are initially identified on entry to Highdown School using the information we receive from Primary Schools and the results of standardised testing carried out in the first half term.  We also identify students by observing and monitoring them in lessons so we have students who demonstrate academic strengths alongside those who show aptitude in sports and the arts.

Below is a table showing some of the activities available for students invited to join the High Achieving programme.

  KS3 KS4 KS5
Extra-Curricular
  • Languages
  • Music
  • Multiple drama productions each year
  • Drama clubs inc. Improvisation
  • Art Club
  • Textiles Club
  • Junior Maths Challenge & support sessions
  • Year 7 Code Club
  • Cypher Challenge
  • History Club
  • Creative Writing Club
  • Book Club
  • Geography World Wise Quiz
  • Rugby, football, cricket, netball, hockey teams
  • Dance Company
  • Debate Club
  • Quiz Club
  • Science & Engineering Week
  • Cypher Challenge
  • Intermediate Maths Challenge & support sessions
  • Geography World Wise Quiz
  • Multiple drama productions each year
  • Drama clubs including improv.
  • Book Club
  • Extended reading list
  • All year round weekly subject  specific GCSE revision sessions for Year 11s
  • Rugby, football, cricket, netball, hockey teams
  • Dance Company
  • Debate Club
  • Support students in applying for Sutton Trust and Oxford summer schools, and Sutton Trust US University programme
  • Senior Maths Challenge
  • Multiple Drama Productions each year

Advice Information and Guidance

Careers Fair

Meet parents of most able at welcome evening

Careers Fair

PSHE programme

University Trips

Comprehensive Russell Group/Oxbridge/ medics  programme

Interview preparation courses

1-2-1 support with applications

Small group sessions on effective applications for university

Trip to a college at Oxford University

If you have any questions about your child please call the main reception on 0118 9015800 to speak to a member of the High Achievers Team. Alternatively you can email us at office@highdown.reading.sch.uk.