Academic Enrichment
At Berkhamsted, we recognise that every student is unique, with their own individual strengths and interests.
We encourage every one of our students to pursue their talents and interests through the many enrichment opportunities on offer throughout their time with us.
For our more academically adventurous students, there are a number of avenues through which to fulfil their full potential.
Our Berkhamsted Sixth Enrichment Programme is followed by students in Year 12 and Year 13 and ensures a broad, comprehensive Sixth Form education.
Our Enrichment Programme includes a weekly lecture programme which is presented by visiting speakers, plus a House tutorial programme that enables students to deliver presentations, to discuss topics related to current affairs and to develop study skills.
Past visiting speakers who have addressed our students as part of our Enrichment Programme include:
- Former politician, Lord David Owen
- Old Berkhamstedian and author, Patrick Hennessey
- Former Chief of the General Staff General, Sir Mike Jackson
- Author of the Inspector Morse novels, Colin Dexter
- David Gauke, Secretary of State for Justice and Lord Chancellor
- Natasha Devon, former children’s mental health champion appointed by the Department for Education
Extended Project Qualification
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) provides our students at Berkhamsted Sixth the opportunity to follow one of three routes towards completing a dissertation or investigation of their own choice.
EPQ students can choose between:
- Humanities – a topic from anything historical, literary, theological, political or sociological
- Economics – a topic from the world of business, finance or global economics
- Scientific/philosophical – a topic from any of the sciences, medicine, engineering, philosophy or mathematic
Students study a taught course in Year 12, after which they are introduced to their supervisors. From this point they work independently with guidance, to complete a review of relevant literature or other resources on their topic.
The EPQ at Berkhamsted is led by our Head of Data and Research and a team of supervisors – many of whom have higher degrees and/or publications, ensuring they are highly experienced in research methodology.
Our library staff run courses in the use of JStor, EasyBib, EBSCO, Google Scholar and other research providers which are fundamental to the completion of the EPQ.
LEAP INTO ACTION
Open Event
Clearly an academically driven department, it’s refreshing to meet the Head of Sixth, Martin Walker, and hear that the students get the support and encouragement to find and follow their own path whatever that may be – from setting up their own business or doing an apprenticeship.
