Our Values & Ethos

Adult life (if we might paraphrase Peter Pan) is an awfully big adventure, and Sixth Form is a precious period of time in which to get ready for it. Coming from Year 11 as little more than children, students have about 22 months to be ready to set out as young adults. During this time they have to acquire qualifications, plan their next steps, make friends, develop confidence, and, most of all, to learn as much as possible of the world they are heading into. They need to learn subject content that will enable the next stage of study; to learn communication skills, speaking, writing, reading in a variety of registers and settings; to learn how to navigate a world of employment where the possibilities are much more complex and interesting than simply doctor, lawyer, plumber, teacher; to learn how to work both hard and efficiently to make the most of their talents and opportunities; and to take responsibility for themselves and those around them so as to be able to shape their world.

At Harris Clapham Sixth Form, we face adventure with Courage, Commitment and Confidence. 

COURAGE

We step willingly into the unknown, understanding that there will be times of difficulty as well as excitement and joy; we accept responsibility, look to be leaders, and work hard for what is right rather than what is easy; and we face our own limitations, determined to overcome rather than excuse them, realising we're not the finished product but endeavouring to be the best possible version of ourselves.

“Courage is the most important of all virtues, because without courage, you cannot practice any of the other virtues consistently." - Maya Angelou

COMMITMENT

We are ready for a long-haul rather than a brief sprint and know that real achievement is worked for rather than given freely. We are committed to our own future and that of those around us and will not compromise what is true, or just, or kind for our own short-term benefit. We know that actions speak louder than words and are prepared to be disciplined about doing our best each day until it becomes a habit. We commit to facing our challenges and doing our best to change things for the better.

"Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced." - James Baldwin

Our ethos deliberately focuses on challenge and development as we push ourselves and encourage each other to achieve, and we explicitly recognise that maintaining our mental, physical and social health is of vital importance. During two years at Harris Clapham Sixth Form, students will learn how to look after themselves and to form and maintain strong and positive relationships with those around them. During this time, the academy will offer support and advice with any difficulties students face - this is very much a shared adventure.

CONFIDENCE

We are optimistic about our adventure and believe in both ourselves and others. We are neither naive, nor arrogant, but have a realistic confidence in our own, developing, abilities and in the support that we can get from each other and those we meet. We are not dispirited by setbacks but see them as opportunities for new growth, chances to discover hitherto unimagined talents, and we are firm in our belief that together we can be role models for London and modern Britain.

"Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence." - Helen Keller