Enrichment

Hypatia

Our Hypatia Programme replaces Alton School’s previous awards and scholarships. The programme focuses on enrichment and extension and there are awards available for Music, Drama, Art, Sport and Academic. These are non-monetary and recognise achievement and ambition.

During the first half of the Autumn Term, the Director of Studies together with teaching staff will observe pupils and identify those who would benefit from or show a particular interest in stretching themselves either academically or in their chosen area. They will then be invited to join the relevant Hypatia Programme, commencing in the second half of the Autumn Term.

All our Hypatia Programmes are subject to annual review and in some cases specific conditions for each award.

There is also the opportunity for pupils to join the Hypatia Programme at a later stage, should we feel they are performing at a high enough level in the relevant discipline.

Rev Hodgson is the contact for Hypatia: mhodgson@altonschool.co.uk.

Music

Music is highly valued at Alton School and all pupils are encouraged to get involved. In addition to the specialist class music teachers, a team of highly qualified peripatetic staff support the department, allowing pupils to take part in music-making at every level. Individual tuition is available in the following instruments: Piano, Keyboard, Theory, Voice, Guitar (acoustic, electric and bass), Recorder, Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet/Cornet, Tenor/French Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, Violin, Viola, Violoncello, Double Bass, Percussion.

Parents wishing their children to receive private lessons in music should contact the music department.

Arrangements for fees and lessons are with the peripatetic teacher and not the School. If your child plays a musical instrument or sings there is an expectation that they join the choir and/or orchestra.

Dr Shahov is the contact for music: pshahov@ altonschool.co.uk

Drama

The Drama Department stages an annual production which is often produced in conjunction with the Music Department. Past shows have included Matilda Jr., Beauty & The Beast, Alice in Wonderland, Singin’ in the Rain, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Anything Goes and Grease! Roles are allocated by audition; actors and crew are expected to commit to a rehearsal schedule which may include weekends and evenings.

Mrs Regan is the contact for drama: aregan@altonschool.co.uk.

Sport

In addition to our core sports (football, hockey, netball, athletics, cricket), we offer the following extra-curricular sporting activites: trampolining, morning mile, gym club, cricket nets, golf, dance, tennis, unihoc and equestrian club.

Equestrian

We offer equestrian lessons at Greatham after school on a Thursday for Years 7-13 for all abilities. You will receive further information at the beginning of each term to sign up for these lessons.

Mrs Naylor-Davis is the contact for equestrian: jnaylor-davis@altonschool.co.uk.

Clubs and Activities

We set time aside for co-curricular activity. All pupils are expected to be involved in at least two activities a week. Clubs run during lunchtime with some running after school. The co-curricular programme gives opportunities for pupils to explore new interests and develop new skills. We aim to keep the activities on offer as varied as possible.

LAMDA and Dance

Group and individual LAMDA and dance lessons are available with our visiting teachers. Arrangements for fees and lessons are with the peripatetic teacher and not the School. Please contact the School Office for further information: office@altonschool.co.uk.

Ccf

Alton School's CCF is a partnership with the Ministry of Defence that offers challenging activities to develop personal responsibility, leadership, and self-discipline. Available to Year 8 students and up, training includes parade evenings, field days, weekend camps, and summer camp.

DofE

The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is a top global youth achievement programme that fosters personal growth and empowers millions of young people to reach their full potential. It offers three levels (Bronze, Silver, and Gold) with increasing difficulty and time commitment. Students in Year 9 and above can participate and engage in community service, physical and skill-building activities. The programme's main feature is a team expedition, which includes planning routes, equipment, and menus, followed by a practice and qualifying expedition.

Before you start in September

Prior to beginning school in September, it is important to ensure that you have all necessary items prepared, such as uniform, equipment, technology, and other essential materials. Please see the next 2 pages for all the relevant information.