UK UNI: Ashbourne Independent Sixth Form College

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Ashbourne Independent Sixth Form College


Ashbourne is an independent sixth form college specialising in pre-university education at GCSE and A level. Following the university ethos, the college combines informality and an adult approach to education with a disciplined system where each student's work is carefully monitored. It aims to establish strong academic foundations, achieve outstanding examination results and engender a mature and independent attitude vital for taking advantage of life's opportunities.

Founded in 1981, Ashbourne independent sixth form college is situated in the very heart of Kensington, London. The college is fully co-educational and considers its primary strength to be its small size coupled with its friendly and caring approach. No student is allowed to become lost in the crowd.

All courses are organised around a tutorial system in much smaller groups than are permitted in other institutions. This provides a student-centred approach, enabling tutors to engage directly with each individual. No assumptions are made about a student's previous knowledge, and understanding is established in a step-by-step manner. The teaching style aims to be positive, encouraging and sympathetic to the challenges which students encounter.

Ashbourne's main building at Old Court Place is fully equipped for A level study. In addition to teaching rooms, there is a library with computer and Internet access and a full range of learning resources. There are specialist laboratories for the teaching of Science subjects and ICT. The Media and Film Studies room contains digital video and audio facilities for recording and editing, using modern Apple Macintosh computers. These facilities enable students to work on creative publishing, graphic design and computer animation projects.

Visual Arts and the GCSE department are housed at our building in Young Street, two minutes' walk from Old Court Place. There is a large art studio where painting, drawing, silk-screen printing and ceramics take place, as well as facilities for photography including a well-equipped dark room.

Theatre Studies and Drama practical work is taught in the beautiful surroundings of the nearby Maria Assumpta Centre, where a large room overlooking the collegiate-style garden is used for teaching, and the imposing hall with its fully-equipped stage is used for performances.