The Academic Research Course
The Academic Research Course (ARC) is your opportunity to undertake a written project of your choice.
That is how it differs from the other subjects you have elected to take during your time at Hills Road
and indeed from your GCSEs. Your written project will enable you to discuss, research, write up and
present information, meaning that you will have the opportunity to extend and develop your IT,
communication and writing skills. You will be able to cite participation in the ARC project on your
UCAS form and highlight the benefits of it to employers in due course. In July 2008, the Association
of Graduate Recruiters (AGR) found that employers were concerned about a ‘skills shortage’ amongst recent graduates.
Through a mixture of classes, seminars, lectures and independent tutorials students learn to plan and conduct independent
research and gain the skills that both universities and employers prize.
Enrichment activities
These are usually non-examined courses. You will be able to choose activities
from a wide range including music, sport, art, drama, languages, discussion groups,
Duke of Edinburgh and Young Enterprise. Enrichment activities may also be taken in
Year 13 for those students who wish to continue them.
See the enrichment page for a full list of activities
Citizenship is embedded in varying degrees in all programmes of study and forms a conceptual
basis for many subjects, especially the humanities. You will be encouraged to improve your skills
of enquiry and communication, to exercise your rights and responsibilities effectively, and to
develop your role as a well-informed and active citizen. For those who seek more active
involvement, opportunities include membership of the Student Council, membership of societies such as Amnesty
International, student representation on the governing body, and participation in the College’s global citizenship
project which is being developed in partnership with Ndamase School in South Africa. The College is also setting up
links with Datong High School in Shanghai.