INFORMATION BOOKLET 2021-22 - ACS International Schools
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INFORMATION BOOKLET 2021-22
READY F R THE REST OF THEIR LIVES. We have created this brochure to answer common questions about life at ACS Hillingdon – everything from “what curriculum options do you offer?” to “where are you located?” Of course, no brochure could possibly say everything about such a vibrant, inclusive school environment. To find out more, including how our distinctive approach to education ensures our students are ready for the rest of their lives, we encourage you to visit us – either for an individual tour or as part of one of our regular Open Days. To arrange your visit, just email our admissions department at hilladmissions@acs-schools.com or call us on +44(0) 1895 818402. 02 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HILLINGDON
03
ABOUT OUR SCHOOL ADMISSIONS
ACS Hillingdon is a co-educational day school Application procedure
for around 570 students aged 4–18 from over We operate a rolling admissions process that
50 countries, supported and taught by around enables students to join us in any Grade and
150 expert staff and teachers. We offer world- at any time of the academic year, subject to
renowned programmes of study – including the acceptance and availability.
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP), IB
Career-related Programme (IBCP), AP Capstone Our online application process takes a holistic
Diploma and Advanced Placement (AP) courses. approach, assessing each candidate individually
by reviewing previous school records, references,
Our campus boasts a stunning mansion house questionnaire answers and standardised test scores.
and a modern extension that is home to our This helps us understand the complete student,
three libraries, science and IT labs, art studios, giving us a real insight into who they are today and
cafeteria, gym, auditorium and a dedicated how we can make them ready for tomorrow.
music and technology centre, affectionately
known as Harmony House. Our delightful Offer and acceptance of place
grounds feature an all-weather playing field,
We ask that each application is accompanied
tennis and basketball courts and adventure
by a non-refundable application fee, paid online.
play areas, supported by 14 acres of off-site
If your application is successful, we will then
facilities for football, rugby, swimming and
contact you with an offer of a place for your child.
track and field.
To secure the place, we require a non-refundable
enrolment deposit, which we set against the
second semester tuition fees. For more details
of application fees, deposits and tuition costs,
see the School Fees section of our website.
Practicalities for international families
We have many years’ experience of helping
international families with the practicalities of
moving to a new country. Our Welcome Guide
provides useful information on settling in the
UK, while our Welcome Committee (part of our
exceptionally active parents’ association) are always
there to help your family settle in quickly and easily.
04 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HILLINGDON
BURSARIES
ACS Schools is a registered charity with the Calculating the bursary award
mission of advancing education for all. To help Our financial awards are for up to seven years and
us achieve our philanthropic goals, we offer range from 10% to 100% of the full tuition fees.
financially assisted programmes in the form of In exceptional circumstances, these awards can
bursaries and scholarships. also include additional school-related expenditure,
so students can participate in every aspect of school
Our bursary programme enables us to offer life. We calculate the size of each bursary based on
places to talented students who would benefit an assessment of parental income and other financial
from our world-class education, but whose family assets, so we ask for appropriate documentation
circumstances make it difficult to meet our usual fees. as part of each application. We review bursary
awards on an annual basis to ensure they reflect
These financial awards range from 10% to 100% any changes in parents’ financial circumstances.
of our full fees. All bursaries are means-tested, with Our next in-take of bursary students will be in
each award dependent on the student’s individual August 2022, and we welcome applications from
circumstances. In line with our values, we look for June to November 2021.
students with enquiring minds, an international
perspective and a strong desire to make a difference.
We offer Upper School bursaries for students
aged 11, 13 or 16 (Grades 6, 8 or 11). Students
applying for the International Baccalaureate (IBDP)
bursary should display the ability to benefit from
an academically-rigorous programme.
Our criteria for awarding bursaries
We welcome applications from parents
who believe their child will benefit from our
international curriculum and who will make a real
contribution to life at ACS Hillingdon. We ask only
that candidate pupils are resident in the UK and
have the right to remain. Following an application,
we assess the student information and financial
data provided, and reach a decision in the March
prior to the academic year of entry.
05SCHOOL STRUCTURE
Divisions Grade placement
ACS Hillingdon is organised into two divisions: Lower Children come to our school from a wide range
School for our youngest students aged 4–10, and of countries and schools. This table shows
Upper School for those aged 10–18. (This covers the equivalent class age and curriculum for
middle school for those aged 10 to 14, and high different education systems.
school for students aged 14 to 18). Each division is
led by a highly experienced Principal, ably assisted
by superb teaching staff and support specialists.
EDUCATION
AGE US / ACS HILLINGDON GRADES UK YEARS PROGRAMMES
4 Pre-Kindergarten Early childhood Reception –
5 Kindergarten Early childhood Year 1 –
6 1st Grade Lower school Year 2 –
7 2nd Grade Lower school Year 3 –
8 3rd Grade Lower school Year 4 –
9 4th Grade Lower school Year 5 –
10 5th Grade Middle school Year 6 –
11 6th Grade Middle school Year 7 –
12 7th Grade Middle school Year 8 –
13 8th Grade Middle school Year 9 –
14 9th Grade (Freshman) High school Year 10 –
15 10th Grade (Sophomore) High school Year 11 Advanced Placement
16 11th Grade (Junior) High school Lower 6th / IB Diploma
Year 1 College IBCP
Advanced Placement
17 12th Grade (Senior) High school Upper 6th / IB Diploma
Year 2 College IBCP
Advanced Placement
Key
Lower School Upper School
06 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HILLINGDONWHAT STUDENTS LEARN AT ACS
Our academic programmes are based on world-class
educational standards and qualifications, including
those of the International Baccalaureate and the
Advanced Placement programmes.
These are complemented by a Personal Development
Programme (PDP), which focuses on students’
personal, social and emotional learning, and
culminates in the Global Citizen Diploma.
Together, these enable us to create resilient,
balanced, high-achieving individuals who are ready
for whatever the future has in store for them.
I C CU R RI CU L DE V
E LO P M E N
A DEM LU M A TP
AC S ON RO
GR
ER A
)P INCLUDES
P
M
D
M
(P
PSHE • Service Learning
E
Character Education • Digital Citizenship
Fundamental Values •
BASED ON Co-curricular and Extra-curricular Activities
SUBJECT • Global Citizen Diploma
DISCIPLINES
TAUGHT THROUGH
ANCHORED IN
Advisory Programme • Assemblies
STANDARDS Field Trips • After-school Activities
Clubs • Sports Programme
Some aspects taught within
academic curriculum
EFFECTIVE LEARNERS • CONFIDENT INDIVIDUALS • CARING CONTRIBUTORS
0708 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HILLINGDON
ACADEMIC OVERVIEW
Global perspective Developed independently of national standards,
All ACS International Schools offer a unique the IB incorporates best practice drawn from
educational experience for students aged 4 to 18, research and a global community of more than
characterised by a bold international approach that 4,000 top-performing schools, encouraging
proudly asserts our common global citizenship. students of all ages to think critically, challenge
At the heart of this experience is a commitment to assumptions and adopt a global perspective –
providing exactly the right support for each student, with some students choosing multilingual learning.
so they thrive within our culture of high expectations.
As part of our commitment to diversity and inclusion, Our other premier academic programme is the
we support a wide range of student interests and College Board’s Advanced Placement Programme
abilities, including the language requirements (AP), leading to the AP Capstone Diploma. This
of globally-mobile students and their families. is designed to help motivated students pursue
US university-level studies while still in High
Another distinctive feature of ACS culture is our School, giving them the opportunity to dig deep
attitude to assessment, which is based on identifying into subjects that interest them, developing their
what each individual student needs to do to improve skills and analytical potential in the process. This
and excel. We use high-quality data and feedback is significant for students likely to study further
regarding each student’s achievement to adjust our in the USA, as many US colleges and universities
teaching strategies, improve individual performance offer credit or placement based on successful AP
and celebrate learning. examination results. AP results are also widely
accepted in UK universities.
The result is a flexible system that works for each
student, regardless of their previous achievement. Well-respected national and
At the heart of this is our rigorous academic international standards
programme, designed to help highly-ambitious The curriculum at ACS Hillingdon is informed
learners excel in widely-respected international by well-established, professional standards that
qualifications that support strong applications to provide students with clear milestones to guide
the world’s top universities. At the same time, we their academic development. Our standards
encourage all our students to pursue individual are research and evidence-based, helping to
passions and explore personal interests – with a prepare students for the demands of university,
particular emphasis on sport, visual and performing career and civic life.
arts, enterprise and service to the community.
By identifying and prioritising significant
Put all this together and ACS schools deliver content, standards promote deep learning
transformational learning. We help students help that connects with the individual student’s
themselves, by teaching them how to become knowledge and skills. Standards also provide
effective learners, confident individuals and caring a common language for parents, teachers and
contributors – ready for success in a changing world. students to discuss education topics, and enable
students to transfer to other schools – national
Premier academic programmes or international – with the minimum of disruption.
At ACS Hillingdon, the International
You can find more information on our academic
Baccalaureate Diploma (IBDP) and the IB Career-
standards at www.acs-hillingdon-public.
related (IBCP) Programmes for students aged
rubiconatlas.org/
16–18 encourage both personal and academic
achievement, challenging students to excel in
their studies and in their personal interests.
09Blended learning IBDP students take responsibility for their
As ACS schools move into an era that demands own learning, developing critical and creative
greater flexibility, the technology-forward, thinking as well as collaboration, research,
blended learning-friendly curriculum designs are self-management and communication skills.
flourishing. These models ‘blend’ where and how
learning happens between online at home and The IBDP’s broad and balanced curriculum
in person at school. In a blended model, learning requires students to study six subjects during
happens both online (at a distance) and at school their final two years of school – three at higher
(in person) together in a unified instructional and three at standard level. The curriculum
design. Online activities do not take the place of includes languages, science, history, social
face-to-face instruction; instead, the two ways sciences, business management, mathematics
of delivering and interacting with the curriculum and the arts. IBDP results are based on a
complement each another. They truly “blend” combination of end-of-course examinations
to create an enriched and more personalised and externally marked course work.
learning experience – often driven by students’
own choices and changing needs. In the IBDP’s signature Theory of Knowledge
course, students examine the nature of knowing
and deepen their understanding of knowledge as
Blended learning:
a human construct. IBDP students also complete
• Relies heavily on contemporary educational a major independent research project in the form
technologies. of an Extended Essay, in which they conduct an
• Roots teaching practices in contemporary in-depth study of one of their IBDP subjects.
cognitive psychology (current understandings
about how people learn). The IBDP also encourages self-directed learning
• Supports on-campus learning, hybrid-flexible through its Creativity, Activity and Service
models of delivery (where students may be (CAS) element. Based on the idea of reciprocal
learning in class and remotely at the same time), service, CAS involves students taking part in
situations in which groups may need to pivot a range of activities alongside their academic
quickly again to learning exclusively at home. studies – helping promote healthy lifestyles,
• Is supported by an international network of good original thinking and active participation in
practice in the Modern Classrooms Project. local and global communities.
• Focuses on student mastery through
Importantly, the IBDP helps students gain
personalised, self-paced learning structure.
offers from prestigious universities around the
• Strengthens students’ academic self- world. Higher education institutions in more
management skills. than 90 countries accept students based on
• Develops students’ digital competencies. their IBDP credentials, while many US public
• Helps students develop a sense of and private colleges and universities offer credit
responsibility for their own learning. or accelerated courses of study in the light of
strong IBDP results.
Renowned qualifications
The IBDP is ACS Hillingdon’s most demanding
The IB Diploma Programme and frequently-chosen academic programme.
The IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) is an It requires commitment, resilience, excellent time
academically-challenging programme that management and determination. In return, a
ensures students aged 16 to 18 are ready for substantial body of evidence shows the IBDP is
success at university and beyond. It addresses excellent preparation for university – ensuring
students’ intellectual, social, emotional and that students are ready for advanced study,
physical wellbeing, and has gained recognition helping them achieve results that go beyond
and respect from the world’s leading universities. anything they thought possible.
10 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HILLINGDONIB Career-related Programme helps students develop key academic skills that
The IB Career-related Programme (IBCP) was will help them in university and beyond, enabling
specifically developed for students who want to engage them to become confident, independent thinkers
in career-related learning while gaining transferable and problem-solvers. AP courses give students a
skills in applied knowledge, critical thinking, first taste of demanding university-level work. AP
communication and cross-cultural engagement. students build confidence and learn the essential
time management and study skills needed for college
IBCP students undertake a minimum of two IB and career success. Importantly, higher learning
Diploma Programme (DP) courses, as well as core institutions value he rigour of AP courses, giving
studies and a career-related study. Career-related study applicants a competitive advantage for admission.
supports the programme’s academic strength and
provides practical, real-world approaches to learning. ACS High School Diploma
Core studies help students develop the knowledge, All ACS students who successfully complete
skills and attitudes required for lifelong learning. the relevant studies receive an accredited High
School Diploma. As part of this, students choose
Today’s careers make great demands on graduates; from an extensive range of traditional and
the IBCP prepares students to meet those demands contemporary subjects, to create stimulating
in the form of self-confidence, accomplished personal programmes of study that reflect their interests.
and professional skills, an understanding of global Importantly for our American students, the
languages and the ability to make ethical decisions. ACS High School Diploma meets the admission
requirements of US colleges and universities.
The IB Career-related Programme leads to higher
education and is increasingly valued as a university À la carte AP and IBDP courses offer advanced
entrance credential. academic rigour in many subjects. Students can
choose courses of study that specialise in particular
IBCP – Expressive Arts areas of interest and ability, or meet the admission
This course consists of three components: the requirements of more narrowly-focused national
theory section, the skills-based career-related education systems.
component and the LAMDA Course. Students cover
courses which will be taken at Pinewood Studios Global Citizen Diploma
with Creative Media Skills, learning skills including As the world becomes increasingly interconnected,
set design, prosthetics, sound design, VFX and it is essential to identify opportunities for student
animation. The LAMDA component covers Speech engagement and action beyond the traditional
and Drama with Performance studies but can also be curriculum. Inspiring individual pathways for global
done as a stand-alone qualification. Each student will awareness and encouraging students to think
build their own portfolio which will become part of beyond their immediate context gives authenticity
their application for any related courses at university. to their learning.
IBCP – Digital Arts The Global Citizen Diploma (GCD) is an additional
This course is new for the academic year 2021/22. high school credential, which is earned alongside
The course includes animation, game design, visual and complements the IBDP, IBCP, AP Capstone or
effects and computer science, working towards the ACS High School diplomas. Through the GCD,
a personal portfolio. Students will benefit from students identify and validate the range of learning
collaboration with industry specialists and mentors. they have done, creating a platform for publication
of these achievements with an audience beyond
Advanced Placement (College Board) their immediate context. The various elements
of the GCD encourage students to move outside
• AP Capstone Diploma
of their comfort zones and foster a sense of self-
• AP Seminar and Research Certificate awareness and self-directedness in relation to their
• AP courses experiences locally and globally. Ultimately, the
learning journeys that students capture through
Students who display exceptional ability across the GCD demonstrate authentic engagement and
a variety of disciplines can study for globally- action, and celebrate personal growth and change.
recognised qualifications, designed to recognise By identifying their passions, each student who
and reward outstanding academic achievement earns the GCD becomes more inclined to act in an
with a global perspective. The AP Capstone ethical and responsible way as a global citizen.
11Programme for Grades 5-8 We have a 1-to-1 iPad environment in Grades 5
Our approach to learning in the middle years to 8, and students can access desktop and laptop
emphasises intellectual curiosity, encouraging computers as needed. Grades 9-12 students are part
students to look for connections between what of our “bring your own device” (BYOD) programme.
they learn in school and the world beyond the
classroom. We develop communication, intercultural Consistent with our interdisciplinary approach,
understanding and global engagement through a the teaching of technology skills are appropriately
curriculum that improves self-confidence and builds embedded into our lessons. Students benefit from
background knowledge. As students develop from a stimulating array of on-line educational resources.
childhood into adolescence, our Upper School offers We work closely with teachers and parents to
a caring and supportive environment that prepares support students to be balanced, informed and
them for their final years of school, establishing good respectful as we learn in the digital rich world. With
habits of mind that encourage lifelong learning. regular opportunities to explore, investigate, create
and reflect, students develop into effective learners,
Programme for Pre-K to Grade 4 confident individuals, and caring contributors to build
skills that will be employed beyond the classroom
Our broad and balanced primary curriculum (more
both whilst at school and after.
commonly called “elementary” in the US) prepares
students for independent learning through core
studies in language, mathematics, science, and
social studies. Students work with specialists ENGLISH LANGUAGE
to explore language and culture, art, music and
physical education, celebrating our diverse
AND LITERATURE
cultural backgrounds and participating in a huge
range of activities – including assemblies, musical Our language and literature programme is designed
performances, field trips and community service. to help students acquire the ability to write and
speak well, and to examine, process and use
Our programme for Pre-K and Kindergarten focuses information gained through listening and reading
on purposeful play, active learning, creativity and skills in English. Our primary goal is to encourage
critical thinking. We encourage our young learners children to become enthusiastic, motivated, and
to explore the world as part of a dynamic and joyful confident lifelong communicators. Students are
community with solid educational foundations. encouraged to find their voices as writers and refine
their tastes as readers by developing skills that will
benefit them long after leaving ACS.
DIGITAL TEACHING
AND LEARNING
JAPANESE LANGUAGE
Digital teaching and learning continues to
AND LITERATURE
enhance and transform how we learn, teach and
interact with each other and the world around From Grade 9 and onwards, we offer Japanese
us. We prepare students for a changing world by A Language and Literature for students who are
practising the use and application of technology native Japanese speakers. Students study Japanese/
to solve authentic problems. Lower School non-Japanese fiction and non-fiction as texts.
coding and media classes lead to Grade 5-8 The focus is on reading, speaking, writing and
coding, media and design classes, ensuring our thinking in Japanese. Students are given various
students learn to research, evaluate and utilise tasks such as analysing the text, expressing
appropriate, relevant and reliable information and opinions and interpretations orally, creating novels,
tools. Options in Grades 9-12 include courses poems and mock radio broadcasting. Students
in Digital Arts, Film, and AP Computer Science. are encouraged to view Japan and the world from
Every Lower School student has access to a broader perspectives to understand how the world
class set of iPads, and laptops are also available. is shaped and how they can contribute to the world.
12 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HILLINGDONLANGUAGE ACQUISITION Music is compulsory from Kindergarten, and drama
is compulsory from Grade 5. Both become elective
options in Grade 9. Film is also an elective option
Language learning is fundamental to our students’ from Grade 9. These three disciplines contribute
cognitive, intellectual, social and emotional to the school curriculum by developing students’
development. In Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 2, abilities to work as part of a group, present in
languages and cultures lessons celebrate our any given circumstance, refine performance skills,
international student body as cultural differences analyse and evaluate work and develop independent
are explored alongside the spoken and written thinking. The performing arts significantly contribute
language, focusing on geography, architecture, to students becoming well-rounded, empathetic,
and the arts. From Grade 3, students can access and confident individuals. The skills developed in
Spanish or French lessons depending on enrolment performing arts are essential in everyday life and
requests. From Grade 5 and onwards, students in many forms of employment. Ultimately, we want
may learn French or Spanish with additional options to foster a lifelong interest in and enjoyment of
for school-supported, self-taught languages in performing arts.
Grades 11 and 12. Our goal is to motivate students
for further foreign language study while broadening Performing arts thrive at ACS Hillingdon. We
our students’ understanding of the world. organise productions throughout the year for the
different divisions, including Hairspray, Beauty
and the Beast, The Wizard of Oz, Seussical
MATHEMATICS and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Our students
travel throughout Europe to participate in ISTA
(the International School Theatre Association)
Skill mastery and conceptual understanding are at festivals. Music is equally important, with our
the core of our engaging and inclusive programme. after-school rock band club, jazz band and choirs.
Problem-solving, critical thinking, and mathematical
computation skills, including mental math, are Our film programme enables students to develop
emphasised to foster a positive attitude towards their skills based on key artistic influences from
the study of mathematics. Our maths curriculum around the world. Students are given the opportunity
focuses on understanding mathematical concepts to create film in a variety of genres and styles, using
to be applied in a meaningful and purposeful way industry standard film technologies and software.
and to stay with our students for a lifetime.
Students often engage in hands-on activities to As part of the IB Careers-related Programme
build understanding to increase their confidence (IBCP), ACS Hillingdon has a unique partnership
in maths in real-life situations. The various with Pinewood Studios located close to the school,
mathematical models throughout the curriculum offering career-related internships in some of the
build from concrete to abstract. There are explicit creative skills involved in film production currently
opportunities for students to engage in mathematical make-up and prosthetics. Students in the IBCP
discussions to focus on reasoning and constructing develop skills that are genuinely valued by employers
mathematical arguments. Instruction is differentiated as well as gain valuable real-life work experience.
to equip all students with the mathematical skills Students taking the film courses as part of the IBCP
needed for life in a modern, technological society. can also chose film-related themes for their reflective
projects e.g. Environmental Impact of Film Locations,
Body Image in Films (Unrealistic Expectations).
PERFORMING ARTS –
MUSIC, FILM AND DRAMA
The performing arts programme places great value
on engaging students in learning through a rigorous
and challenging music, film, and drama programme.
13PERSONAL, SOCIAL, HEALTH Student learning experiences incorporate current
technology and include hands-on activities, reading,
AND ECONOMIC EDUCATION
research, discussion and engineering practices.
As science is collaborative, the development of
Personal, Social, Health and Economic effective communication skills is emphasised.
education (PSHE) offers learning opportunities The science programme’s complexity level increases
and experiences which reflect our students’ as students progress through the school, moving
increasing independence and physical and social from guided inquiry to independent investigations.
awareness. PSHE helps our students to be
active participants in the wider world. Students
learn to develop effective relationships, assume
SOCIAL STUDIES
greater personal responsibility, manage personal
safety and well-being. Themes of community,
environment and wellbeing are central to our The overarching aim in social studies is to
school-wide PSHE programme. enrich the learning experience by focusing on
the interactions of people, cultures and the physical
and intellectual environment. Students will embrace
the concept of change, a constant in our global
PHYSICAL AND
community. Over time, students will learn to
HEALTH EDUCATION respect others’ perspectives, attitudes and values
as they encounter course content that inspires
them to become ethical, responsible and productive
Physical and health education provides students
world citizens. We incorporate disciplines including
with opportunities that foster a lifetime
history, geography, economics, psychology,
commitment to physical activity and motivation
government and international politics to contribute
for making healthy lifestyle choices. Through
to the development of informed, empathetic,
opportunities for active learning, we aim to
confident and responsible young people.
instil our students with the skills, knowledge
and values that help foster an awareness of
physical development and health perspectives,
empowering students to make informed decisions VISUAL ARTS
and promoting positive social interaction and
intercultural understanding. We ensure the equal
inclusion and recognition of all students regardless Through the visual arts, students develop
of ability. Our students are as active as possible in observation skills and learn to examine the
all lessons, developing the enjoyment, engagement objects and events of their lives. At the same
and confidence in physical activity needed to time, they grow in describing, interpreting,
achieve and maintain a balanced, healthy life. creating, evaluating, and responding to work in
the visual arts. By examining their own work and
that of other people, students learn to unravel
the essence of artwork and appraise its purpose
SCIENCE and value. Through these efforts, students begin
to understand the meaning and impact of the
visual world in which we live. As students move
We encourage and build on students’ natural
up through the school, the visual arts programme
curiosity and inquisitiveness through science.
places great value on engaging students in
The science curriculum enables students to
learning through a rigorous and challenging
become scientifically literate and passionate
programme as it changes from a compulsory
about exploring the natural world. By learning
subject to an elective subject in Grade 9
how to think scientifically, students are equipped
that is individualised and student-centred.
with critical thinking skills that will allow them
to make sense of our rapidly changing society.
Our inquiry-based programme provides a balanced
study of the biological and physical sciences,
designed to challenge learners at all levels.
14 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HILLINGDONThe Visual Arts department at ACS stay up-to- Lower School Football, cooking, golf, fencing,
date with the latest in arts education – through chess, dance, mad science, Pilates,
our partnership with the education team at multi-sports, basketball, zumba
Tate Modern and annual trips to Brighton, where and more.
students create and learn alongside working artists.
Upper School Fencing, tennis, chess, kickboxing,
(Grades 5-8) golf club, rock bands, arts,
Pilates, fashion, ISTA, debating
SPORT club and more.
Upper School Duke of Edinburgh Award,
(Grades 9-12) tech club, STEAM, newspaper,
ACS Hillingdon is a full member of the London
mentoring, year book, Model
Schools Sports Association (LSSA), which provides
United Nations, Save the Children,
weekly fixtures and end-of-season tournaments.
Amnesty International, drama,
We are also a member of an international league
student council, CAS rock band,
for varsity teams. Importantly, this league offers a
club eco, TED Talks, writers club,
new route to success in the International Schools
music tech, psychology club, jazz
Athletics Association (ISAA), with Hillingdon
band, service committee and more.
students competing in the Netherlands, Switzerland,
Austria, Germany, Belgium and Spain.
As a relatively small school, we are proud of our LANGUAGE AND CULTURE
ability to put forward competitive, successful
teams of student athletes. We celebrate each
sport season with an awards ceremony, and hold Our after-school Native Language Enrichment
a banquet at the end of the school year. In the (NLE) programmes support students learning
same spirit, we hold two Hawks Nights annually, away from their home languages and cultures.
to showcase our varsity volleyball and basketball Students attend cultural exchange and language
teams, and to promote school spirit by bring our development classes in small groups led by teachers
community together to cheer on our young athletes. (and sometimes parents) with native language
fluency. Classes are designed to be fun and gently
Sporting Calendar instructive, inspiring a love for language and a
lived experience of multilingualism. NLE promotes
Autumn Football, volleyball and cross country language development, cultural identity; it builds
Winter Basketball, rugby and swimming community and promotes international mindedness
for today’s highly mobile global families.
Spring Tennis, track and field, baseball
and softball
PRIVATE MUSIC TUITION
CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES
Students have the opportunity to take private music
lessons on campus. The programme is available to
Our co-curricular and extracurricular activities students for violin, viola, cello, flute, clarinet, alto
play an essential part in creating a well-rounded saxophone, tenor saxophone, trumpet, trombone,
and balanced school life. We encourage all baritone, bass guitar, guitar, drums, voice (singing),
students to be adventurous, try new things and piano and ukulele. The private music lessons are
be actively involved in school life. We believe 30 minutes long once per week and occur during
success beyond the classroom is just as critical regular classes on a rotating basis.
as success within. We offer a range of clubs,
activities during and after school.
15PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT In addition, ACS provides up to six sessions of
counselling intervention assessment by British
AND WELLBEING
Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
therapists for early identification and referral to
Our Personal Development Programme focuses social services or private practice for longer-term
on personal, social and emotional learning through mental health support services.
classroom lessons. The programme helps young
people develop effective relationships, assume
greater personal responsibility, manage personal
STUDENT SERVICES
safety and become active participants in the
wider world.
ACS schools welcome students who need services
Our counsellors work closely with parents and for English as an Additional Language (EAL)
teachers to identify and address the specific and Special Education Needs and Disabilities
needs of every student, from goal-setting and (SEND). Students are challenged and supported
decision-making, to coping strategies, crisis in inclusive classrooms and specialist teaching
intervention and transition planning. From your environments so that they can equitably access the
first day with us, your child is part of a caring curriculum. Personalised learning accommodations
classroom community in which everyone is valued. and assessment access requirements empower
students to progress academically and strengthen
Our high teacher-to-student ratio enables our their capabilities as life-long learners.
students to be supported by personal learning
mentors who, guide our students to care for English Language Support is available for all
others, engage in healthy activities and be ages, with proficiency requirements from Grade
ready to contribute to the wider world. 8. For older students, EAL courses are offered.
ACS serves students with mild to moderate
Throughout the school, we embrace opportunities learning needs at all Grade levels, both subject
for students to learn beyond the classroom – from to admission requirements and available spaces.
bushcraft for our youngest children, to hiking, We are not able to support students with severe
camping and international expeditions for our behavioural, emotional, or learning difficulties;
older students. Our extensive programme of after- or older students with very limited English.
school activities supports students in pursuing
their existing passions and developing new ones.
An age-appropriate programme of Relationships, OUTREACH PROGRAMMES
Sex and Health Education helps children and
young people remain happy, health and safe.
We have a growing programme of service-learning,
as our students learn to become caring contributors
in their local and global community. This includes
MENTAL HEALTH our annual expedition to different countries. It is a
superb opportunity for ACS Hillingdon students
to gain a different cultural perspective, by serving
As part of our overall commitment to wellbeing a community in a meaningful way – taking part in
and mental health, qualified school counsellors sustainable projects that help the local community
support students facing social-emotional, achieve educational, environmental and ecological
developmental and personal challenges. goals, learning with humility and exploring the rich,
Counsellors work with school support teams, stimulating environment of another country.
Designated Safeguarding Leads and curriculum
experts to offer short-term individual and
group assistance and education.
16 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HILLINGDONOUTDOOR LEARNING UNIFORM
Our attractive grounds, spacious facilities, and easy Our students do not wear a uniform, reflecting
access to several outdoor spaces near our campus our belief in the importance of individuality, while
make it possible to take our students into the school encouraging our students to make sensible choices.
grounds and beyond for learning and exploration, There is a dress code for guidance which all ACS
whether for a lesson, a day trip, or on a residential students are expected to respect and follow.
trip. We know that learning should not be contained
only within the walls of a classroom. Our learning
experiences in outdoor environments encourage
staff and students to see each other in a different
UNIVERSITY AND
light, build positive relationships, and improve self- CAREERS COUNSELLING
awareness and the understanding of others.
ACS university and careers counsellors work with
high school students to plan and manage the
LIBRARY application process for post-secondary studies.
Through events (like career fairs), group meetings
and self-service information resources, counsellors
We have dedicated library spaces and librarians help students in Grades 9–12 develop personalised
who promote reading, build information and digital plans of study, explore opportunities, and realistically
literacy skills. Our librarians champion intellectual assess challenging university destinations that align
freedom to support members of our multi-national with students’ aptitudes and ambitions. Counsellors
communities in their growth as passionate readers assist students with local and international university
and lifelong learners, responsible global and applications for selective and highly-selective
digital citizens, and ethical, effective handlers institutions, and support students as they seek and
of information. We have an impressive print choose among admission offers. Counsellors support
collection and interlibrary loan system form other students as they research university options, choose
ACS campuses. We also provide 24/7 access to courses, develop personal statements, explore
electronic databases, e-books, audiobooks and careers, navigate the selection process and prepare
student-created digital resources. Our libraries
for standardised tests – paving the way for a smooth
are collaborative and welcoming spaces where
transition to university.
our international community thrives. All ACS
community members are welcome to explore
and use our valuable library resources.
HIGHER DESTINATIONS
AND DEGREES
CATERING
Our students attend a wide range of university
destinations including the following:
ACS Hillingdon’s catering department is operated
in-house, enabling us to employ and train all our own
United Kingdom
chefs. We take great pride in producing delicious,
fresh and nutritious food that appeals to our • Bath University
international community. • Bournemouth University
• Cambridge University
Our seasonal menus follow the School Food
• Cardiff University
Trust’s nutritional guidelines. We source all our
fresh ingredients from nominated and approved • City and Guilds of London Art School
suppliers. Most of our daily deliveries of vegetables, • Imperial College London
fruit, dairy and meat come from local producers, • King’s College London
so we can trace each meal from “farm to fork”. • MetFilm School (London)
17• Queen Mary University of London • Universiteit van Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Regent’s University London • Universiteit Maastricht, Netherlands
• The University of Edinburgh • Erasmus University Rotterdam, Netherlands
• The University of Manchester • Bergen University, Norway
• University of the Arts London • National University of Singapore
• University College London • IE University, Spain
• University for the Creative Arts
• University of Bristol Courses undertaken include:
• University of Durham • Architecture
• University of Exeter • Biomedical science
• University of Oxford • Business management
• University of Sussex • Computer science
• University of Warwick • Drama
• English
United States
• Fine art
• Bentley University
• Graphic design
• Byrn Mawr College
• History
• Colorado College
• History of art
• Columbia University
• Journalism
• Dartmouth College
• Law
• Georgetown University
• Mechanical engineering
• Harvard University
• Media and communications
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• Neuroscience
• New York University
• Pharmacology
• Northeastern University
• Philosophy and law (PPL)
• Princeton University
• Politics
• Rice University
• Psychology
• Rhode Island School of Design
• The University of Texas, Austin
• Tufts University
ACADEMIC RESULTS
• University of California - Los Angeles
• University of California - Santa Barbara
• University of Chicago We’re proud to say that ACS Hillingdon students
have a long tradition of achieving excellent exam
• University of Florida
scores in both the International Baccalaureate
• University of Oregon and Advanced Placement, consistently achieving
• University of Pennsylvania well above the world average scores.
• Wake Forest University
Our graduates go on to attend some of the most
• Yale University
prestigious universities in the world, with the
majority gaining places at their first-choice institution,
Rest of the World including Russell Group and Ivy League universities.
• University of Calgary, Canada
• McGill University, Canada Our latest academic results can be found on our
• University of Toronto, Canada website www.acs-schools.com or requested
from our admissions team.
• EDHEC Business School, France
18 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HILLINGDON19
ACCREDITATION
ACS Hillingdon is accredited by the New England
Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) and
is authorised by the International Baccalaureate
to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma
Programme. The school holds memberships
in the US College Board Advanced Placement
programme, the European Council of International
Schools, the Council of International Schools and
the Independent Schools Association.
Accredited
®
20 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HILLINGDON21
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IraPRACTICAL INFORMATION
Location and transport Shuttle service
ACS Hillingdon is close to junction 16 of the M25. Selected areas also offer a Shuttle service
To find us, just enter our postcode UB10 0BE into to pick up and drop off students at specific
your satnav. Heathrow and Gatwick airports are points along a designated route:
around 15 and 60 minutes away respectively.
• Hillingdon (Zone 1)
Busing service • Northwood (Zone 1)
• Beaconsfield (Zone 2)
• Chiswick (Zone 2)
• Ealing (Zone 2)
• Gerrards Cross (Zone 2)
• Kew (Zone 2)
• Putney (Zone 2)
• Pinner (Zone 2)
• Richmond (Zone 2)
• Kensington (Zone 3)
• Marylebone (Zone 3)
• Notting Hill (Zone 3)
• St John’s Wood (Zone 3)
Average one-way journey times
• Central London: 45 minutes
• Gerrards Cross: 35 minutes
• Middlesex: 40 minutes
From your door to ours – ACS Hillingdon
• Richmond: 45 minutes
operates an extensive busing service for
families, to transport children safely and
efficiently between home and school. Shuttle service
• Beaconsfield: 30-40 minutes
• Door-to-Door and Shuttle options • Central London: 40-45 minutes
• Experienced and safe drivers • South and West London: 25-35 minutes
• Fees charged to recover costs only *After school activities late buses are shuttle service only.
We understand the many challenges facing For up-to-date busing fees please refer
both local and relocating families. Our School to our website www.acs-schools.com/
Transport Co-ordinator will make every effort hillingdon/admissions/fees or email us on
to arrange busing for your children from their hillingdontransport@acs-schools.com
first day of school. In order to ensure the or call +44 (0)1895 818403.
process runs smoothly, we would appreciate
your assistance by informing us of your home Open mornings and individual visits
address as soon as possible. You can book a place through our website.
Alternatively, you can email our administration
Door-to-Door service team on hilladmissions@acs-schools.com
All families living within the Zone 1–3 shaded or call us on +44 (0) 1895 818402
areas on the map can apply to use our to arrange an individual tour.
premium Door-to-Door busing service.
22 ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL HILLINGDONHillingdon busing area
Zone boundary
Zone 1
Zone 2
Zone 3
Shuttle Service
23ACS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL
HILLINGDON
Hillingdon Court,
108 Vine Lane,
Hillingdon, Middlesex,
UB10 0BE, England
+44(0) 1895 818402
hilladmissions@acs-schools.com
®
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