Challenge & Scholarship
At HASN, we know that a truly inclusive education is as much about stretching, challenging and inspiring our most able and talented students as it is about ensuring those with additional needs and challenges are supported.
Our Challenge & Scholarship strategy encompasses how we ensure that more able students are supported to thrive, achieve exceptional outcomes and go on to the very best destinations available.
The Harris Experience
The Harris Experience is at the heart of our ethos. It is a programme that provides students with exceptional academic, cultural and professional opportunities beyond the classroom.
Through the Harris Experience, selected students take part in a wide range of enriching activities that broaden their horizons, develop intellectual curiosity and build the confidence needed to succeed at the highest levels. Students engage with external speakers, and leading institutions, gaining insight into future careers and higher education pathways.
From Key Stage 3 onwards, students benefit from high-quality cultural and academic enrichment, including visits to institutions such as the University of Cambridge and Christie’s auction house. These experiences nurture ambition early and provide students with the cultural capital essential for success.
In Sixth Form, students receive tailored guidance on university applications, with a particular focus on Oxbridge, Russell Group universities and competitive professional courses such as Medicine, Dentistry and Law. As a result, Harris Academy South Norwood students are well prepared to secure places at some of the most prestigious universities in the UK and beyond.
Scholarship and Challenge
Challenge is central to life at Harris Academy South Norwood. We believe that every student should be stretched, inspired and supported to fulfil their potential. Our Most Able programme identifies students with exceptional academic, musical, dramatic or sporting talent and provides them with targeted opportunities to excel.
Working alongside the Harris Federation’s Scholars Programme, students benefit from a rich blend of academic challenge, enrichment opportunities and intellectual exploration. This ensures that talent is not only recognised but continually developed.
Scholarship focussed enrichment opportunities, including enrichment clubs like Debating and Coding, external speakers and trips with a focus on inspiration and challenge all exist within the school to ensure that students here can compete with their peers nationally no matter where they are educated.
Leadership and Mentoring
Sixth Form mentors provide academic guidance, build resilience and act as role models, while also developing their own leadership, communication and coaching skills. This creates a strong sense of community and aspiration across the Academy.
Mentors also support students with extended scholarly projects, which are presented annually at the HASN Conference. These projects encourage deep thinking, independent research and intellectual risk-taking, allowing students to explore their interests beyond the curriculum and showcase their talents.