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.