THE DIPLOMA
The Sevenoaks School Diploma is a unique, bespoke programme that gives focus to the holistic, integrated nature of our Middle School Curriculum. It presents students with an opportunity to record many different elements of school life that can sometimes go unnoticed, to develop personal qualities and attributes that make them more fully rounded people, and provide them with the means to learn more effectively.
The Diploma works in the following way: students can record any one-off or short-term activity or experience they wish as a record of their learning, but they are also asked to take more detailed account of their participation and contribution to an activity over a period of time. Activities are grouped into the following four categories:
l Making and Performing l Service and Social Impact l Physical and Outdoor Education l Academic Engagement
When involvement in a particular activity from one of the above categories has taken place over a more sustained period, students write a reflection on the way it has informed, shaped or developed their learning, as well as approach the relevant teacher or tutor for accreditation.
The Diploma therefore asks students to make formal record of their learning in the Middle School, both inside and outside the classroom. However, it also aims to encourage students to reflect on and take account of the learning that takes place through all the activities they engage in and experiences they have.
In order to receive a Diploma at the end of Year 11, students are required to have participated in at least one activity from each of the four categories in each year( 9, 10 and 11). Students will qualify for a Diploma with Distinction in one or more areas of activity if they have shown evidence of sustained commitment to( usually over a term) and engagement in an activity. This encourages students to develop and pursue their particular passions throughout the Middle School years.
Through the Diploma, we seek to value, recognise and celebrate those vital things that are not measured by exam results, and that ultimately are more important for success in learning, the workplace and life: the ability to create, collaborate, lead, empathise, be self-aware and socially aware and show commitment. Provided they fulfil the core requirements, at the end of Year 11 they will be rewarded with a Diploma Certificate and a transcript that describes their journey through the Middle School years and the full nature of their achievements.
THE MIDDLE SCHOOL | AT SEVENOAKS 13