Our Unique Approach to Education

Because education is founded on self-knowledge, students at Lansdowne come first both inside and outside the classroom.

Within the classroom, the process of learning starts and ends with the students themselves. Only when they are clear about why they want to learn can they successfully master how they learn only then are students ready to tackle what they need to learn. The Lansdowne approach therefore nurtures in students qualities of self-motivation, independent learning, goal and target setting, self-awareness of the process of learning and the importance of deadlines and accountability. Students become professional in their approach and understand that successful learning is always a two-way contract between themselves and their tutors in which each party depends upon the other.

We pride ourselves at Lansdowne, and are renowned, for the warm, supportive and structured atmosphere provided by our staff for our students. With our clear guidelines of conduct based on mutual respect between tutors and students, we find many of the rules found in traditional schools are unnecessary. We believe that our students relish and respond to being treated as young adults. They thrive on the mixture of expert tuition, hard work and pastoral care they experience and enjoy. They benefit from an environment that, whilst maintaining academic rigour and discipline, provides a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. As a result, students not only rise to their academic challenges but also enjoy them.

The friendly and caring community at our College is at the heart of the excellent teaching which allows our students of mixed ability to achieve their full potential. We recognise that this potential is different for each student and realistic targets are set accordingly. Students at our College can choose from over forty subjects in any combination, allowing them flexibility in their academic direction and to engage in their personal learning journey. Students’ progress is guided and monitored at every step, through one-to-one sessions with their Personal Tutor, weekly examination practice and the monthly reporting system, which together ensure that students’ time with us is productive and closely tracked.

When students leave us, the tangible evidence of their success is excellent examination results and a place at their chosen university. But we are equally proud of the intangibles: being self-confident, self-reliant and prepared for the challenges of life.