A Deep Dive into Our Senior School Curriculum: How We Prepare Future Leaders

A Deep Dive into Our Senior School Curriculum: How We Prepare Future Leaders

At Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong (WASHK), our Senior School curriculum is built around a powerful vision — to prepare every student not only for academic excellence, but as independent, self-motivated learners who are built to lead, adapt, and thrive. 

Rooted in the British educational tradition yet forward-looking in design, our Senior School combines four core elements that define our approach to holistic education: 

1️⃣ A Levels Curriculum — Rigorous academic depth and subject specialisation. 
2️⃣ Super-Curricular Programme — Real-world career exploration and intellectual enrichment. 
3️⃣ Learning Beyond the Classroom — Innovation through iSTEAM, Entrepreneurship, and co-curricular opportunities. 
4️⃣ Leadership Development — Building confidence, influence, and integrity in every pupil. 

Together, these elements form a transformative learning experience — one that fosters curiosity, independence, and purpose in the leaders of tomorrow. 

A Curriculum Designed for Depth, Independence, and Passion 

Our Senior School curriculum follows the highly respected British model, culminating in the A Level qualification — recognised by top universities around the world. Students in Years 12 and 13 can choose three or four subjects to study, supported by the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) — an independent research project that develops analytical thinking and academic writing skills. 

As Headmaster Mr. Rob Fox explains, 

“A Levels give our students the best chance of gaining the highest grades in the subjects they love most, while the EPQ builds the independent learning skills that universities value so highly.” 

This structure allows students to specialise in the subjects they are most passionate about, whether that’s humanities, arts, or social sciences. The result? Pupils become experts in their chosen fields, confident in their ability to think critically, argue persuasively, and solve complex problems — skills that are vital for success at university and beyond. 

“Our goal is to nurture independent thinkers who can lead with both intellect and integrity. Academic success is only part of the story — it’s about preparing young people to thrive in an ever-changing world.”

The Super-Curricular Pathway: Connecting Learning with Life 

From Year 9 onwards, students embark on a Super-Curricular Programme that bridges classroom learning with real-world experience. Through workshops, guest lectures, and career-focused projects, pupils explore emerging industries across science, business, medicine, and the arts. 

By the time they enter Sixth Form, students can choose from specialised career pathways — from law and engineering to life sciences and entrepreneurship. This guided journey — supported by one-to-one mentoring — helps pupils make informed decisions about their university courses and future careers, while cultivating a sense of purpose and direction. 

As Mr. Fox shares, 

“Our network means students can gain authentic, career-focused experiences — from internships to interview coaching with experts in their field.” 

This approach ensures that every student develops not only academic strength, but also the professional awareness, curiosity, and initiative that define true leadership. 

Learning Beyond the Classroom: iSTEAM, Entrepreneurship and Extracurricular Activities 

At the heart of our Senior School experience are the Entrepreneurship and iSTEAM programmes — two distinctive strands that bring innovation, creativity, and collaboration to life. 

The iSTEAM Programme (integrating Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) encourages hands-on learning through interdisciplinary projects that challenge students to design, build, and problem-solve. Whether constructing sustainable architecture models or developing biomedical solutions, pupils learn to connect scientific knowledge with creative design thinking. 

Meanwhile, our Entrepreneurship Programme empowers students to bring ideas to action — developing business acumen, financial literacy, and leadership through real-world initiatives. Students pitch ventures, manage budgets, and collaborate on social enterprise projects that serve the wider community. 

In addition to their academic programmes, students at WASHK have access to a wide range of extra-curricular activities that allow them to explore their interests, develop new skills, and pursue personal passions. Aspiring medics might join the Chemistry and Maths Olympiads or lead a student-run suturing club; future engineers could participate in robotics competitions; and prospective lawyers may take part in Model United Nations or the debate team. 

These experiences not only enrich student life but also build confidence, initiative, and teamwork — key attributes of leadership in action. 

Together, these programmes nurture a spirit of innovation and resilience, preparing students to lead in a future defined by change and creativity.

Leadership in Every Form 

Leadership at WASHK is not confined to titles — it’s a mindset developed through everyday experience. 

Through vertical tutor groups, Sixth Formers mentor younger students, offering guidance and modelling the independence and maturity expected of senior pupils. Beyond the classroom, students lead academic societies, organise events, and represent the school in public forums. 

Our newly designed Sixth Form Centre offers a space for collaboration and independent study — a place where students learn to manage their time, take ownership of their learning, and prepare for the self-discipline of university life. 

As Mr. Fox notes, 

“Leadership is about service, vision, and influence. We want our Sixth Formers to lead by example — to think deeply, act responsibly, and inspire others.” 

Preparing for a Global Future 

WASHK education is defined by balance — between rigour and creativity, tradition and innovation, individuality and community. 

By the time our students graduate, they are ready to take their next step — not only equipped with exceptional academic credentials, but with the confidence, compassion, and clarity of purpose to make a meaningful difference in the world. 

Learn more about Wycombe Abbey School Hong Kong and contact us to book a tour or speak with our admissions team.