Dan Hards, Principal of Esher Sixth Form College, welcomes back the College community, celebrates student achievements and talks about a common set of ideals.

Photo of Dan Hards, Principal of Esher

Dear Parents, Students, and Friends, 

As we enter the Autumn Term of 2024, I would like to extend a warm welcome to both returning students and the new members of our Esher Sixth Form College community. This marks the start of another exciting academic year, and I am pleased to share our first update of the term. 

6.1 Students  

It has been a pleasure to welcome our new 6.1 students during enrolment and the “Your Start at Esher” induction programme. These early days are an important opportunity for students to familiarise themselves with the College, their tutors, and each other. The community-building activities and events designed for this period have set a positive tone for what promises to be a fulfilling academic journey.  

6.2 Students  

For our 6.2 students, this term comes with a renewed focus as they step into the final stretch of their A Level and BTEC programmes. Following their successful completion of Summer Work, they are now prepared to meet the challenges of the year ahead. Their participation in last summer’s Wider Skills Week — which included residential trips and skill-building workshops — showcased their commitment to personal growth and development. 

Outstanding 2024 Examination Results   

I am incredibly proud to report that Esher Sixth Form College students achieved outstanding results in this year’s A Level and BTEC examinations. We saw an impressive A Level pass rate of 98.3%, with 59.7% of students achieving grades A* to B, exceeding national benchmarks. Our BTEC students also performed exceptionally well, with many achieving top grades, including Distinction and Distinction*. This success is a testament to the dedication of our students and the support of our staff.  

Supporting Students Through the Year   

I would like to remind parents and carers about the ongoing availability of the Parent and Carer Portal. It remains an essential tool for tracking your student’s progress, attendance, and important communications from the College. As always, we encourage you to stay in close contact with your student’s tutor should any additional support or guidance be needed. 

Mission and Values  

Over the last year the College has been going through a process of updating our College Mission and Values, to align students, staff, and other stakeholders with a common set of ideals, helping to promote a collaborative and inclusive environment. See the new Mission Statement and Values here.

The Esher College Africa Trust (ECAT) 

Finally, I encourage you to support the Esher College Africa Trust (ECAT), our official charity. Any contributions you can make will directly aid the Dope School in rural Zimbabwe, and further details on how to donate can be found on our website. 

I look forward to seeing many of you at our upcoming events and wish all students a successful and enjoyable term. 

Best regards,   

Dan Hards   

Principal