Academics
Hellenic Academy prides itself in providing a world class academic program. Examination results matter. We understand this, and encourage all our pupils to aspire to academic excellence. Our record in enabling our pupils to achieve the qualifications they need to access top universities around the world speaks for itself.
That said, we strongly believe that the journey is as important as the destination. We encourage our pupils to develop the best habits of independent thought and a lifelong habit of intellectual curiosity and love of learning.
Our broad curriculum promotes academic excellence. Subjects choices and the academic timetable are pupil based. Therefore every pupil has the best opportunity to discover his passion, rather than having to choose a subject from a specific group of subjects.
Our Teachers are subject-specialists who invariably hold prestigious degrees in their subjects, but equally as important in their appointment has been their capacity to build relationships and inspire learners.
Academic Enrichment
Hellenic Academy offers in-timetable support lessons for pupils identified as needing extra assistance with English and Mathematics.
These classes, with smaller teacher to student ratios, focus on improving and reinforcing foundational skills: number sense, Maths fluency and vocabulary, problem solving strategies, phonics, English vocabulary, and comprehension, reading and writing skills. Lessons utilise collaborative learning and learning by discovery to engage pupils and deepen their understanding of concepts. In addition, we aim to develop the pupils’ confidence and an attitude of perseverance as well as encouraging a growth mindset that will help pupils to develop successful academic behaviours.
Art and Design
We facilitate education in Visual Art and Design through broad and varied projects in a wide variety of media.
We encourage a strong foundation of drawing as well as knowledge of formal characteristics and visual literacy. Pupils work with both traditional and new media in two and three dimensions. They will discover many aspects of the subject and learn to express themselves through visual means, through painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, digital and new media. We place a very strong emphasis on the voice of the individual; this principle acts as a central tenet of every aspect of the department. We pride ourselves in our excellent results, and the fact that to date we have received no less than 4 Highly Commended Awards, 13 Top in Zimbabwe Awards, and 4 Top in the World Awards, spread across IGCSE, AS and A Level over the past 10 years.
Business
A diverse Commercial department offers “Introduction to Business” in Forms One and Two, thus allowing students the opportunity to make informed decisions between Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, Enterprise, Travel and Tourism from Form Three.
In Form Two they will participate in ‘Market Days’ and “Dragons Den”, learning the rudimentary basics of commerce and entrepreneurship. In Form Three, they can opt to take any of the above subjects to IGCSE. At AS and A2 Level we offer Accounting, Economics, Business and Travel and Tourism.
Computer Science and ICT
In Form One and Two students are given basic instruction in the use and function of computers, as well as rutinary programming.
From Form Three onwards, students have the option of selecting Computer Science or Applied ICT, as a course to be done to a higher level such as IGCSE, AS or A2. With a well-equipped ICT support department, students have access to computers in lessons, so this highly practical subject is taught using real time experience in class.
Drama
IGCSE Drama is a Cambridge academic subject, which gives students a chance to explore all the different aspects of theatre, including Acting, Directing, Theatre Design and Script Writing.
Over the past five years, the subject has grown in popularity, not only because of the excellent results which we obtain, but because this subject has practical as well as theoretical components. It gives students the opportunity to explore their acting abilities, which are also displayed in our yearly theatre productions. They enjoy writing their own theatre scripts in groups, and some were adapted for Radio Plays, which were very well received during lock down!
We also enable students to work on the technical aspects of theatre productions, such as set design, costumes, make-up, lighting and sound, and to work back stage during our school plays.
Our Drama students finish the course with added confidence, especially in public speaking, a knowledge of their expressive talents and the ability to analyse dramatic works, something that really helps in their English literature studies.
English
Our English Department boasts a vibrant and energetic collection of teachers driven by a love and passion of their subject.
The Hellenic Academy Form One and Two English syllabus aims to solidify pupils’ understanding of the fundamental grammatical concepts of the English Language as well as introducing pupils to the study of English Literature.
In Form Three and Four pupils move to separate English Language and Literature courses, with IGCSE Language being compulsory for all pupils at this level. IGSCE Literature is offered to all students in Form Three as the analytical skills developed in this course are useful across all studies, and, just as importantly, the study of Literature connects us individuals with the wider human experience, challenges our thinking and develops our empathy.
From Lower Six onwards, our students continue their English education by opting to do AS Level English Literature and Language, AS General Paper or AS and A2 English Literature, regardless of their other subject combinations at this level. We believe the ability to express oneself on paper and to understand the writings of others (in a myriad of genres and forms) as well as the ability to think critically about material presented to one are invaluable skills for life.
Geography and Environmental Management
Knowing how the world around us works and functions is an important aspect of general knowledge
In Forms One and Two, students are instructed in both the Physical and Human Geographical aspects that shape our world. At this level, our focus is mainly the local environment, which forms the basis for global generalisation at IGCSE and A Level. IGCSE and A level students explore further using case studies, from the local to the global context, to seek a deeper understanding of the human-nature interface.
On the other hand, the Environmental Crisis our world faces requires forward-thinking problem solvers with a solid understanding of cause and effect, and as result, students may opt to take Environmental Management as a subject at IGCSE and AS level. The practical nature of this subject allows students to see the real life impact of our effect on the air, water, soil, plants and animals around us, as well as come up with possible local and global solutions to these issues.
History
History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.
John Dalberg-Acton
This foundational humanities subject is taught at all levels of the Academy, and focuses on inspiring student interest and engagement in the content taught, as well as developing analytical thinking skills in even our youngest students.
With a syllabus that puts assessment by both examination and course work at its core, Form One and Form Two students cover a mixture of introductory material which prepares them for the rigors of the subject at higher levels. At Form Three students can opt to take this subject though to IGCSE level, and then further on to AS and A2 Level. These broad and exciting syllabi all focus on modern world history, with an emphasis on the development of analytical thinking and evaluative writing, key skills for any student.
Classical Studies
A myth is far truer than a history, for a history only gives a story of the shadows, whereas myth gives a story of the substances that cast the shadows.
Annie Besant
This exciting and diverse subject is taught at two levels at the Academy.
Through a study of the gods and mythology of the ancient world, our juniors investigate what it means to be human and what elements of truth and wisdom are embedded in mythological narratives. This is also good preparation for their study of English Literature in Form Three. Pupils can then choose to study AS and A Level Classics and has proven very popular. It is an excellent choice for an Arts or Humanities subject, some of our best Science students have also chosen to diversify their knowledge by selecting this subject.
Languages – Greek, French and Shona
In Form One and Two students are given an introduction to learning these three languages, becoming quite proficient by the end of Form Two, in writing and speaking.
From Form Three, students may opt to take French and Greek up to IGCSE level, and French up to AS or A2 level. A more advanced level of learning helps the students to further improve their understanding of conversational French, as well as, appreciating the culture and literature of the subject they have studied.
Learning Modern Greek and the Greek culture and traditions instilled at the school, gives the students of Hellenic a unique and unparalleled advantage. The study alone of a different alphabet has been scientifically proven to exercise the brain, and a knowledge of
Greek finds the students better equipped to tackle different tasks with more ease in most of their school subjects. Greek is offered at IGCSE level by the Pearson examining board and examinations are written in the June series of the students’ Form 4 year.
Shona as a second language is taught the fun and easy way. Students are trained conversation using different interactive methods such as music, games, dance and drama. These are methods to reinforce the language in a non-threatening way. Students are encouraged to use the various phrases in everyday language. Culture is also taught which includes food, dressing, greetings, skills and totems. This strengthens knowledge of our Zimbabwean culture and helps integrate various foreign speakers into the Shona way of life.
Mathematics
This is a vital subject for many careers.
We are aware of the varying abilities of the students and we offer the Core and Extended courses at IGCSE level according to mathematical ability. A significant proportion of each year group pf pupils carry on with Mathematics to AS and A level.
Mathematics is important in many fields such as Science, Health Sciences, Economics & Accounts, Architecture, Engineering etc. It is often a prerequisite for learning a trade in Plumbing, Electrics and Mechanics. It is useful in many fields as well as in everyday life.
Class and Subject Music
Hellenic Academy offers Music as an academic class subject from Form One up to Upper Six offering Cambridge Examinations at IGCSE, AS and A Level.
Students get the opportunity to explore their interest in many cultures and styles of music and enables them to expand their ability in performance and composition.
Form 1 – All students do music at this level. The course covers Instruments of the Orchestra,
Appreciation of Music and Music Technology, with emphasis on students creating music using technology.
Form 2 – The course is divided into 3 components: theory, history and composition. In theory we aim to reach ABRSM Grade 2 level by the end of the year. In the history section, topics covered include Western Classical and World Music. Practical activities are included such as composing and group work.
IGCSE – This is an ideal choice of subject for those who wish to further their interest in Music. The course offers a comprehensive range of components including history, composition and performance.
In addition, pupils will complete the Grade 5 Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music
(ABRSM) theory examination. This international qualification is required for those who aspire to complete higher practical grades.
AS and A Level – An exciting new subject being offered at the Academy, this course encourages students to build on their musical interests. Students will develop the skills needed for the study of music in higher education. A Level Music can lead to exciting career opportunities in the professional fields of: Performing Arts, Musical Theatre, Music Production, Education, Arranging and Composing.
Physical Edcuation
This is a dynamic, rapidly growing department.
The Cambridge International Physical Education syllabus is both practical and theoretical. As well as fostering enjoyment in physical activity, it will encourage students to develop an understanding of the interaction between theory and practice by focusing on the performer and performance.
Form3 – 4 Candidates will study all of the following topics:
- Anatomy and physiology
- Health, fitness and training
- Skill acquisition and psychology
- Social, cultural and ethical influences
Candidates will also undertake four different physical activities chosen from at least two of the seven categories. Physical activities make a significant contribution to syllabus aims and objectives, serving as a source of material to facilitate learning.
Form L6 and U6 Students learn about anatomy and physiology, movement skills and contemporary studies at Cambridge International AS and A2 Level. This provides a firm foundation for the further advanced study of exercise, physiology, psychology of sport performance and the study of the Olympic Games from a global perspective.
Science Subjects
The Science department has encouraged and inspired a variety of students.
Biology, Chemistry and Physics are taught from Form 2 and the students gain good understanding of basic scientific principles in their Form 1 year in General Science Classes. Students may opt to take all or one of these science subjects through to Form 4 for IGCSE level and we have numerous AS and A2 classes to accommodate the growing popularity of these subjects. The laboratories are fully equipped and students can expect to have weekly practicals in their AS and A2 year. They leave school confident in both the theoretical and practical aspects of the subjects they have studied, giving them a sound footing in terms of future Tertiary studies in these subjects.
Practical Subjects
St Christopher’s is an independent school that works closely with Hellenic Academy to offer our pupils a well-rounded education.
We take on a unique teaching approach where due to the small class sizes, individualized learning techniques are addressed and encouraged. Emphasis is placed, where necessary, on skill-based and vocational learning and we are proud to offer a variety of subjects including:
- IGCSE Agriculture, where pupils have the opportunity to visit surrounding farms and learn from some experienced farmers.
- IGCSE, AS and A level Design and Technology.
- IGCSE Food and Nutrition
- and wide variety of Online courses.
All of these subjects have a coursework component which allows pupils to experience practical aspects of their course, giving them that extra exposure and understanding of the subject.
