Stellar Programme

 

What is the Stellar Programme? 

High Resolution Color LogoAt Havant Academy, we believe in nurturing the full potential of every student, ensuring that each individual is challenged, supported, and inspired to excel. Our Stellar Group is specifically designed for students who demonstrate strong academic ability, intellectual curiosity, and a passion for learning.

This group provides a stimulating and enriched curriculum tailored to meet the needs of students who are working above their age-related expectations. It offers a more rigorous and in-depth study of subjects, allowing students to engage in higher-level thinking, creative problem-solving, and independent learning. 

We want to ensure that students who are academically gifted or talented have the challenge and support they need to reach their potential. The Stellar Programme strives to support students to achieve grades 7-9 at GCSE and to be well prepared for attending Russell Group Universities. 

 

Key Features of the Stellar Group curriculum

We believe that the ability to communicate across multiple languages is a key skill in the 21st century. This is why a central feature of the Stellar curriculum is the study of two languages starting in Year 7: German alongside Spanish. 

Stellar Group students will be supported in reading a variety of texts in a range of subjects that will widen the depth and breadth of their knowledge and understanding. 

Stellar Group students will attend masterclasses on a range of topics which may include: etymology, philosophy, astronomy and complete multiple projects that require independent research and group collaboration. 

In addition, student benefit from:

  • Accelerated Learning: Students engage in advanced topics and critical thinking activities.
  • Teacher Expertise: Personalised attention to nurture talent and encourage growth.
  • Exclusive Opportunities: Access to academic competitions, guest lectures, and subject-specific workshops.
  • Well-rounded Development: Strong focus on character education, resilience, and teamwork

How does this programme benefit students?

  • Academic Growth: Being a member of the Stellar Group allows students to stay ahead of the learning curve and prepare for future challenges.
  • Confidence and Skills: Stellar students gain confidence in tackling complex problems and improve communication skills.
  • Networking & Collaboration: Being in the Stellar Group helps our young people to make friends who share a passion for learning.

Eligibility and Admission

The Stellar Group is open to students who:

  • Demonstrate a high aptitude for academic subjects.
  • Show enthusiasm for learning and a proactive attitude.
  • Meet the entry criteria based on assessments, teacher recommendations, and prior performance.
  • Entry assessments are conducted during the transition to Key Stage 3 or based on Key Stage 2 results. This is reviewed throughout the year. 
Scholars programme High resolution color logo

Elevating Ambition: The Scholars Programme and the Stellar Group

We are proud to partner with The Brilliant Club, an award-winning charity that brings the university experience directly into our classrooms. Through The Scholars Programme, our students have the unique opportunity to work with visiting PhD researchers to explore complex, real-world issues through an academic lens.

This year, our scholars are diving into high-level research within the fields of Criminology and Global Conflict.

Exploring the Big Questions

Rather than following the standard curriculum, our students engage in "super-curricular" study, tackling the same questions debated by experts at the world's leading universities:

  • Criminology: Students go beyond the headlines to analyse the sociology of crime. They explore why laws are made, the impact of the justice system on society, and the complex psychological factors behind criminal behaviour.

  • War & Global Conflict: Through the study of history and international relations, students examine the causes of modern warfare, the ethics of intervention, and the path to global peace.

The Scholar’s Journey

The programme is a rigorous academic challenge designed to build the "intellectual stamina" required for higher education:

  • Small-Group Tutorials: Students work in university-style seminars led by a PhD tutor, encouraging debate and critical questioning.

  • The Final Thesis: Participants produce a 1,500 to 2,500-word final assignment (depending on their Key Stage). These are marked using university grades (1st, 2:1, etc.), pushing students to produce work well above their current school level.

  • University Graduation: To celebrate their achievements, students attend a graduation ceremony at a highly selective university,allowing them to consider future career pathways.

Why it Matters

By analysing topics like international law or social justice, our students develop advanced analytical skills and the confidence to express informed opinions on the world's most pressing challenges.

"Working on these projects allows our students to see themselves not just as learners, but as researchers. Whether they are debating the ethics of conflict or the roots of crime, they are developing the critical thinking skills that define future leaders."

 

Brilliant club1 

Stellar Group Trip to the University of Portsmouth - November 2025

Year 7 students from the Stellar Group visited the University of Portsmouth to learn about the opportunities available and skills needed as they move through their educational journey. Effort and persistence are important skills when starting secondary school but also in any new adventure.  Students were encouraged to think about all the wonderful skills they already have but also ones they hope to develop during secondary school and beyond.

The students had a fantastic day of team building activities, a campus tour and a chance to hear from university students about what options are available. They all came back to school talking about what they might be interested in studying in the future.