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23/12/25

Wishing everyone a happy holiday and a restful break from all of us here at HACL!     

10/12/25

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28/11/25

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26/11/25

Book-buying Reward Trip to Heath’s Book-showroom for The Big Read Summer 2025! Thank you to the  for the day out and your generous book donations!

25/11/25

What an honour to have a library visit from Catherine Johnson! Year 8 have been reading her book 'Freedom' and had this incredible opportunity to hear about Catherine's life and her inspiration behind the book.   

25/11/25

Our Duke of Edinburgh Bronze trip to Box Hill! Well done to our Year 11 who completed it.   

24/11/25

Our brilliant art club in today painting their beautiful clay sculptures today. Well done everyone. 

24/11/25

Thank you to everyone involved in the campaign to raise supplies for the chaotic aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. We are proud of the generosity from students and staff, who came together as a community to help support those in need.

14/11/25

Today marks the last day of Anti-Bullying Week, and we’re learning how to recognise when someone might be experiencing bullying. Look out for changes in mood, behaviour, confidence, or friendships and always speak to a trusted adult if you’re worried about someone. Video  

13/11/25

Kindness costs nothing but changes everything. This World Kindness Day, let’s show how powerful kindness can be in person and online.       Video  

12/11/25

Today we’re standing up to cyberbullying. Every message, comment, and post matters, so let’s choose kindness, respect, and support online. Together, we can make the internet a safer place for everyone.       Video  

11/11/25

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11/11/25

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10/11/25

RT : The poppy reminds us of those from all communities serving today and our shared history. This , join pe…

09/11/25

The poppy reminds us of those from all communities serving today and our shared history. This , join people across the nation in wearing a poppy and send a personal message of thanks and support to everyone in the Armed Forces community. pic.twitter.com/MgdrhfzSte

07/11/25

30 bronze Duke of Edinburgh students successfully home. Amazing job to all! You were absolutely brilliant! 

07/11/25

Fantastic Duke of Edinburgh Weather for our bronze students! 

06/11/25

Our first ever Duke of Edinburgh groups are away on their qualifying expedition. All now sitting down to dinner. 

06/11/25

Our Spanish A level students visited the BFI in central London today for an all-day workshop on the Spanish director, Pedro Almodóvar. - The workshop was at the IMAX, which is WICKED.

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Latest News

Posted on March 28th 2025

Exciting Trip to Newmarket and the British Racing School

Our recent school trip to Newmarket and the British Racing School was an unforgettable experience for all involved.

Nestled in the heart of the UK's horse racing industry, Newmarket provided the perfect backdrop for our students to immerse themselves in the world of equestrian sports.

Capture


Learning about horse riding

Upon arrival, our students were greeted by the friendly staff at the British Racing School. The day began with an informative session on horse riding techniques. Students learnt about the importance of posture, balance, and communication with the horse. The instructors emphasised the significance of building a trusting relationship between rider and horse, which is crucial for successful riding.


Exploring careers in horse racing

The trip also offered a unique opportunity to explore various careers within the horse racing industry. Students were introduced to the diverse roles that contribute to the world of horse racing, from jockeys and trainers to veterinarians and stable managers. The British Racing School provided insights into the training and qualifications required for these careers, inspiring many students to consider future opportunities in this exciting field.


Understanding horse care

A significant part of the day was dedicated to understanding horse care. Students learnt about the daily routines involved in maintaining the health and well-being of horses. This included feeding, grooming, and medical care. The hands-on experience allowed students to appreciate the dedication and hard work that goes into caring for these magnificent animals.

  • Feeding and Nutrition: Students discovered the importance of a balanced diet for horses, which includes a mix of hay, grains, and supplements. They learnt how different types of feed contribute to a horse's overall health and performance.
  • Grooming: The session on grooming was particularly engaging. Students practised brushing and cleaning the horses, learning how regular grooming helps to maintain the horse's coat, skin, and hooves. They also learnt about the tools used in grooming, such as brushes, combs, and hoof picks.
  • Medical Care: Understanding the basics of equine medical care was another crucial aspect. Students were introduced to common health issues that horses may face, such as colic and lameness, and the importance of regular veterinary check-ups. They also learnt how to recognise signs of illness and the steps to take in case of an emergency.
  • Stable Management: The importance of maintaining a clean and safe stable environment was highlighted. Students learnt about mucking out stalls, ensuring proper ventilation, and the significance of providing fresh water and bedding.

Hands-on horse riding experience

The highlight of the trip was undoubtedly the hands-on horse riding experience. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, students had the chance to ride horses themselves. This practical session was met with enthusiasm and excitement, as students applied the techniques they had learnt earlier in the day. The joy and sense of accomplishment on their faces were evident as they navigated the riding arena.


Reflecting on the experience

Overall, the trip to Newmarket and the British Racing School was a resounding success. It provided our students with valuable knowledge and practical experience in horse riding, horse care, and the various careers within the horse racing industry. The day was filled with learning, laughter, and memorable moments that will undoubtedly inspire our students for years to come.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the British Racing School for their hospitality and expertise. This trip has not only enriched our students' understanding of horse racing but also ignited a passion for equestrian sports and careers.