Academic & Enrichment
Students enjoy a wide array of choices for their Sixth Form academic curriculum. The majority typically opt for three A Level or BTEC subjects, totaling twelve taught periods per fortnight along with two periods dedicated to directed private study. Alongside their core subjects, students select one enrichment subject, attending one taught lesson per week. During their free periods, students utilise facilities such as the library or the dedicated Sixth Form Study Centre, for independent study.
A-Levels (Advanced Levels) are subject-based qualifications that can lead to university, further study, training, or work. You can normally study three A Levels over two years. All A Level subjects have recently been reformed to a linear style with examinations taken at the end of two years and coursework in most subjects.
| Typical A-Level subject choices: | ||
|---|---|---|
| Art and Design | Biology | Business |
| Chemistry | English Literature | French |
| Geography | History | Mathematics |
| Music | Photography | Physical Education |
| Physics | Product Design (DT) | Psychology |
| Religious Studies | Spanish | |
BTEC stands for the Business and Technology Education Council. BTECs are specialist work-related qualifications which combine practical learning with subject and theory content. Most assessments are project based with fewer examinations than an A Level. BTEC level 3 qualifications are equivalent to A Levels and can be studied in combination with them.
| Typical BTEC subject choices: | ||
|---|---|---|
| Business | Computer Science | Engineering |
| Performing Arts (Dance or Drama) | Sport | |
Enrichment Opportunities
Our enrichment program is crafted to provide each student with the opportunity to enhance their education with a valuable and suitable qualification. The enrichment options have been carefully selected to support applications to aspirational destinations. Every Sixth Form student participates in one enrichment course spanning the two-year period. These courses all result in nationally recognized qualifications, opening pathways to further education or immediate employment opportunities.
Enrichment options available to students:
Accreditation in Languages in Business
This professional accreditation by The Language Alliance, elevates the profile of language learning. Suitable for a range of students, it fosters career-oriented language use, emphasising practical application in modern workplaces. It cultivates independent, confident linguists equipped for global economic roles, offering up to 16 UCAS points.
AS Further Maths
For students aspiring to pursue math-intensive courses at leading universities, opting for this qualification is prudent. Further Mathematics extends upon the foundations laid in Maths A Level, requiring substantial independent study. Assessments assess students’ ability to integrate diverse knowledge, skills, and understanding across AS Level Further Mathematics and A Level Mathematics, focusing on problem-solving, proof, and mathematical modeling.
Chemistry, Biology & Physics Olympiads
The Olympiads aim to engage and motivate high-achieving scientists with local, regional, and national contests. Participants surpass A Level boundaries, showcasing problem-solving prowess, fostering creativity, and applying knowledge in practical scenarios. Additionally, the Science Department provides a club aiding aspiring medical students in navigating the rigorous admissions process.
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Under the AQA syllabus, students undertake an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), involving a 5,000-word academic report or an artefact creation with a shorter report. Graded A*-G, it yields staggered UCAS points, akin to half an A Level. EPQ topics span diverse subjects, showcasing independent research skills highly valued by universities and potentially influencing undergraduate degree offers.
Gold Arts Award
A Level 3 Certificate which awards 16 UCAS points, encourages thorough exploration of an art form, prompting reflection on practice and its influence on future endeavors. It embraces various art forms like photography, dance, technology, and more, fostering independence and skill acquisition through a primary school outreach initiative.
Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
This award fosters the attributes essential for well-rounded, self-assured individuals sought after by colleges, universities, and employers. These skills, pivotal for personal statements, encompass self-belief, identity, initiative, responsibility, strengths awareness, effective time management, community engagement, problem-solving, communication, leadership, and teamwork capabilities.
Higher Sports Leader
This Level 3 Qualification emphasises the execution of sports activities, covering modules on health and safety legalities and safeguarding. Students participate in organizing sports events at school and with local primary schools. Additionally, eligible students receive training for our rugby performance pathway to Brunel University in partnership with Ealing Trailfinders, alongside completing the HSL qualification.
TEFL
TEFL, utilised for online or overseas English teaching, complements the Sixth Form curriculum, fostering academic skills in independent study and research. It enhances personal skills crucial for higher education and career success. Upon completion, students attain an internationally recognized certificate, facilitating confident transitions into various educational and professional realms.
Sixth Form Study Centre and Sixth Form Learning Mentor
In our dedicated Sixth Form Study Centre, students find a tranquil environment for studying alongside resources such as university prospectuses and advice on crafting CVs and applying for apprenticeships. It also serves as the hub for our Sixth Form Learning Mentor, offering indispensable academic support and invaluable assistance in shaping students’ future trajectories.
The role of the Sixth Form Learning Mentor is to assist with UCAS applications, provide guidance on how to study and revise independently and how to use study lessons and free time.
“
One student who is finishing Sixth Form told me that ‘the best years of my life have been at this school'