Academic and pastoral support

The Sixth form is much more than a place where students come to study and then move on to college, university or employment. Each student will have his/her personal tutor in a group of approximately twenty five students. The weekly programme includes individual counselling, help and advice, group discussion, study skills, careers guidance and team building.

A well established induction programme is in place to encourage all new Sixth Formers to work together in a variety of activities such as potholing, climbing, canoeing and orienteering. The emphasis is on team building and developing leadership skills.

Students are set challenging Targets at the start of the year and the school will report home on progress made towards these targets in November, January and March.

Throughout the year progress will be monitored and students are offered support and guidance to ensure success in their studies. In addition, attendance and punctuality will be monitored carefully. Attendance at lessons is one criteria for entry to examinations. Students meet with tutors at registration every day and at PSHE on Fridays. Tutorial time is used to help support students during the year.

Sixth Form students will be expected to take responsibility for their own learning and to demonstrate a high level of commitment to their studies.

Personal organisation and effective time management are key to academic success. Students will be advised on how to work within a well-planned and carefully structured framework. Ultimately, the responsibility for good working practices belongs to the student. ALL are expected to spend a minimum of 40 hours per week on their studies (this includes lessons and home study).

There are times during the week when students will not have timetabled lessons. These are ‘non contact’ lessons or study periods and should be spent in the SIXTH FORM STUDY ROOM or in departments, where a quiet environment allows for research, homework, revision and further reading. Developing good study habits is crucial to success at Sixth Form level.