Sixth Form

Today, more and more Universities are looking beyond academic results when considering places. They want to know that an applicant has developed as a person, that they are an individual whilst at the same time respectful of and interested in the well-being of their community. They want to hear about a student’s interests and see their passion for the things that they do. We help to develop both the character and the passion.

The Sixth Form at Abbotsholme has a tradition of combining excellence in academic study along with acquisition of a broad cultural awareness and a development of confidence in personal skills. It is a continuation of the family atmosphere and aims to develop a sense of belonging and responsibility both to self and others. The links between the Sixth Form and the rest of the school are seen as very important in developing these qualities. Many pupils who join the school at an early age continue on into the Sixth Form and each year are joined by a number of pupils who enter for our ‘A’ level programme. On average we have around 80 pupils in our Sixth Form each year.

Sixth Form students are helped to become increasingly responsible for their own study programme so that they are prepared for a smooth transition into Higher Education.

Our new Log Cabin complex has been built in a peaceful setting within the school grounds, which is only a stone's throw from the school's central facilities. The self-contained, purpose-built cabins provide a wonderful opportunity for the pupils to experience a greater degree of independence and privacy. There is, of course, a resident member of staff on hand, but our belief is that this development will play a significant part in preparing our young people not only for university but, more significantly, for life itself. They will have independence and responsibility whilst remaining under the same caring pastoral umbrella enjoyed by all who live and work in the Abbotsholme community.

Everyone is allocated a study/study bedroom and a personal tutor to supervise progress. All students meet regularly with their tutor to discuss any problems or difficulties that may be experienced. The Headmaster of the Sixth Form, in partnership with the Headmaster, Houseparents, Tutors and Parents takes responsibility for the overall progress of students throughout the two years.

In addition to an extensive options list at AS/A2 level, which includes Film Studies and Psychology, Abbotsholme offers a wonderful variety of opportunities beyond the classroom.

Prefects are nominated each year by staff and pupils to cover a number of areas of responsibility. All prefects choose to accept their Leadership in Service to the school and each year a new group continues to provide excellent examples for their fellow pupils.

Privileges come in different forms; a Sixth Form common room; increased flexibility in determining the balance between work and play; having a real opportunity to influence what goes on at school through school council. In addition, Sixth Form students have a different uniform to the rest of the school, which is essentially that of smart business attire, and which has proved very popular as these older students seek greater individual expression. They also run their own Social Committee, which organises a host of events, including a number of formal dinners.

Responsibility and privilege though go hand in hand. With their new found status as sixth formers comes enhanced responsibilities as well as greater flexibility to pursue both academic and personal interests, all the while having access to the support, advice and guidance that they need – both day to day and in planning for their future.