Our specialist staff provide individual advice and guidance, supporting students in making their post-18 decision. Whilst the majority of our students go on to university, before they need to make this choice, we give them the opportunity to explore all options available to them including Degree Apprenticeships, study abroad, a specialist school (a music conservatoire or performing arts school), employment or a gap year.  Our specialist staff are supported by a dedicated Careers Leader, Mrs Wray, who offers 1-2-1 appointments to discuss these options.  

During their two years with us, students are offered multiple information gathering opportunities both in terms of post-18 options and post-university careers options. These include assemblies, Friday Enrichment Sessions with guest speakers, subject specific guest speakers, our UCAS and Further Education evening in January, our Further Education and Futures Fair in February, trips, LinkedIn workshops and use of the Unifrog platform. This timeline details all the key sixth form moments in terms of applications and events. We have also put together a UCAS and Further Education Handbook which can be downloaded below

Oxbridge

Oxford and Cambridge rank amongst the leading universities in the world and securing a place at one of their colleges is no mean feat.  We provide support and advice to all students wishing to make an early application to one of these colleges.  

Degree Apprenticeships

Unlike university applications, the school does not have a formal role in student apprenticeship applications. However, we offer as much support as we possibly can during the application process, which often starts early in Year 13. We share all the adverts on our careers blog, we arrange mock assessment centres for students, and alumnae who have gone down the apprenticeship route are invited to speak to current students about their experiences.

Gap Year

Students choose to take a gap year for a variety of reasons. During that time, they might choose to work, volunteer, learn a new skill, as well as save time for an enjoyable activity or travelling.  Students can either apply to university as usual in Year 13 and then defer their place (subject to approval from their universities) or submit an application after Year 13. The school will support ‘Year 14’ university applications by providing a reference, but students need to ensure they are available to meet the school and UCAS deadlines in the autumn term. The UCAS and Prospects websites provide ideas and inspiration for gap years.

Becky High Sixth Timeline