St Mary’s School
Sixth Form Prospectus
“My daughter’s academic achievements have been outstanding, and she has been supported every step of the way.” Current Parent
Independence Students have freedom to drive their own learning, guided by their expert teachers. All girls are able to take the Extended Project Qualification, which develops effective project management and academic skills essential for study in higher education. Preparation for life after school begins at the start of Year 12; weekly PSHCE and Enrichment programmes prepare girls for their future, from hearing from industry experts on interesting jobs to learning how to change a tyre, from learning about personal finances and budgeting to understanding self-defence and positive mental health strategies.
Positive Space The Sixth Form is housed in the beautiful Cedar House where students have the space to study, relax and learn. The Common Room includes a kitchen which is a popular facility at break and lunch. A dedicated study room and teaching classrooms help girls to engage with their learning in lessons and as independent learners. The Sixth Form courtyard provides a calm and inviting space for girls outside.
Leadership Student leadership is integral to the Sixth Form. Girls are encouraged to take on one of a wide range of leadership positions; the Head Girl Team, House Captains, Form Prefects, Transition and Diversity Prefects, Eco-Council Reps, Charities Reps, Library Prefects, Prep Prefects, Duke of Edinburgh Ambassador, Mental Health First Aiders and Subject Ambassadors are roles which allow girls to lead and support their younger peers and develop important skills at the same time.
“Older pupils set a very high example by taking on a variety of leadership roles including being prefects and mentors.” Latest ISI Report
“Pupils make an excellent contribution to the lives of others within the school, the local community and wider society.” Latest ISI Report
Looking Outwards Our Sixth Formers engage in a Community Service Learning initiative in Year 12, under which they are required to complete 20 hours of community service with an organisation of their choice. They are encouraged to reflect on the skills and knowledge they have gained from these experiences. We support students in gaining meaningful work experience and hear from experts in all walks of life in enrichment talks and lectures.
“Attitudes to learning are excellent throughout the school. Pupils take pride in their work and are highly motivated to succeed.” Latest ISI Report
Academic Excellence We encourage girls to aim high in their academic studies and help them to achieve their goals. Smaller class sizes allow teachers to understand how each individual girl learns to get the best from them. The St Mary’s Academic Resilience Training Programme (SMART) in Year 12 gives students the skills for A level study so that they can engage with more complex texts, manage their time effectively and use feedback to develop their learning. Girls are supported in their applications for national essay competitions run by top universities and in completing an Extended Project Qualification on a subject of their choice.
Enrichment & Co-curricular In the Sixth Form there is something for everyone to get involved in; sports teams and lunchtime clubs, choirs, ensembles and musical theatre, Med Soc, Oxbridge Prep group, community service, cooking on a budget, Duke of Edinburgh, LAMDA, debating, book clubs, current affairs club, and so much more. The weekly Enrichment Programme offers an insight into fields such as marketing, law, finance, international politics and broadcast journalism. Sixth Formers play a crucial role in leading our House System with competitions in drama, netball, quizzing, dance, debating and even our very own Bake Off!
Support & Guidance Expert guidance and support from the Sixth Form team help girls and their parents to navigate the next stage. This comes from a rich knowledge of each individual girl and her hopes and ambitions for the future. We support girls applying to competitive universities including Oxbridge, and courses such as medicine, law and PPE. Tutors and the Head of Sixth Form work closely with every girl to support their UCAS, foundation year, degree apprenticeship or other application for further study. Talks from universities and experts on topics such as student finances and writing personal statements provide girls with the tools to make highly successful applications.
“My daughter is having a great experience at St Mary’s and as parents we are very grateful to the school.” Current Parent
St Mary’s School Packhorse Road Gerrards Cross Buckinghamshire SL9 8JQ 01753 883370 registrar@st-marys.bucks.sch.uk stmarysschool.co.uk