FOUNDED BY PARENTS IN 1977
SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS Nurturing Personal Excellence
Our Head’s Welcome
The Sixth Form at Abbey Gate College offers a unique kind of personal tuition, challenge, and nurture. Ours is an individualised approach, where we will teach, coach, and support you, towards whatever you want to do, post-18.
This is a fast-changing world, and employers are already looking for far more than just final qualifications. Your confidence, your integrity, your values, your purpose, your compassion - these will all distinguish and define how well you will thrive and be successful in the years to come. Developing all of these, alongside strong academic outcomes, is central to what makes Abbey Gate College Sixth Form so special.
Expert teachers, small class sizes, and superb pastoral care form the basis of our Sixth Form experience. But we also have several, bespoke enhancements, including tailored programmes for Oxbridge and Medical applications. Our Abbey Gate College Diploma balances traditional academic rigour with the personal skills and development needed to help you to take the next step.
Abbey Gate College Sixth Form is nurturing, personalised, and committed to excellence.
My staff and I are always here to help.
Craig Jenkinson Head
“To be the school of first choice for families who seek a personalised, caring, and safe educational environment, with excellent curricular and co-curricular provision, and a commitment to preserve, protect, and progress the world we all share.”
Vision Mission
“We are committed, within our safe and caring community, that each one of our pupils will become the best that they can be, and have the self-belief to go forward into this changeable world with courage and with compassion.”
Aims
We pursue our whole College mission, guided by three defining and aspirational aims:
SELF SUSTAINABILITY
Each pupil cares for their mental and physical wellbeing; learns and achieves to their individual potential; and is content, comfortable and confident to be who they are in our diverse and inclusive College.
SERVICE
Each pupil makes a positive difference to the lives of others in our College, as well as in our local and in wider, global communities.
Each pupil contributes towards preserving and protecting the planet we all inherit and share, and has the opportunity to be creative and innovative; to help further humanity’s progress in the future.
The Abbey Gate College Diploma
At Abbey Gate College, we have always encouraged and celebrated the breadth and depth of both our students' academic studies and the wide-ranging excellence of their co-curricular activities, alongside their well-rounded characters and leadership potential. Recent surveys have confirmed our approach, as both a Higher Education Institute report and a Times Educational Commission report stated what we have always thought - that breadth of study is the best preparation for university and the workplace.
The Abbey Gate College Diploma builds on the A-level subjects for our students study, together with the Extended Project Qualification.
Likewise, we want to recognise the way in which our students engage with the many co-curricular and leadership opportunities on offer at the College, helping to develop a rich and diverse array of skills.
The Abbey Gate College Diploma celebrates the unique contribution of each student to the wider College life through our Self, Service and Sustainability agencies.
Abbey Gate College Diploma will be awarded to students who achieve the following:
Abbey DIPLOMA Gate College
3 A-levels Service or Leadership Role
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) Leadership Programme
Transition to A-Level Study
A-levels (Advanced Level qualifications) mark a significant step up from GCSEs in both depth and independence of study. While GCSEs provide a broad foundation across multiple subjects, A-levels allow students to specialise in a few chosen areas, typically three, based on their interests and future aspirations.
The content in A-levels is more challenging, requiring critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deeper understanding of subject matter. Our expert, specialist teachers ensure that students are nurtured, challenged, and supported in a manner which is tailored to individual students; after all, no two students are the same.
A-levels demand greater self-motivation and independent study; something which we support through a comprehensive Supervised Study programme, where students work under the direct supervision of teachers when they have study periods.
Assessments consist of coursework and more comprehensive final exams, which test students’ ability to synthesise and apply knowledge. This transition prepares students for university-level education or professional pathways, where autonomy and intellectual rigour are essential. In essence, A-levels are not just a continuation of GCSEs - they represent a leap in academic maturity and responsibility, a challenge which Sixth Formers at Abbey Gate College have been relishing for years.
Whilst students often find the change demanding at first, at Abbey Gate College we provide the right support for students and parents to ensure that it becomes a rewarding journey of personal and academic growth, so that our young people are prepared and ready to go forward into an ever-changeable world.
Student Leadership Opportunities
SELF AGENCY
Roles of Responsibility
SERVICE AGENCY
Roles of Responsibility
SUSTAINABILITY AGENCY
Roles of Responsibility
teamwork and problem-solving.
Our student leaders also gain experience in decision-making, conflict resolution (though hopefully not too often), and being a role model - skills that are highly beneficial for future education, employment, and personal growth. In addition to on-the-job experience, our students complete dedicated ‘Prefect’ training with a specialist company, where students are helped to answer questions such as:
• What is my role and what responsibilities do I have?
• What do other people expect from me?
• How can the Prefect team work together and solve problems effectively?
• What are my key strengths and how can I put these to good use?
• How can I communicate effectively with other people?
• What can I do to become more assertive?
• How do I control my emotions to stay calm and effective?
• How can I overcome challenging situations during my duties?
The Extended Project Qualification (EP
Q)
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a valuable, academic opportunity that helps to bridge the gap between A-levels and university-level study, and is but one of the many ways that Abbey Gate College prepares Sixth Form students for their next steps.
It allows students to explore a topic of personal interest in depth, developing essential skills such as independent research, critical thinking, academic writing, and time management. These are all core competencies expected at degree level but often overlooked in traditional A-level courses.
Students work alongside a dedicated member of teaching staff who takes on the role of a mentor throughout the project, helping to provide support, accountability and guidance on an individual basis.
By undertaking an EPQ, students gain experience in structuring a long-form project, referencing sources correctly, and presenting their findings; using skills that mirror the demands of undergraduate coursework.
As a result, the EPQ not only enhances university applications but also equips students with the confidence and capability to transition more smoothly into higher education.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
The Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is one of the most prestigious and enriching programmes available to Sixth Form students. It offers a structured yet flexible framework for personal development, leadership, and service - qualities that are increasingly sought after by top universities and employers.
The Award challenges students across five key areas: Physical, Skills, Expedition, Residential, and Volunteering. Among these, the Volunteering section is particularly significant in shaping character and fostering a sense of social responsibility.
Through sustained voluntary service, our students engage meaningfully with their communities; something that Abbey Gate College is immensely proud of. In recent years this has been through mentoring younger pupils, supporting local charities, assisting in care homes, or contributing to environmental initiatives. Our students have not simply given time; they have developed empathy, initiative and have shown commitment to the wider world, which aligns perfectly with our pillar of Service, here at Abbey Gate College.
The award offers students the opportunity to develop skills such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving; whilst also offering students the chance to explore potential career interests in a real-world setting. For many, it becomes one of the most memorable and transformative aspects of their Sixth Form journey.
Completing the Gold Award is a significant achievement and is something that Abbey Gate College encourages students to participate in. Successful completion of the Gold award is accepted in lieu of service/student leadership for those students who choose not to take on a leadership position, due to the significant volunteering section of the award.
As such, Gold DofE contributes towards the Abbey Gate College Diploma.
Tailored Higher Education and Future Pathways Support
At the heart of our Sixth Form provision is a deeply personalised approach to higher education and career planning. We recognise that no two students are the same, and our guidance reflects this by offering bespoke, one-to-one support that evolves with each individual’s aspirations. Whether a student is aiming for Oxbridge, applying for highly competitive courses such as Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science, exploring the growing opportunities in degree apprenticeships, or planning a purposeful gap year, our experienced team provides expert, tailored advice at every stage.
From the initial exploration of options in Year 12 through to final decisions and post-application support, students benefit from dedicated mentoring, specialist workshops, and targeted preparation for admissions tests and interviews. Personal statements are developed through close collaboration, ensuring each student’s voice and ambition are clearly articulated. For those pursuing alternative routes, such as creative portfolios, overseas universities, or structured gap year programmes, we offer equally rigorous and individualised guidance.
Our aim is not only to help students access the next stage of their education or career, but to ensure they do so with confidence, clarity and a strong sense of purpose. We take pride in supporting a wide range of destinations and in helping each student find the path that is right for them.
Exceptional Pastoral Care and Individual Support
Pastoral care is at the core of what Abbey Gate College is, and our Sixth Form experience is no different. The individual support that we give plays a significant part; underpinning both academic success and personal wellbeing.
We are deeply committed to treating every student as an individual, recognising their unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations. Each student benefits from a dedicated Sixth Form tutor and Heads of Sixth Form, who provide consistent guidance, ensuring they feel known, supported and valued throughout their Sixth Form journey. Our pastoral team works in close partnership with teaching staff, students, and families, creating a strong network of care that supports our students academically, emotionally and socially.
We understand that the transition to Sixth Form brings new freedoms and responsibilities, and we provide a structured yet nurturing environment in which students can thrive. Whether navigating academic pressures, personal challenges, or future planning, students are encouraged to develop resilience, self-awareness, and confidence. Our aim is to help every individual flourish, not only by achieving academic excellence, but by growing into a well-rounded, thoughtful, and self-assured young adult, ready to take their next steps with courage and compassion.
What is different about Sixth Form at Abbey Gate College?
Our Sixth Form offers an experience that goes far beyond the classroom. Taught by experienced, passionate subject specialists, students can choose from a wide range of A Level and Level 3 courses, confident they are learning from experts committed to their success.
Small class sizes ensure every student receives personalised attention, with flexible support for independent study and guidance on higher education, apprenticeships, and career decisions.
Students enjoy the benefits of our dedicated Sixth Form Centre, providing a space that fosters independence while remaining part of the wider College community.
Life in the Sixth Form is shaped by a welcoming, purposeful atmosphere where self-confidence, mutual respect, and hard work are encouraged, helping to nurture personal excellence in every student. Every student belongs to a Form, with dedicated pastoral time built into the timetable so tutors can develop strong, supportive relationships and monitor both academic and social progress.
The House System is a key part of Abbey Gate College life, fostering teamwork, leadership, and healthy competition while reinforcing the sense of belonging that makes our community special.
Sixth Form here is, therefore, not only about achieving excellent academic results but also about personal growth, wellbeing, and preparation for life beyond school - a place where students are known, valued, and supported to thrive in all aspects of their journey.
I chose Abbey Gate College Sixth Form because it presented a vibrant and friendly environment in which I felt I could thrive.
The overall welcoming feeling enticed me to choose the College to take me onto the next step in life.”
“I chose Abbey Gate College because of the great environment its Sixth Form provides. Caring teaching staff and hard work enabled me to gain great grades, which ultimately helped me achieve my desired future job as a pilot in the Royal Air Force.”
“As a new student to Abbey Gate College, I feel like I have been able to fit in well as the Sixth Form is a very welcoming and energetic place.
The teachers and Heads of Sixth Form have really helped me to settle in here.”
I chose Abbey Gate College Sixth Form because you feel part of a community and have a support system, not only from friends but teachers as well.
I’m grateful for the opportunities the College has offered me.
As a Senior Prefect, I have developed leadership skills and have been able to be part of a team working alongside teachers.
My motivation to continue my studies into Sixth Form at Abbey Gate College was founded in the exceptional Music Department.
In addition, I really liked the outstanding individual teaching styles which target each student rather than focusing on the group all the time.
Breadth of Curriculum
At Abbey Gate College, we recognise that each student’s post-16 journey is different.
Our Sixth Form curriculum reflects this, offering a carefully selected range of A-level courses that enable students to follow their interests while keeping future pathways open –whether towards university, apprenticeships, or the workplace.
We are delighted to provide this variety of courses alongside the opportunity to complete an Extended Project Qualification in Year 12, allowing students to balance their workload and focus fully on final exams in Year 13.
This choice supports both traditional academic routes and more creative or vocational ambitions. Alongside their studies, students benefit from Oxbridge and Medical preparation programmes, tailored higher education and careers guidance, PSHE, co-curricular activities, and leadership opportunities.
Above all, our approach is centred on nurturing personal excellence for each and every student, ensuring that individual strengths are recognised and developed.
Combined with the unique benefits of our close-knit community, this helps every student to achieve their ambitions and stand out with confidence.
Joining Abbey Gate College Sixth Form
Applicants for the Sixth Form will be accepted on the basis of their GCSE results and, in the case of external applicants, a formal interview.
In terms of GCSE grade entry requirements, you must achieve a pass in all GCSEs and a grade 9 to 6 at GCSE in the subjects you wish to continue at A Level (or a related GCSE subject in the case of a new A Level subject).
Please be aware that you are more likely to make a smooth transition to A Level studies in a subject if you have attained grade 9 to 7 at GCSE.
Enrolment Timeline Guidance
Interviews for external applicants offered on individual basis. Specific dates for each element of the process will be advised. SEPTEMBER Annual Open Day
The opportunity to explore the whole College site
