BEACONSFIELD HIGH SCHOOL SIXTH FORM Do you dare to be remarkable?
PROSPECTUS 2019 / 2020
#BeRemarkable
Beaconsfield High School has been at the centre of the community for 50 years, discovering talented students and developing them in to rounded, successful and remarkable young adults. We are a modern, diverse, inclusive and dynamic school, a centre of excellence in and out of the classroom, and a community that makes me incredibly proud. At the heart of everything we do is respect – for yourself, for others, for the environment and, of course, for learning. We remain an all girls school, which enables our students to follow their interests without the limitations of gender stereotypes. Our focused environment also facilitates academic progress and understanding of individual potential. We are committed to every student’s development and success. Join us for the next two years and we will help you become a remarkable young adult, successful academically, a happy and confident contributor to society, with the skills of leadership, teamwork, empathy and initiative that will enable you to thrive in everything you do. We look forward to welcoming you into our Sixth Form. Mrs Rachel Smith Headteacher
Our Sixth Form welcomes up to 180 students in each year, and every single student who joins us, whether existing or from another school, enjoys focused 1:1 attention in an inclusive environment. When you join our Sixth Form you’ll experience team spirit, collaboration and ceaseless support. The school is consistently recognised for its remarkable academic environment and highly competitive results. In 2017 alone, Year 13s achieved exceptional A-Levels, with 52.3% gaining A*-A and 81.9% gaining A*-B grades – making us top in the county! What stands us apart, though, is our holistic approach to development and our broader programme of learning. When you study at Beaconsfield High School you also learn the many vital skills needed to thrive in the worlds of university and work. Mrs Rachel Williams Assistant Head: Director of Sixth Form
Our school is one of a kind and its supportive and positive community makes it a welcoming place to be. It nurtures self confidence and self worth, encourages us to become strong independent adults, teaches us to be motivated learners and, ultimately, inspires us to be high-achieving ambitious individuals. The exciting ALevel programme and rounded curriculum allow each student to deeply explore their passions, reinforced with a broad and engaging extra-curricular programme to suit a range of interests and talents. Leadership, responsibility and teamwork are also highly valued, and development of each of these is supported through our unique prefect system. Simran Sadhra Head Girl
Introduction to our Sixth Form The Beaconsfield High School A-Level programme blends academia with leadership, creativity, teamwork, activity, participation and independent thinking. The school believes it is this combination of learning and involvement that prepares you for your next step. Our staff, highly proficient, talented and with broad life experience, prefer a respectful and collaborative approach to working with Sixth Form students. Your contribution to developing your future self is maturity, hard work, commitment and dedication. With a big splash of fun. The Sixth Form management team works closely with the Student Leadership Team to ensure the school delivers for our students. Once you join us, the focus is to develop your character, foster your acumen and build your future aspirations. This complements the strong academic focus and sense of independence that we help you grow.
Sixth Form is a very different world to the earlier years of school, with the expectation that you will take your own initiative to study and learn. With us, you are supported every step of the way through this transition, and your motivation and independent thinking are celebrated. Those driven to apply to Oxbridge colleges are fully guided through the early application process and the school has a strong pedigree of success; recently celebrating 6 acceptances for 2018/19 as an example. Other routes are also heavily supported, whether a Russell Group university, where typically 75% of students achieve their first choice university, a vocational course, route to work or a creative profession. STEM is an important focus throughout the school, and advanced science laboratories with breakthrough technology and equipment are just one part of embracing this agenda. Students are encouraged to enter relevant competitions, to engage in groups and clubs for further learning and to imagine the possibilities of a career in areas once not so accessible. We work with both large and small businesses and organisations, including Hitachi and Bosch, to better the school environment and opportunities, from a range of beneficial ‘helping hand’ scholarships for university to exciting and informative lectures and work experience. Dedicated A-Level classrooms and new Sixth Form study spaces are just some of the ways we have invested in to make our Sixth Form different. The world of work also influences the many clubs and societies led by students, including MEDSOC, Model United Nations, Bar Mock Trial, the Fawcett Society and more. Read on to discover what awaits you when you join the Beaconsfield High School Sixth Form.
“The school gives us the opportunity to make a dif ference by involving us in important decisions and enabling us to voice our thoughts through groups, such as the school’s Working Party and the Student Council.” Sophie, Year 13 Quotes included throughout this prospectus do not correspond to students featured
Your Success Milestones 7. The next chapter in your story begins University, career, apprenticeship and more
6. A-Level Results The future starts here, whatever your results
4. UCAS Process Begins Our structured process will safely guide you towards your future successes
2. A Smooth Transition New subjects, new tutor groups, exciting new perspectives!
1. GCSE Results Day You’re in, welcome to the start of your BHS journey!
5. Exam Focus The culmination of seven years of hard work and dedication – we’re here every step of the way
3. Prefect Selection Process Put your leadership skills to the test and shape the school’s future
Your Ambitions Your goal may be to join an Oxbridge college or one of the revered Russell Group universities. Perhaps you want to follow your heart into a creative profession or step straight into an apprenticeship or work. Whatever your career plan or budding ideas for your future we have the skills, experience and know-how to get you there, with a portfolio of subjects to give you a strong, comprehensive grounding that opens doors. The most important thing at this stage is to think carefully about which A-Levels will best work for you. First and foremost, you need to enjoy what you are studying. Two years is a long time and the hard work and dedication required to ensure success has to be balanced with real enthusiasm and motivation. Enjoyment comes when we spend time doing the things we are good at, so consider carefully where your strengths lie.
Dependent on your career ambitions, you may wish to specialise in a certain area of study or strategically combine certain A-Levels to lead to a particular degree. We have information further on that can guide you. A rounded educational experience at this stage of your life will prepare you for the competitive world of work in the future. When you think of Sixth Form at Beaconsfield High School, think of learning so much more than the theory of ALevels. We give you life skills, work knowledge and experience, and the tools to thrive.
“We do our very best to welcome new students and seamlessly integrate them into the school. The induction days and tours give us the chance to get to know each other, and make the first day far more comfortable – and exciting!” Hollie, Year 12
A-Level Programme and Curriculum At Beaconsfield High School we know that preparing for your next step in life takes a combination of many focus areas. We balance a considered programme of study and broader activity for a holistic learning experience that develops in you a deeper knowledge – something that is highly valued by universities and employers alike.
The A-Level Programme 3 A-Levels Enrichment volunteering Extended Project Qualification Computer Sciences AS Lecture series Sports programme Personal Development seminars Duke of Edinburgh scheme (Optional) Fourth A-Level (Optional)
A-Levels You will study the same three (or in some cases four) A-Levels across your two years in Sixth Form, with exams in Year 13 determining your final result. We offer more than 20 subjects to choose from, including the facilitator subjects as well as specialist courses. View all the options here: www.beaconsfieldhigh.bucks.sch.uk/A-LevelOptions.
Enrichment Volunteering From Sports Leaders, where students work in primary schools to support sport and a healthy lifestyle and the Quality Learning Team supporting learning in school, to virtual learning with underprivileged schools and Sixth Form-led Charities Week, we strongly encourage students to find ways to give back, whether to the school, local community or further afield. It is this sense of citizenship and responsibility that contributes to a rounded adult.
EPQ The Extended Project Qualification gives you the opportunity to research a topic that interests you and to create a dissertation, field study/investigation, artefact or performance. It is highly regarded by universities, some of whom will make reduced offers as a consequence, and is excellent evidence of wider reading and knowledge. Special points of interest: The EPQ is equivalent to half an A-level, is run by AQA and can earn you UCAS points. It is graded from A* to E and can be based on a subject you are already studying or a subject you would like to study at university or follow as a career. Last year 60% of our students achieved grades A* to A!
Lecture Series We invite a range of organisations – from local and national businesses, to universities, alumnae, literary and political figures – to present weekly lectures to our Sixth Form. This broadens your knowledge, opens your eyes to other perspectives and possibilities and gives you a greater learning experience. Topics can range from choosing your degree and writing your personal statement, to starting a career in law or the latest developments in healthcare. Organisations in the past have included esteemed establishments including King’s College and Birmingham University
Computer Science AS The Computer Science AS is a one year course covering the core principles of computing. The course covers topics from practical programming and networked systems to computer architecture and the social impacts of technological innovations.
Sports
We don’t sit on our laurels at Beaconsfield High School, in fact we have a remarkable PE department run by staff who compete at national sporting level themselves. The team loves to encourage the student body into sport, whether you’re studying at A-Level, you’ve played hockey your whole life or fancy having a go at netball for the first time; that’s why all Sixth Formers take part in PE at least once a week.
Personal Development You’ll take part in weekly seminars, workshops and debating forums that broaden your horizons, knowledge and skills. The focus will be on personal, social, health and citizenship education (PSHCE), interwoven with sessions on planning your future. Expect topics such as communication skills, mindfulness, CV writing, personal statement preparation, cooking on a budget, diversity and equality, mental health and managing your finances.
Duke of Edinburgh (Optional)
We are a directly Licenced centre offering Gold, Silver and Bronze level, with in-house, experienced leaders. After your experiences on the DofE scheme you’ll be a confident and self-assured person, who is self-aware, empathetic and interacts effectively and harmoniously with other people. Combine these attributes and attitude and you’ll directly influence how successful you are, in both your personal and working life.
Fourth A-Level (Optional)
This option is only recommended for exceptionally talented students who are very academic and driven, and who are comfortable with the additional commitment needed to achieve the highest levels of success. Please see the FAQs for more information on when to consider a fourth A-Level.
Enriching Experiences Student Leadership We have a very active, vocal and confident student body, led by a strong Sixth Form Student Leadership team made up of Head Girl, Deputies and Prefects. Staff not only respect the voice of the student body, but relish the opportunity to work with them to develop and enact change. The Student Council and the Prefect team unite students across all years, meeting regularly to discuss and action improvements and new ideas. The Sixth Form Student Council focuses on the needs of the Sixth Form, with big plans for continuous improvements to the facilities, such as study areas and classes and learning opportunities like travelling experiences, such as to South Africa. There are lots of rewarding personal development opportunities through our growing Widening Participation initiative. Our Widening Participation initiative undertakes outreach projects aiming to accelerate the progress of disadvantaged primary school pupils in our local area. Year 12 students are deployed on a bespoke programme according to primary school requests and they work one-to-one with Year 3-6 pupils helping with maths, times tables, spelling and reading several times a week, as well as supporting when primary schools visit the site. We have links with secondary schools when our Year 12 students provide 'remote tutoring' in subjects like Maths, English and Science. There are a whole breadth of societies in operation at the school, and there is always hunger for new groups to be created. These are typically led and organised by Sixth Formers, allowing for further leadership opportunities and educational gain, and are attended by Sixth Form and younger students with mutual interests. Will you be joining any of our clubs? Why not start your own?
MEDSOC | MUN | Amnesty International | Science Club | Bar Mock Trial | Economics Society | Becky Highlights Magazine | Psychology Society | Young Enterprise | Learning Support Volunteering | Working Party Group
Creative spirits Expand your creative self in drama, dance, music and art when you join our Sixth Form. From school plays to the Rock Challenge dance competition, the chance to join our Senior Choir and Senior Strings, plus our Symphony Orchestra and Wind Band, and take part in annual concerts – we offer exciting and thrilling opportunities to become the best you can be. For artists, our hallways are your gallery; but we don’t just stop there, we work with local businesses to showcase your talent to the wider community too.
Passion for sport Whatever your sporting ability, your interest and enthusiasm will be celebrated and encouraged with us. You may join one of our elite teams, including indoor hockey, netball and gymnastics and compete at national level or get involved in senior netball, swimming, cross country and hockey that are open to all. All Sixth Formers can take on the Level 3 Sports Leaders award, which also offers UCAS points.
Social butterflies Our community spirit is not just developed during school time – our Marketing & Events Prefects are tasked to develop a calendar of fun events to ensure Sixth Formers connect across the two years. Our PE department runs an annual Sports Dinner to celebrate the amazing achievements of our students and, of course, the finale event is the Prom, a glamorous event to bid farewell to your time with us!
Educational visits We offer students a range of opportunities for external learning and experiences, across our whole spectrum of subjects. If politics or history interests you, the Model United Nations club gets involved in inter-school and international conferences. And each year we nominate students to take part in the Lessons from Auschwitz event, where students visit the site and pass on their experiences and new perspectives when they return. For the musically talented, our bi-annual trips offer the chance to immerse yourself in a musical hotspot – we visited Prague in 2016, and in 2018 Barcelona. Our Sports and Physical Education students visit various countries to learn more about the sport and its connection to the culture. There are few places that combine so many natural wonders as Iceland, which is why our Geography department takes Sixth Formers every 2-3 years. Waterfalls, glaciers, geysers and extreme temperatures are just some of the marvels you’ll learn more about. Our Dance department leads a tour to New York, where America’s artistic heart lies, to enable students to be inspired by some of the greatest performers of the moment. CERN is the European Organization for Nuclear Research, one of the world's largest and most respected centres for scientific research – and our students have the chance to visit the site and expand their scientific minds. Our full tour listing is on the website.
Exclusive facilities With valuable input from the Year 12 Student Council we have developed dedicated areas for Sixth Formers, including study and social areas, and a silent zone for focused learning. We are continuously working to create an environment conducive to the dedication and focus our Sixth Formers give to their studies.
Mobile technology/BYOD The school is a Bring Your Own Device spot, and we encourage you to bring your preferred devices to school to aide your learning. We have improved Wi-Fi available to all students, and also offer training on how to keep yourself safe online.
“The Sixth Form management team is very supportive and is there to help us with whatever problem we may face, whether it be an issue with school or something personal.� Maya, Year 13
Support Every Step of the Way The Sixth Form Management Team Our students enjoy a close and supportive relationship with the Sixth Form management team. Directed by Mrs Williams with Year 12 and Year 13 headed up by Mrs Ing and with Mrs Greenwood supporting as Sixth Form Administrator, our students feel understood, encouraged and reassured that their futures are in good hands. Mrs Ing and Mrs Greenwood are strategically placed in the recently installed Sixth Form study space so that students can pop by on a daily basis for advice and guidance on all manner of educational, career and personal matters. The inclusive and supportive heart of Beaconsfield High School couldn’t be more obvious than from this hub of activity.
Tutoring Sixth Form students have one-to-one support from their tutors, whether from a mentoring, nurturing or coaching perspective. Additionally, once the Year 13s have left after A Levels their tutors work directly with the Year 12s to support them on the UCAS process and, where appropriate, full support is given to prepare early entrants for conservatoires and Oxbridge courses, including medicine, dentistry and veterinary sciences.
University coaching We coach students in preparation for the interviews and the additional tests required by the top universities. Mock interviews, preparation for admission tests like UKCAT, BMAT, LNAT, TSA, STEP and AEA, along with role play and seminars all thoroughly prepare you for this part of the process. This kind of support ensures that 75% of our students achieve an offer at their first choice university. Our librarian also helps to hone your skills in research and referencing in readiness for in-depth study, tests and dissertations at university.
Career coaching Preparation for future careers starts in earnest during Sixth Form. Your ambitions may well not be the same as some of your peers but whatever route you are thinking of going, our expert team – who come from many different avenues themselves – will expertly advise you. One-to-one consultations cover the whole journey, from considering the best line of work, to degrees, vocational courses and higher apprenticeships, and making the transition from student to employee. If your next step is straight into work we’ll help you prepare, from briefing you on the expectations that will be placed on you to how to write your rolewinning CV. It’s an exciting time, whatever route you choose, and we’re right there with you. We arrange events and activities to support your ambitions Career speed dating | Lectures by industry experts | Higher Education Fairs | Apprenticeship talks | Professional interviews
“When it’s time to submit the UCAS application there is a very supportive team that reviews everything three times to give us the best possible chance of getting places in the top universities.” Fleur, Year 13
Learn More About Our Sixth Form Open Evenings & Tours We host open evenings and tours to give potential students and their parents a taste of what our Sixth Form is like, as well as the opportunity to learn more about the subjects, teachers and additional learning initiatives. Please check our website for dates.
Meet Your Peers We offer a series of induction days for you to connect with your future peers and to immerse yourself in the experience of our Sixth Form. We’ll invite you in to meet with the Sixth Form leaders and team, take tours of the school and our extensive facilities and also spend time with the Prefect Team to understand more about our leadership opportunities. And once you join us as a Year 12 you can look forward to team building days and activities, which will unite you with your Year 12 peers as well as the Year 13s.
Be Social Another great way to keep up-to-date with everything the school and Sixth Form are doing – whether you are already a student or joining us afresh – is to follow our social media channels. We’re looking forward to seeing you there!
Apply to Join Us We welcome students who are driven, have a strong work ethic, are academically ambitious and have a vision for their future. To join our Sixth Form, you will need a minimum of 44 points from your best 8 GCSE results. The following must apply: • GCSE Maths and English must be at Grade 5 or above • You must achieve the minimum GCSE grades required in your intended subjects of study, as detailed in our Curriculum Criteria table opposite • We receive a recommendation from your current school (external students only) GCSE point scores will be calculated as below: Grade
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
Point score
9
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
All of the A-Level options available to start in September 2019 can be viewed here: www.beaconsfieldhigh.bucks.sch.uk/A-Level-Options. Once you are ready, please complete the Application Form on the website and return it by the deadline to the Sixth Form Office or email to ingk@beaconsfieldhigh.bucks.sch.uk. You can review each subject in detail on our website. Postal Address: Sixth Form Applications Beaconsfield High School Wattleton Road Beaconsfield HP9 1RR Note: We will do everything we can to run the courses outlined on our curriculum. However, where we don’t have sufficient interest we may need to cease certain courses and will work with you to find another that is suited to your strengths and your future aspirations.
A-Level Course
Our Entry Criteria (44 points + the below)
This is a summary of our entry criteria. Please also refer to the full details: www.beaconsfieldhigh.bucks.sch.uk/A-Level-Options Biology
GCSE/iGCSE Grade 7 or higher in GCSE Biology OR two GCSE Grade 7s (or higher) in Additional Science
Business Studies
GCSE Grade 6 in Mathematics and English, or Grade 6 in Business Studies
Chemistry
GCSE/iGCSE Grade 7 or higher in GCSE Chemistry OR two GCSE Grade 7s (or higher) in Additional Science
Computer Science (A or AS Level)
GCSE Maths Grade 6
Dance
GCSE Grade 6 Dance + some dance experience
Drama and Theatre Studies
GCSE Grade 6 English and Drama experience
Economics
GCSE Grade 6 English + Grade 6 Maths
English Language and Literature
GCSE Grade 6 in English Language and Literature
English Literature
GCSE Grade 6 Literature + Language
Fine Art
GCSE Grade 6 in Art, Textiles or Graphics
Geography
GCSE Grade 6 Geography
Graphic Communication
GCSE Grade 6 in Graphics, Art or Textiles
History and Early Modern History
GCSE Grade 6 History
Latin
GCSE Grade 7 Latin
Mathematics and Further Mathematics
GCSE Grade 7 Maths and Higher Maths + A in iGCSE Grade 9 Maths for Further Maths
Media Studies
GCSE Grade 6 English Language
Modern Foreign Languages: French and Spanish
GCSE Grade 7 French / Spanish
Music
GCSE Music Grade 7 + Grade 6 on an instrument
Physical Education
GCSE preferred + GCSE Science Grade 4/5 + one main sport
Physics
GCSE/iGCSE Grade 7 or higher in GCSE Physics OR two GCSE Grade 7s (or higher) in Additional Science
Politics
GCSE Grade 6 English or History
Psychology
GCSE Grade 6 in Maths and a Science
Religious Studies
GCSE Grade 6 English Language
Sociology
GCSE Grade 6 English
Textiles
GCSE Grade 6 in Textiles, Art or Graphics
Those wishing to apply for A-Level Art also have the option to complete a set of activities before an interview.
“The teachers are very approachable and want to help us to achieve our full potential. They are more than happy to provide support both in and out of lessons.� Jasven, Year 12
Arts/Humanities
University Degrees
Suggested A-Level Course Combinations
American Studies Archaeology Dance English Fine Art/Art History Government & Politics Modern Foreign Language Music Theology Agriculture/Biochemistry Biology/Botany/ Ecology/Zoology Chemical Engineering
English or History Most subjects acceptable Dance English + MFL useful Art + portfolio History, Politics + English & MFL Politics, History, Economics, Maths, MFL or Geography A‐Level in the main language + one other language Music + Grade 7 performance preferred RS not essential + MFL, English or History Chemistry essential + Maths, Physics or Biology
Chemistry
Chemistry & Biology Two of Chemistry, Maths or Physics Chemistry and at least one from Maths, Physics or Biology Maths typically Chemistry and two from Maths, Physics or Biology
Engineering (including Civil, Electronic/Electrical, Production & Mechanical)
Maths & Physics essential
Food Science/Nutrition Geology Maths Medicine Nursing Opthalmic Optics Pharmacy/Pharmacology Physics Veterinary Science Accountancy
Chemistry may be preferred Combination of the sciences + Geography useful Maths essential + Chemistry & Biology Chemistry and two from Maths, Physics or Biology Chemistry & Biology preferred Minimum of two sciences Chemistry and two from Maths, Physics or Biology Physics and Maths Chemistry, Biology & Physics Maths preferred
Architecture
Maths & Physics useful. Aptitude for Art desirable + portfolio
Business Studies Economics Education
Maths, Business Studies, MFL, Economics useful Maths/Economics preferred + History A‐Level in specialist subject + GCSE English & Maths
Geography
Geography preferred + Biology, MFL, History, Maths, Chemistry useful
Other courses
Science Courses
Computer Science Dentistry
Leisure Industry Law Philosophy Psychology Sociology (including social work)
Business Studies/Economics useful History, MFL, English, Politics, Maths + critical thinking all useful Maths, Politics & MFL useful Psychology or a science useful Economics, History, Maths useful (A‐Level Sociology not always required)
“There are a range of leadership opportunities, including Prefect roles, work experience placements and student mentoring. It’s a great way to take on responsibility and develop important life skills.� Hannah, Year 12
“The school had the perfect selection of A-Level options for me, which is enabling me to prepare for my next step – training in Medicine.” Sophie, Year 12
FAQs Are the entry requirements the same for external applicants as they are for existing students? The application process and requirements are exactly the same, although every applicant is reviewed and considered individually. What is the dress code for Sixth Formers? We expect you to wear smart business dress at all times. Trainers and leggings are not permitted. Sixth Form privileges include a dress down day every Friday. More detailed information on the dress code will be in your information pack. I’m thinking about taking a fourth A-Level. What do I need to consider? We highly recommend that any student considering 4 A-Levels should achieve at least 60 points at GCSE. You should consider all other commitments, as the results for your best 3 A-Levels should remain the priority. What are facilitating subjects? Do I need to study three to get a place at University? The 8 recognised facilitating subjects are Mathematics and Further Mathematics, English Literature, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Geography, History and Languages (Classical and Modern). Not all of your courses have to be facilitating subjects, although if you are unsure at this stage what you would like to study at university, taking at least two facilitating subjects will give you a wider range of choice. Do I have to do the EPQ or Computer Science as part of my A-Level programme? I’d rather focus on another area of interest. The EPQ and Computer Science AS are both widely recognised and valued by universities, and by including it in the programme we are ensuring you have the best possible opportunity to access your preferred university.
What will the size of the classes be? Until students have chosen their preferred courses, we cannot advise. However, these are always developed to create the optimum learning environment. Is it possible to amend my options once the application form has been submitted? We will always try to accommodate changes after the submission deadline however, if we have started planning our option blocks and timetables, we cannot guarantee that a change will be possible. Any request to change should be made using the appropriate form, available on the Sixth Form area of the VLE or by requesting from the Sixth Form team (for external applicants only). Can I change a subject if I find I am not enjoying it once I have started? Within the first two weeks of the new term we will try to accommodate changes wherever possible, dependent on space in the new subject choice, option blocks and timetables. After this time it will not be possible, due to the pace of work for A-Level students. How will you determine my predicted grade for UCAS? The grade is based on the professional judgement of our staff and will take into account internal and any external exam results, along with your attitude and commitment to learning. We have an excellent reputation for accurate predictions. Is there any financial support to assist my time in Sixth Form? The Government offers financial support, via the 16-19 Bursary, to families in need when students embark on Further Education after the age of 16. Further information about this is available on our website.
“Being able to continue my studies at this school alongside my oldest friends is fantastic, and means that we have fun as well as working hard.� Ella, Year 12
Be part of something remarkable – join us.
www.beaconsfieldhigh.bucks.sch.uk/A-Level-Options Contact us for more information and assistance: 01494 673043 sixthform@beaconsfieldhigh.bucks.sch.uk
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BEACONSFIELD HIGH SCHOOL Wattleton Road, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire HP9 1RR