The Bedford Sixth Form Prospectus 2019-20

ent l l e c x E resulttusdents our s In 2018 ed a 99% achiev rate pass

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WELCOME TO THE BEDFORD SIXTH FORM

ACHIEVE GREAT THINGS Discover more: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk 3

OPEN DAYS

CONTENTS

4

Welcome from the Head

5

Why study with us?

7

A-Level results

8

Distinguished destinations

10

Spectacular range of subjects

12

Entry requirements

13

Our curriculum

14-27

Enrichment

28-31

Student ambassadors

32

Fantastic facilities

34

Strong support

37

Fees and funding

38

Financial support

40

Travel and transport

42

Parents’ Q&A

45

How to apply

46

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Meet our talented teachers, see our fantastic facilities, talk to our student ambassadors and find out how we will help you achieve great things: Wednesday 3 October 2018 5.00pm-7.30pm Thursday 8 November 2018 5.00pm-7.30pm Wednesday 23 January 2019 5.00pm-7.30pm Tuesday 2 April 2019 5.00pm-7.30pm Thursday 22 August 2019 10.00am-4.00pm (GCSE Advice Day) Pre-register your place now at www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/opendays

WELCOME FROM THE HEAD As the only institution in Bedford to focus solely on sixth form study, we achieve excellent results and you benefit from our specialist expertise.

In 2018 our A-Level students achieved a 99% pass rate and most went on to the university destination of their choice, including many prestigious Russell Group universities.

Building further on our previous success, in 2018 our proportion of high grades at A-Level increased by 2%, enabling yet more of our students to get to their first choice university.

Our excellent teachers are not only subject specialists but experts in teaching 16-19 year olds, so you will directly benefit from their focused knowledge and experience. What’s more, our beautiful, period building offers you a legacy of great education combined with the latest, modern facilities, which will further develop your academic performance.

We are confident that if you join us, you will not only make new friends, enjoy your time and learn new things, but you will achieve great results. Be inspired by reading the profiles from our students throughout this prospectus and see page 10 for a recent list of our students’ university destinations.

Our Open Days are the perfect opportunity to see what we can offer you; please see the opposite page for a list of dates. I look forward to meeting you soon.

Paul Clarkson Headteacher, The Bedford Sixth Form

Discover more: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk 5

EXCELLENT RESULTS In our latest survey 97% of our leavers went on to further study, work or a gap year.

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WHY STUDY WITH US? SPECTACULAR SPAN OF SUBJECTS

EXCITING ENRICHMENT

We offer a wide range of subjects including 32 A-Levels and four Extended Diplomas all of which enable you to progress on to university or work.

See page 12 for the full list of subjects.

Clubs and societies help you make friends and develop new skills.

STUNNING SUCCESS Our A-Level students achieved a 99% pass rate in 2018.

FANTASTIC FACILITIES Modern resources in a beautiful Victorian building.

EXPERTS

TOP-NOTCH TEACHING Many of our teachers have Masters and PhDs, are experts in their subjects and sit on examining boards so you can learn from the very best.

DISTINGUISHED DESTINATIONS In our latest survey 97% of our school leavers went on to further study, work or a gap year.

1 Source: University of Southampton research 2012

We’re experts in teaching at sixth form level so you have more chance to excel. Research has proved that students who study at specialist sixth forms like us are more likely to get top grades at A-Level than those in schools.1

STRONG SUPPORT Your own personal tutor, UCAS specialists and a team of support professionals will help you achieve your best.

Discover more: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk 7

OUR 2018 A-LEVEL RESULTS SUBJECT

ENTRIES

A*-C%

A*-C

A*-E%

A*-E

Biology

12

58%

7

100%

12

Business

21

62%

13

100%

21

Chemistry

10

70%

7

100%

10

Communication & Culture

9

89%

8

100%

9

Computer Science

8

88%

7

100%

8

Dance

6

67%

4

100%

6

Drama & Theatre

14

93%

13

100%

14

Economics

17

47%

8

100%

17

English Language & Literature

35

66%

23

100%

35

English Literature

25

64%

16

96%

24

Film Studies

11

91%

10

100%

11

Fine Art

21

62%

13

95%

20

French

4

75%

3

100%

4

Further Mathematics

3

33%

1

100%

3

Geography

13

77%

10

100%

13

German

6

100%

6

100%

6

Graphic Communication

6

83%

5

100%

6

History

32

75%

24

97%

31

Italian

1

100%

1

100%

1

Law

26

69%

18

96%

25

Mathematics

19

74%

14

100%

19

Media

13

100%

13

100%

13

Philosophy

19

47%

9

100%

19

Photography

22

86%

19

100%

22

Physics

11

82%

9

100%

11

Politics

20

55%

11

95%

19

Psychology

38

84%

32

100%

38

Sociology

32

84%

27

100%

32

Spanish

4

100%

4

100%

4

10

60%

6

100%

10

467

73%

339

99%

461

Textile Design TOTAL

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In their latest report Ofsted rated us ‘Good’ with Outstanding features

Discover more: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk 9

DISTINGUISHED DESTINATIONS

From Criminology to Engineering, whatever university course you want to study we will help you get a place. Our alumni are studying a broad range of subjects at some excellent universities across the UK, including prestigious Russell Group Institutions.

Accounting and Finance at University of Northampton

Criminology and Sociology at Anglia Ruskin University

English Literature with Publishing Media at Oxford Brookes University

Acting and Performance at University for the Creative Arts

Criminology at Nottingham Trent University

English at University of Derby

Aerospace Engineering at University of Central Lancashire

Criminology at University of Leicester

English Language and Media at De Montfort University

Aerospace Systems Engineering with Pilot Studies at University of Hertfordshire

Criminology with Psychology at University of Portsmouth

English Literature and History at Keele University

Cultural and Media Studies at University of Leeds

English Literature with Creative Writing at University of Hertfordshire

Architecture at Birmingham City University Art and History of Art at University of Reading

Dance at Plymouth University

Art at University of Reading

Digital Marketing at University of Portsmouth

Bioarchaeology at University of York Biomedical Science at Anglia Ruskin University Business and Marketing at De Montfort University Business Management and Economics at De Montfort University Business Management and Marketing at Nottingham Trent University Business Management at The University of Essex Chemistry at Loughborough University Chemistry at University of Leicester Computer Science at The University of Nottingham Computer Science at The University of Sheffield Computer Science at University of York Crime and Investigative Studies at Anglia Ruskin University

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Dance at De Montfort University

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Digital Media Arts at University of Surrey Drama and English Literature at Edge Hill University Drama at Queen Mary University of London Early Childhood Studies at Anglia Ruskin University Economics at City, University of London Economics at De Montfort University Economics at Loughborough University Economics at University of Northampton Electrical and Electronic Engineering at The University of Nottingham Electronic and Computer Engineering with Professional Development at Brunel University London English and History at Nottingham Trent University

@bedfordsixthform

English at Queen Mary University of London Events Management at University of Lincoln Extended Degree in Business at Sheffield Hallam University Fashion Business and Promotion at Birmingham City University Fashion Buying with Marketing at De Montfort University Fashion Design at Leeds Arts University Fashion Media and Promotion at University for the Creative Arts (UCA) Film and Screen Studies at University of Brighton Film Studies at Queen Mary University of London Film Studies at Sheffield Hallam University Forensic Computing and Security at Bournemouth University Geography at University of Hertfordshire

Geography at University of Newcastle upon Tyne Global Business Management at Coventry University Graphic Arts at University of Southampton Graphic Design at University of East London Graphic Design at University of Lincoln History at Plymouth University History at Queen Mary Univeristy of London History at The University of Sheffield History at University of Southampton Illustration and Animation at Coventry University Interior Architecture and Design at Coventry University Interior Architecture at Universtiy of Bedfordshire International Business and Economics at Aston University International Relations at Loughborough University Journalism at De Montfort University Law and Criminal Justice at De Montfort University Law and Economics at De Montfort University Law at Nottingham Trent University Law at University of Bedfordshire Law at University of Hertfordshire Law at Lancaster University

Management with Marketing at University of Leeds

Psychology at Nottingham Trent University

Marketing at Nottingham Trent University

Psychology at The University of Buckingham

Marketing at University of Leicester

Psychology at The University of Kent

Modern History and Politics at University of Essex

Psychology with Criminology at Loughborough University

Modern Languages at University of Portsmouth

Social Work at The University of Essex

Modern Languages with Business at The University of Nottingham

Social Work at The University of Stirling

Neuroscience at The University of Nottingham

Sociology at University of Essex

Nursing at University of Hertfordshire

Sociology at The University of Sheffield

Nursing Children's and Mental Health at University of Southampton

Sociology at Study Abroad At University of Exeter

Nursing with Registration at University of Bedfordshire Occupational Therapy at Sheffield Hallam University Philosophy and English Language and Linguistics at The University of Kent

Specialist Sports Journalism at University of Derby Sport Science at St Mary's University

Philosophy at University of Southampton Photography at Birmingham City University Photography at Nottingham Trent University Politics and International Relations at Queen Mary Univeristy of London Politics, Philosophy and Economics at Queen’s University Belfast Primary Education with QTS at Birmingham City University Psychology with Counselling Skills at Middlesex University Psychology at Anglia Ruskin University Psychology at Loughborough University

Discover more: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk 11

SPECTACULAR RANGE OF SUBJECTS You can pick and choose from our wide range of A-Levels and Diplomas to ensure you achieve the best qualifications to progress on to university or work. We recommend you choose up to four from the following: Biology Business Chemistry Classical Civilisation Computer Science Dance* Drama* Economics English Language & Literature English Literature Film Studies

Fine Art* French Further Mathematics Geography German Graphic Communication* History Italian Law Mathematics Media Studies

Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma in Business Sport

Philosophy Photography* Physical Education Physics Politics Psychology Sociology Spanish Statistics Textiles*

Health & Social Care

BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science

A-LEVELS

FOUNDATION AND EXTENDED DIPLOMAS

A-Levels are academic, examination-based qualifications recognised as a traditional qualification to gain entry to university and higher education.

Foundation and Extended Diplomas are equivalent to A-Levels but are assessed via a combination of coursework and exams. Foundation and Extended Diplomas enable you to progress on to university, higher apprenticeships or employment. The Foundation Diploma can be gained as a qualification at the end of the first year of the Extended Diploma course.

A-Levels focus mainly on academic subjects and qualify for UCAS points (maximum 140 points per A-Level.) *With the exception of the Arts & Performing Arts subjects identified above, students may be entered for the AS examinations at the end of year 1.

Please note that courses are subject to change.

Please visit: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/courses for the latest list of courses we offer.

YOUR CHOICES AT THE BEDFORD SIXTH FORM Typically you study here for two years: I n your first year you have the opportunity to take a combination of four A-Levels or an Extended Diploma with up to two A-Levels.

I f you take A-Levels you may sit an AS examination at the end of your first year. This will help you to decide which subjects to continue with in your second year.

T ypically you will continue with three A-Level subjects in your second year, or the Extended Diploma plus one A-Level.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

New GCSE Grades The new GCSEs were awarded in August 2018 using a new grading system. The new GCSEs are graded 9–1, rather than A*–G, with grade 9 being the highest and set above the old A*. Grade 4 is broadly equivalent to the old grade C. OLD GCSE Grading Structure

NEW GCSE Grading Structure 9 8 7

A* A B C D E F G U

GOOD PASS RATE

Department for Education (DfE) C and above = 4 and above

6 5 4 3 2 1 U

The Bedford Sixth Form Entry Requirements All students must meet the minimum entry requirements which are: • Grade 4 or C in English Language, and at least a Grade 3 or D in Maths • At least 5 subjects at GCSE grade 4 or C (No more than 1 BTEC counted towards total, and this must be at Merit or above) • Average GCSE Points score of best 8 GCSEs of 4+ / 38+ • If you wish to study a subject you have previously studied, you must have achieved at least a GCSE grade C, or BTEC Merit.

• In addition there may be special entry requirements for certain subject's. For the most up-to-date information on subject specific requirements please visit www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/downloads Discover more: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk 13

OUR CURRICULUM SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY & MATHS (STEM)

For more information visit: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/subjects

Applied Science / Biology / Chemistry / Computer Science / Mathematics / Further Mathematics / Physics / Statistics STUDYING A STEM SUBJECT

UNIVERSITY AND BEYOND

Choosing one or more of these subjects at A-Level will enable you to study the subject at degree level or branch into other developing areas such as engineering or advanced manufacturing. Perhaps you already know you want to go into medicine, consultancy or IT, or maybe your A-Level study will help you to explore new avenues?

Science A-Levels are required as entrance for most Medicine and Veterinary courses, in addition to a range of other science related degrees. Graduates with science degrees are in great demand in the UK. For example, the salary of an average Physics graduate is up to 30% more than someone with just A-Levels.3

New STEM roles are expected to double in the next decade, but the shortfall of skilled workers is apparent with 89% of STEM businesses struggling to recruit.1 Taking the university route to these industries will give you nationally recognised qualifications and a range of career path options with excellent earning potential.2

An A-Level in Mathematics is highly regarded by both universities and potential employers, as it shows an interest in logic, problem solving and looking at situations sometimes in an abstract way. If you choose to continue Maths at university, a Maths degree can earn you £220,000 more on average over your lifetime than someone with just two A-Levels (the equivalent average for a graduate of any degree is £129,000).4

SUBJECT AREA HIGHLIGHTS

To review all your options visit: www.nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk

Trips, guest lecturers and university visits are pivitol to our STEM subjects – great for focusing your learning and enabling you to look at things from a different point of view. Science students are kept busy with a range of trips to the British Science Museum, National History Museum and external planned lectures, as well as plenty of opportunities for practical investigations.

1

https://www.stem.org.uk/news-and-views/news/ skills-shortage-costing-stem-sector-15bn 2 https://semta.org.uk/images/pdf/SAS_learner_ pathway_infographic.pdf 3 http://www.futuremorph.org/ 4 www.mathscareers.org.uk

Our Maths students have lots of opportunities to bring their learning to life and discuss various issues with experts in the subject, plus revision sessions hosted by guest lecturers in the lead up to exams. Maths students also get to visit the Open University for a special Maths lecture, adding breadth to the course content.

All of our students benefit from a host of modern PCs running the latest software, but our Computing students will really benefit from the cutting edge kit to bring their studies to life.

They'll gain a broad educational basis for further education or for moving into employment within the IT sector.

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PETER'S STORY Previous School: Harlington Upper School Next Destination: University of Nottingham Subjects: Maths, Physics, Computer Science Studying at The Bedford Sixth Form is hard work but a lot of fun. It’s more independent than school and provides a better learning environment. There are lots of different spaces for individual study, big classrooms, plenty of computers and it is located very close to the town centre.

Within just a few weeks of starting from school I felt like I’d been here a long time; it was easy to make friends and start afresh. I joined the football club and became a Student Ambassador, representing the Physics department at open days and welcome events.

"The teachers are professional and supportive, while helping to create that relaxed learning environment."

My favourite subject has to be Maths. A-Level demands more complex problem solving than you have to tackle at GCSE, and new areas such as Mechanics enable you to relate what you learn to the real world.

Computer Science is really good fun and I am going on to University of Nottingham after Sixth Form to study the subject further. I’ve always been interested in it and enjoy coding at home, as well as creating projects and ideas out of nothing. Eventually I’d like to work within a large computing firm as a Software Developer.

Discover more: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk 15

DAISY'S STORY Previous school: Mark Rutherford School Subjects: Dance, Textiles, English Literature, Media I’ve always had a passion for sewing and textiles and The Bedford Sixth Form was one of the few places to offer Textiles at A-Level. I enjoy all of the practical work and would like to continue my interest after sixth form and study a degree such as Fashion Marketing at university, with a view to a career in fashion or design.

I have also danced since a young age; mostly jazz and ballet when I was younger. It is great to be able to study Dance here. I really enjoy being taught new techniques and we mainly focus on ballet and contemporary. We did a show around Easter time when we performed our exam pieces, which included a trio and a solo.

"All of the teachers here are really good. The dance studio is great with mirrors, a sprung floor and barre.

The Learning Resources Centre is another good facility."

Overall it’s been a good first year and I look forward to taking a year out to travel in between finishing my A-Levels and starting university.

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For more information visit: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/subjects

ENGLISH & COMMUNICATION

Drama / English Language & Literature / English Literature / Film Studies / Media Studies STUDYING A COMMUNICATIONS SUBJECT

UNIVERSITY AND BEYOND

The world today is rich in content and we have become used to communicating through all sorts of different media.

Businesses worldwide continue to feed us with blogs, social media posts and video content, which means we are consuming vast amounts of material everyday. Studying any of these communications subjects will involve examining all types of material and developing skills of analysis, interpretation, communication and argument. Such skills are integral to a range of careers, in law, teaching, journalism, marketing and many others.

Successful completion of these courses will open up opportunities to study a number of university degree programmes, such as English, Sociology, Philosophy, Media and Humanities, as well as Film, Television or Media Studies.

Subjects such as Drama can be studied as a single discipline, or as a part of a combined degree with a vast range of subjects. There are plenty of exciting career options post university and the UK’s creative economy is said to be growing at a higher rate than other sectors, accounting for almost 10% of the overall economy. 5

The study of English in all its forms is valued highly by universities, and in a wide variety of career paths as well. If you wish to study Drama, Film Studies or Media Studies at A-Level then you should be creative, have a strong interest in the subject and desire to develop your skills.

To review all your options visit: www.nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk 5

https://ahrc.ukri.org/innovation/creative-economy-research/

SUBJECT AREA HIGHLIGHTS In order to study different forms of content, students need to get out and digest the material in the real world; so we make sure you have plenty of opportunities to do just that.

Guest speakers are often invited in to give valuable input across a range of courses, and various trips are organised to places of cultural interest.

Visits to the theatre are an integral part of the English courses, where you will watch adaptations of works that you are studying. Trips are also arranged to the British Library to ensure that you get hold of all the resources you need for your learning, as well as inviting in lecturers from the University of Bedfordshire to talk on topics including modern and contemporary literature.

Previously the screenplay writer Mike Carey, the author of 'The Girl With All The Gifts', came in to talk to our Film and Media students. The students also entered a short film competition with the British Film Institute, visited the Institute’s library in London and even took a trip to the Big Apple, New York City!

Discover more: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk 17

HARLEY'S STORY Previous school: Harlington Upper School Next Destination: University of Chester Subjects: Business, English Literature, Maths My time at The Bedford Sixth Form has been really enjoyable and I just don’t want it to end! The most important thing for me when leaving school was to study somewhere where you are treated as an adult and that’s what I’ve enjoyed about being here.

"The teachers are all very friendly and approachable, and the facilities are excellent. There are lots of study spaces, a good library with long opening hours and even a discounted gym and swimming pool onsite for students to use."

I enjoy studying Business and the theories that you learn and can apply to different areas of life. Maths is quite hard, but I really like it! Statistics is easiest and Mechanics is a lot like Physics. It’s all exam based.

I’ve always wanted to be a Primary School Teacher and being at the Sixth Form has enabled me to spend one afternoon a week assisting in a lower school to gain experience and enhance my UCAS application. I’ve always loved working with children and am going to University of Chester in September to study Primary Education with a view to gaining Qualified Teacher Status.

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ADETOKUNBOH'S STORY Previous school: John F Kennedy Catholic School, Hemel Hempstead Subjects: Sport, Physics, Maths I came to study at The Bedford Sixth Form because I wanted to try something new.

"It was the great facilities here that made up my mind; the ICT suite in particular is a really nice place to go and study."

My favourite subject is Sport and I enjoy all of the practical work. We have a gym, sports hall and swimming pool on site and it’s great to be able to have everything so close to hand. I play on a football team outside of Sixth Form, which also helps with the course. There is a lot of theory content but the teachers are all very good and will help you wherever they can.

The highlight for me so far has definitely been meeting so many new people.

Once I finish at Sixth Form I am hoping to go on to university to study Sports Engineering, which basically looks at the technical aspects behind the different sports. I’m not sure yet exactly what I’d like to do as a career, but it will no doubt be something in the sport industry.

Discover more: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk 19

For more information visit: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/subjects

THE ARTS & SPORTS

Dance / Fine Art / Graphics / Photography / Physical Education / Sport / Textiles STUDYING AN ARTS SUBJECT Did you know that the UK’s creative industries are worth more than £36 billion a year and employ 1.5 million people across the country?6 A wide range of degree courses can provide you with the perfect step up to a career in the arts, including fine art, architecture, interior design, graphic design, fashion and surface pattern design, painting and printing, as well as a number of combined courses.

Whether you have always had a passion for one of these subjects, or you are developing an interest for the first time, choosing to study at A-Level will give you the practical and theoretical studies to enhance your knowledge and prepare you for university. As a dancer, for example, a qualification could see you develop a career as a professional dancer, West End performer, teacher, community dance artist, or arts manager.

SUBJECT AREA HIGHLIGHTS Our Art & Design studios are truly inspiring spaces. Students take part in a number of external events including gallery trips to The Tate Modern, National Portrait Gallery, V&A and the Barbican. There may also be an opportunity to visit a European city; in 2017 our students spent a few days in Barcelona, sketching and photographing the city’s incredible architecture.

Extra-curricular life drawing classes may be available and you will have access to the latest printmaking facilities, Adobe products, scanners and photography equipment.

Our Sports students are given the opportunity to achieve recognised sporting leadership qualifications, such as the Rugby Football Union Rugby Leaders Level 1 Award. In lessons, you will regularly have a chance to participate in football, dodgeball, badminton, netball, handball and fitness sessions, as well as the chance to coach fellow students. Past enrichment activities that have specifically complemented our Sports and Physical Education courses include the Intercollege rugby 7s tournament, 5-a-side

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football tournament and Bedford mixed netball tournament.

There is always plenty going on to enhance your studies and the combination of physical performance and academic challenge provides an exciting opportunity for students.

With the exception of Physical Education and Sport, the Arts subjects are all linear. This means there is no opportunity of sitting an AS exam at the end of year 1.

Students cannot choose to follow more than one of the Arts subjects i.e. Fine Arts, Graphics, Photography or Textiles.

UNIVERSITY AND BEYOND Students from Arts disciplines are being noticed for their “academic, practical skills combined with real-world knowledge” because “the nature of their degree balances their studies with extra-curricular activities” making them “work ready”, which is what employers are looking for.7 Choosing what degree to study really depends on your interests. A-Level Physical Education, for example, is an excellent base for a university degree in sports science, sports management, healthcare, or exercise and health.

Physical Education can also complement further study in biology, human biology, physics, psychology, nutrition, sociology and many more.

To review all your options visit: www.nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk 6

www.gov.uk

7

https://www.independent.co.uk/student/career-planning/creativearts-graduates-soft-skills-graduate-employment-universitysubjects-work-ready-a7095311.html

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HARRY'S STORY Previous school: Rushmoor School Subjects: Photography, Politics, Sociology I chose to study at The Bedford Sixth Form because of the range of different subjects on offer. Coming from a very small school, I also liked the large campus and opportunity to meet a variety of different people.

I’ve always enjoyed Photography as a hobby and coming here has enabled me to develop my skills academically. I really enjoy the dark room photography and the different techniques I have been introduced to.

"The teachers are very good and help with your personal development; they are always happy to give up their time to talk to you and help with whatever you need."

After Sixth Form I hope to study Business Management at university with a view to going into entrepreneurial work, perhaps within property management or architecture. My courses in Politics and Sociology have many aspects of business within them, and so it all ties together.

I have no regrets coming here whatsoever. I’ve met lots of new people and made a great group of friends. You have a fairly gentle start and then gear up to more serious study, and there is always plenty of space for work and socialising.

Discover more: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk 21

JESSICA'S STORY Previous school: Bedford Free School Subjects: History, Maths, English Literature, Politics My first year at The Bedford Sixth Form has been hard work but really rewarding. I chose to come here because it offered me the option to take AS-Levels as standalone qualifications. Visiting on an open day helped me to decide on what subjects I was going to take, as there was the chance to speak to the subject teachers.

Stuart Britain and learning about Charles I and James I has been a highlight of the History course for me. It’s not something that I studied at GCSE and I found it really interesting. I’ve also enjoyed studying Hamlet in English Literature, as it’s my favourite play, and we’ve already started on next year’s work with lots of new material to read.

"All of my teachers have been so helpful; they guide you through the course and make sure you understand everything. My Personal Achievement Tutor has also been good as someone to catch up with if you have any problems. The staff in the Learning Resources Centre are very helpful and it’s generally just a lovely building to be in."

I’ve got some work experience lined up at Kempston Library over the summer and currently working through my Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme here at the Sixth Form.

When I finish next year I am planning to apply to Oxbridge to study History or a joint History & English combined degree. There is lots of support offered to help with UCAS applications and looking at career options. I’m still undecided exactly what I would like to do after graduating, but I think it will be something within History or teaching.

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For more information visit: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/subjects

HUMANITIES

Classical Civilisation / Geography / Health & Social Care / History / Law / Philosophy STUDYING A HUMANITIES SUBJECT

UNIVERSITY AND BEYOND

Having one or more A-Levels in a Humanities subject will provide you with skills that are valued by both universities and employers. These include investigation, analysis, interpretation, evaluation, communication and debate.

Did you know that 60% of the UK’s leaders have Humanities, Arts or Social Science degrees?8

Whether or not you want to pursue one of these subjects at university, you will no doubt use your newly developed skills for writing essays and dissertations, as well as carrying out effective research on your chosen degree programme.

SUBJECT AREA HIGHLIGHTS You will have lots of opportunities to get out of the classroom if you choose one of these subjects, including attending conferences, listening to guest speakers and visiting museums and parliament.

If you study Law, you will hear from the Crown Prosecution Service and lawyers who specialise in criminal defence. You will also have the opportunity to be involved in a mock trial and visit the Galleries of Justice in Nottingham, as well as the Old Bailey.

We hold membership of the Historical Association, so, if you study History, you will have plenty of opportunities to attend talks given by visiting historians.

A degree in Law could lead to becoming a legal executive, solicitor or lawyer, while studying Geography could see you progress on to studying a degree in a related subject, such as Geography, Town Planning, or an Earth Science or Environmental Management course.

However, not all humanities degrees have obvious career progression. If you choose to study Philosophy or Classical Civilisation, for instance, you will be acquiring very important skills for your future career. They are the sorts of skills that are highly sought after in almost every job, such as creativity and the ability to process lots of information.9

To review all your options visit: www.nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk 8

https://www.theguardian.com/careers/career-options-humanitiesgraduates

9

https://www.theguardian.com/careers/career-options-humanitiesgraduates

Geography students will take part in a range of external visits to support the course and gain practical experience out in the field. Various trips to sites of interest help to enhance your learning experience. In the past these have included trips to local geological sites, such as quarries in East Bedfordshire, chalk quarries on Dunstable Downs, or Ice Age deposits in the Great Ouse Valley.

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For more information visit: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/subjects

SOCIAL SCIENCES Business / Economics / Politics / Psychology / Sociology STUDYING A SOCIAL SCIENCES SUBJECT Social science is all about understanding how human society works. In today’s world, where things are constantly changing and developing, it’s an extremely interesting area of study, so it’s no surprise why so many students are choosing to progress on to Social Science degrees in higher education. Career opportunities are numerous and prospects are very good. A study back in 2013 found that there were more Social Science graduates in employment after 3.5 years of graduating than STEM graduates or Arts-Humanities graduates, and that more Social Science graduates were in managerial and senior official roles.10

SUBJECT AREA HIGHLIGHTS You will have a lot of opportunities to get out of the classroom, including attending conferences, listening to guest speakers and visiting museums and parliament. If you choose to study Business, your learning will come to life during visits to working businesses to see how things work in real life industries. We also invite local business people to give inspiring talks about their own individual journeys and area of expertise. Our Economics students have the opportunity to travel to London to attend conferences and hear views from the UK’s leading economists; a great way to stay up to date with current affairs and issues.

Studying Business and Economics opens up a wide range of further study and career options. You could go on to study a related subject at university, such as Business, Marketing or Finance, or use the analytical and problem-solving skills you will have acquired to study a different area. A large part of the business sector is consultancy; helping businesses to solve problems and enhance performance across finance, IT, human resources and planning, to name a few. The UK consulting industry is worth around £8.5 billion and employs more than 80,000 people.11 The finance sector is bigger still, employing two million people, which is around 7% of all UK employment.12 Future careers could include becoming an economist or a marketing executive.

To review all your options visit: www.nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk http://usic.sheffield.ac.uk/blog/2015/july/6-reasons-socialscience-degrees-are-so-popular 10

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UNIVERSITY AND BEYOND Having one or more A-Levels in a Humanities or Social Sciences subject will provide you with skills that are valued by both universities and employers, including investigation, analysis, interpretation, evaluation, communication and debate. In fact, 60% of the UK’s leaders have Humanities, Arts or Social Science degrees.

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GABRIELA'S STORY Previous school: St Thomas More Subjects: Psychology, Spanish, Maths Psychology was a completely new subject for me when I started at The Bedford Sixth Form and I am really enjoying it. It is a subject that you can apply to your daily life and my friends and I are always debating things from different perspectives! It’s also encouraged me to look at different career paths, such as police work and therapy, and I now have a place at Anglia Ruskin University to study Psychology.

"My two main reasons for choosing The Bedford Sixth Form were the diversity and welcoming feel, neither of which I experienced at other colleges I visited. I also like the balance between independence and support in the teaching style here."

The staff really listen to the students; the Student Voice got the hours extended in the library, which now opens very early so that you can come in and work before lessons. Also, everyone is willing to help you no matter what their role; I have been to the Head before for help with Maths that I had been stuck with!

Outside of lessons I am a Student Ambassador, which means I speak to new students at open days and welcome events, help them find where they are going and answer their questions.

The Sixth Form have helped me all the way through and have made sure I got the grades I need. I’ve had the help of my Personal Tutor, as well as a coach to help with course management and make sure everything gets done.

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FLEUR'S STORY Previous school: St Thomas More Subjects: Italian, German, English Language & Literature I had studied German, Italian and French at school and chose to carry on with languages at Sixth Form.

German is my favourite language to study because I enjoy tackling the grammar and it’s interesting to see how the language is built up quite logically. My German teacher is extremely experienced and has been teaching for a long time.

My Italian teacher has opened up some great opportunities for me; she took me along to the Rothsay Education Centre in Bedford to assist in Italian lessons (provided to anyone over 50 and not in full-time work) and give the learners some extra help and encouragement. It was a great experience to put on my UCAS application.

I now have a place to study Linguistics at Lancaster University and would like a career within languages, either working with businesses or within academia.

"Sixth Form has been a good bridge between compulsory education and the world of work because it equips you with skills that school might not have, such as meeting people from external organisations and using email to communicate."

It’s a very mature atmosphere where everyone is treated as equal. Plus, when you start here, everyone is new and so it’s easy to fall straight into a group of friends.

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LANGUAGES French / German / Italian / Spanish STUDYING A LANGUAGE

UNIVERSITY AND BEYOND

Modern languages provide practical and enjoyable lifelong skills. Whether used in the workplace or for leisure, they can open up new opportunities for communication and encourage a broader cultural understanding. As the importance of trading internationally increases, research has shown that 70% of businesses value foreign language skills.13

Whether you choose to study a language as your full degree, or incorporate a language into your module choices (if available), you will set yourself apart from the crowd in the jobs market. The skills that you will acquire will make you very attractive to employers. These include: communication, independence, organisation and an analytical mind. You will be able to apply for jobs in different countries and show that you can adapt to different situations and cultures. As long as you enjoy languages and are self motivated, the possibilities are endless. You can study a language on its own, or combine it with one or two other languages, or a completely different subject as a joint degree.14

SUBJECT AREA HIGHLIGHTS Speaking another language really makes you stand out from the crowd. You will study a range of social issues and political, historical and artistic culture within the country whose language you are studying. You will learn to speak and write in a range of situations and to express facts and opinions, as well as benefit from being taught by native speakers. There will be plenty of opportunities to be involved in local language clubs and assist in workshops, which provide great experience to enhance your UCAS application.

To review all your options visit: www.nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk 13 Changing

the pace CBI/Pearson Education & Skills Survey 2013

14 www.studyinglanguages.ac.uk

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ENRICHMENT At The Bedford Sixth Form, life doesn’t stop at the end of lessons – you can challenge yourself and achieve success in a range of extra-curricular opportunities that aim to enhance your learning experience and strengthen your UCAS application.

You might join a club because it’s already of interest and you want to learn more, or simply to add variety to your studies and try something completely new. Here are some examples of the activities we can offer, depending on your interests:

ARTS

GAMES & QUIZZES

Fibre Arts

Board Game Extravaganza Infinite Quizdom

CULTURE & MEDIA Chess Club Current Affairs Debate Club Student Newsletter

Rubik's Cube & Logic Puzzle Club

SCIENCE

The Whipworm Genome Project

MINDFULNESS Mindfulness & Wellbeing

SPORT & FITNESS Shotokan Karate Club 5-a-side Football Badminton Dodgeball Club

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT T he Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE): adventurous and fun activities, which lead to a nationally recognised award Young Enterprise: enterprise, finance programmes and masterclasses Volunteering: within local organisations, which benefit the community and your UCAS application

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ENRICHMENT WORK EXPERIENCE We encourage our students to find work placements related to their subjects or future career path. This helps them to enhance, not only their own personal development, but UCAS application and CV as well.

The Bedford Sixth Form has an award-winning careers team who provide guidance and support to those who require any help determining what type of work to pursue or in locating any work experience. We also have noticeboards and bulletin available for all students looking for part-time employment.

We have an award-winning careers team here at the Sixth Form. They will be able to help if you need any guidance or support in determining what type of work to pursue, or in locating any work experience. We also have a Job Shop noticeboard and bulletin available for all students looking for part-time employment.

TRIPS We bring learning to life through trips and visits. Here is a selection of the most recent trips our students have enjoyed:

TRIP: Athens COURSE: Classical Civilisation and Philosophy Classical Civilisation and Philosophy students enjoyed a trip to Athens.

They visited the theatre of Dionysus and Acropolis in Athens and went to the mountains at Delphi to retrieve an oracle from Apollo.... Which foretold great exam results for our Classics Students.

TRIP: British Film Institute (BFI) COURSE: Film Studies Film Studies students at The Bedford Sixth Form took a trip out to the British Film Institute for a study day, which included a preview screening of ‘Ghost Stories’ – a new British film – about an arch skeptic, Professor Phillip Goodman, who embarks upon a terror-filled quest when he stumbles across a long-lost file containing details of three cases of inexplicable 'hauntings'. The students then had the opportunity to take part in a Q&A session with the writers; Jeremy Dyson and Andy Nyman.

TRIP: Goldsmiths University COURSE: Art Our Art students met Professor Green at Goldsmiths University where they explored perceptions of identity; questioning how identity is formed through arts, science humanities and cultural settings.

They attended thought provoking workshops and discussions presented by the V&A Museum, Museum of London and Poetry Society, amongst others.

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STUDENT AMBASSADORS Becoming a Student Ambassador helps you to be more involved in Sixth Form life through a range of activities and events. It’s a fantastic opportunity to develop wider skills that both universities and employers look for.

If you are selected as a Student Ambassador you will be involved in...

I nspiring potential students at our open days and campus tours H elping new students settle in through our Welcome Day and induction M aking an impact on how The Bedford Sixth Form operates through focus groups

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FANTASTIC FACILITIES The Bedford Sixth Form’s stunning campus delivers a unique blend of modern study areas and Victorian architecture, which echoes the excellence of education that has been delivered at the site for over a century.

The new Learning Resources Centre (LRC) is linked to the wood panelled, original library and the former onsite church has been refurbished. The grand Victorian Hall is often used for students’ own private study. We think you’ll agree it’s quite a magnificent place to take your learning to another level.

TEACHING AND LEARNING SPACES Our study facilities help you make the most of your chosen subjects, including specialist art and design studios to hone your creativity, fullyequipped laboratories to explore the sciences, plus access to a dance studio and theatre for drama and performance.

IT AND INTERNET ACCESS We have a host of modern PCs – all internet-enabled and running the latest software – plus 24/7 access to Moodle, our virtual learning environment. Wi-fi is available throughout the campus.

LEARNING RESOURCES CENTRE The latest computers plus thousands of books, journals and a wide variety of electronic resources are available to you in our Learning Resources Centre (LRC), where you can find quiet spaces for individual study and areas where you can study in groups.

SPACE TO SOCIALISE At The Bedford Sixth Form there are a range of unique spaces for you and your friends to catch up and enjoy something to eat and drink, including the Hub, the Nave and the Grand Hall. We also have a new onsite Costa Coffee bar where our students can enjoy discounted coffee.

SPORT As a student at The Bedford Sixth Form, you’ll have the opportunity to access fantastic sports facilities at the Trinity Arts & Leisure sports complex, based on campus, at a discounted student rate. Facilities include a large sports hall and a 25 metre, indoor, six-lane swimming pool.

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STRONG SUPPORT Everyone has different needs when it comes to support and guidance. At The Bedford Sixth Form our team of Student Services advisers give you the support you need, when you need it.

PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT TUTOR

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

You will be assigned a professionally trained Personal Achievement Tutor when you start your course who will give you one-on-one support throughout your time with us. You will also meet your tutor regularly, together with the other students in your tutor group, to keep you informed of everything going on at The Bedford Sixth Form or to work on group projects, such as career planning.

If you have an identified learning difficulty and/or disability you may be entitled to additional support. This could include: help in and outside of class; the loan of specialist equipment you may need to complete work; support with making special arrangements for taking exams; support in accessing our facilities.

UCAS JOURNEY

Our counsellor is available to help if personal difficulties are getting in the way of your studies. We provide quiet spaces where you can talk through your problems with a counsellor, and work towards making them easier to handle.

We have a dedicated team and comprehensive programme in place to support you through the UCAS application process. We encourage you to start preparing your UCAS applications early, so it is with teachers by late October for a standard entry, or by late September for Oxbridge or Medicine, to be reviewed and checked. We also run drop-in sessions throughout the UCAS application period, where you can get advice about the whole process.

CAREERS ADVICE Throughout your time with us, our careers advisers are here to help you find the right path, providing impartial advice and guidance on everything from your university choices or training and work prospects, to CVs and interview preparation.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT Our Student Services team are here to provide you with practical advice on student bursaries, travel costs, higher education funding, grants and much more. We also have a range of financial support packages available to help with essential costs, such as equipment, books, clothing or meals, as well as bursaries for vulnerable students or those in severe financial hardship.

PERSONAL COUNSELLOR

A SAFE ENVIRONMENT We take the wellbeing and safety of every single student very seriously. We strive to ensure a safe and welcoming environment at The Bedford Sixth Form, and have safeguarding and anti-bullying policies in place to ensure that young people and vulnerable adults studying with us do so in a safe and secure environment. If you have any concerns about these issues, our trained staff are here to help.

FEES AND FUNDING TUITION AND EXAM FEES If you are aged 16-18 on 31 August 2019 and a British or European Union resident, the tuition and exam registration fees for your course are FREE. If you are aged 19 to 23 on 31 August 2019 and looking to study your first full Level 3 qualification, the tuition fee will be free. If you are aged 19 or above on 31 August 2019 and already have a Level 3 qualification or if you are aged 24 or over, you will need to pay a fee.

See our website for more details, www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/finance

ESSENTIAL COSTS Depending on the courses you choose to study, there may be extra costs you have to pay on top of any tuition and exam fees. Trips, visits and external speakers will be charged for and you will be expected to buy your own textbooks.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS If you have not been living in the UK for the last three years, or if you are on a student visa, different fees may apply to you – contact us on 01234 291291 (+44 1234 291291 from overseas)

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ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE BURSARY SCHEME You may qualify for a £4,000 bursary if you achieve eight GCSE grades 9-6, including English Language and Maths, and at least four of your GCSEs are at grades 9-7.

You will need to study our full-time A-Level (or equivalent Level 3) programme. This bursary is not means tested and the £4,000 is paid over two years.

To find out more please visit: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/bursaries

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FINANCIAL SUPPORT Here is an overview of the financial help that may be on offer to you as a student of The Bedford Sixth Form.

Please note, funding is limited so we strongly advise that you apply as early as possible.

Type of support

Childcare Support

Course Costs Bursary

Discretionary Hardship Bursary

Available to students aged 16-18?

Yes

Yes

Yes

Available to students aged 19 or above?

Information

Yes

If you’re a parent aged 16 to 19, the government’s Care to Learn scheme could pay up to £160 per child per week towards your childcare and travel costs while you’re learning. If you are aged 20+ you may receive help through the Sixth Form’s Advanced Learner Loan Bursary.

Only available to students in receipt of the Advanced Learner Loan

Yes

You may be able to receive up to 75% of essential course costs.

To qualify, for those aged 16-18 your household income must be £30,000 or less. For those aged 19 or above your household income must be £28,000 or less.

Yes

The hardship bursary is a discretionary award towards the general costs and is only awarded to students with exceptional financial hardship. If you experience a sudden change of circumstances which places you in hardship, please speak to a Student Services adviser or your Personal Achievement Tutor. A discretionary award may be made to help ensure that you can still participate in Sixth Form and complete your qualifications.

Yes Meals’ Bursary

Travel Support

Vulnerable Learner Bursary

Yes

Yes

Yes

Only available to students in receipt of the Advanced Learner Loan or EHCP

You may qualify for a free meal if you are aged 16-18, have a household income of £16,190 or less and are in receipt of specified benefits. You can apply for this through the 16-18 Bursary scheme. Free meals are also available if you are in receipt of the Advanced Learner Loan Bursary.

Yes

There is a travel bursary worth up to £600 per year and supports students aged 16-18 who are most in need and who would otherwise be unable to, or would find it difficult to, attend The Bedford Sixth Form. In 2018/19 our Travel Bursary was means-tested and open to those with a household income of £30,000 or less. For the latest information and up to date terms and conditions for 2019/20 please visit www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/travel Students aged 19+ may be eligible for help with travel costs from the Adult Support Fund.

No

Young people aged 16-18 that are living independently in care, care leavers, young people receiving income support that are living independently and disabled young people receiving both Employment Support Allowance and Disability Living Allowance are eligible to receive a bursary of up to £1,200 a year.

SUBJECT TO CHANGE The financial support information listed above is based on what we offered our students in 2018/19 - please check www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/finance for the latest updates.

Further terms and conditions for each bursary apply – please check online at www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/finance for full details.

TRAVEL AND TRANSPORT WHICH BUS CAN I GET? Many of the bus routes covering Bedford, Luton and the wider local area terminate at Bedford bus station which, is just a two minute walk away from The Bedford Sixth Form. With routes running as frequently as every 12 minutes, it’s the ideal way to make your journey to Sixth Form. To find the best route that suits you please visit the local bus operator’s website: www.stagecoachbus.com

HELP WITH TRAVEL COSTS We offer a Travel Bursary to support students who are most in need and who would otherwise be unable to, or would find it difficult to, attend The Bedford Sixth Form. Our Travel Bursary is means-tested and open to those with a household income of £30,000 or less. In 2018/19 it was worth up to £600 a year.

In 2019/20 the bursary may be available if you are*: aged 16-18 on 31 August 2019 l iving more than three miles (driving distance) from the campus s tudying a full-time programme up to and including Level 3 f rom a household with an income of £30,000 or less n ot eligible for financial support for travel from your Local Authority.

For the latest information, terms and conditions and deadlines for 2019/2020 please visit www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/travel There may also be support if you are 19+. Please speak to our Student Services Team.

*This information is based on the academic year 2018/19

YOUNG PEOPLE WITH A DISABILITY OR MOBILITY PROBLEM If you have a particular disability or mobility problem (including a temporary medical condition), you may be entitled to assistance with travel arrangements, even if you live under three miles from The Bedford Sixth Form. Please check your local authority‘s transport policy on our website at www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/travel for more information.

ALTERNATIVE WAYS TO TRAVEL

By Foot Take a stroll to The Bedford Sixth Form – we’re located right in the centre of town (see the map opposite).

By Bike Good for the environment, good for you – Bedford has a network of signposted cycle paths and designated cycle lanes, and we also provide safe and secure cycle racks to store your bike. Download a copy of the Bedford Borough Council’s Cycle Map on our website at www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/downloads

By Car Car parking is not available on site.

By Train Bedford’s mainline station is just a ten-minute walk from The Bedford Sixth Form, with frequent rail services running between local towns, villages and stations. Please visit National Rail at www.nationalrail.co.uk for information on train times and ticket prices.

this may be subject to change for 2019/20

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We recommend you come along to an Open Day to find out everything you need to know. See page 4 for dates.

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PARENTS’ Q&A At The Bedford Sixth Form we realise that parents and guardians play a very important part in our students’ success. You’re there to help guide them in the decisions they make, and support them throughout their studies.

To help with this process, some of the answers to key questions parents have asked us are listed here. To find out more, we have a separate Parents’ Guide that you can download from: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/downloads

HOW MANY STUDENTS PROGRESS ON TO UNIVERSITY?

WHO CAN MY SON/DAUGHTER TURN TO WHEN THEY NEED HELP WITH THEIR STUDIES?

97% of students went on to further study, work or a gap year in our latest survey, with 94% progressing directly into their first choice university, including prestigious Russell Group institutions such as Queen Mary University of London and Queen's University Belfast.

All students benefit from their own personal achievement tutor for ongoing one-to-one support. For help with subject related questions and queries, their subject tutors will always be on hand to help, making sure your son or daughter gets the help they need to perform at their very best.

HOW WILL YOU SUPPORT MY SON/DAUGHTER IN THEIR APPLICATION TO UNIVERSITY? We offer full support with UCAS applications and, as always, our support teams are available to assist with any concerns or problems students may encounter in moving on to higher education. We also make sure there are plenty of opportunities for students to enhance the personal statement section of their UCAS application, through clubs and activities, for example.

WILL MY SON/DAUGHTER HAVE TO PAY ANY COSTS FOR STUDYING AT THE BEDFORD SIXTH FORM? If they are aged 16-18 our courses are free for them to study. They will be required to buy course related textbooks and, for a few courses, clothing, specialist equipment and pay towards trips and visits. If your son or daughter is facing a financial hardship we offer financial support to help with the costs of study.

See page 40 for details.

HOW WILL YOU KEEP MY SON/DAUGHTER SAFE? We take the wellbeing and safety of every single student very seriously. We strive to ensure a safe and welcoming environment at The Bedford Sixth Form, and have safeguarding and anti-bullying policies in place to ensure that your son or daughter can study with us in a safe and secure environment. Access on to The Bedford Sixth Form site is by ID Card only and our teams regularly check everyone is carrying their ID.

HOW CAN I KEEP UP TO DATE WITH MY SON/ DAUGHTER’S PROGRESS? We feel students perform better when their parents take an active role in their education, so the Sixth Form holds parents’ consultation evenings and issues written student progress reports.

WHAT IF MY SON/DAUGHTER DECIDES THAT UNIVERSITY IS NOT THE BEST OPTION FOR THEM? We will support your son/daughter to achieve their chosen progression route. As well as support for applying to university, we also offer impartial careers advice.

Have another question? Visit: www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/parents

HOW TO APPLY Follow our eight simple steps to apply for your place at The Bedford Sixth Form...

1. FIND THE SUBJECTS YOU ARE INTERESTED IN

5. RECEIVE YOUR OFFER

Read through this prospectus to explore the subjects we offer and get an idea of which ones interest you.

For more information on any of our subjects, just visit www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/subjects

2. VISIT US To discover more about your chosen subjects and life at The Bedford Sixth Form, come and see us at one of our Open Days throughout the year (find the latest dates on page 4).

3. APPLY ONLINE AT www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk Visit our website, click the ‘apply online’ button and complete your application. Remember: you should apply before you receive your GCSE results using your predicted grades. Once you have applied you will be sent information on a regular basis, which will keep you informed of the status of your application.

The deadline for applications is Friday 31 May 2019.

4. ATTEND AN INTERVIEW Within four weeks of receiving your application we will invite you to attend an interview with one of the team, who will be able to answer any questions you may have.

Please note: Enrolment interviews prioritise students who have attended Welcome Days and are allocated in the order in which applications are recieved

We will let you know if you have been successful and offer you a place at The Bedford Sixth Form at your interview (subject to achieving the relevant entry requirements).

6. WELCOME DAY You will be invited to attend our special welcome event on Friday 21 June 2019 where you’ll get a real insight into life and your course at The Bedford Sixth Form, so please keep this date free.

7. ADVICE DAY Post-GCSE results advice is available at our GCSE Advice Day on Thursday 22 August 2019 – come to The Bedford Sixth Form if you haven't already applied and discuss your options.

8. ENROLMENT You will be invited to the Sixth Form to review your GCSE results at the end of August 2019 and finalise your offer of a place. Enrolment will be Friday 23 August and Tuesday 27 August 2019, please ensure you keep these dates free. See opposite page for term dates.

Any questions?

Please call us on 01234 291291 or email info@bedfordsixthform.ac.uk

CODE OF CONDUCT The Bedford Sixth Form has a Code of Conduct that sets the standard we expect from our students.

You can read this in our Student Handbook available online at www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk/downloads

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APPLY EARLY TO GET YOUR FIRST SUBJECT CHOICE Deadline for applications is Friday 31 May 2019. You can apply before you get your GCSE results!

KEEP IN TOUCH

TERM DATES 2019/2020

bedfordsixthform @thebedfordsixth

Autumn Term 2019

Spring Term 2020

@bedfordsixthform

Our academic year runs from September to June Monday 9 September 2019 – Friday 20 December 2019 Half-term: Monday 21 October 2019 – Friday 25 October 2019

www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk

Monday 6 January 2020 – Friday 3 April 2020 Half-term: Monday 10 February 2020 – Friday 14 February 2020

info@bedfordsixthform.ac.uk

Summer Term 2020

01234 291291

Monday 20 April 2020 – Friday 26 June 2020 Half-term: Monday 25 May 2020 – Friday 29 May 2020

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This prospectus is also available in large print and audio formats.

Call 01234 291291 to get your copy.

DISCLAIMER: While every effort is made to ensure that the information within this prospectus is correct at the time of printing, some details may be subject to change. The Bedford Sixth Form reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if student numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course, we will refund any fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.

The Bedford Sixth Form Bromham Road Bedford MK40 2BS Telephone: 01234 291291 info@bedfordsixthform.ac.uk www.bedfordsixthform.ac.uk

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