BGS Guide to Sixth Form Life 2024-25

GUIDE TO SIXTH FORM LIFE

Bedford Girls’ School

2024-2025

Welcome

Welcome to BGS Sixth Form. This marks an exciting next step in your education as you move towards an evolution into adulthood and prepare for potential higher education, apprenticeships, or the working world.

There are a wide range of opportunities for you to take advantage of, which will make your time in the Sixth Form both fulfilling and challenging.

We encourage you to work hard, but also to look beyond your academic subjects so that you develop into a well-rounded young adult ready for employment or universities.

Take initiative, go the extra mile, and if you have a good idea, seek guidance in order to bring it to fruition. Build your skills, step out of your comfort zone, and be open-minded to new experiences and people.

We are excited to be here to guide and support you. We have high aspirations for you and look forward to watching you soar.

Mrs Helen Woolley Director of Sixth Form

Ethos And Expectations

OUR VISION

Our students soar; they are the creative thinkers, the change-makers, and the problem-solvers of the future.

We strive to deliver a future-inspired education: innovative teaching practices, technology, and compassionate care combine to empower our students with the attributes and selfconfidence to seize opportunities and tackle the challenges of a complex world.

OUR VALUES

The three values which are central to our philosophy are:

Bold, Imaginative and Reflective

These values are complex, and inherent in their meaning are the qualities of the key attributes we wish to develop in our students, so that they become communicators, thinkers, knowledgeable, inquirers, risk-takers, caring, open-minded, balanced, reflective and principled. These values and aims have been built into every aspect of our ethos at Bedford Girls’ School and are the basis on which our school flourishes. At Bedford Girls’ School, we want to create a culture where everyone feels truly valued and is proud to be part of the school. We are kind to each other and respectful to all members of the community; the atmosphere is purposeful, and learning in all areas of the curriculum is prized.

EXPECTATIONS OF OUR STUDENTS

We have high expectations of our students. We aim to teach our students to make a positive contribution to our community and the world beyond. They are expected to behave in a courteous manner at all times when in school uniform or representing Bedford Girls’ School. We believe in creating a positive, rewarding learning environment where everyone will flourish. By establishing these expectations, we create the best possible climate for learning, teaching and working collaboratively.

We expect our community to be purposeful, kind and mutually respectful. To this end, we rely on the acceptance by all its members of an agreed code of expectations. We expect our students to show common sense and respect for themselves, for others and for the environment.

These expectations exist to protect not only the safety and comfort of our community but also the good name of our school. All members of the school are expected to observe them. Our day-to-day life in school should reflect positive and joyful attitudes towards work, relationships, and behaviour.

UPHOLDING OF THE SCHOOL ETHOS

Students should:

• Embrace and engender the Whole School values, striving to be bold, imaginative and reflective in all aspects of their lives.

• Celebrate and value everyone, regardless of gender, race or status.

• Welcome visitors into our community.

• Lift each other up with nurture and challenge.

• Always be kind and remain constantly curious to the perspectives of others.

• Be respectful of the world around us.

• Always remember that when they are wearing their Bedford Girls’ School uniform, students are representing the whole School. Our uniform helps to give a sense of belonging to the School and is also important in helping to establish a good working atmosphere.

RESPECT FOR THE SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT

• Movement around the School should be orderly and courteous. A ‘keep to the left’ system operates in order to allow for calm ease of movement.

• Silence should be observed when approaching assembly to encourage an atmosphere of calm reflection.

• Please use the dedicated entry and exit points for arrival and departing the site.

• Litter bins are provided throughout the site.

• Food and snacks should only be consumed in the Dining Hall, the Hub or Chequers Café.

• Students must take care of their personal belongings by using and locking their lockers. It is essential that they use their padlocks to keep their possessions secure in their lockers.

• Never leave cash around the School. All items of personal belongings are brought into the school at the pupil’s own risk and must be kept securely in their lockers.

• Students are expected to take care of books, iPads and equipment on loan from the School. They are the responsibility of the students, who should use the storage facilities provided. Any equipment and books loaned by the School are expected to be returned at the end of Sixth Form.

SMOKING, DRINKING, DRUGS AND PROHIBITED ITEMS

Smoking, vaping, drinking or the use of drugs is strictly prohibited on the school site, and failure to comply with these rules will have serious consequences. In line with the School’s Positive Behaviour Policy, students must not bring any prohibited items into school.

Please refer to the Positive Behaviour Policy on the School’s website.

SAFEGUARDING AND CHILD PROTECTION

We recognise our moral and statutory responsibility to safeguard and promote the welfare of all students. We endeavour to provide a safe and welcoming environment where children are respected and valued. We are alert to the signs of abuse and neglect and follow our procedures to ensure that children receive effective support, protection and care.

Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone’s responsibility. Everyone who comes into contact with children and their families and carers has a role to play in safeguarding children. In order to fulfil this responsibility effectively, all professionals make sure their approach is child-centred.

This means that they consider, at all times, what is in the best interests of the child.

The Designated Safeguarding Lead is Mrs Kamelia Johnson (DSL)

The Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads are Mrs Gemma Gibson (Headmistress)

Mrs Carolyn Howe (Junior School Head)

Mr Matt Gracie (Deputy Head - Student Engagement and Welfare)

Mrs Helen Woolley (Director of Sixth Form)

All Heads of Year have also received DSL training.

Routines

START OF THE DAY

All Sixth Form students are expected to be in School for tutor time at 8.40am, even if they have a study period in Lesson 1.

Students should arrive at School and sign in via the QR code outside The Hub.

Students may use The Hub before the start of School, from 7.30am.

END OF THE SCHOOL DAY

School finishes at 4.00pm. Students do not need to sign out. Please leave the site through the designated Sixth Form entry and exit points.

Students may stay in school to study in The Hub or The Study Loft until 7.00pm. After this point, unless in school for a specific supervised activity or event, students are expected to have left the site.

TUTOR GROUPS AND TUTOR TIME

All students will be allocated to a Tutor Group for the two years of Sixth Form.

Tutor time is at the start of the day and is an essential contact point between Tutors and Tutees. This time is used in different ways, but essentially the Tutor is here to champion student welfare throughout the Sixth Form.

Each half term two or three more formal tutorial sessions are covered in tutor time, looking at study skills, preparation for UCAS or University, or student well-being.

Each half term each student will also have at least one 1:1 meeting with their tutor, where they will discuss study skills, academic and co-curricular progress alongside future aspirations.

The Senior Tutors in Lower and Upper Sixth, together with the Sixth Form Pastoral Officer, are vital to the smooth running of the Sixth Form and further support the students.

ASSEMBLIES

Students are expected to attend assemblies to contribute to wider school life unless they have permission not to. Assemblies are not religious but do allow for some period of reflection.

Whole School assemblies take place most Mondays, with year group assemblies on Wednesdays and House assembly every other week on Thursdays.

LEAVING THE SCHOOL SITE AND SIGNING OUT

Sixth Form students have extensive privileges as they start to develop independence and self-responsibility. Students are allowed off the School site at specific times in the school day. Students must sign in and out via the QR codes as we have a legal duty of care to know exactly who is in School at any one time. Failure to sign in and out may result in having the privilege of leaving the site removed.

• Sixth Form students may leave the site at lunchtime, or in a study period in Lesson 4 or 5. This privilege opens to Lower Sixth students after the first half-term if all is going well academically.

• Students are not allowed to leave the school site until lunch time (12.45 pm) for any reason apart from an authorised appointment.

• Students may leave School early to work from home if they do not have lessons in the afternoon. However, they are not allowed to leave school to go home any earlier unless they have been given specific permission.

• In the first half term of Lower Sixth, students are expected to report to the LRC for supervised study between Lessons 1 and 3.

LUNCHTIMES AND SNACKS

Students have a range of options for lunch. They may purchase food in Chequers Café, the dedicated Sixth Form Café (open all day offering a healthy range of freshly made hot food, salads, sandwiches, snacks and hot drinks) or they can leave school at lunchtime. Many students choose to bring food in from home and there is a microwave, kettle and toaster in The Hub, for them to use.

Food must only be eaten in Chequers Café or The Hub, on dry days food can be enjoyed in the Sixth Form garden.

Students can use cash or card to purchase food in Chequers Café.

If a student would like to have full hot lunches they need to sign up for School Lunches and eat in the Dining Room. Email accounts@bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk

REPORTING ABSENCES

Any absence must be reported by parents to the absence@bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk email before 8.30am in the morning, please provide the reason for the absence. Any unauthorised absences will be chased up by the school. Please continue to inform us on each subsequent day of absence.

All students should aim to have an attendance of 95% or above and should understand that absence from school will impact their learning. Of course, some absence is unavoidable, but it is important to be present as much as possible as the pace of learning in Sixth Form is swift. Students must take the initative to catch up on missed lessons using text books and Google Classroom resources.

Should they need further guidance, they should contact their teachers.

AUTHORISED ABSENCE

If a student needs to leave the site for a dental or medical appointment during the school day, the School must be informed in advance via absence@bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk.

Should you need to ask for authorisation for an unavoidable period of time a during Sixth Form, approval must be sought in advance from the Headmistress via email to absence@bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk.

Retrospective permission will not be granted.

PARKING

There is very limited parking available to Upper Sixth students who have valid driving licences, it is allocated on a first come first served basis. Students must apply to the Senior School Office for a parking permit. Please check on availability before planning to drive to school.

Timetables And Study Habits

TIMETABLES

All students will receive an individualised timetable on the first day of term or shortly before the start of term. The timetable will be stored on their iPad.

We have five one hour lessons in a day.

All A Level students will have 10 lessons per subject across a two week timetable.

All IB Diploma students will have seven Higher Level lessons and five Standard Level lessons across a two week timetable.

All students will have timetabled sports lessons and there is a wide variety of activities to choose from.

Students are expected to attend these sessions in the correct kit. There is great value in physical activity and it contributes to student well-being in addition to providing an opportunity to build different skills and have a break from the academic rigours of study.

STUDY EXPECTATIONS

We expect students to be prompt to lessons, so that they are not missing important learning time or disrupting the beginning of lessons. This is monitored and students who accrue significant late time without a valid reason can lose their Sixth Form privileges for a week.

They will therefore not be able to leave school for lunch or before 4pm if they do not have lessons.

Students are expected to always bring appropriate materials and resources to lessons.

INDEPENDENT WORK

In addition to the timetabled lessons, students should plan to undertake five hours of independent study per week per subject for each A Level. This time should be spent completing homework tasks and then consolidating material covered in lessons. Whilst students will be able to complete some of this in their study periods, they will also have additional work to do outside of the school day in order to maximise their chances of success.

In the IB Diploma Programme, the expectation is around three hours independent study for each Higher Level subject and one to two hours for each Standard Level subject.

EPQ

All A Level students are expected to start an EPQ in the Autumn Term of the Lower Sixth.

All A Level students start the year with timetabled EPQ sessions and it is advised that they put a regular period of time each week initially (between 30-60 minutes) to complete the planning and research.

IB Diploma students do not complete an EPQ as they complete an Extended Essay as a compulsory element of their programme.

SPORTS

Fitness is key to a balanced life and all Sixth Form students are expected to attend regular sports sessions. These are timetabled. There is an extensive range of sporting options and students may select their sports or fitness activities.

STUDY PERIODS

In the Lower Sixth, the expectation is that students for the first Half Term spend their study periods working quietly in the LRC. After the October Half Term break, as long as students show their commitment and demonstrate a good work ethic, they are able to choose where to work in their study periods.

This approach aims to ensure that Lower Sixth students build good study habits from the very beginning, using their study periods to complete work and organise their time effectively. We run some small group study sessions throughout the year and any individual who is struggling with managing their time, should talk to their tutor in the first instance.

STUDY SPACES

There are plenty of study spaces available to Sixth Form students. In addition to the LRC and The Hub, students may use the Study Loft, Chequers Café or an empty classroom in Sixth Form House, depending on where they feel they are going to get the most work done and be able to focus best.

Students are welcome to use The Hub and Study Loft after the end of the school day until 7pm.

EQUIPMENT

All students have an iPad which they are expected to bring to lessons. New students will be given an iPad prior to joining Sixth Form. Many students choose to bring laptops into school to complete assignments, this is a personal choice and not an expectation.

At the end of Sixth Form, iPads will be unlocked from the School systems and retained by the students. Textbooks will be loaned to the students and must be returned at the end of Sixth Form. Any books not returned will be charged against the student’s account and offset against the entry deposit.

LOCKERS

Students are allocated a locker to store all of their possessions. Items left in The Hub and other communal spaces overnight may be moved to the lost property.

Sixth Form House

Students at BGS are extremely fortunate to have a dedicated Sixth Form centre, including classrooms, study spaces, a large common area - known as The Hub and a dedicated café, the Chequers Café. The Sixth Form community share responsibility for keeping all areas of the centre clean and tidy.

THE HUB

The heartbeat of Sixth Form, The Hub is a light, state-of-the-art communal area for work, rest and socialising. Replicating the open plan nature of the working world it offers another step towards independence. It is open from 7.30am to 7.00pm. Students are expected to respect the facilities and keep it clean and tidy.

CHEQUERS CAFÉ

Open all day, from 7.30am to 5.00pm, Chequers serves delicious hot and cold food, ranging from breakfast bagels to fresh homemade salads and cakes. With barista style hot drinks and a wonderful seating area, the café provides a setting for relaxation or collaborative working. Opening onto the Sixth Form gardens it is the perfect spot to refuel between lessons.

THE STUDY LOFT

High in the top of Sixth Form House, this area is a dedicated quiet space for individual study and reflection. It is open until 7pm each evening.

THE WELL-BEING ROOM

Located in the Study Loft, a secluded nook, perfectly tranquil, which offers a spot for any student to step away from their hectic schedules.

THE BRIDGE

The School’s Career Centre is housed in Sixth From House and the team are always there to welcome students to Lunchbox Lectures, for meetings or just to answer a quick query.

LRC AND CLASSROOMS

Students may also choose to study in the main school LRC for study or designated empty classrooms.

Assessments And Examination Periods

ALIS TESTING

Within the first few weeks of term students will receive an email explaining when they will complete ALIS testing. ALIS is an adaptive baseline assessment that helps

give an objective perspective on students’ strengths and weaknesses and see how they are likely to perform at A Level or IB. Teachers can use this to support students in the best ways in the classroom, there is no revision or preparation required.

THE ASSESSMENT CYCLE

Regular testing will take place throughout the Sixth Form in all subjects to help students identify areas of strengths and weakness.

Lower Sixth examinations follow the Easter break.

Upper Sixth Mock examinations take place following the Christmas break, these can help students when making decisions regarding their university choices.

The IB Diploma Programme final examinations run across the first three weeks of May.

Upper Sixth A Level examinations run from mid-May to mid-June.

A period of home study will be given to students in the run up to final examinations.

UCAS PREDICTED GRADES

Results from formal and informal assessments, along with larger homework or class assignments and test results from throughout the Lower Sixth are used holistically, to provide the evidence on which UCAS predictions are based. UCAS predictions are purely for the university/ apprenticeship application process and are realistic, but optimistic. UCAS predictions are unlikely to be any more than one grade higher than a student who is consistently scoring in internal assessments. It is therefore important for students to

demonstrate the grades they are capable of scoring throughout their A Level and IB Diploma courses. Current working grades and estimated grades in student reports give the most recent information as to how well a student is performing and should be used when students consider their final choices for university.

LEARNING SUPPORT AND SPECIAL CONSIDERATION

The Learning Support team identify and support any learning needs or special consideration for examinations. They will coordinate with students, relevant staff and parents.

For new entrants joining Sixth Form, it is important that any evidence of access arrangements in their GCSE is shared with our Examinations Office as soon as possible in September of Lower Sixth, so that we can review and support these arrangements moving forward.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT

Individual Departments will run regular revision and additional drop-in support sessions; students should talk to their academic teachers to find out when these sessions will run. If a student needs academic reinforcement in a particular area, a teacher may suggest a student attends specific sessions, our expectation is that the student will then attend as requested.

The Reporting Cycle

Grades

Examinations

Communication

DAY-TO-DAY COMMUNICATION

Communication in Sixth Form is primarily aimed at the students; part of building a sense of independence comes through being more responsible for planning, organisation and execution of actions. Students will receive and be expected to act upon communication from staff.

Regular updates will be emailed to parents/ guardians at intervals across the Sixth Form course. Individual email communications will be cc’d to parents and guardians where necessary.

The Tutor is a students’ primary point of contact; they will help guide the students throughout their time in Sixth Form. The Tutors are supported by a Senior Tutor for Lower Sixth and a Senior Tutor for the Upper Sixth. We also have a full time Pastoral Officer to further support the students. If a parent needs to contact the Sixth Form team, the Tutor should be your first port of call.

The Director of Sixth Form oversees all students and is fully aware of their individual academic, social and emotional progression. If at any point the Sixth Form team is unduly concerned about a student they will contact the parents/guardians.

THE PARENT PORTAL

When your daughter starts at BGS, each parent will be issued with a dedicated log-in to access the iSAMS Parent Portal. Here you will be able to access information on your daughter’s timetable and school letters, progress reviews, school reports, fee and billing account information, House points and PTA information.

SOCS SPORTS PORTAL

Details of all sports fixtures, team lists and sports results can be found on our dedicated sports portal on our website.

You may access this through the drop down list at the top of the BGS website homepage. You can download all relevant sporting fixtures into your electronic calendars and find route maps to away games. Team lists are password protected, please use the following password to access team lists, these will be uploaded a few days prior to matches.

Teamsheet Secure Login: bgssocs16

WEBSITE AND NEWSLETTERS

Our website www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk is an excellent way of keeping abreast of all that is happening within the school. Up to date information and the School calendar can always be accessed online, along with the latest sports fixtures and results. It also provides an opportunity to read a wide variety of blogs from school trips, different subjects, departments, staff and our Headmistress.

Our weekly newsletter, The Edit, which is sent to all parents, students and staff every Friday afternoon provides a round up of the week’s news and events and a reminder of the key dates for the following week. Each term, you will also receive a copy of our magazine, The Muse, giving you an insight into the ethos, inspiration and outcomes of a Bedford Girls’ School education.

DEDICATED SIXTH FORM SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS

The School operates a number of social media accounts across Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. In addition, in the Sixth Form, there are two dedicated student run channels providing regular insights into BGS Sixth Form, please follow here:

Sixth Form Twitter: @BGSSixth_Form Sixth Form Instagram: @bedfordgirlssixth Sixth Form TikTok: bgs_sixthform

Duties, Leadership And Service

Stepping up and out of comfort zones by accepting positions of responsibility and proactively participating in the wider aspects of school life is key to developing independence, and demonstrating skills and interests when applying to university or the working world. It is our expectation that every Sixth Form student is an active member of our community.

WEEKLY DUTIES

All Lower Sixth students sign up for a biweekly duty, which they are expected to attend in order to support the staff responsible for overseeing this duty. This gives students an opportunity to interact with younger students and demonstrate their reliability, build communication skills and be role models to the wider school community.

CO-CURRICULAR CLUBS AND SOCIETIES

There are a wide variety of clubs and societies to join in Sixth Form from the Lovelace to Sigma societies and MUN to Cinefilles, sports clubs or the SAS (South Asian Society) and ACS (African and Caribbean Society). Where Sixth Form students have a particular interest we are always happy for them to set up a new club. Being involved in the co-curricular aspects of the school are vital in building the skills desirable for university study and the workplace. We encourage students to get involved in as much as possible.

HOUSES

Each student is assigned to one of our six houses and Sixth Form students play an important role in taking part and leading house competitions and assemblies. This is a great way to build new friendships and those all important soft skills.

GIRLS’ LEADERSHIP GROUP (GLG)

The GLG is made up of 15 positions including our Head Girl and her Deputy, along with three prefects for each of the 15 Captains. Lower Sixth students apply for positions in February and following a vote of confidence there are interviews for students who make it to the next round along with a speech and in-tray task for those interviewing for Head Girl. This group are the student leaders of our school. They play an important role in guiding the student body and can have significant impact during their tenure.

SERVICE

There is an expectation that Sixth Form students will take part in service programmes, whether that be supporting younger year groups in their endeavours, arranging lunch clubs for the elderly, tech workshops for older people or taking part in our regular young readers programme with local primary schools. All IB Diploma students complete a service programme as a core element of their CAS programme.

The Bridge Careers Service

Careers and UCAS support is offered to all Sixth Form students via The Bridge, run by our Head of Careers, Mrs Kate Whitlock. During Lower Sixth, students are given tools and advice through careers lessons, higher

education events, access to psychometric questionnaires and a series of one-to-one meetings, so that they can make wellinformed choices for life after BGS.

Whether students wish to consider university, apprenticeships, gap years or moving straight into the working world, The Bridge is there with resources, connections and expertise to help guide and support. From arranging bespoke calls with alumnae and professionals, frequent Lunchbox Lectures, careers events and work experience, The Bridge are always on hand to help students consider their options, passions and aspirations so they take informed decisions.

THE BRIDGE BULLETIN

This careers-focused newsletter is issued to students throughout BGS Sixth Form, once every half term to Lower Sixth students, and then once a term to Upper Sixth. The bulletin is divided into three areas: Discovery, Focus, and Action. For each there are links and information to encourage students to explore options, focus on their choices, and act within any forthcoming deadlines.

UNIFROG

Unifrog is the name of the online careers platform we use, from Year 7 all the way through to Upper Sixth. In the Sixth Form, students use Unifrog’s huge range of resources and tools to research professional pathways, record skills and work experience, identify courses, shortlist options, and access suggestions for supercurricular development. Tutors can track progress and offer feedback on CVs and UCAS personal statements via the portal, facilitating completion of apprenticeship and university applications.

UCAS SUPPORT

There are a number of events and meetings scheduled throughout Sixth Form to support students as they make their way through the UCAS process. Students have the choice to participate in the MyUniChoices questionnaire in the Autumn

Term of Lower Sixth, which can be a useful opportunity to explore options, or reinforce the suitability of an already identified degree course. Then, after the Christmas holiday, students participate in their careers-focused PSHE lessons (which also consider Apprenticeships and the world of work), as well as the Higher Education afternoon, and evening event for parents. These sharpen thinking on preparing to make a university application, including course selection and the transition to living away from home.

Mrs Whitlock conducts one-to-one meetings with each student before the Easter holiday, which further boosts momentum for university research before the summer term, when students attend the UCAS Exhibition and have a dedicated UCAS Day in-school to start their UCAS applications, and get advice on personal statements.

Students also meet with Mrs Woolley and Mrs Whitlock to discuss their intentions, further to the results of their Lower Sixth assessments, and have a further one-to-one with Mrs Whitlock to receive their UCAS predicted grades. Returning to school in Upper Sixth, students continue to discuss their applications with their Form Tutors and subject teachers, and see Mrs Whitlock during the Autumn Term as they complete their UCAS application.

ATTENDANCE AT UNIVERSITY OPEN DAYS

Attendance at university open days usually takes place during the Summer Term of Lower Sixth, and in some cases, the Autumn Term of Upper Sixth. Whilst students are encouraged to attend open days at weekends, this is not always possible, and therefore students are allowed to have a maximum of three days out of school during term time for this

purpose. To book a day out of school for an open day, students should collect a ‘Green Form’ from The Bridge, have it signed by the teachers whose lessons will be missed, and a parent or guardian, and hand it in to reception at least five school days in advance of the date of absence.

SUPPORT PROGRAMMES FOR OXBRIDGE AND EARLY ENTRY DEGREE COURSE

Any student wishing to apply to Oxbridge or for medicine/veterinary medicine courses, is supported with bespoke programmes to guide them through the application process. This ensures they are given the expertise and resources to be best prepared for the additional rigorous aspects of applying for these courses.

Our Oxbridge Coordinator, Mrs Emma Pearl, manages an extensive programme across the Sixth Form to support Oxbridge candidates. This includes: workshops; interview and presentation practises; mock testing; introduction to super curriculum work; course and college selection; and guidance through the application process.

SHORTLAND-JONES OXBRIDGE AWARDS

Due to a generous alumna gift, all successful Oxbridge candidates, who accept their places to study at either Oxford or Cambridge are awarded a small annual bursary for the length of study of their first undergraduate degree.

The Alumnae

All students automatically become members of The Alumnae Association when they leave school. It provides an active platform for networking, work experience, reunions, mentorships and staying in touch as women support women through all stages of their lives.

APPRENTICESHIP SCHEMES

The Bridge supports students who wish to apply for apprenticeship schemes and have contacts with a number of established programmes. A number of students pursue this route each year and The Bridge is able to help students evaluate different approaches. They can also connect students with alumnae who have followed apprenticeship schemes.

WORK EXPERIENCE

All Sixth Formers are encouraged to gain relevant work experience, this should take place during the holiday or weekend periods and should not interfere with school time.

We will encourage students to arrange independently but The Bridge will always help where they can.

MENTORING PROGRAMME

All Lower Sixth students have the opportunity to apply to participate in an Alumnae to student mentorship programme, to aid decision making and build professional skills. Lasting a year the programme comprises 15-16 carefully matched pairs. Applications are accepted in the January of the Spring Term.

The process and expectations of the programme are fully outlined to the students before the application period opens.

There is a dedicated Alumnae website and an active LinkedIn Group through which ex-students receive updates, invitations and can post requests for work, internships or seek and offer careers advice.

Uniform

Sixth Form students are ambassadors for the School and are seen as role models to our younger students. When in uniform they represent the BGS community both inside and outside of school.

SIXTH FORM SCHOOL UNIFORM LIST

Compulsory Items

Grey suit jacket

Grey suit skirt

Students are entitled to more freedom of expression in the Sixth Form to enable students to develop individuality; however we do in return expect students to wear their uniform with pride.

All items from our regular school uniform supplier, Schoolblazer, unless clearly stated.

To be worn to and from school.

Must be worn as smart business wear (no shorter than 10cms above the knee).

Tailored grey trousers Can be worn as an alternative to the suit skirt.

Blouse Long sleeved white and pink striped blouse.

Overall - Art / Science Navy, if studying practical subjects.

Optional Iniform

Jumper

Damson optional, from Schoolblazer.

Cardigan Grey – instead of damson jumper, optional, from Schoolblazer.

Grey sweatshirt

With school crest, optional BUT cannot be worn for formal school events. From Schoolblazer

Tights Plain black or natural sheer or opaque.

Coat Any style, black or dark colour.

Bench Coat Alternatively, students may wear the BGS sports Bench Coat - Purchase from: nolimitz.co.uk

Scarves, hats, gloves

A bespoke designed school hat and scarf are available from Schoolblazer Gloves must be plain back.

Hair Scrunchie - Black Hair bands of any description must be black. Scrunchies and hair ties should be black. No decorative clips.

Footwear and Bags

Shoes

School bags

Any colour but NO trainer styles allowed.

Bags should be large and sturdy to carry items such as laptop, files and iPad.

Jewellery, Make-up and Hair Please note what is permitted; other items are NOT permitted.

Jewellery

Make-up

Hair

Nails

Dance, Drama, Music

Dance and Drama top

Dance and Drama leggings

Dance shoes

Music performance outfit (for performers only)

Studs and small hooped earrings are permitted. Discreet necklaces, rings and bracelets are permitted. A discreet nose stud is permitted but no other visible piercings are allowed. Jewellery must be removed for PE and practical lessons.

Appropriate make-up is allowed.

Students are allowed flexibility with hair styles and colours. Any colouring of hair should be subtle and styles should not be so extreme that they would look out of place in the working world.

Simple acrylic nails and nail varnish permitted. Extreme nails not permitted.

These are optional but should be plain black from a high street shop.

These are optional but should be plain black from a high street shop.

These are optional Black Jazz Shoes.

Black dress or trousers, any style but appropriate for playing a musical instrument in a public performance.

SPORTS KIT LIST

Compulsory Items

All items from our regular school uniform supplied, Schoolblazer, unless clearly stated.

Sports Shirt - Damson For winter sports and cricket in the summer.

Sports Shirt – White For netball in the winter/spring term and summer sports.

Mid layer top

Black skort or black PE shorts

Tracksuit trousers / bottoms

Sports socks

Sports bag

Swimsuit

BGS swimming cap

Black with damson trim and school logo.

Shorts or skort option for PE lessons; but skorts must be worn for all team matches.

Black with school logo.

Damson with black hoops at top.

Black and damson with school logo.

Black Speedo endurance swimming costume or black modesty Speedo. (for swimming up to end of Year 8).

All students must wear a cap in the pool, it does not need to be a branded one unless on the Swimming team. Afro swim cap is available.

White summer weight sports socks (ankle) From Schoolblazer or any sports shop.

Optional Sports Wear

Waterproof games jacket

All items from Schoolblazer unless stated.

Optional.

Sports base layers Must be plain black, either from Schoolblazer or any sports shop.

BGS bench coat

Netball dress

Cricket trousers

Only from Year 6, can also then be worn as school winter coat. Purchased from nolimitz.co.uk.

Optional for all players; compulsory for team players from Year 9. Purchased through the PE department.

Black ladies cricket trousers; optional for softball, compulsory for hardball teams (from Year 7). Purchased from nolimitz.co.uk.

Sports hijab Optional. Available through Schoolblazer

Specific Team Wear If your daughter is in a team or rows she will be expected to have the items listed below.

Team shirts for hockey and lacrosse

From Year 11 for all team players. Purchased through the BGS PE department.

Netball dresses For all A, B and optional for C team player from Year 9.

Black cricket trousers For team players from Year 7 upwards and purchased from nolimitz.co.uk.

Swimming All team swimmers must have a BGS swim cap.

Rowing Kit:

All in one, Leggings, Lycra top, Splash top

White tennis skort

Sports Footwear

Trainers

Astro trainers

Football boots

Netball trainers

Sports Equipment

Mouthguard

Lacrosse goggles

Shin pads

Hockey stick

Ordered through the Rowing Department (bi-annually).

Optional for team tennis players.

Compulsory from Year 3; any colour.

Compulsory from Year 3 for Hockey.

Compulsory for Lacrosse from Year 6.

Optional for Netball team players.

All students must have a mouthguard for hockey and lacrosse. We recommend this is purchased from OPRO where you can select a bespoke BGS designopro.com/schools-and-club-designs. You will receive 10% off if you use the following code: BedfordGirls10.

Compulsory from Year 6. Purchased online, information comes for PE Department.

Compulsory for Hockey from Year 3.

Compulsory for Hockey from Year 3.

Lacrosse stick Year 6 and above. Ordered through the PE department. Tennis racket Summer Term only up to Year 8; then only for tennis players.

Cricket bat

Cricket helmets

Cricket pads

BGS swim bag

Optional for those playing hardball cricket. School equipment provided.

Optional for those playing hardball cricket. School equipment provided.

Optional for those playing hardball cricket. School equipment provided.

Optional in Junior School purchased through the PTA.

Medical Services

The Health Centre is located in Burnaby House. Students wishing to see the nurse during the School day must report to Senior School reception and the nurse will collect them. Students must not make their own way to the Health Centre. A medical record for your daughter is kept at the Health Centre. If a student is taken ill during the school day, she will be sent to the Health Centre. One of our nurses will contact a parent or guardian if they feel that your daughter needs to come home. Injuries sustained out of school hours and illnesses which develop at home should be assessed and treated by your individual GP services.

MEDICINES

We discourage the bringing of medication of any kind into School. However, if absolutely necessary, prescribed medication can be brought to School. It must be in the original container and you should also send a letter to your daughter’s form tutor, stating what the medicine is for, the prescribed dosage and how frequently it should be taken. This should be stored at the Health Centre and administered by a school nurse. Paracetamol will be given for the relief of pain, headaches and menstruation cramps. Students are permitted to carry a single dose supply of paracetamol should they wish to.

Any student suffering from a known medical condition that may lead to a medical emergency, e.g diabetes or a student suffering from anaphylaxis, will require a care plan to be completed. Students who

suffer from asthma are encouraged to carry their own inhaler on their person at all times. A spare inhaler can be kept in the Health Centre. Students who require an EpiPen should carry it with them at all times if prescribed to do so and a spare should be kept in the Health Centre. If a student requires medication to be administered during the lesson (e.g, asthma or diabetes) they should have their medication available and should also provide spare medication (for emergencies) to be kept by the school nurse in the Health Centre. It should be clearly named and checked at the end of each term to make sure it is in date and that there is sufficient medication. Sugared food and drink may be kept in the PE Office if your daughter has diabetes.

For further information on medical policies, please refer to the Health Centre Policy or contact our Nurse Manager on 01234 361925.

SCHOOL COUNSELLOR

We have a full time in-house counsellor during term time who will work in conjunction with the nurses and Pastoral team to support students. All referrals are made via the Pastoral team. Consultations are confidential but students are always encouraged to keep their parents informed. Counselling services cannot be guaranteed for all students and there is normally a waiting list for services. We will discuss options with students and their families as necessary.

THE SCHOOL YEAR

Autumn Term 2024

First day of term

Wednesday 4th September

Half term

Two weeks commencing

Monday 21st October

Terms ends

Friday 13th December (school ends at 12 noon)

Spring Term 2025

First day of term

Tuesday 7th January

Half term

Week commencing Monday 17th February

Terms ends

Friday 28th March (school ends at 12 noon)

Summer Term 2025

First day of term

Wednesday 23rd April

Half term

Week commencing Monday 26th May

Term ends

Friday 11th July (school ends at 12 noon)

KEY CONTACTS

Director of Sixth Form

Mrs Helen Woolley

01234 361900

helen.woolley@bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk

Senior Deputy Head and Head of IB

Mr John Gardner 01234 361900

john.gardner@bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk

Sixth Form Pastoral Officer

Mrs Sara Lonsdale

01234 361900

sara.lonsdale@befordfordgirlsschool.co.uk

Head of The Bridge Careers Service

Mrs Kate Whitlock 01234 361900

kate.whitlock@bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk

Senior School Office

(8.00am-5.00pm)

01234 361900

information@bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk absence@bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk

Senior Leadership Team Mobile (emergency out of office only) 07432 674386

information@bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk