Bedford Girls’ School Sixth Form Prospectus

SIXTH FORM

Welcome to Bedford Girls’ School Sixth Form

Whether you’re joining us for the first time or are moving up from our Senior School, one of the first things you will notice about becoming a Sixth Former is how different learning, teaching and life feel, as you begin the next stage of your journey from the classroom to the wider world beyond. This is an exciting time and the decisions, plans and ideas you commit to now will help forge the bright future ahead of you.

At Bedford Girls’ School, we recognise that you are an individual and nowhere is your individuality more evident, nurtured and challenged than in the Sixth Form.

Over the two years we will explore with you your aspirations while developing your thinking skills and life skills, so that you leave us independent and forward-thinking young adults, equipped to thrive and lead in the world.

As a selective school, we have clear and mutually understood expectations, both academic and personal, of our Sixth Form students. We expect you to apply yourself; set high standards and create and seize opportunities. Above all, we expect students to be principled, curious and courageous in all their endeavours.

We match these expectations of you with our support. Our teachers and dedicated Sixth Form tutors will get to know who you really are. They will help you understand your core strengths and work with you to identify areas, interests and skills to develop.

Our Sixth Form curriculum offers you a choice of academic routes: the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, or A Levels. In different ways, these pathways will unlock areas of knowledge, inspire your curiosity and demand mastery of skills.

Our large and thriving Sixth Form is a dynamic place where you and your contribution truly matters. We look forward to welcoming you.

Your Choice of Qualification

Your Choice of Qualification

The advantage of our Sixth Form is the availability of choice, with the option of pursuing A Levels or the International Baccalaureate Diploma.

Through active academic societies, lectures and excursions you will enjoy opportunities to develop your understanding of the contribution of subjects to the wider world. Yet, there are differences in the qualifications and in the skills each path of study seeks to develop, and in the philosophy of education. The International Baccalaureate (IB) mission, for example, is to inspire and equip lifelong learners to make a more peaceful world. Thus, IB learners will find that their learning is enquiry-led and develops strong powers of evaluation, critical and creative thinking. The IB Diploma is holistic in its approach to developing and challenging the whole learner. The skills and experiences encountered in

one area of study might support the student with an issue in another. A Levels provide a more linear route and are suited to students who have a clear vision about options for post-school study, as the students will develop deep subject specialism in their areas of choice. We strongly encourage our students to focus on three A Levels as we believe, with A Levels, it is quality, not quantity that is key to achieving grades for university offers. If you are passionate about specific subjects then A Levels provide a rewarding pathway.

Whichever option you choose to follow, we will ensure that you are well prepared for life beyond school.

IB Diploma Programme

Specialism in three Higher Level (HL) subjects

Sixth Form Prospectus Your Choice of Qualification

A Level

Specialism in three subjects

A fourth subject is not recommended as university offers are made on three strong subjects; however in individual circumstances four subjects may be considered

Breadth in three Standard Level (SL) subjects

Courses chosen from established IB subject groups with tutor advice

Continuance and development of skills in numeracy, language acquisition, scientific method, critical reading and social sciences

Coursework component in all courses

Results issued as scores: 45 points total with 7 points maximum per subject course, and 3 core points for ToK, CAS and EE (see below)

Emphasis, along with subject knowledge, on profile of learner, reflection and process in developing skills across all areas of study

Compulsory Theory of Knowledge (ToK) assessed course encourages consideration of broader knowledge

Compulsory Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS) promoting community led activities and balance through experiential learning

Compulsory Extended Essay (EE) is an assessed introduction to university-style enquiry

Compulsory project work in the Sciences unassessed, but formal reflective engagement required

Recognised university entrance qualification in the UK and internationally Offers on total points and achievement at HL subject(s) typically

Significant evidence of lower offers from leading universities

Highly regarded by employers both in the UK and globally

Subject combination chosen from option blocks with tutor advice

Continuance and development of a range of skills dependent on the subjects chosen for A Level

Coursework component in some courses

Results issued as grades A*- E

Emphasis on subject knowledge whilst reflecting upon the BGS Learner Profile

Sixth Form tutorial commitment to CAS and experiential learning actively encouraged

Complusory Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is an assessed university-style enquiry completed in Lower Sixth

Recognised university entrance qualification Offers on achievement in three subjects typically with possibility of adjustment with EPQ awarded at certain grade

Well recognised by UK employers

Student Life

“In the Sixth Form, the teachers work closely with you. They treat you like adults and expect you to work hard, but are supportive at the same time. Chequers, the Common Room and areas like the attic study area in Sixth Form House, give us more freedom than everyday school life, and the friendly environment and community feel makes it really special here.”

Sixth Form Prospectus Student Life

Our vibrant Sixth Form House is the hub of Sixth Form life. Sixth Form House is designed to provide spaces to study, socialise and connect, as you become more independent and are afforded more privileges.

At the heart of Sixth Form is The Hub, our stunning common room. It is the central place to relax or study between lessons in a tranquil and modern environment, replicating modern work spaces. It is also the centre for social activities and you will always find it full of laughter and conversation.

The Sixth Form House also boasts Chequers, a café serving Sixth Formers a range of healthy meals, snacks and drinks. Chequers opens onto a dedicated garden and courtyard with picnic benches and areas to hangout.

The quiet Study Loft at the top of Sixth Form House looks out over rooftops and is furnished with library carrels providing a cool and bright space ideal for independent learning and research. Much Sixth Form teaching takes place in Sixth Form House and the dedicated classrooms provide an environment for small-group lessons, providing a tutorial experience akin to that of university study. Technology is woven into our teaching styles, with all students having iPads and many selecting to also use laptops to further enhance collaboration and creativity. However you like to work, or whatever task you have, there is a spot in the Sixth Form House for you.

Our Careers Service, The Bridge is centrally located to provide resources and a friendly support atmosphere for you to explore your ideas and start to make plans for life after school. With weekly Lunchbox Lectures and access to a plethora of alumnae there are outstanding opportunities to help you consider your aspirations. Students wishing to pursue Oxbridge or medical applications have access to additional support and guidance via our Oxbridge coordinator and Medical Society.

The maturity and independence of our Sixth Form serve as a passport to move freely around the School. Sixth Formers enjoy privileges not extended to the rest of the School, including a distinct uniform and the freedom to leave campus during lunch breaks and some study periods. Sixth Formers have access to the fitness centre, the Learning Resources Centre and lead clubs, establish societies and run campaigns. Life in the Sixth Form is fun as we help you mature in a safe and supportive environment, building the skills and resilience that will stand you in good stead for life beyond school.

Experiential Enrichment

We want you to be life long active participants in your communities.

We will help you see the value that you will gain through wider involvement in community work, societies, trips, sports and clubs. We will broaden your horizons and support your curriculum learning. We want you to have time to enjoy some relaxation, but at other times we want you to seek experiences that will take you out of your comfort zone and deepen aspects of your learner profile, extending your skills and interests.

Throughout the Sixth Form, all students will be involved in community work and charity campaigns to support our local and international charity partners. These programmes help you find your voice, develop a deeper understanding of local and global issues and build skills to show how you can take individual responsibility to become agents of change.

Opportunities abound in clubs, societies, teams and Houses. From sports, to music, public speaking and technology, the range is incredible. Sixth Form students regularly establish new societies and clubs as well as organise events both in-house and with the students from Bedford School, including extensive joint music and drama opportunities. The Combined Cadet Force and The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme are popular with the Sixth Form for the leadership, communication, organisation and teamwork skills they foster.

We believe it is important for all students to continue with PE in the Sixth Form with weekly timetabled sessions, to support your well-being and provide balance to the structure of your week. Whilst some will thrive in the thrill of a team sport, we also offer general fitness, yoga, swimming and gym sessions to cater for everyone's interests.

Tutorial Support

Tutorial Support

Before Sixth Form starts we run an extensive induction programme to support the transition, by introducing organisational and study strategies, as well as providing social opportunities to help establish new friendships.

You will have a Sixth Form Tutor to work with throughout your two Sixth Form years. The Tutor supports and champions you, both with your academic progress and your emotional development. Each month you will have a one-to-one tutorial during which individual targets are set and reviewed to keep you purposeful, reflective and resilient in your approach to your study; to help you take charge.

The Tutor, is also the person with whom you work most closely when exploring post Sixth Form options; whether that be making applications to university, exploring other courses or applying for jobs. The Tutor helps and supports you through the UCAS application process.

You are also supported by Senior Tutors in both the Lower and Upper Sixth and our dedicated Sixth Form pastoral officer. The team are all here, together with the Director of Sixth Form, to help you discover who you are and to nurture you through an intensive but hugely rewarding period of study. Student well-being is at the forefront of what we do and we pride ourselves on our genuine care for each and every one of you, so there is always someone to talk to.

Through the Tutorial Programme you will be introduced to study strategies: ways to personalise learning; active note-taking; reflective writing; managing long-term deadlines, and so on. This is balanced with extensive PSHE classes, university preparation sessions and a Careers programme which deals with both practical, emotional and intellectual preparation for independent adult life.

Moving from Senior School to Sixth Form is a big step. Within our relaxed environment you will progress towards adulthood with the care you need to manage the changes, opportunities and challenges ahead.

Student Reflections

“BGS provided me with information on a wide variety of options for university, and encouraged me to aim high. Being able to get support from teachers in the areas I was interested in was invaluable. The ability to manage your own time more flexibly massively helped prepare me for university.”

EMILIA ~

“My favourite aspect of sixth form would definitely have to be the atmosphere. It doesn’t matter whether you’re on the GLG, do IB, do certain subjects or extracurricular, the whole year group connects in a different way; the maturity and independence of being in the Sixth Form allows you to make connections with people you haven’t necessarily connected with lower down in the school, and you become friends with new people in classes, tutor groups, and through the common room community. The common room acts as a safe and connecting environment, which can stem new relationships and bring the year together as one - for example, during pride month (June of 2022) the whole common room was decorated with flags to represent all our students and people in the world around us; this added a sense of connection and unity between the whole common room and the students.”

LEAH

“The Sixth Form atmosphere is very different to the Senior School. I began to feel more mature once being in the Sixth Form, this was because although we still got amazing support from our tutors, we were doing more of our work independently rather than in classes. This was very apparent in my creative subjects. I knew that this method of working would be very beneficial and prepare me when thinking about my future career path.”

ELISE ~

“The opportunities to have leadership positions at BGS perfectly prepared me for life after school. Being a House Prefect built up my communication, teamwork and leadership skills, all of which I have referred to when applying for internships at university.”

SABRINA ~

“I’m currently preparing for university, and getting ready to apply to Cambridge. The dedication from staff in supporting me in this endeavour has been invaluable, and I’m always eager to take part in every workshop that’s organised for me. I’m also so glad to have the opportunity to visit all of my teachers for support, or even reassurance over any worries I have. I know that thanks to this, I am as prepared as I could be at this point in the year.”

“BGS has been really supportive throughout the whole UCAS process and preparing for university life. In addition to this, I have found that teachers have been really helpful in transitioning the style of teaching and learning to be more independent, which will be really helpful at university in the future.”

ALICE ~

“I would say that my favourite part of Sixth Form is that my relationships with teachers and peers have become a lot stronger. The School has provided information to help us explore different options for the future and I have been fortunate to get lots of support regarding admissions and entry requirements for my plans after Sixth Form.”

ANNA

Sixth Form Prospectus Student Reflections

“The IB Diploma programme was really engaging and challenging. Once I arrived at university I could see how it had prepared me in terms of my academic confidence, understanding of knowledge and research skills.”

~

“I had a lot of help. I really loved engineering and physics in general and it was great being able to speak with my teachers about the degree and my future. Without that I would never have got all unconditional offers. Having that background knowledge provided by the teachers really set me apart from the other candidate interviews.”

BELLA

HELEN

Sixth

Prospectus Results

Results

Our students achieve excellent results in both A Levels and the IB Diploma. Year on year, over 90% of our students achieve their first or second choice university offers.

A large number of our students achieve the equivalent of straight A*/A at A Level and the IB Diploma. Over the period 2018-22 we have had an average of 47% of all entries achieve A*/A grades. Whilst 93% of all A Level entries achieved A*-C grades.

We continually rank within the top ten performing schools (Small Cohort) for our outstanding IB results, with an average cohort score of 38 points (2018-22 combined) significantly ahead of the worldwide average for the same period.

Our expert specialist teachers work hard to inspire and support the students to achieve beyond their predicted grades. This outstanding commitment can often make the vital difference in achieving the necessary

grades to be accepted onto their first choice course.

Students progress to the top universities in the UK and overseas, including Oxbridge and leading Russell Group establishments but equally as important are those who study a whole range of courses with strong links to industry and vocational pathways.

We strongly believe that our students should choose courses that they are passionate about and that fit their ambitions, and not be swayed by the name of the institution. We also encourage our students to look at wider options, such as overseas universities and industry apprenticeships, and we do have a number of students who select these routes.

Destinations

SUMMARY OF UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS (2018-22)

Russell Group

Other UK Universities

Gap and other

Oxbridge Apprenticeships International Universities

Law Economics, Business & Finance Clinical & Related STEM

Destinations

CHOSEN COURSES OF STUDY BY SECTOR (2018-22)

11 Sixth Form Prospectus Languages & Humanities Design & Creative Social Sciences

Leadership

Wherever your unique skills and talents lie, if you’re an original thinker with a passion for making a difference to the lives of those around you, our Girls’ Leadership Group (GLG) could provide the ideal opportunity to be part of a team whose dedication, hard work and creativity will make an indelible imprint on the life of the School, and even help build a better world.

Appointed each spring from candidates in Lower Sixth, our GLG is comprised of young people equipped with the ambition, resilience, integrity, vision, talent and passion to be a real force for positive change, both in the School and beyond. They are ambassadors, role models and mentors, providing a voice for the younger students, and playing a vital role in shaping school life for future generations. Above all, this is a united group whose unique attributes combine, they become leaders in the increasingly frenetic and interconnected world of the 21st Century.

Whether you’re a natural negotiator and decision maker, a born captain on the sports field or a creative dynamo in the arts, there is a post in the GLG that might be perfect for you. The Head Girl is supported by a

Service Captain; an Eco Captain; a Diversity and Inclusion Captain; an Arts Captain; a Junior School Captain and a Sports Captain. Additionally six House Captains champion House activities. With three Prefects supporting each team, the GLG is a dynamic, effective and multi-skilled team infinitely well-equipped to lead with care, compassion, dedication and vision.

Membership of the GLG helps you acquire the attributes and experience needed to become a future leader in a world where change is rapid and creative thinking and teamwork are key. Such skills are highly valued by universities and employers all over the world. They are also a pathway to lifelong learning and development, where there are no barriers to aspiration and achievement.

Sixth Form Prospectus A Level Fine ArtLooking Ahead

Looking Ahead

You are one of the future generations of change-makers, creative thinkers and problem-solvers. Many of the careers you will forge are in jobs that do not yet exist and will use technology that has not yet been created. We want to help you to develop agile, global-looking mindsets so you embark on the next stage with confidence.

Our Careers Service, The Bridge, will support each of you through the final years at Bedford Girls’ School, offering you encouragement, help and advice as you pin-point your postschool aspirations and make key decisions.

The Bridge team of experts regularly meet with every Sixth Form student on a one-toone basis. Some of you will already have very clear plans, whilst others will wish to explore a wide range of possibilities before identifying their best next-steps. The Bridge individualises the experience, providing a highly personalised approach; it will help you seek out opportunities and research ideas as you prepare to take action and make independent decisions towards your future. The Bridge are always on hand to help you reflect and refocus when you face set-backs and challenges.

The Bridge provides a huge range of services including support with choice of degree course: UCAS and university applications; alumnae-to-student mentoring programmes; regular Lunchbox Lectures; mock interview sessions; networking and business skills development sessions; writing Sixth Form specific careers bulletins; holding workshops for Oxbridge and early entry candidates (medicine, dental and vet med); and arranging themed careers events.

The Bridge also gives guidance in arranging work experience, and maintains strong relationships with employers and professionals from a wide range of sectors as well as universities both in the UK and internationally.

The friendly team are located in the heart of Sixth Form House; they are an integral part of the support around you; helping you maintain the balance of looking towards your future whilst you manage the academic and cocurricular demands of Sixth Form life.

Anna Ploszajski, Materials Scientist

Emma Maslin, Financial Well-being Educator

Revée Walcott-Nolan, Olympian

Amy Osgood, Knitwear and Womenswear Designer

Courtnay Osborne-Walker, Health and Fitness Influencer

Claudia Hammond, Broadcaster and Author

The Alumnae

The Alumnae’s aim is to build a connected international community of former students who can support and assist current students and each other by sharing experiences, knowledge, qualifications and friendship.

We are fortunate to boast an alumnae comprised, not just of our former students, but also of those from our two distinct and respected heritage schools, Bedford High School for Girls and Dame Alice Harpur School. The Alumnae embraces members from all over the world and from a vast array of professional and academic backgrounds, and they are always willing to support our Sixth Formers. Our dedicated Alumnae website facilitates communication between registered members from all over the world, making it easy for you to ask questions and benefit from their expertise.

The Alumnae opens up avenues and opportunities, both physically and intellectually, that simply cannot be found anywhere else.

As part of Bedford Girls’ School Sixth Form, not only will you benefit from the advice, guidance, mentorship and support of our existing alumnae, but you, in turn, will become a valued mentor and friend to successive generations. Once you have left school there are opportunities to benefit from networking events, reunions and Old Girl sports matches to extend the reach of your BGS community.

Our Oxbridge students are supported by the Shortland-Jones Award, a wonderful legacy which allocates an annual bursary to each student studying an undergraduate degree at Cambridge or Oxford.

All students who join our school community automatically become part of Bedford Girls’ School Association, The Alumnae.

Sixth Form Prospectus

Joining Us

Joining Us

For students wishing to join Bedford Girls’ School Sixth Form, the process begins at the start of the Autumn Term of Year 11, when we host a Sixth Form Open Evening where you and your parents can meet key staff to ask questions about the two courses of study and how each might best suit you.

Applications to join the Sixth Form, the confirmation of which qualification you would like to study and your subject choices need to be made in early December. Each year we offer financial support through our Bursary Award scheme to a small number of academically strong pupils, who would otherwise be unable to afford the fees. Bursary applications should be made at the same time as your Sixth Form application.

All applicants will be informally interviewed by the Headmistress and the Director of Sixth Form before being offered a place. External candidates will sit Cognitive Ability Assessments and undertake a piece of written work to measure their capacity for creative and critical thinking.

All offers are conditional and dependent upon achieving a minimum entry requirement of five GCSE passes at grades 9-6; with a 6 or higher in the subjects, or equivalent, you choose to study in the Sixth Form. Some subjects may require a higher grade at GCSE, and throughout the application process, subject specialists, the Deputy Head, and the Director of Sixth Form will be available to discuss suitability and requirements for each individual subject.

Please don’t hesitate to contact our Admissions Team with any enquiries, or, for existing students, please be assured that your Form Tutor will happily talk to you about any aspect of life in the Sixth Form.

We host an informative Sixth Form Evening in the Autumn Term and full details of our Sixth Form admissions process and key dates can be found in the Admissions section of our website: www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk

Cardington Road, Bedford, MK42 0BX Telephone: 01234 361900 admissions@bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk

Bedford Girls’ School is part of The Harpur Trust: a company limited by guarantee Registered in England: Company Number: 3475202

Registered Office: Pilgrim Centre, Brickhill Drive, Bedford, MK41 7PZ

Registered Charity Number: 1066861