Birkenhead Sixth Form Prospectus

Prospectus | September 2016 entry

Mission Statement

To be an outstanding Sixth Form College providing high quality education for all.

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: XXXXXXX

Welcome.

Choosing where to continue your education at 16 is an important decision and we are delighted that you are considering The Sixth Form College.

As a Centre of Excellence for sixth form studies, we are experienced in helping students just like you to achieve your full potential in preparation for your future career.

Our courses are led by subject specialists with a wealth of experience of teaching 16-19 year-olds and our results, which are higher than both the local and national average, are a testament to our expertise.

We offer a mature and aspirational place in which to learn, and foster a culture of independence, confidence and mutual respect, so students leave with a broad skill set and a real desire to succeed. Many go on to study at top universities, including Oxbridge, whilst others secure apprenticeships or jobs with leading employers.

We hope you feel The Sixth Form College is the right choice for you. Please do come along to one of our Open Events to find out more about all of the opportunities available from our student alumni and staff.

Kathryn Podmore Principal

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Welcome

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Find out why we are Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form:

“I chose to study at The Sixth Form College because it’s friendly, supportive staff and environment welcomed me more than anywhere else.”

Melissa, Weatherhead High School & Calday Grange Grammar School

Welcome.................................................03 Why Choose Us......................................06 Courses...................................................10

Facilities.................................................22

Advanced Level Courses.......................12

Student Life............................................26

Level 2 Courses......................................14

Application Process..............................28

Support ..................................................16

Travel.......................................................29

facebook.com/birkenheadsixthformcollege

@BSFC

Open events Want more information?

Come along to one of our open evenings where you can take a look around the college for yourself and chat to current students and subject tutors about courses.

Wednesday 11th November 2015 Wednesday 20th January 2016 Saturday 19th March 2016

COMPETITION FOR PLACES IS HIGH So apply early to secure the course of your choice

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Open Events

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Why choose us?

Widest Choice of Courses

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Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: XXXXXXX

Specialist in Sixth Form Education

£4m investment in modern facilities

High achieving Academic Centre of Excellence

Full Preparation for Higher Education

Outstanding Support

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Why choose us?

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Specialist Sixth Form College.

As one of only 93 specialist sixth form colleges in the country and a recognised Centre of Academic Excellence, we are the experts in sixth form education.

It is a bold statement, but one we know we can deliver on - whatever your qualifications and aspirations.

We have more than 25 years’ experience in providing specialist sixth form education and our team of dedicated and highly experienced and qualified staff is committed to the highest standards of teaching and support for our students.

We are here to equip you with all the skills you need for Higher Education and employment, with the widest range of A Level and BTEC course options in the area, and additional activities all designed to add depth and breadth to your CV. It is our personalised approach, combined with the quality of our provision, which has made us the number one choice for school leavers from every school in the area, with many students also joining us from even further afield.

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Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Why choose us?

What sets a sixth form college apart from school?

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More choice of courses, available in any subject combination, to suit each student’s ambitions and abilities.

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Dedicated sixth form teachers and specialist support staff.

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An adult approach to student learning, providing a ‘stepping stone’ from school to the world of employment or university.

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Learning environments designed for sixth form study.

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Sixth form colleges statistically outperform all other providers of 16-18 education.*

“Coming to The Sixth Form College was the best decision I’ve ever made.”

Breandán, South Wirral High School

* Sixth Form Colleges Association: ‘Sixth Sense - how Sixth Form Colleges help students progress to higher education and beyond’.

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Why choose us?

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Courses.

ALL THE GUIDANCE YOU NEED TO BUILD THE RIGHT PROGRAMME FOR YOU

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Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Courses

The widest choice of courses in Wirral For detailed and up to date information on all subjects and courses visit www.bsfc.ac.uk

Whether you are looking to progress on to Higher Education at a top university or secure a position with one of the country’s leading employers, we offer you all the help and advice you need to choose the best combination of courses to get you there.

Take a look at the table below to confirm which level is best for you:

Predicted/ actual results

Study the courses of your choice, with more combinations than any other sixth form in Wirral

Course choices

5 GCSEs at grades A*-C (including Maths or English Language)

Advanced Level (A Levels and BTEC qualifications)

GCSEs at grades C-D

Level 2 (BTECS and GCSEs)

GCSEs at grades E-F

Please contact the Admissions Team for advice

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Courses

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Advanced Level courses.

A Levels and BTEC Qualifications Below is an example of a standard pathway for our Level 3 courses:

PROGRESS

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Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Courses

University, employment, or further education/other higher education course

YEAR 2

Study three or four A Level subjects or BTEC equivalent qualifications

YEAR 1

Study four A Level subjects or BTEC equivalent qualifications

ENTRY

Five separate GCSEs, including Maths and/or English Language, at grades A*-C

* Some subjects may have additional entry criteria * BTEC qualifications may be considered if at Merit or above

BTEC Level 3 Qualifications

A Level Subjects

(AS and A2 including Applied subjects) Choose from the following: Art & Design - Fine Art Art & Design - Graphics Art & Design - Textiles Biology Business Chemistry Computer Science Dance Design Technology Drama & Theatre Studies Economics English Language

English Language and Literature English Literature Film Studies French Geography Government & Politics Health & Social Care History ICT (Applied) Law Mathematics

Mathematics - Further Media Studies

Subsidiary Diploma Equivalent to: 1 A level Business

Business

Law

ICT

Applied Science

Forensic Science Medical Science

Music Physics Psychology Religious Studies Sociology Spanish Sport & Physical Education Statistics

Diploma Equivalent to: 2 A levels

Extended Diploma Equivalent to: 3 A levels

Sport

Health & Social Care (Full Time Programme)

“The college really helps to unleash the full potential of all of its students helping you to achieve your career plans.”

James, St. John Plessington Catholic College

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Courses

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Level 2 courses.

“College provides a superb bridge between high school and university.”

Matthew, Wirral Grammar School for Boys

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Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Courses

BTECs and GCSE Qualifications Below is an example of the sort of progression you can expect from our Level 2 courses: YEARS 2 AND 3: Study for Level 3 Advanced Level courses and follow a similar pathway to that outlined on page 13.

Year 1 Study / BTEC Level 2 Diploma: May include GCSE resits (or equivalent courses) in Maths and/or English

BTEC Level 2 Diploma Choose from the following: Art & Design

ICT

Business

Media

Health & Social Care

GCSE/Level 2 Choose from the following: English

Maths

Entry: GCSEs mostly at grade C or D

Please note that we do reserve the right to place students on an alternative Level 2 qualification in Maths or English. The qualification we offer will be appropriate to an individual’s level of ability and will be confirmed following a short assessment at the start of the term.

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Courses

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Support.

“The college is a friendly environment in which teachers push students to succeed and also provide support through processes such as applying for University.”

“Since joining The Sixth Form College I have become more confident and enjoy studying. Teachers here support you and help you achieve your goals and ambitions.”

Geena, Birkenhead High School Academy

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Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Support

Bethany, Hilbre High School

One of our key roles as a sixth form college is to provide a strong foundation for students. This allows you to progress from school fully prepared for Higher Education, further training or employment.

To make sure you feel fully supported from when you start, our academic offering is underpinned by a friendly and experienced support team who will be on hand to offer unrivalled guidance and advice whenever you need it: •

Pastoral support

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Academic support

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Learning support

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Careers support

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Higher Education support

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Financial support

“The Sixth Form College offers great support in my chosen subjects. The teachers are friendly and helpful and the college has a great atmosphere.”

Jack, Birkenhead School

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Support

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Pastoral Support Our Personal and Guidance tutors will work closely with you on a one-to-one basis throughout your time at The Sixth Form College, helping you to pinpoint strengths and areas you may wish to develop so that you are fully prepared for the next stage in your professional or academic development.

You will attend weekly tutorials, which will cover topics such as Higher Education choices, careers, finance, personal safety and current affairs, all delivered by specialist teaching staff or experts in the field.

“The staff exude passion and strive to make sure that every student’s needs are met.”

Elizabeth, Hilbre High School

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Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Support

Academic Support To unlock your full academic potential, we offer a range of specialist support led by experienced staff that is designed to support your learning, including: •

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•

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Advanced academic writing programme

- where you are fully supported to develop your writing skills for the higher level required at A Level and in preparation for university

Subject plus sessions - timetabled sessions

offering you additional preparation and support in particular subjects

Study Hall - a timetabled session when you have an opportunity to do exam practice or attend extra lessons Extended project qualification a university-style project which gives you an opportunity to extend your abilities beyond the parameters of the A Level syllabus

Additional Learning Support

If you require additional learning support, our dedicated team of Learning Support staff will work closely with you, your family, school, external agencies and College staff to deliver a level of provision that is exactly right for you.

Our Learning Support Team is based in the Learning Assistance Base here at The Sixth Form College and offer tailored support including: •

One-to-one support from a qualified Learning Support Assistant

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Dyslexia support

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Discreet in-classroom support

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Note takers and/or readers

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Special exam considerations, including rest breaks, psychological support, extra time, readers, scribes or separate exam rooms

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Technical support, including the loan of equipment, such as laptops

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Access to the Learning Assistance Base with individual work stations, large tables and sofas, and an adjacent quiet room fitted with comfortable sofas and laptop tables

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Support

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Careers Support

Higher Education If you are planning to go to university, The Sixth Form College is the perfect choice to help you to get ahead of your peers and secure a place. We offer all the support you need, with advice, talks and visits including: •

Expert advice on UCAS applications from experienced College staff and university admissions teams

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Visits to Oxbridge and other top universities

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Talks and expert guidance delivered as part of an established mentoring scheme with the University of Liverpool

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Opportunities to look at university placements both at home and abroad

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Links to the Liverpool University Scholar’s Scheme, where Year 12 students take part in activities designed to prepare them for university life

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From day one, we will match our support to your career ambitions, and we have a proven track record in helping students to pursue careers across a whole range of sectors.

We will help to improve your employability potential with:

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Support

More of our students go on to university than from any other Wirral sixth form, with many securing places at prestigious Russell Group Universities.

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Access to the Careers Portal containing software and online exercises covering all aspects of the job and apprenticeship application process, as well as details on interview preparation and techniques

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Assistance in applying for higher level apprenticeships with industry-leading companies

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Career-focused tutorials covering interview techniques, apprenticeship options, vacancy search, and CV and cover letter writing practice

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Careers fairs with local and national employers

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Supported opportunities through organisations such as The Social Mobility Foundation and The Sutton Trust

Honours Programme

Financial Support

The Honours Programme is a tailored academic programme of curriculum, enrichment and guidance, designed to equip high achieving students with the knowledge and support needed to progress to a leading university.

All essential costs, such as course workbooks, textbooks, instruments and equipment, are covered by the College, however additional financial support is available for students who meet the necessary criteria.

During your studies you can benefit from: •

Specialist guidance on the subjects that are preferred by the most competitive universities for your choice of degree

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Opportunities to participate in lectures and a residential at Oxbridge universities

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Opportunities to develop the skills that top universities look for

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Opportunities to take leadership roles, such as becoming involved in the student ambassadors programme

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Opportunities to visit Russell Group universities

Depending on your circumstances, this may include: •

A guaranteed bursary of £1,200

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An income assessed bursary

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Access to the College’s discretionary learning support fund

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Support

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Facilities Our teaching provision is supported by modern facilities designed to support sixth form study. Over the last few years we have made significant investment in the College, spending over £4 million on: •

The School of Art and Design

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The Wilfred Owen Humanities Building

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New and fully equipped Science Laboratories

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New Learning Assistance Base

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8SQ student refectory and conservatory

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Extended multi-gym

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Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Facilities

“The college has provided the necessary facilities and outstanding teaching required for me to realise my full potential” Max, Neston High School

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Facilities

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Technology As a student at The Sixth Form College, you will have access to a technology support package that is designed to enhance your learning experience. IT & Technical Services provide computer facilities and specialist software including the Microsoft Office 365 Education Package. These include:

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Wi-Fi that can be accessed at any time, on any device

• Remote Access

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Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Facilities

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A range of software programs and tools

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50GB mailbox

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1TB OneDrive Pro Cloud storage

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Free five-copy license of Microsoft Office for home use whilst enrolled at the College (including use on mobile devices)

The Hub The Hub - a university-style integrated learning area - provides students with a great space in which to complete any independent study using: •

Open access computers

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Text books

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eBooks

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Journals

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Video wall

“The college really helps to unleash the full potential of all of its students helping you to achieve your career plans.”

James, St. John Plessington Catholic College

The Hub is divided into two floors

• Hub 1 is dedicated primarily to reading and independent group study.

• Hub 2 is our main computer suite consisting of 96 computers which students can access any time during Hub opening hours.

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Facilities

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Student life.

Gone are the days where less is more. Now, employers and university admissions teams are looking for CVs with that added extra - something that makes you stand out from the hundreds, and even thousands, of other applicants.

To help enhance your CV and make your time at the College even more fulfilling, we offer a huge range of enrichment opportunities from student ambassadorships to subject trips at home and abroad.

LEARN A LANGUAGE: Including Mandarin Chinese and other world languages

“The Sixth Form College enables you to develop key skills for the future and provides a warm atmosphere in which strangers become friends.”

Phoebe, Woodchurch High School

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Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Student Life

BE A STUDENT AMBASSADOR: Staff nominate students to represent the College and student body at internal and external events

APPLY TO BE HEAD STUDENT: Your chance to represent your fellow students

TAKE A CHALLENGE: Anything from climbing the Three Peaks to completing an environmental project

DO WORK EXPERIENCE: Organise a work experience placement with employers or apply to take part in national work experience schemes with leading multi-national organisations

EARN THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S GOLD AWARD: No previous experience necessary, includes two expeditions to Snowdonia

LEARN A NEW SKILL:

Learn to drive and get ahead

Anything from British Sign Language to First Aid

Working in partnership with IGo Driving, we offer students the opportunity to learn to drive at reduced rates, arranged around the college timetable.

JOIN A CLUB: Covering debating, film and many more

With pick up points and theory test sessions here at The Sixth Form College, getting ahead is made easy.

A full driving licence can make life at university much easier and improve your CV and job prospects too.

SUPPORT FUN FUNDRAISING EVENTS: Including Children in Need, Comic Relief, Battle of the Bands, all organised by Student Ambassadors and Head Student team

• Exclusive deals for our students • Theory test sessions at the College Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Student Life

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Application process.

Applying to the College is easy, here’s how it works: 1. Submit an application form online via our website www.bsfc.ac.uk or complete an application form which can be downloaded online or requested from the College reception.

2. We interview all students, with appointments taking place from December onwards. This is a chance for you to come along to the college and discuss your expected or existing GCSE results, course options and recent school reports with one of our staff to make sure you are following the route that is right for you.

3. After your interview, we will be in touch to let you know if you have been successful and offer you a place at the College.

4. If you have been offered a place, you will be invited to attend our New Student Event which takes place in June or July. It is a really good opportunity to get a taste of sixth form life before you start.

5. The new term starts in September - new friends, teachers and the start of a successful future.

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Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Application Process

A5088 FROM WALLASEY

Travel.

LAIRD ST. BUS DEPOT

MALLABY STREET

BIRKENHEAD PARK STATION

NORTH

We are situated in Claughton Village, next to Birkenhead Park.

A FREE shuttle bus service also runs every morning from Birkenhead rail stations to the College.

By rail…

The College is a 10-minute walk from Birkenhead Park station.

By car…

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SHREWSBURY ROAD

Putting academic excellence on the map

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BIRKENHEAD PARK

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A553 FROM BIRKENHEAD TUNNEL AND TOWN CENTRE

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A5027 FROM UPTON WEST KIRBY

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Dedicated College bus services operate from West Wirral and south Wirral.

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The College is accessible via an extensive bus network and there are regular buses to and from the College from across Wirral.

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By bus…

CLAUGHTON POST OFFICE

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A5028 FROM LISCARD

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A5151 FROM BIDSTON

PARK ROAD

WE ARE HERE

The college is a five-minute drive from Birkenhead town centre and is easily accessible from all parts of Wirral.

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How to find us…

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Information on the travel options available can be accessed at: www.bsfc.ac.uk

ST. JAMES CHURCH

SOUTH CHARING CROSS

FROM BOROUGH ROAD (A552) We have made every effort to ensure that the information contained in this prospectus is accurate at the time of printing. The College reserves the right to make changes and cannot accept liability arising out of, or in connection with any revision.

Wirral’s No.1 Sixth Form: Travel

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Aleksandra

Geena

Birkenhead Park School

Woodchurch

Breandán

Ridgeway

Pensby Birkenhead

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Liberty

Ollie

Jack

West Kirby Grammar

St Anselm’s

Harvey

Rose

Hilbre

Weatherhead

Emma

St Mary’s

Calday Grammar

Neston

South Wirral

Elliott

Bebington St John Plessington

Birkenhead High

Students join us from all over Wirral…

Prenton

Upton Hall

Kingsway

Kingsmead

Mosslands

Wirral Grammar

Oldershaw

Bromwynne

Joseph

Jasmine

Harry

Bethany

Phoebe

Ben

Stephen

Phoebe

Alice

Jessica

Louis

Chloe

the centre of academic excellence

Park Road West, Claughton, Wirral CH43 8SQ Tel: 0151 652 5575 | www.bsfc.ac.uk