Your future. Your choice. Hockerill Sixth Form: 2027 Entry
Contents Welcome to Hockerill
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Why Hockerill
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Your Sixth Form. Your choice
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The International Baccalaureate Diploma
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A Levels, applied qualifications and electives
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Achieve your potential
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Life beyond lessons
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Make Sixth Form your own
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Where could Hockerill take you?
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Boarding at Hockerill
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Joining Hockerill
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Welcome to Hockerill Choosing where to study after Year 11 is an important decision. At Hockerill, we want you to be ambitious about your future, excited by the opportunities ahead and confident that you will receive the support you need to achieve your best.
I’m proud to welcome you to our diverse and dynamic Sixth Form, where being the best version of yourself is the expectation.
September 2027 marks an exciting new chapter for our Sixth Form. Alongside our established International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, we are introducing A Levels and selected applied qualifications, offering greater choice and flexibility than ever before. Whether you want to pursue a broad programme of study or specialise in particular subjects, we will help you find a pathway that reflects your strengths, interests and ambitions.
Our Sixth Form team promotes academic and personal growth, helping you become a resilient, reflective individual who flourishes on the global stage. Our induction programme, tutor support, mentoring, expert careers advice and close-knit community will help you feel at home, wherever you join us from.
Whatever you choose to study, you can expect excellent teaching, high expectations and staff who know you well. You’ll be encouraged to think independently, take responsibility for your learning and make the most of the exceptional opportunities available beyond the classroom. Our Sixth Form combines academic ambition with a rich programme of sport, music, drama, leadership, enrichment and trips. Just as importantly, it is a welcoming community where students develop friendships, grow in confidence and prepare for their futures. Whether you’re continuing from Hockerill Year 11 or joining us from another school, I hope you’ll discover a place where you belong, can achieve highly and look forward with confidence.
You will become part of a community that values individuality, celebrates all cultures, nurtures mutual respect and supports you every step of the way.
We foster a love of learning, spark critical thinking and encourage you to take ownership of your learning as we challenge you beyond your comfort zone. Our mission is clear: to prepare you not simply to cope with change, but to adapt and lead within it. From electives, clubs, societies and leadership roles to unforgettable trips, we offer rich opportunities to develop far beyond the classroom. These experiences shape lives and stay with our students long after they leave. If you want to become an internationally minded young adult, ready to make your mark on the world, Hockerill Sixth Form is the place for you. We look forward to welcoming you. Thea Wilson, Director of Sixth Form
I encourage you to visit Hockerill, meet our students and staff, and experience our Sixth Form for yourself. Alasdair Mackenzie, Principal
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Why Hockerill Your ambitions. Your opportunities. Your future. At Hockerill, academic ambition goes hand in hand with exceptional opportunities and individual support. You’ll be encouraged to aim high and make the most of everything College life has to offer.
1. Academic excellence. Ambitious futures. Join a high-performing College with a strong reputation for academic achievement, excellent teaching and high expectations. You’ll be challenged to achieve your best and supported in preparing for your next steps.
2. More choice. More possibilities. Choose from the IB Diploma, A Levels and selected applied qualifications, with opportunities to broaden your studies through Sixth Form Electives. Find the programme that reflects your strengths, interests and ambitions.
3. The best of two communities. Enjoy the independence and close friendships of a dedicated Sixth Form – while belonging to Hockerill’s vibrant wholeCollege community. You will study alongside students from different backgrounds and countries, with opportunities to lead, inspire and make meaningful contributions to College life.
4. Exceptional opportunities beyond lessons. From sport, music and drama to CCF, Duke of Edinburgh, volunteering and international trips, you’ll have opportunities to develop your interests, discover new talents and create memorable experiences.
5. A Sixth Form where you’re known. Benefit from small tutor groups, tailored guidance and the dedicated support of our Sixth Form team. In a close-knit community where every student is known as an individual, you’ll be challenged, encouraged and empowered to excel.
6. Preparing you for what comes next. Develop the confidence, independence and skills to thrive beyond Hockerill. Our dedicated Careers Adviser, based in the Sixth Form Centre, will provide personalised university and careers guidance – helping you explore every option and pursue an ambitious future.
“ The provision for pupils’ personal development is exceedingly strong.” Ofsted, 2023
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Outstanding in: Quality of Education | Personal Development | Sixth Form Provision Ofsted education inspection, 2023
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Your Sixth Form. Your Choice Your subjects. Your strengths. Your future. From September 2027, Hockerill Sixth Form will offer greater choice and flexibility than ever before, with challenging programmes designed to reflect your strengths, interests and future ambitions. Whether you want to maintain a broad range of subjects or specialise in those you enjoy most, you can choose a pathway that is right for you.
The International Baccalaureate Diploma An academically ambitious and internationally recognised programme combining breadth of study with opportunities to explore subjects in greater depth. It invites you to pursue your passions through tailored coursework and global curricula, while developing the critical thinking, independence and research skills that are valued for university and future careers.
A Levels Concentrate on the subjects that interest you most, developing specialist knowledge and skills for university and future careers. Choose three A Levels or, through our Mathematics/STEM Specialist Route, four A Levels including Mathematics and Further Mathematics.
A Levels + Applied Qualification Combine two A Levels with a Level 3 applied qualification, offering a different approach to learning and assessment. Planned subjects include Criminology and Food Science and Nutrition.
Sixth Form Electives Our A Level and applied pathways provide opportunities to broaden your studies through a Sixth Form Elective, including options such as the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), Fundamentals of Financial Services and selected IB Standard Level subjects.
Choosing your pathway Our staff will help you explore your options, consider university and career requirements, and choose a programme that offers the right balance of challenge and opportunity.
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Your pathways at a glance Pathway
Programme
IB Diploma
Six subjects: three Higher Level and three Standard Level, plus Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS).
Three A Levels
Three A Level subjects plus a Sixth Form Elective.
Mathematics/STEM Specialist Route
Mathematics, Further Mathematics and two additional A Levels, with the opportunity to choose a Sixth Form Elective.
A Levels + Applied Qualification
Two A Levels and one Level 3 Applied qualification, plus a Sixth Form Elective.
Individual courses and subject combinations are subject to availability and timetabling.
Find out more Scan the QR code to explore our curriculum pathways and full subject choices.
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Why choose the IB Diploma? Think broadly. Explore deeply. Aim high.
Three reasons to choose the IB
The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) is an academically challenging and internationally recognised qualification that combines breadth of study with opportunities to explore subjects in greater depth. The programme also encourages students to become internationally minded, reflective and well-rounded learners.
Keep your options open
The IB Diploma has been at the heart of Hockerill Sixth Form for over 25 years. Our established experience of delivering the programme, combined with excellent teaching and individual support, provides a strong foundation for students who want to challenge themselves academically and personally.
Prepare for your future
The Diploma is particularly attractive to students who enjoy a range of subjects, are curious about the world around them and want to develop the knowledge, independence and skills needed for their future.
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Continue studying a broad range of subjects, making connections between different disciplines while developing all your academic strengths.
Challenge yourself Develop your knowledge, critical thinking, independent learning and life skills through a demanding and rewarding programme.
Gain an internationally recognised qualification that provides excellent preparation for university in the UK and overseas. You’ll learn to write academically, develop research questions and extend your passions through independent study.
How does the IB work? Six subjects. Breadth and depth. Over two years, you’ll study six subjects: three at Higher Level (HL) and three at Standard Level (SL).
The six IB subject groups 1. Studies in Language and Literature Explore language, literature and communication.
2. Language Acquisition Continue studying a language or begin learning a new one.
Higher Level subjects allow you to explore particular areas in greater depth, while Standard Level subjects provide the breadth that makes the Diploma distinctive.
3. Individuals and Societies
Each subject has examination components and a minimum of one assessed piece of coursework.
5. Mathematics
Explore people, cultures and societies.
4. Sciences Develop scientific understanding and inquiry.
Develop mathematical reasoning and problem-solving.
6. The Arts or an additional subject Pursue creative interests or select an additional subject from another group. Our staff will help you choose a combination that reflects your strengths, interests and future ambitions.
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What makes the IB different? More than six subjects: The IB Core
IB subject choices for September 2027
Explore your options
Alongside your six subjects, you’ll complete three elements that encourage independent thinking, personal development and learning beyond the classroom.
Subject
Higher Level
Standard Level
Biology
Chemistry
Design Technology
Theory of Knowledge (TOK)
English Language & Literature
Question. Discuss. Think critically.
Environmental Systems & Society
X
Explore how we know what we know, challenge assumptions and consider different perspectives, developing the confidence to express and defend your ideas.
French
Geography
German
History
Research. Explore. Discover.
Italian Ab Initio
X
Undertake an independent research project of up to 4,000 words on a topic that interests you, developing valuable research and academic writing skills. You’ll be supported throughout by a dedicated one-to-one supervisor.
Japanese Ab Initio
X
Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches
X
Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation
X
Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)
Music
Physics
Psychology
Social and Cultural Anthropology
Spanish
Visual Arts
Extended Essay (EE)
Get involved. Challenge yourself. Make a difference. Take part in creative, physical and community activities, developing new interests and skills, taking on challenges and making a positive contribution locally and globally.
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Choose three Higher Level and three Standard Level subjects, following the requirements of the IB Diploma Programme.
Subject availability is subject to student demand and timetable viability.
Find out more Scan the QR code to explore individual IB subjects, course content and assessment information on our website.
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Why choose A Levels? Different routes. Ambitious futures. Our A Level and applied programmes offer different ways to combine subjects and qualifications, allowing you to choose a pathway that reflects your strengths, interests and future ambitions.
Three reasons to choose A Levels Focus on your strengths Choose subjects that interest you most and explore them in greater depth.
Shape your future Develop the knowledge and skills needed for your chosen university course, apprenticeship or career.
Keep exploring Broaden your education through a Sixth Form Elective alongside your principal qualifications.
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Which pathway is right for me? Your interests. Your specialisms. Your future. A Levels allow you to concentrate on the subjects you enjoy most, developing specialist knowledge and skills for university and future careers. At Hockerill, you can combine academic ambition with the flexibility to explore other interests. Three A Levels Study three A Level subjects of your choice, alongside a Sixth Form Elective. This route allows you to develop specialist knowledge in your chosen subjects while continuing to explore other interests.
Four A Levels – Mathematics/STEM Specialist Route Students with specific strengths and ambitions in Mathematics and STEM subjects can study four A Levels: Mathematics, Further Mathematics and two additional subjects. You may also choose a Sixth Form Elective.
A Levels + Applied Qualification Combine two A Levels with a Level 3 applied qualification in either Criminology or Food Science and Nutrition. Each Applied qualification is equivalent in size to one A Level and combines subject knowledge with a more practical approach to learning and assessment. You’ll also study a Sixth Form Elective.
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Sixth Form Electives Specialise without sacrificing breadth.
Explore your options
One of the distinctive features of our A Level and applied pathways is the opportunity to broaden your education through a Sixth Form Elective.
Undertake an independent project on a topic that interests you, developing research, planning and presentation skills.
Alongside your main qualifications, electives allow you to explore new interests, develop valuable skills and extend your learning beyond your chosen subjects.
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Fundamentals of Financial Services Explore the world of financial services and develop knowledge relevant to future study and careers.
Selected IB Standard Level subjects Continue studying a language or explore another subject beyond your main A Levels. Options include French, German, Spanish, Italian Ab Initio, Japanese Ab Initio and Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation. The final range of Sixth Form Electives will be confirmed ahead of students making their programme selections.
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Subject choices for September 2027 Explore your options Choose from a wide range of A Level subjects and selected Level 3 applied qualifications. A Level Subjects Art & Design: Fine Art
English Language
Media Studies
Biology
English Literature
Physical Education
Business
French
Physics
Chemistry
Further Mathematics
Politics
Chinese
Geography
Psychology
Computer Science
German
Religious Studies
Design Technology
History
Sociology
Drama
Mathematics
Spanish
Find out more
Economics
Scan the QR code to explore individual subjects, course content and assessment information on our website.
Level 3 applied qualifications Criminology
Food Science and Nutrition
Individual courses and subject combinations are subject to availability and timetabling.
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Achieve your potential Ambitious teaching. Individual support. Real opportunities. At Hockerill, we want every student to achieve their potential. Whatever pathway you choose, you’ll be challenged academically, encouraged to think independently and supported by staff who know you well.
Teaching that inspires You’ll learn from knowledgeable and committed subject specialists who bring enthusiasm, expertise and high expectations to their teaching. Lessons encourage you to actively engage, question, discuss and explore ideas, developing your understanding and confidence as an independent learner.
Small tutor groups. Personal attention. Our small tutor groups mean you’ll be known as an individual, with regular opportunities to discuss your progress, celebrate achievements and seek advice. Your tutor will help you set ambitious goals, manage your studies and make the most of your time in Sixth Form.
A team here to support you Our dedicated Sixth Form team, including Heads of Year and pastoral staff, provides guidance, encouragement and practical support throughout your time at Hockerill. Whether you need help with your studies, wellbeing or adjusting to Sixth Form life, you’ll have people you know and trust, who will also know you.
Growing in confidence and independence Sixth Form is about more than academic qualifications. You’ll be encouraged to contribute to your community, take responsibility for your learning, manage competing demands and develop the resilience to overcome challenges. With the right balance of academic challenge and individual support, you’ll develop the skills and confidence to succeed.
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“ Leaders have very high expectations for all pupils.” Ofsted, 2023
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Life beyond lessons Discover new interests. Share new experiences. Make lasting memories. Sixth Form life at Hockerill is about much more than lessons and qualifications. You’ll have opportunities to pursue your interests, try something new, take on challenges and enjoy memorable experiences with friends. Sport and physical activity Whether you’re a committed sports player or simply enjoy being active, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved Represent the College, develop your skills and enjoy recreational sport alongside your studies.
Challenge yourself. Make a difference. Develop your confidence, leadership and teamwork through opportunities such as the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Model United Nations, debating and volunteering. These experiences encourage you to take on new challenges, explore different perspectives and make a positive contribution to others.
Music, drama and creativity From concerts and theatrical productions to ensembles and creative activities, you’ll have opportunities to perform, collaborate and express yourself. Sixth Form students can also continue or develop their instrumental music through individual lessons.Whether you’re an experienced performer or want to try something new, there’s a place for you to get involved.
Trips, exchanges and international experiences Explore new places, discover different cultures and share experiences beyond the classroom. Educational visits, residential trips and international exchanges offer opportunities to broaden your horizons, develop international-mindedness and grow as a global citizen.
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Make Sixth Form your own Your space. Your community. Your opportunities. Sixth Form is an exciting new chapter, bringing greater independence, new friendships and opportunities to make your mark. At Hockerill, you’ll have the freedom to develop your interests and ambitions while being part of our welcoming and diverse community.
A space of your own Our purpose-built Sixth Form Centre is at the heart of Sixth Form life. With dedicated teaching rooms, independent study areas and social spaces, it’s somewhere to work, spend time with friends and enjoy the greater independence that comes with being a Sixth Former.
Friendships without borders Whether you’re continuing from Hockerill Year 11 or joining us from another school, you’ll become part of a welcoming and diverse Sixth Form. Our community brings together day students and boarders from across the UK and around the world. You’ll meet people with different experiences and perspectives, share new opportunities and build friendships that extend well beyond the classroom.
Make your mark As a Sixth Former, you’ll play an important role in the wider College community. You’ll have opportunities to take on leadership roles within our prefect team, mentor younger students, represent your peers and help organise College activities and events. Whether you’re leading, supporting others or sharing your ideas, you’ll be encouraged to take responsibility, contribute to College life and make a positive difference.
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Where could Hockerill take you? Big ambitions. Exciting possibilities. Your future. Your time at Hockerill is an opportunity to discover your strengths, develop your ambitions and begin shaping your future. Whether you’re considering university in the UK or overseas, an apprenticeship or another pathway, we’ll help you explore your options and make informed decisions about your future.
Aim high
Ready for what comes next
Hockerill has a strong tradition of academic achievement and preparing students for ambitious destinations.
The knowledge and qualifications you gain at Hockerill are only part of what you’ll take with you.
Whatever you choose to study, you’ll be encouraged to set challenging goals, develop your strengths and work towards the opportunities that interest you.
You’ll also develop independence, resilience, communication skills and the confidence to embrace new opportunities.
Explore your possibilities
Our ambition is that you leave Hockerill not only well qualified, but well prepared for your future.
Choosing your next step is about finding the right direction for you. Through careers education, university guidance and opportunities to explore different professions and industries, you’ll develop a clearer understanding of the choices available. You’ll also be encouraged to consider opportunities beyond the UK.
Guidance every step of the way Our Sixth Form team will support you as you research your options, prepare applications and make important decisions. We have experienced staff and a dedicated Careers Adviser based in our Sixth Form Centre. From university applications and personal statements to apprenticeships, interviews and other progression routes, you’ll receive practical guidance to help you approach your next steps with confidence.
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Boarding at Hockerill Independence, friendship and a place to call home. Boarding at Hockerill is much more than somewhere to live. It’s an opportunity to develop independence, build lasting friendships and become part of a welcoming international community. Living alongside students from across the UK and around the world, you’ll share experiences, discover new perspectives and make the most of College life.
A home of your own
Boarding that works for you
Sixth Form boarders live in Thames House and Roding House, both with dedicated areas for older students.
We offer full, weekly and flexi boarding, allowing families to choose arrangements that suit their circumstances.
With comfortable communal spaces, kitchens, games rooms and study facilities, you’ll have somewhere to relax, work and spend time with friends.
Discover more about boarding
Year 13 students have individual bedrooms, while most Year 12 students share rooms.
Independence with support Sixth Form boarding helps prepare you for university and adult life, with greater freedom to manage your time, studies and social activities. During evening prep, academic support is available in the boarding houses, providing a structured environment in which to study and seek help when needed. Experienced boarding staff, including your dedicated Boarding Tutor, also provide personal guidance and support.
Make the most of every day Enjoy activities, time with friends and opportunities to visit Bishop’s Stortford. Weekends offer time to relax, join organised trips to places such as London and Cambridge, or spend time with friends and family.
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We encourage prospective students and families to visit our boarding houses, meet current boarders and talk to students and staff about life at Hockerill. Visit our website to explore our boarding options and arrange a visit.
“ Children are happy, they feel secure, and they make sustained progress.” Ofsted, 2023
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Joining Hockerill Your next chapter starts here We want to make exploring your options and applying to Hockerill as straightforward as possible, so you can make an informed choice about your future. Come and discover Hockerill for yourself, meet our students and staff, explore your options and find the pathway that’s right for you.
Who can apply?
Entry requirements
We welcome applications from current Hockerill students and students from other schools, including those wishing to join us as day students or boarders.
Our standard Sixth Form entry requirements are:
Our IB, A Level and applied pathways offer opportunities for students with different academic interests, strengths and ambitions.
• A minimum of 44 points from your best eight GCSEs, including Mathematics and either English Language or English Literature. • At least Grade 4 in Mathematics. • At least Grade 4 in either English Language or English Literature. • The relevant subject-specific entry requirements for your chosen courses. Applicants with overseas or other qualifications will also be considered where these are judged comparable to the stated GCSE requirements. Full pathway and subject-specific entry requirements are available on our website.
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How to join us Your journey to Hockerill 1. Explore your options
4. Take the next steps
Interested in boarding?
Discover our academic pathways, consider your subject choices and find the programme that best suits your interests and ambitions.
After we have received your application, you will be invited to attend an Academic Meeting in which we discuss your chosen Sixth Form pathway, predicted grades, and future aspirations. These Academic Meetings will take place during the Lent Term. If you have applied for a Boarding place at Hockerill, we will also schedule a Boarding Suitability Interview for the same time.
We offer full, weekly and flexi boarding, with opportunities for prospective families to visit our boarding houses and meet students and staff. If you are interested in applying for a Boarding place, please complete the relevant section of the online Sixth Form application.
2. Visit Hockerill Come and experience the College for yourself. Meet students and staff, explore our facilities and find out more about Sixth Form life. Visit our website for information about forthcoming Open Days and opportunities to visit.
3. Make your application Applications for September 2027 entry can be made from Monday 23 November 2026, following our Sixth Form Open Morning. The link to do so will appear on our Admissions webpage on this date. The deadline for submission of your application is Tuesday 5 January 2027.
We aim to contact all applicants with decisions about their entry to Sixth Form by the end of March 2027.
Find out more Visit our website for full entry requirements, application information, upcoming events and contact details. We look forward to welcoming you to Hockerill.
Key Dates for Sixth Form Application Process: Saturday 21 November 2026
Sixth Form Open Morning
Monday 23 November 2026
Online applications to Sixth Form can be made from this date
Tuesday 5 January 2027
Deadline for submission of applications
Current Hockerill students: an application will be created for you, and a welcome email sent to your College email address on Monday 23 November 2026. Please log in and complete your application using these credentials.
January and February 2027
Academic Meetings and (if applicable) Boarding Suitability Interviews
By end March 2027
All applicants informed of outcome
Saturday 26 June 2027
New Students' Morning/Induction
Students from other schools: please create a new account using the application link.
Thursday 19 August 2027
GCSE Results Day/Enrolment
Thursday 2 September 2027
Start of Term for Year 12
“ Pupils achieve highly. They are extremely well prepared for the next stage of their education, training or work.” Ofsted, 2023
Dunmow Road, Bishop’s Stortford Hertfordshire CM23 5HX T: 01279 658451 E: sixthformadmissions@hockerill.com www.hockerill.com
Your future starts here. Discover the opportunities waiting for you at Hockerill Sixth Form.