Blue Coat Sixth Form Prospectus 2023

Welcome to the Blue Coat Sixth Form, a place where we are immensely proud of all that our students achieve.

Curious minds walk through our doors ready to acquire the knowledge, skills, values and attitudes that will enable them to become successful, responsible and engaged members of society. As an outstanding education provider, we continually motivate and challenge young people to exceed their potential and prepare them to make a positive impact in an everchanging world.

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We have a strong reputation for success and a long history of providing exceptional education to students across Greater Manchester.

At a glance

We care for students whilst they are with us and we care about them once they have left. They are part of our family and a tradition that dates back to 1834.

Students have high aspirations and are driven to succeed.

We hope this prospectus gives you a flavour of who we are and what we offer, but don’t take our word for it, come see us. We hope you will be inspired by our history and tradition, and after speaking to our fantastic staff and wonderful students, we hope that you decide that our sixth form is the place for you to thrive and flourish in the next stage of your education.

Excellence

We look forward to seeing you soon.

Inquisitive

Ambitious

A rigorous academic curriculum, combined with supportive teaching.

Investigative minds with a hunger for knowledge thrive with us.

Together ROB HIG G I N S HEADTEAC H E R

JU ST INE T IP LE R D I RE C TO R O F S IX T H FO R M

We celebrate diversity and are a polite and respectful community.

Development Students in the sixth form flourish at this school. They are immensely proud of their school and its history

We encourage students to develop their talents, pursue their passions, and expand their horizons.

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WHY CHOOSE BLUE COAT

Choosing what to study after your GCSEs is a big decision. Whether you want to go on to university, an advanced apprenticeship or employment, we have a wide selection of A Level courses to suit you. We welcome applications from existing Blue Coat students as well as from those who are joining us for the first time.

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Being a Blue Coat Sixth Form student is a hugely rewarding experience. We have high expectations and you will work hard but you’ll also have fun, make new friends and explore new activities. You will have a mixture of tutor-led and independent learning; skills that will prepare you well for life after sixth form.

We pride ourselves on our friendly and caring community where everyone is valued, respected and celebrated for what they achieve and contribute. Blue Coat is large enough to be able to offer fantastic opportunities and choices, yet small enough to be personal, a place where every student is known by name and cared for as an individual.

As a designated church school, we nurture Christian students in their faith and we support students of all other faiths in theirs. Collective worship takes place at least once a week, giving time for reflection and to explore and understand spirituality.

From your very first contact with us, we will work with you to ensure you are happy and well supported, from making the very first steps regarding your choice of study, right through to celebrating your A Level results.

Students in the sixth form behave impeccably. They are independent and highly studious.

My transition into sixth form was seamless. Connections formed quickly, so as a newcomer to Blue Coat, it was great to get some insights from students that had been at the school since Year 7. There is a great sense of unity that exists here.

S IXTH FO RM S TUDENT

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Academic Study Our A Level programmes support all students to realise their true potential and secure coveted places in the highly competitive world of Higher Education, apprenticeships, and employment.

The Sixth Form Team comprises tutors, subject specialists, and experts who can guide students through post18 applications, including Oxbridge, degree apprenticeships and medical, dentistry and veterinary courses; all notoriously challenging processes. As an outstanding, established team, we have a robust understanding of the A Level curriculum and how to get the best from each student in an ever-changing educational landscape.

SEND We aim to meet the needs of all our students, not only whilst they are studying at Blue Coat but also to prepare them for post-18 education, employment or training.

Students with Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) receive additional bespoke support and guidance to ensure that they can achieve their potential, this is discussed as part of the application process.

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Academic Study

Year 12 Futures Programme Year 12 students undertake a co-curricular ‘Futures’ pathway, offering personal development and extending study beyond their chosen A Level subjects, giving students the edge when it comes to Higher Education and professional applications.

AS Level Global Perspectives

Extended Project Qualification

Designed to prepare students to engage

The Level 3 Extended Project Qualification

positively with a world where change is the

(EPQ) offers an opportunity to show

only constant, this course covers global

academic commitment and explore a

issues, exploring different perspectives

topic of choice, complementing a chosen

and creating opportunity to develop critical

A Level subject. This course aids the

thinking and reasoning skills; particularly

development of independent learning,

relevant for future lawyers, scientists,

research and critical thinking.

medics and academic researchers. This option complements those studying social sciences and humanities subjects.

Core Maths Level 3 Mathematical Studies (Core Maths) is for students who have achieved a grade 5 or above at GCSE and is a good fit for those studying Psychology, Sciences and Geography, as well as technical and vocational qualifications, by developing practical maths skills.

Fourth A Level In a small number of cases, students may opt for a fourth subject at A Level.

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Leaders, governors and trustees are aspirational for students in the sixth form.

Whilst most of our students go directly on to university or advanced apprenticeships, we encourage the exploration of all options available before making a choice. Whatever career path students choose, and especially where the career path is yet uncertain, through our independent careers advisor, form tutors and Sixth Form Team, we deliver individual support, advice and guidance.

Students also have access to Unifrog, an online platform delivering tailored options for post18 choices.

Professional Pathways We actively encourage our high achieving students to apply to Oxford, Cambridge and Ivy League Universities.

Students aiming for these, and other competitive universities, courses and career routes, receive additional support and guidance through one of our four Professional Pathways Programmes: - Oxbridge (including Sutton Trust UK and US programmes) - Law - Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary (MDV) - Business

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Professional Pathways incorporate tailored programmes to enable students to get the best from the application process and the next steps towards their chosen career.

Students on the Professional Pathways programme receive: Tailored guidance on their chosen application Access to ex-Blue Coat students who have followed the same academic / career path Bespoke interview preparation Mock interviews Support in securing relevant work shadowing placements Extra-curricular trips and activities relevant to the academic / career path Residential trip to Oxford / Cambridge (Oxbridge Pathway) Membership of the prestigious Oxford University New College Step-Up programme (Oxbridge) Membership to the STEP programme for Maths applicants (Oxbridge) Law-based EPQ (Law) Extended Certificate in Social Science, introducing law and criminology (Law)

Careers Events Our links with local, national and international businesses and organisations such as GCHQ in Manchester, mean that we are well placed to provide students with access to people who can offer current and relevant advice in the world of work.

Access Programmes With our support, every year there are successful applications to prestigious Access Programmes, including Sutton Trust Summer Schools, Talent Tap, the Manchester Access Programme, Nuffield Research Placements, One Million Mentors and the Social Mobility Foundation.

Work Shadowing Our Work Shadowing programme allows students to immerse themselves in their chosen industry, to see what working life is like by shadowing a variety of professionals in their daily roles, from lawyers to medical professionals and business leaders.

Access to King’s Counsels and Mayoral Office (Law) Preparation for UCAT and BMAT admission tests (MDV) Access to established business partnerships and a 1:1 or group mentor (Business) Entry to the National Youth Enterprise competition (Business)

I love the way regular contact hours with teachers fuse with independent study here. Seeing a subject specialist every day has allowed me to flourish S IXTH FO RM S TUDENT

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Community Life at Blue Coat Sixth Form offers so much more than academic studies. All students are encouraged to contribute to the school and wider community, supporting each other and those less fortunate.

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Extra-Curricular Our extra-curricular calendar is packed with something to suit everyone.

We run clubs, events and trips to cater for a wide range of interests.

Recent overseas trips have included New York, China, India and Austria, making memories for students which will last a lifetime.

Our Sixth Form Prom is a wholly inclusive event and is completely self-funded by students through a variety of fundraising activities, providing a great opportunity to be creative and work together as a team to produce results that everyone can celebrate.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

Student Leaders

We run successful programmes

experience for chairing Student

for the Silver and Gold awards,

Council meetings, public

creating opportunities for

speaking, and supporting Blue

personal growth, community

Coat School’s younger students.

Leadership roles offering

impact and adventure.

Year 12 Blues’ Award All students take on the ‘24 Hours of Giving’ challenge to contribute to, and improve, the school community.

Fundraising Throughout each year there are many opportunitites to support local and national charities, such as Macmillan Cancer Support, Save the Children and North Care Charity.

Culture Day An annual student-led event celebrating diversity and inclusivity, through food, cultural dress and culture.

Senior students act as role models and contribute to school leadership.

They successfully nurture and facilitate opportunities for younger students - SIAM S 20 23

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Pastoral care and additional support We want all of our students to achieve and grow, academically and personally, regardless of circumstance. We are an inclusive community, we celebrate diversity and we encourage students to explore and challenge differences so that we learn from each other.

We also recognise that the path through A Levels does not always run smoothly. Exam stress, mental health concerns and other life challenges can cause anxiety and can be overwhelming. Our healthy, positive relationships between staff and students engender a supportive community where we work together to overcome adversity.

And when things don’t go to plan or when extra help is needed, our pastoral and safeguarding teams are on hand to support and guide students through their Blue Coat journey. We also have a school Chaplain who can offer prayer and spiritual guidance.

As a sixth form student, you become part of a diverse community where there are many opportunities to make new friends, join in academic challenges and fundraise for charity events. There’s so much to do and it’s a brilliant experience.

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- S IX T H FO R M ST U D EN T

Exceptional formal and informal pastoral care contributes to excellent relationships and support, including for the most vulnerable - S IA M S 20 23

16-19 Bursary Our 16-19 Bursary supports access to learning for Sixth Form students who may be suffering financial hardship. It helps with costs of transport, learning equipment, field trips and post-18 open days, visits and interviews. Please ask us if you would like to know more about this offer.

For more information email: sixthform@blue-coat.org

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I am immensely grateful for the support Blue Coat has given me, from the academic opportunities to senior leadership experience as Head Boy. The encouragement has been non-stop and I can’t wait for the next chapter at Oxford University.

- E T HA N P E NN Y - FORM ER H EAD BOY

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Applied Science About the course Science affects our everyday lives and scientific advances often raise moral and ethical issues. This course will enable you to explore scientific principles and apply them to practical, real-life settings.

You will learn about: Key scientific concepts, incorporating chemistry, physics and biology Exploration of ethical and moral issues using current practical examples, such as designer babies, space exploration, NHS strategies Human anatomy and physiology Microbiology and how it links to biotechnological industries You will develop skills in independent research, practical investigation, critical thinking and data analysis.

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Art & Design: Fine Art

Biology

Business Studies

About the course

About the course

About the course

Under the guidance and encouragement of subject specialists, as an Art student you will develop your creative flair, using a range of materials to express and shape your vision.

Biology is the study of living things, from the molecules within our cells to the organisms that make up ecosystems.

You will learn how to think and work like a real scientist and will develop your ability to design practical investigations, to collect and analyse data and improve your understanding of biological concepts.

Businesses impacts our daily lives. They supply the goods and services we buy, provide employment for millions and deliver public services. This course will help you to understand how businesses operate. A Level Business Studies is not just a qualification, it’s a handbook for anyone thinking of entering the complex world of commerce.

You will learn about: How to apply a range of traditional and modern fine art media Artistic processes and techniques

You will learn about:

How to deliver a research project, based on a chosen theme or artist

Molecules, cells and organisms

A range of contemporary and fine art artists through gallery trips and study

Evolution

You will develop skills in creativity, self-expression, independent research, reasoning, peer review and selfassessment.

Genetics and populations Ecosystems You will develop skills in practical application, investigation, and how to conduct group and individual research.

You will also have the opportunity to attend the week-long Ecology Field Trip which will further extend your scientific thinking.

You will learn about: Why businesses behave the way they do How to assess the pros and cons of different business strategies Ratios, percentages and the interpretation of graphical information Real life case studies You will develop skills in quantitative assessment, data analysis, critical thinking, presentation and research.

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Chemistry

Computer Science

About the course

About the course

Chemistry deals with the atomic and molecular interpretation of the world around us. It ties together fundamental concepts from mathematics, physics, biology, engineering, medicine and environmental science, and plays an important role in the development of technology and other forces that impact our everyday lives.

Computer Science is an exciting subject that encourages you to think creatively, logically and critically and develop advanced problem-solving skills. You don’t have to be able to program before taking the course, but you must have a genuine interest in developing your programming skills outside of lessons.

You will learn about:

You will learn about: The fundamentals of programming

Organic chemistry and the structure and reactions of molecules

Computer language

Inorganic chemistry incorporating elements, acids and metals

Databases and the client server model

Physical chemistry The practical application of chemistry in industry You will develop skills in analysis, mathematics, practical application of theory, problem solving, presentation and communication.

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Computer systems and architecture

You will develop skills in programming, problem-solving, practical application of theory, analysis and independent study.

Design & Technology: 3D Design About the course In a time not so long ago, humanity existed without the internet, social media, mobile devices and electric lighting. All of these products came from the imagination of designers, many of whom began their careers with a 3D Design A Level course!

If you are a creative, innovative problem solver, then this course is a good choice for you.

You will learn about: Researching, designing and producing practical products A range of manufacturing processes and materials How to create a fully working prototype of your design solution using CAD technology A chosen designer, engineer or craftsperson, through an independent research project You will develop skills in problem solving, design, research, practical application and independent learning.

Drama & Theatre

Economics

English Language

About the course

About the course

About the course

Do you have an interest in how plays are brought to life in performance? Do you enjoy performing, designing and watching theatre? In choosing this course you will gain a deeper understanding of how theatre works. You will have opportunities to be a performer, designer and an active audience member.

The fast-changing pace of the world gives students of Economics much to ponder: financial crises, European instability, Brexit and changing political landscapes.

Economics has been thrust into the limelight as never before. If you would like to develop a deeper understanding of our recent past in the context of a rigorous academic subject, then this course is for you.

Are you interested in the power of language? Perhaps you enjoy writing and want to develop your skills. English Language is about the analysis of texts as critical readers, aware of the writer behind every text. Studying this course will make you a sophisticated reader of others’ texts and a highly effective writer of your own.

You will learn about: Theatrical history, style, genre, structure, design and direction

You will learn about:

Analysing texts and performances

Economic principles and issues

Staging, costume and make up

Politics and financial markets and their impact on ordinary people

Creating your own dramatical performance You will develop skills in creativity, acting, design, analysing and evaluating performances and independent learning.

National and international economies Recession, inflation and the cost-ofliving crisis You will develop skills in quantitative analysis, data interpretation, statistics, research and independent learning.

You will learn about: Spoken Language Language development, issues and identity Creative and critical use of language Modern English language You will develop skills in analysis, independent research, presentation, communication and writing.

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English Literature

French/German

Further Maths

About the course

About the course

About the course

Do you love reading stories or going to the theatre? Are you interested in other people’s imaginations, thoughts and ideas? English Literature enables you to become a sophisticated reader who understands that literature is the product of exciting and imaginative thinking. It gives you the opportunity to explore and analyse great literary writing.

Do you enjoy learning a language? Would you like to be able to communicate more effectively and find out what it’s really like to live in another country? Whether you choose French or German, at A Level, students improve their language skills whilst learning about the political and artistic cultures of French or Germanspeaking countries.

You will learn about:

You will learn about:

If you are looking to take a Maths or Science based degree, then Further Maths is a good choice at A Level. You will study Pure Mathematics, covering topics that will prepare you well for your first year of university. We also offer STEP Mathematics for those students who want to further their love and enthusiasm for maths through tackling less structured, more problem-solving questions.

Broadening your literary horizons

Speaking, listening, reading, translating

Poetry, novels and prose

Foreign Language films and literature

Exploration and analysis of literary writing

Social issues including immigration, education and history

Shakespeare and other drama

Cultural aspects including media, music and festivals

You will develop skills in analysis, critical thinking, essay writing, group working and communication.

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You will develop skills in communication, listening, presentation, translation, critical thinking and debating.

You will learn about: Complex numbers, calculus, matrices and algebra Statistics Mechanics and Probability Critical path analysis and binary operations You will develop skills in technical analysis, problem-solving, group working and independent learning.

Geography

History

Maths

About the course

About the course

About the course

Where we come from, what we do, what we eat, how we move about and how we shape our future; these issues are all firmly rooted in the province of the Geographer.

More than ever, we need the Geographer’s skills and foresight to help us learn about our planet. Climate change, earthquakes and the migration crisis are all explored in this course. Why do these things happen?

Do people contribute to the causes?

Are you interested in how people’s views and actions have shaped the past? Are you intrigued as to why some people are willing to die for their beliefs? If you like interpreting and evaluating evidence as well as analysing people’s ideas and actions, then studying History could be the right subject choice for you.

A Level Maths builds on from GCSE and introduces calculus and its applications. It emphasises how mathematical ideas are interconnected and how maths can be applied to model situations, using algebra and other representations, to help make sense of data, understand the physical world and solve problems in a variety of contexts, including social sciences and business.

You will learn about:

You will learn about: Early Stuarts and the Origins of the Civil War 1603-1660

Landscape systems, geographical cycles, volcanoes and earthquakes

USA in the 19th Century 1803-1890

Global migration

Extended study through an independent research project

Disease dilemmas, hazardous Earth Geography in practice, through field trips and practical application You will develop skills in analysis and assessment, research, debate, independent and group learning.

US Civil Rights 1865-1992

You will develop skills in analysis, communication, interpretation, research, essay writing and independent learning.

You will learn about: Pure Maths, including algebra and functions, coordinate geometry Trigonometry, sequences, logarithms, differentiation, integration Statistics, including sampling, data presentation, probability, hypothesis testing Mechanics, including vectors, kinematics, forces, Newton’s law You will develop skills in technical analysis, statistics, critical thinking, group and independent learning.

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Media Studies

Music

Photography

About the course

About the course

About the course

If you’ve ever wondered how films are made, how adverts work and if we can believe the news we hear, then you’re beginning to think like a media analyst!

The media landscape is changing, new technologies and platforms are providing new areas for study, and this course offers the opportunity for you to explore them.

Do you play an instrument? Do you enjoy performing? Have you had a go at composing your own music? Do you enjoy listening to a wide variety of music, and thinking about how it works? If so, then A Level Music could be the course for you! This is an exciting qualification that covers a wide variety of practical music making.

Photography is an art-based subject.

You will be taught basic and advanced photographic skills alongside creative use of digital software. You will develop imaginatively and artistically, through independent research and development of ideas. If you are interested in expressing yourself through the lens and have a desire to master image manipulation and enhancement, then this is the course for you.

You will learn about: Media issues and debates Media products and frameworks How to create a media product Current affairs and social issues You will develop skills in debating, research, analysis, research, design and production and critical thinking.

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You will learn about: How to appraise music Musical language Developing musical ideas Composing and developing your own musical performance, either as a soloist or as part of an ensemble You will develop skills in performance, communication, listening, analysis, creativity.

You will learn about: Photography and light-based media Exploring and developing ideas focused on a topic of your choice Researching themes and artists, including gallery visits Photography techniques and creative approaches You will develop skills in creativity, research, communication, independent learning and self-assessment.

Physical Education

Physics

Politics

About the course

About the course

About the course

Have you ever wondered how athletes reach elite level? Or how an athlete’s body compares to that of the everyday individual and allows them to push the boundaries of human capabilities? This course gives you the opportunity to experience and develop an interest in a variety of roles in sport such as performer and coach. In order to complete this course, you will need to be competing in sport on a regular basis.

Physics provides the foundation for modern science and technology. On this course you will develop a deeper understanding of the laws of physics underpinning the workings of the universe. You will develop your imagination, investigative skills and mathematical ability. We recommend pairing Physics with Maths for an optimal learning experience.

Politics is the study of conflict resolution in everyday matters. This course addresses differences in opinion between varying groups, recognising the ways in which we learn to compromise across a range of topics. Politics is a diverse, challenging and enjoyable subject. Throughout this A Level course you will study British and American politics and political philosophy.

You will learn about: Body systems and the effects of physical activity Sports organisation and development Psychology of sport and exercise Sports coaching, activity leadership and practical sports skills You will develop skills in leadership, analysis, independent and group learning, research, self-assessment and evaluation.

You will learn about:

You will learn about:

Particles and radiation

History of British politics and the democratic process

Quantum and electrical phenomena

Warfare, poverty and crime

Forces, momentum and energy

Trade and the European Union

Nuclear physics, astronomy, mechanics and thermal physics

American politics

You will develop skills in technical analysis, statistics, problem-solving, group working and independent learning.

You will develop skills in analysis, debate, evaluation, group and independent learning, critical thinking.

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Psychology About the course Psychology is the scientific and social study of human behaviour. The course explores historical and modern psychological case studies. You will plan and conduct your own research projects in your exploration of how psychological investigations are conducted. Good maths skills are advantageous for this course.

You will learn about: Social, criminal, child, biological and cognitive psychologies

Religion, Philosophy and Ethics (RPE) About the course Studying RPE offers a fascinating challenge: the challenge of debating philosophical and ethical questions which might have no answer, such as ‘does God exist?’ and ‘how should we behave?’ You will be looking at significant Christian practices and beliefs that shape religious identity, as well as considering ultimate philosophical questions and learning about different ethical theories.

You will learn about:

Theories, issues and debates

Philosophy of religion

Mental health, Schizophrenia and phobias

Psychology and religion, including studies of Freud and Jung

Nature vs. nurture

Ethical language, theories and moral issues

You will develop skills in research, analysis, evaluation, independent learning and critical thinking.

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Christianity and its social and historical developments You will develop skills in research, debating, analysis, evaluation, independent learning, critical thinking.

Sociology About the course Sociology is a challenging and exciting discipline, aiming to understand how societies, structures and cultures work across the world and throughout history.

You will probe beneath the surface of society to find out what is actually going on. At the centre of the course is the search for how our identities formed, and how aspects of our identities such as class, gender and ethnicity affect our lives.

You will learn about: Economics and state policy and its impact Family, households, education, crime and deviance Societal beliefs, including religion Sociological theory, including Marxism, feminism and social policy You will develop skills in research, debating, analysis, evaluation, independent learning and critical thinking.

Further Information For further information on each course, simply scan the QR code displayed at the top of each subject.

Textiles

If you would like more general information please visit our website or scan the QR code below.

bluecoatsixthform.org

About the course Textile Design is a good choice if you are creative and passionate about design.

The course is delivered by specialists with backgrounds in fashion design, fine art and textiles art, who will help you to develop new processes and techniques, giving you a broad learning experience. You will be encouraged to work independently and explore your creativity, and to develop skills in the areas of design that most suit you.

You will learn about: Design, using a range of materials Dyeing and printing Textile artists, through gallery visits and research End to end design and production or your own creations You will develop skills in creative design and production, research, analysis, evaluation, independent learning.

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HOW TO APPLY

Destination Blue Coat Sixth Form We understand what an important decision you are about to make. We are more than just an historic campus in Oldham. We are here to serve and inspire the next generation of young adults on their path for a successful future.

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We welcome applications from all prospective students who demonstrate they have the academic skill , desire, experience and hunger to complete their chosen course. Below is a step-by-step guide through the application journey.

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SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING - OCTOBER

APPLY ONLINE BY DECEMBER

ADVICE & GUIDANCE MEETING - JAN/FEB

PROVISIONAL OFFER MARCH

Come along to our annual Open Evening for an opportunity to meet subject specialists, current students and find out more about what we can offer you, as well as learning about life as a Sixth Form student.

Make sure that your application is submitted before the application closing date in December.

Check the website for the exact date and contact us if you would like help or advice.

An important part of the application process, this is where we will start to get to know you and discuss your intended programme of study, entry requirements and career aspirations.

Successful applicants will receive a provisional offer based on predicted grades.

Entry requirements Minimum 5 GCSEs at Grades 9-5, including Maths and English (Language or Literature) Grade 6 or above in the chosen subjects (or similar if the subject is not a GCSE option) Grade 6 or above in Maths for students wishing to study more than one science subject

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PRE-ENROLMENT JULY

GCSE RESULTS DAY & ENROLMENT -AUGUST

TERM STARTS

Our pre-enrolment event will give you lots of information about your transition to Sixth Form and what to expect when you join us in September.

Once you have received your GCSE results you will come along to our Results Day Enrolment where you will finalise your application and chosen subjects.

Welcome to The Blue Coat Sixth Form. Your future starts here!

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Leading the future.

Dream big. Go further.

We welcome inquisitive minds, ready to become everything that they can be and everything they are meant to be. Our students are encouraged to explore their intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and social responsibility. Through motivation, support and challenge, we help students to realise their true potential and to be prepared for life in an ever-changing world.

The Blue Coat Sixth Form Egerton Street Oldham OL1 3SQ

bluecoatsixthform.org

@BColdham6thForm