FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE SENIOR SCHOOL
The Sixth Form Experience
C O L L E G E W H E R E E V E RY P U P I L C R E A T E S T H E I R O W N S T O RY
FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE
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Our educational ethos Education is about readying each young person for their adult world.
An ambitious learning culture permeates all that we do. As educators, we believe in inspiring, guiding and equipping our pupils with skills such as critical thinking, emotional intelligence, good judgement and decision-making, as well as the knowledge to thrive as global citizens in their adult world. We are aspirational for every pupil and are committed to instilling in each of them a life-long curiosity and a love of enquiry. We believe in the individual. There is no typical Framlinghamian, no singular path that we take: we are academics, actors, musicians, expeditioners, sports people, innovators, scientists, ruminators, decision makers, story tellers, teammates, artists, fun lovers, nurturers and thought provokers. Often, we are many things within one. But we are all individual, each with our own story.
Louise North Principal, Framlingham College
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The Sixth Form Years Life in the Sixth Form is a very special and valuable time. Interests are nurtured, and character and self-confidence are developed, as our young people prepare for their future, both in terms of the route that is right for them and the skills that they need to thrive. When a young person joins Framlingham College, they are welcomed because of who they are. They are valued for their experience, their history, their ambition and their belief in their future. And because of our smaller size, we have the time and space to ensure that every pupil is known and is celebrated for who they are. No one gets ‘lost in the system’. We encourage pupils to seek out challenge, to embrace opportunity and we give them the time to reflect and to learn from each experience. In doing so, we enable them to better understand themselves and the world around them. They will have fun, they will make friends for life, they will develop as global citizens and they will leave ready to embrace the challenges of their adult world.
Caroline Styles Head of Sixth Form
ABOUT CAROLINE STYLES After achieving A Levels, Caroline secured a
She then went on to become a successful energy
university place to study international law, however,
trader in the commodities industry, a career that took
a gap year summer job unexpectedly redirected
her to Zurich, where she immersed herself in Swiss
her path. Caroline was offered a full-time role in
culture, regularly travelling to offices in Milan and
risk management at the European arm of a large US
Berlin, and embracing the numerous opportunities
trading company, which she accepted, completing
that were offered to her.
her degree whilst working. 4
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Following this, Caroline chose to re‑evaluate her
to the CCF and the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme,
priorities and pursue a career more compatible
and in 2026 rose to the rank of Captain within the
with family life. Returning to the UK, she retrained
College’s CCF.
by completing a PGCE and began a twelve year teaching career in the state sector before joining
With deep family roots in Suffolk, she and her
Framlingham College in January 2019. She quickly
husband live locally and remain closely connected to
became part of the rhythm of school life, contributing
the community the College serves. 5
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A rich and well-rounded academic experience We offer a broad, ambitious, exciting and accessible academic curriculum, consisting of both A Levels and BTEC courses. Our range of subjects and courses allows all pupils to flourish, whatever their individual journeys may be. Pupils can choose from a range of subjects, and many take a mix of A Level and BTEC courses to suit their particular interests and talents. To stretch their learning, pupils in Year 12 can also complete the highly regarded Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). The EPQ is an individual, extended piece of research leading to a formal award equivalent to half an A Level. It encourages pupils to develop independent learning skills and to extend their curiosity beyond the set curriculum.
Learning beyond the classroom Our holistic approach to education means that we have a stimulating programme of enrichment activities, sports and events that take place beyond the classroom. This forms an integral part of our curriculum, so that our pupils are nourished by intellectual activity outside the confines of the school and our immediate surroundings. For instance, pupils can enjoy talks from inspirational speakers from around the world such as world record holder, Dawn Wood, who rowed solo across the Atlantic, Simon Clendon, Head of Programme for the United Nations World Food Programme in Myanmar, and Claudia Roberts, CEO of the Zoological Society of East Anglia. There are opportunities to take part in Model United Nations events, the inter-school Quiz Club and English-speaking Union Debating. We also offer a vast range of clubs and societies, ranging from our Subject Societies and the Ethnics Cup. Sixth Form pupils also have access to a wide array of co-curricular activities. Our superb sports programme, the Combined Cadet Force, the Duke of Edinburgh’s award scheme, Drama, Music, fundraising and voluntary work all allow our Sixth Formers to be part of a team, to contribute and to altruistically give their time to others.
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Sixth Formers taking part in a DofE expedition
Music / Performing
Drama
Sport
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A time of independence The Sixth Form Centre Joining the Sixth Form is a momentous time at Framlingham College. It is a time when independent learning comes to the fore and pupils develop a deep sense of who they are and their unique place in the world. Having a sleek, modern and wholly dedicated Sixth Form Centre within which to study, research and relax with friends, supports this time of independence and self-discovery. As well as providing an environment that promotes independent study, it is a place where social connections are made beyond the Houses, and life-long friendships begin. Within the Centre, Sixth Formers have their own allocated classrooms and a team of staff including the Head of Sixth Form, the Assistant Head of Sixth Form, the Post 18 Futures Lead and specialist Sixth Form tutors.
Adaptable boarding As both a boarding and day school we offer boarding ‘on your terms’. From full, weekly and flexi-boarding to Day pupil options. Not only does the boarding experience empower our pupils to grow in confidence, independence and maturity in preparation for adulthood, but it enhances friendships and widens social groups.
Beyond studying Our Sixth Form programme is packed with fun social events such as bar nights in the Sixth Form Centre, music nights in the Café, Sixth Form dinners, quizzes, concerts and the Summer Ball. There is an abundance of opportunities to discover passions, make memories and cement those life-long friendships.
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The Sixth Form Centre
Independent learning
“One of my biggest regrets was not boarding earlier. I was always under the impression that it was essentially staying at school longer. However, the shift from the school day to boarding time is huge. It truly feels as if you’re at home – you are given plenty of freedom and allowed to relax. If I had one piece of advice to people joining the College, it would be to board – the greatest bonds are made when living with others. The extra time spent with your friends leads to incredibly strong bonds and hilarious and unforgettable memories.” — Dan, Year 13
“I decided to become a boarder at the beginning of Year 12 having been a day pupil up to this point. It was the best decision I have ever made. The more time I am able to spend at school, the better as I always find myself taking part in even more activities, or just laughing continuously with friends. I feel it has prepared me more for my adult life, getting used to being away from home and adapting to a new environment. I will be forever thankful for this opportunity.” — Georgie, Year 13
“I laugh often and have made friends for life in an environment that promotes the wellbeing of each and every one of us. As a Sixth Former we have regular social events in the Sixth Form Centre and as a day pupil I still spend my evenings at school completing prep, kicking a football around on the astro or just relaxing in the House Common Room with a game of pool.” — Lucas, Year 13 9
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Our Sixth Form curriculum covers a range of subjects - Art is popular at Sixth Form
Pupils relaxing in House
Pupils relaxing in House
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The annual Sixth Form dinner is a highlight of the College calendar
The Sixth Form Centre, opened in 2014, is at the heart of the school with stunning views of The Back for studying and socialising
Prefects are heavily involved with all aspects of school life
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Readiness for the real world The Sixth Form community - a cohort of global citizens Each year, we welcome a new cohort of pupils to our Sixth Form. With people joining the Sixth Form from all walks of life and from across the globe, our Sixth Formers develop global perspectives and widen their horizons. Our community becomes truly international, helping to create global citizens who are accepting of others and prepared for the diversity of the world at large. It also supports many of our pupils to go on to study and work all over the globe.
Equipping everyone to be a leader “Leadership is not about being in charge, leadership is about taking care of those in your charge.” — Simon Sinek - British-American author, leadership expert and inspirational speaker
At Framlingham, we fully believe that everyone is a leader – it’s just about discovering what kind of leader you are. Our exceptional leadership programme is designed to do just that, making sure that leadership opportunities are experienced by all pupils, not just a chosen few. We know that over the course of their lives, each of our pupils will lead. Whether that is as a business owner, leading a team at work or as a parent, there are many different forms of leadership. Each Sixth Form pupil learns about styles of leadership, what sort of leader they are, how to lead authentically, and is empowered with the skills and confidence to bring about change in our school and in the world beyond. We aim to teach our Sixth Formers to become strong, considered and compassionate leaders. We recognise that one of our principal roles is to equip them with the skills so that they could lead as well as instilling in them the confidence and belief that they can. 12
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Opportunities to lead are broad and include roles such as Wellbeing Ambassadors, House Prefects and Subject Ambassadors. The Charity Committee, Food Committee and The School Council all have representatives from each House and The Sixth Form Academic Hub is open to all pupils and is a great new forum for academic leadership. There are a plethora of opportunities to lead through our Sports, Music and Drama Programmes, as well as through the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, the CCF, Rangers, our Sustainability Programme and through Work Experience. In the case of Prefects, they are elected democratically to lead areas of school life such as Learning, Wellbeing & Inclusion, EDI, and Global Awareness. In these roles, pupils have a voice and a responsibility to bring about effective and lasting change on real world topics that ready them for the challenges of life beyond school.
Skills for life Framlingham College firmly believes that to equip young people to thrive in a rapidly changing world, we need to provide learning around essential skills as well as building up knowledge. Our Sixth Form Skills Extended Learning Programme focusses on developing macro skills such as adaptability, problem solving and managing their own wellbeing, right down to the more individual life skills such as self-defence, road safety, preparation for leaving home, financial readiness and practical skills like cooking and basic car maintenance. Pupils will leave school with skills that will make a positive difference to their ability to live independently. They will be assured about the skills they have and confident that they have the means to acquire further knowledge as they grow older.
Sixth Form girls took part in women’s self defence classes hosted by Saturn Protective Solutions
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What our pupils say... “Some of my best friends have been international pupils. They are such a key component of life at Framlingham College. There is the option to stay for a year or more and as a result, there is a wonderful mixture of cultures and perspectives within the school. Our school community would not be the same without them. We make firm and long-lasting friendships that survive the distance, and see us visiting one another in the holidays.” — Emily - Year 12, Day Pupil
“Framlingham College was the place for me where I found new friends and new opportunities. It has a warm and very welcoming community where every one is friendly and ready to help. I am very lucky to study at this school and have the best teachers who are always ready to assist you in your studies.” — Mane - Year 13, Armenian International Pupil
“As Wellbeing and Inclusion Prefect, I want to create a more tolerant, kind and respectful culture among the entire school. Pupils should have a better understanding and respect for all sexual orientations, gender identities, cultures and religions. In my role, I am supporting the peer scheme to have an active role in ensuring there is respect for all pupils regardless of their differences, as well as encouraging Sixth Formers to uphold the core school values of respect and integrity.” — Grace - Year 13, Wellbeing and Inclusion Prefect
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A springboard to the next chapter Careers inspiration and Higher Education insight Our pupils’ time in the Sixth Form is undoubtedly a wonderful experience in and of itself, but we also recognise that it is a vital pathway towards their adult world. Our Careers Programme is designed to inform, support and inspire pupils at all stages in the Sixth Form. We know each of our pupils well – our tutors and the Sixth Form team work closely with them – so we are familiar with their differing needs and aspirations. Some have a clear direction in mind from an early age, but for many it is less obvious. We therefore give them a rich variety of opportunities and interaction with employers, as well as necessary tools – such as Career Aptitude testing and Career Interviews – to support them in creating a ‘route map’ towards their career ambitions. We also run a highly successful annual Careers Fair, providing extensive guidance and information for pupils to consider university and careers options. Plus, all departments make use of connections with universities to inspire pupils. Speakers come from a wide range of institutions to talk about opportunities they offer, as well as to provide an insight into the university experience. Furthermore, we use highly valuable online platforms such as Unifrog to help pupils research courses that are in tune with their skills and interests. And we can always rely on our parent body and Old Framlinghamian network to regularly offer their time, provide mentorship and support our pupils during this pivotal time.
“The school´s support has been incredibly important for me at the time of making important decisions such as my university applications. My Housemistress, the Head of Sixth Form, and the Heads of Department were incredibly helpful when guiding me through the whole process.” — Rita - Year 13, Spanish International Pupil
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Where do pupils go after Framlingham? Beyond Framlingham, we support each pupil to discover their own definition of success. From entry into a wide range of universities in the UK and overseas, top music colleges and conservatoires for our talented musicians, to apprenticeships that provide passage to the world of work. Below is a map of UK univerisites that our Sixth Formers have gone on to.
University Destinations 2024 University of Edinburgh Economics and Management Science
University of Glasgow Economics
Newcastle University
Finance
Business Management Marketing and Management Northumbia University Building Surveying Durham University History University of Leeds Ancient History
Manchester Metropolitan University Business and Marketing International Business Management
University of Manchester Computer Science with Industrial Experience
University Campus of Football Business
Economics and Politics
Leeds Beckett University
Modern Languages and International Relations
Events Management
Psychology
Fashion Marketing
Sports Business and Coaching
Nottingham Trent
University of Salford Digital Video Production and Marketing
Harper Adams University
University of Nottingham
Rural Enterprise and Land Management
Architecture
Business Games Design Real Estate Sport Science and Coaching
University of Birmingham Human Neuroscience
University of Cambridge Veterinary Medicine
Aston University, Birmingham Engineering and Applied Science Foundation Programme
University of Buckingham Pre-Medicine
University of Gloucestershire Sports Therapy
University of Essex Sport and Exercise Psychology
University of Bristol Zoology Royal Agricultural University (RAU)
University of Greenwich
Real Estate
Law Kingston University
Falmouth University
Interior Design
Marine and Natural History Photography University of Plymouth University of Exeter
University of Portsmouth
Biological Sciences
Criminology and Forensic Science
Neuroscience PPE Theology and Religion
Royal Holloway (UOL), London Music Queen Mary University of London Biological Sciences with Foundation
Business & Management Film and Television Studies
Anglia Ruskin University Software Engineering
Economics
BIMM Music Institute Oxford Brookes
Music Production & Music Business
Biological Sciences (Zoology)
University of the Arts, London
Business and Management Business and Management Practice
Fine Art: Painting
University of Reading Business Management with Foundation Law
Business and Marketing Management
PPE
Business Enterprise and Entrepreneurship
Real Estate with Foundation
Communication, Media and Culture
Zoology
Foundation in Business
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Scholarships and Bursaries Scholarships at Framlingham College are highly sought after because of the outstanding pathways that we provide for our Scholars, offering mentoring, enrichment and extension in all fields. It is a wonderful thing if a young person has talent, ambition, and a hunger to develop further. At Framlingham we provide the right environment for these talents to flourish. Scholarships are available for those entering the Sixth Form in the areas of Academic, Sport, Music, Art, Drama, Design and Technology and Computer Science. We welcome applications for 16+ awards from pupils currently studying at both state and independent schools. Scholarship places are based on interviews, performance and assessment. For Scholars who are in financial need, we have two, annually means tested, bursary groups available – the Pembroke Scholarship and the Framlingham College Bursary Campaign places. We would encourage families to enquire further about this where relevant. Former Framlingham College Sixth Former, Jack Gionis, went on to study music at the Royal College of Music, London.
For more information on Scholarships visit our website.
“A Scholarship allowed me the opportunity to study at the College and have access to some excellent facilities. In particular, I spent a lot of time in the recording studio trying things out – and the pianos here are amazing! But more importantly, the staff here are truly brilliant; their support and encouragement was invaluable as I worked at both my playing and writing throughout my Sixth Form years, I’m very grateful for that.” — Jack - Bursary & Scholarship recipient and Scholar at the Royal College of Music
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Beyond Framlingham The Sixth Form is the final chapter of each Framlinghamian’s journey at the College, and our aim at this time is to ensure every single pupil goes on to scale their ‘individual Everest’. We will support those keen to pursue the Oxbridge or Medicine route, with the dedicated help of our Oxbridge and Medicine & Veterinary Applications ’ advisors, both of whom have a wealth of personal experience to draw on. Equally, we will provide as much encouragement, advice and support to those who seek a future in the world of work or in the breadth of courses available throughout the many educational institutions available. Although the Sixth Form may be the final stage at the College – wherever they may go, or whatever the future beckons, our alumni will forever be part of the Framlingham College network.
“The Society of Old Framlinghamians has well over 4,000 members of all ages and occupations around the globe. It supports the College in every possible way and is a vital network for engagement between Framlinghamians across the generations.” — Kim Dickel - President, Society of Old Framlinghamians
The Sixth Form Leavers’ Ball is held in July
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Joining Framlingham College Sixth Form If you are thinking of joining our Sixth Form, we have a number of events to help you with your decision. And if you do decide to join us, we have a series of induction events to make our new pupils feel welcome and instantly part of the College.
Open Day To start with, you can visit us for our Sixth Form Open Day in September. Prospective pupils and families will be given a tour of the school by Sixth Form pupils, and talks are given by the Senior Leadership Team. Meeting current members of the Sixth Form and seeing the College first-hand will give you an insight into whether Framlingham College Sixth Form is for you.
Subject Fair Visit us in October where you can immerse yourself in real subject tasks to help inform your choices at Sixth Form.
Sixth Form Taster Day In February we host a Sixth Form Taster Day to all current and external pupils interested in joining our school. You will have the opportunity to attend four ‘taster’ lessons of 45 minutes each, to help you choose your Sixth Form subjects. You can try lessons in A Level or BTEC subjects, including those you may not have previously studied before. Getting a ‘feel’ of a course will help you make a more informed decision when selecting your Sixth Form subjects in March. The Taster Day also offers a fantastic opportunity for mixing with others. You will come dressed in smart clothing, ready for the change that Sixth Form brings. It is a time for new and current pupils to get to know each other which will help you on your journey if you decide to join us.
Sixth Form Familiarisation Day If you do decide to join our Sixth Form, you will be invited to a Sixth Form Familiarisation Day in June where you can attend lessons in your chosen subjects and join in with some early team building activities. You will also meet the people who will be a big part of your life over the next two years including teachers, class sets, tutors and your new Housemistress or Housemaster. As with the Taster Day, you will also get the chance to socialise and meet other pupils. Pupils new to Framlingham College are ‘buddied’ up with current pupils, so you will have a fellow pupil you can contact
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during the summer holidays with any questions, big or small. And as an incoming Sixth Former, having your first day of Sixth Form in June will help you to quickly feel like an established member of a wonderful, new cohort
Sixth Form Induction Day (Start of Term) The start of Year 12 begins with a day for the whole cohort to come together, When September arrives, our Year 13 pupils lead the new Year 12s in a series of fun induction activities, helping you to bond and make established friendships. And our wonderful Sixth Form Centre will become a central place for you to congregate, interact and find inspiration.
“Framlingham College is like nothing I’ve ever experienced before. Everywhere you turn there is a helping hand, whether it be friends, teachers, or other members of staff. I am new this year and I moved from sunny California to cold, rainy England, and it was really difficult. I didn’t know what A Levels were, I had never been inside a boarding house, and I’m still unsure as to why people drive on the wrong side of the road. Needless to say, I was pretty terrified! By the end of my first day, however, I felt more comfortable than ever. I had made so many amazing friends and all of my teachers made me feel welcome and at home. Framlingham College is a truly special place that provides the necessary tools and support for everyone so each individual can be comfortable within themselves and reach their true potential.” — Lila – Overseas Boarder from the USA on settling into the Sixth Form
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AT FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE WE CELEBRATE EVERY INDIVIDUAL. THERE IS NO TYPICAL FRAMLINGHAMIAN, NO SINGULAR PATH THAT WE TAKE.
We are academics, actors, musicians, expeditioners, sports people, innovators, scientists, ruminators, decision makers, story tellers, teammates, artists, fun lovers, nurturers and thought provokers. Often, we are many things within one.
But we are all individual, each with our own story.
Let’s see who you are...
FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE SENIOR SCHOOL Framlingham, Suffolk. IP13 9EY +44 (0) 1728 723789 reception@framlinghamcollege.co.uk
framlinghamcollege.co.uk