The Sixth Form Handbook

THE CHALK HILLS ACADEMY, LEAGRAVE HIGH ST, LUTON, LU4 0NE | 01582 884100 THE STOCKWOOD PARK ACADEMY, ROTHERAM AVE, LUTON LU1 5PP | 01582 722333

SIXTHFORM.THESHAREDLEARNINGTRUST.ORG.UK

Students flourish in our supportive Sixthform environment, we offer a personalised approach to each and every student. Our tailored class sizes and expert teachers mean that you will receive high quality lessons to meet your needs and push you academically. We offer both academic and vocational qualifications, this allows us to offer you a bespoke curriculum that meets your needs and future aspirations. We are committed to this journey with each and every Sixth-form student.

We are proud of our Sixth-form and our students. Thank you for taking the time to choose The Shared Learning Trust Sixthform.

We look forward to welcoming you through our doors in September 2021.

Best wishes, Louise Lee.

SADAF AHMED Assistant Principal As an Assistant Principal for Sixth Form, I want to do the best for our students, raising aspirations and giving them the strategies to be successful. Encouraging high expectations and high standards of achievement, both academic and personal is vital for our students to succeed in life. Our teachers and pastoral leaders are committed to inspiring a love of learning that will be with our students throughout their lives.

We offer guidance and support in the planning of your future education or career.

PHILIPPA VESSEY Assistant Principal As the Assistant Principal for Sixth Form at The Stockwood Park Academy, I am dedicated to ensuring we do everything we can to get you where you want to be. Everything we offer in our Sixth Form helps you stand out from the crowd and become top of your chosen field. Our teachers are friendly, experienced, full of ideas and real experts in their subjects.

Above all, they are committed to helping you get the grades you need for whatever you plan to do next.

“I really like the support from all the sixth form staff and my teachers. Also, the independence the sixth form gives to their students. I want to do an apprenticeship in future and I have been given me advise and support and multiple sources and websites to find different apprenticeship and information on apprenticeships.”

Cameron Royle – Yr12

KRISTY ELLINGHAM Head Of Sixth Form As Head of Sixth Form at The Chalk Hills Academy, seeing students arrive as new Year 12’s and watching them grow into well-rounded individuals, feeling ready for the next steps on their journey is the high point of my role. We offer an inclusive Sixth Form with high levels of pastoral care helping students to become their best self.

BHUSHAN VERMA Head Of Sixth Form I am the Head of Sixth Form at The Stockwood Park Academy and a teacher of Geography. My main responsibilities include providing pastoral support to our students with the help of a team of form tutors. I also provide guidance and support to our students with their next steps including their UCAS application, Apprenticeships and Employment applications.

“Sixth form was very supportive and welcoming, helped me developed my skills and allowed me to become a person I never knew existed. With the guidance and help I received, I am now moving on to study Optometry at Aston University.”

Fauzia Nadeem: Yr13

Ensure that you read, reflect and respond to the feedback you are given by subject teachers/ Head of Year/ Sixth form staff Taking pride in your presentation of notes/work is of the highest standard at all times. Folder structure is clearly labelled.

Ensure independent notes are clear and concise and relatable to the subject/topic covered Ask questions and ensure that you address misconceptions and misunderstanding early Use highlighters/post it notes when making your notes revision friendly. Ensure that annotation is clear with key points Following feedback make time to redraft your answers Practice retrieving information regularly build it in to your weekly revision and recap sessions Join and participate in academic societies extending your interests

“What I liked about the sixth form is that there is constant support from teachers who are always pushing us to go above and beyond what we can achieve. We are provided with an extensive amount of resources, which enables us to be able to thrive in our courses and even look at different options for post-18 which was really helpful.

My next step is to go to university and study Diagnostic Radiography. I have gotten a lot of support from the sixth form and teachers, which has helped me with my personal statement and looking at universities which are suited for me.”

Sawsan Awadh – YR13

All students at The Shared Learning Trust are expected to exemplify the highest standards. The way we present ourselves each day is to show our intention to work hard and be our best in our learning and everything else that we do.

Therefore, as role models and leaders of our student community, The Shared Learning Trust Sixth Formers are expected to dress, and act, in a smart and confident manner. This means that they should not wear casual, immodest or revealing clothes. No piercings, tattoos, mobile phones or headphones should be visible. All Sixth Form students are expected to wear smart business wear at all times. As you are being prepared for the world of work, you are expected to dress as such.

Football Academy students are expected to wear training kits on days of matches and training, and business wear at ALL other times.

TROUSERS TAILORED SKIRTS TAILORED (NO SHORTER THAN 3” ABOVE THE KNEE) SHIRTS / BLOUSE PLAIN OR DISCRETE PATTERN SMART T-SHIRT UNDER JACKET OR TAILORED CARDIGAN TIE PLAIN OR PATTERNED JACKET SUIT STYLE JUMPER / CARDIGAN DRESSES TAILORED SHIFT DRESS PINAFORE DRESS

SHOES SMART, PLAIN LEATHER SHOES OR BOOTS COATS SINGLE COLOUR HAIR UNNATURAL / SHAVED LINES TIGHTS / SOCKS PATTERNED / KNEE LENGH JEWELLERY DISCREET / ONE PEIRCING IN EACH EAR BODY NO FACIAL PEIRCINGS / NO VISIBLE TATTOS SCARVES PLAIN

"Honestly, I had the best two years of my life at The Chalk Hills Sixth Form. I made lifelong friendships and learnt how to be independent and manage my time well.

The Sixth Form is a small communal, friendly environment and it is really welcoming. As a student from another school, I was nervous at the start but later, I was convinced that this is the place for me. The Sixth Form offers many opportunities to enhance your CV and the staff are both helpful and inspiring. The teachers at The Chalk Hills Sixth Form go above and beyond for their students.

Studying BTEC Double Applied Science alongside with A-Level Sociology, I have realised that there is a large amount of support for both BTEC and A-Level students. Everyone is treated equally and given the best learning. My next step is to study Diagnostic Radiography at London South Bank University. The Chalk Hills Sixth Form have an outstanding Sixth Form Team, who ensure that each student accomplishes their goals."

Aisha Sana - Year 13

TSLT Football Academy programme is a unique opportunity for 16–18-year-olds to continue their education whilst developing their football skills with regular coaching and competition.

The two-year fully funded course offers a balanced educational experience and provides a real alternative to college or sixth form education.

WHAT'S ON OFFER? The two year fully funded programme offers: Opportunities for both boys and girls to 'Play, Train, Learn' A two-year OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical in Sport and Physical Activity English and Maths resit opportunities Weekly training, fixtures and recovery timetabled around lessons Career support into employment, university or apprenticeship courses Opportunity to gain Football Coaching Qualifications Opportunities to impress LTFC coaches and scouts Signposting to local grass-roots clubs Tickets to LTFC fixtures University Open day Trips The Academic Programme Students will have the opportunity to study either a triple award in Sport and Physical Activity (Extended Diploma) or a double award (Diploma) and an additional A Level ***

“THE FOOTBALL ACADEMY IS A BRILLIANT OPPORTUNITY FOR MALES AND FEMALES TO RECEIVE HIGH QUALITY C OACHING, COMPETE IN CHALLENGING LEAGUES AND ACHIEVE QUALIFICATIONS THAT PROVIDE ACCESS TO HIGHER EDUCATION OR EMPLOYMENT.” MS SMITH, HEAD OF PE

We have an active Sixth Form Leadership Team comprised of Academy President, Vice Presidents and other senior roles.

Our Sixth Form Team hold regular meetings to discuss all aspects of Sixth Form life and student voice within the lower years of the academy. including academic topics, opportunities within the academy/local community, fundraising and student-led social events.

Talent Show A small talent show giving our Sixth Form students the opportunity to show the rest of their peers and teachers what other passions they have outside of the classroom. All applicants to be subject to auditions first. There will be a prize for the performer with the most votes. This will take place at the end of the academic year.

Driving Theory Test Support We provide our students with the opportunity and expertise to help them learn the Highway Code and pass the Driving Theory Test. Practice test questions will be shared that will support their understanding and knowledge of driving safely.

Practical Driving Lessons We provide subsidised driving lessons by a local driving school provider, supporting our students to understand the benefits that learning to drive can bring independence, better job opportunities and a sense of responsibility.

Our pastoral care is second to none – you will form an integral part of the Sixth Form community, have opportunities to lead others and share your life experiences.

Looking after your wellbeing while you learn is vital. You will have a dedicated tutor and pastoral leader who will be available to offer day-to-day advice, guide you towards the right support and help you compose personal statements and your curriculum vitae for university and employment.

There will be opportunities for you to meet and talk with your tutor every day. We are always here to guide you through the good and more challenging aspects of becoming an independent Level 3 student.

The one-to-one- tutor sessions are intended to guide your learning, design revision plans, identify ways to enhance your skills and help you make the transition into further education.

Our dedicated and experienced team will help you through difficult situations, offering expert guidance and support. They will help you find the right university, review your options for the future and eventually find suitable employment.

Students are expected to attend all lessons and be available to complete independent study as directed throughout time at Sixth Form.

Students must arrive to the academy to participate in personalised learning time before lessons begin.

Students will be provided with contact details of Sixth form administrators who they must email/telephone if they are ill so we can monitor attendance effectively.

"The Sixth Form at Chalk Hills Academy has been an experience I would never trade for anything else.

Staff made me passionate about my learning, and pushed me towards my aspirations the best they could. I hope to go onwards with my university application, as a result of the support from the sixth form throughout the application process, as I believe throughout Year 12 and Year 13, staff equip you with all the skills to be ready for this. My favourite part about The Sixth Form was not only the teaching of subjects, but also learning about everyone’s unique lifestyles, as it is a multicultural community where people’s experiences in life differ drastically- something I will miss dearly when I leave The Sixth Form in pursuit of further education."

Leyton Palmer – Year 13

We will closely manage your academic achievement providing guidance and support throughout your two years with us, helping you to achieve your best.

You will receive assertive mentoring and one-to-one tutor meetings to help ensure that you fulfil your potential in all areas, allowing you to go on and be successful in further education or in employment. Your performance will be measured regularly against individual targets that will be set for you.

The one-to-one- tutor sessions are intended to guide your learning, design revision plans, identify ways to enhance your skills and help you make the transition into further education.

Our dedicated and experienced team will help you through difficult situations, offering expert guidance and support. They will help you find the right university, review your options for the future and eventually find suitable employment.

As part of our pledge to fully prepare you for the future we will provide access to a wide range of university open days and events. These will range from the Russell Group of universities to more local universities and higher learning establishments.

We also arrange an annual trip to the HE fair providing you with a range of information about a large number of different options for your future.

“The staff and the entire sixth form community is very approachable. I have received help with the university application process and it was ensured that all criteria was sorted before the deadlines.”

Ben Mathew – Yr13

Our Enrichment opportunities allow you to access a set of skills that you may not necessarily be able to access through the curriculum. Our aim is to offer a vast array of enrichment sessions to help prepare students for life outside and beyond their time at The Shared Learning Trust.

Not only can an enrichment programme look great on a CV when you apply for higher education, jobs or training schemes, but the transferable skills learnt throughout the programme are significant. The programme can boost self-confidence, develop leadership skills, instil self-motivation and can evidence good time-management. Away from the pressure of passing exams, enrichment extends students’ education and personal growth.

If you have any questions regarding our enrichment offer, please do contact us.

UCAS Virtual open days and preparation for UCAS. Opportunity to be a part of Q&A sessions and a tour of a campus. This will allow you to prepare early for University, giving opportunities to hear from actual University admissions staff and course tutors. UCAS Support is provided to Year 13 every Monday.

EPQ – Extended Professional Qualification Opportunity for students to do a research project that will allow them to gain further UCAS points that will support their entry into University. Work submitted can be either written or a creative artefact (drama, short story, art installation).

BSMS Virtual Work Experience – Brighton & Sussex Medical School You will be introduced to the NHS before exploring the roles and skillsets of six different medical specialists. Along the way, you will also consider some of the challenges and wider issues doctors face.

Further information provided after enrolment.

Vespa – Well-being Programme Students have the opportunity to work through a booklet looking at study skills and growth mind-set during PL time, and taking part in group-based activities.

Careers Coaching Small groups of students in subject areas who are looking to broaden their experience further in that field and into eventual careers will have the opportunity to have specific guidance and group coaching on the best pathways for success.

Mentoring Programme This will be to provide Sixth Form students with the opportunity to engage in mentoring of Year 5 and Year 6 children at The Vale Academy and The Linden Academy. Students can support in the following areas: Arts, Sport, Academia, Personal support and Guidance and Languages.

Barclays Life Skills Employability Package that provides support to students with CVs, Application Forms and interview techniques.

Amazing Apprenticeships Remote presentation for students accessing live Apprenticeships preparing them for the world of work and getting into degree apprenticeships as an alternative to degrees.

Voluntary work – working with the Student Leadership Group (SLG) Students working together. A wide variety of volunteering opportunities, ranging from assisting in schools to tackling environmental problems and local community issues.

First Aid Course Students have the opportunity to learn a mixture of both practical and theory. You will learn how to examine a casualty, use a defibrillator, familiarise yourself with basic life support and learn how to control bleeding and trauma.

Progression is of primary importance at The Shared Learning Trust. We want every one of our students to have the best possible chance of succeeding in their future career path.

We expect each student to achieve their best in their academic and/or vocational studies in order to access a world of fantastic opportunities beyond school. Our Careers team are qualified to Level 7 with experience to match, therefore, providing students with high quality advice and guidance.

Our Sixth Form has access to in-class and personalised guidance in understanding themselves and their unique skills. They develop key employability competencies in Communication, Independence, Leadership, Resilience, Analysis, Problem Solving and Teamwork, for success in future pathways.

The careers provision is both inclusive and differentiated with students receiving information, advice and guidance in keeping with their academic abilities and vocational aspirations.

To support students in progressing to their chosen careers we provide help to facilitate a week’s work experience for all of year 12s. We also provide a bespoke careers guidance programme facilitated by our Careers Leader who is passionate about students achieving their very best. Working closely with employers, all students engage in activities across their subject areas that bring them in close contact with the world of work.

Through our connection to local and national businesses, students are able to meet a range of employers to learn first-hand about qualifications, skills and attitude needed to be successful in a professional environment. Involving employers at the heart of our education enables students to build professional networks and opens doors to potential opportunities.

Oxbridge, Medical and Veterinary Colleges, Russell Group Universities and all HE institutions, recognise the EPQ. It is particularly beneficial in preparation for HE interviews. It involves a studentdriven research project beyond your studies, which can demonstrate higher-level academic thinking, advanced research skills and an in-depth study of a particular subject that intrigues you.

PART-TIME EMPLOYMENT Having part time employment and undertaking work experience can enhance team-building, social and inter-personal skills and enables students to write about the skills gained in their personal statements or on their curriculum vitae. However, too many hours of employment in the evenings plus weekends is not compatible with A level studies. Experience tells us that students get tired and do not cope with their school work as a result. We suggest that students work no more than 12 hours of part-time employment per week.

WORK EXPERIENCE Students often want to take advantage of work experience opportunities that will help them access some higher education courses – e.g. for Medicine, Dentistry and we fully support this. Students can use their study periods after the examinations to arrange work experience or shadowing placements.

“I really like the support from all the sixth form staff and my teachers. Also, the independence the sixth form gives to their students. I want to do an apprenticeship in future and I have been given me advise and support and multiple sources and websites to find different apprenticeship and information on apprenticeships.”

Cameron Royle – Yr12

"Making the decision to continue on at the Shared Learning Trust sixth form, following on from Chalk Hills Academy, was one of the best decisions I have made! The maintained support towards not only our education but also our well-being has been evident during on campus learning as well as during the periods of time we were unable to physically come into the academy. I enjoy coming into sixth form with the knowledge that there is a strong sense of community and guidance. It really makes all the difference being surrounded by people who will help you achieve any goal you set yourself, regardless of the pathway you decide to follow. We are all continually presented with opportunities that cater to all of our possible future careers, preparing us for our next steps."

Taayliah Parris-Sarrington – Year 12

The Shared Learning Trust ensures high-quality exam results, as well as providing additional opportunities and experiences for our students. We prepare students for the next step, through the excellent teaching and tutoring by our highly qualified and experienced staff.

Our Trust is vibrant and friendly, located in state-of-the-art buildings. It is a learning environment where all students have the opportunity to be high achievers, make good friends, contribute to their community and take part in a wide range of extra-curricular activities.

By choosing The Shared Learning Trust Sixth Form you will benefit from the support of extremely committed teachers with professional expertise. We provide the correct balance of pressure and support for each individual, to ensure you leave with qualifications and experiences that will position you well for your future.

We hold a pivotal position in delivering a world class education for students within our local community.

Together we are achieving more than we ever thought possible.

We look forward to welcoming you to The Shared Learning Trust.

Cathy Barr CEO The Shared Learning Trust