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SixthForm at Wakefield College

SIXTH FORM GUIDE

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WELCOME TO WAKEFIELD COLLEGE SAM WRIGHT Principal and Chief Executive of the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group Choosing where to study after secondary school is a big decision, and at Wakefield College we are focused on helping every student reach their goals. You don’t have to have it all figured out just yet, you just have to start. Whether your ambition is to study at a world-leading university, progress to our own University Centre, secure a higher apprenticeship or step confidently into employment, we will give you the support and opportunities to get there. Our dedicated staff work closely with students to stretch their academic ability, develop essential life skills and build the confidence needed for success. We provide personalised guidance on university applications – including to Russell Group institutions – as well as strong employer links to open doors into a wide range of industries. We know that education is about more than lessons alone. That’s why we’ve invested heavily in outstanding facilities, enrichment programmes and student support services,

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creating an environment where you can thrive both in and outside the classroom. We are proud of the many students who have progressed from Wakefield College to prestigious universities and competitive careers, and we are here to ensure you have the same opportunities to succeed. You will also be joining the Top College in Yorkshire & the Humber and fifth nationally for 16-18 student achievement, according to the Department for Education’s 2024/25 National Achievement RateTables. You can explore this for yourself by joining one of our Open Events (see page 27). If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact our Course Information Team on 01924 789111, email courseinfo@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk, or visit: www.wakefield.ac.uk

SixthForm at Wakefield College

“I chose Wakefield College’s Sixth Form because the tutors and students here are really friendly and make learning engaging with resources and interactive lessons. I also like the facilities such as the Library, Starbucks Coffee shop and study spaces in the Sixth Form Building.”

AMELIA

A Level Business, History and Law

CONTENTS Welcome to Wakefield College ��2 5 Reasons to Study With Us �� 4 Results 2026 ��5 Your Study Programme ��6 Our Sixth Form Subjects ��8 Sixth Form Courses ��10 Mentoring for Excellence ��20 Beyond the Classroom ��22 Frequently Asked Questions ��24 Key Dates 2026/27 ��27 How to Apply �� 28 College Life ��30 Start Your Experience ��31 Safe, Seen, Significant �� 32 Work Placements ��34

Wakefield College will take all reasonable steps to provide the educational services and range of courses as described in this Sixth Form Guide and in other related documents. However, it does not guarantee the provision of such services and courses will only run if minimum cohort numbers are met. At the time of publication (October 2026) all course titles and information were correct. Updates to this guide will be made to the online version available at www.wakefield.ac.uk. Careers information has been provided by www.careers-pathways.co.uk.

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5 01

REASONS TO STUDY WITH US 02

POSITIVE DESTINATIONS

HIGH PERFORMING

We secure a high A Level We a high A Level passsecure rate and positive student pass rate and positive student destinations year-upon-year. destinations year-upon-year.

A high number of our students progress to positive destinations after completing their qualifications with us, including Russell Group universities.

SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT

Our friendly and supportive environment means staff give you the time and dedication you need to help you progress.

EXPANSIVE CURRICULUM

We offer a wide variety of stimulating and facilitating A Level courses alongside new V Levels, Applied Qualifications and Alternative Academic Qualifications.

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EXCELLENT TEACHING

Our highly-qualified teaching staff are specialists in their subject areas, ensuring our students learn from the very best.

RESULTS 2026

98%

pass rate across our A Level programmes in 2026.

Students secured places at some of Britain’s top universities, including The University of Edinburgh and University of Leeds.

100%

pass rate achieved on 14 A Level courses.

32%

of students attained high grades (A*/A/B).

Sixth Form Guide

YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME At Wakefield College, we want you to succeed on your course and be ready for the future – whether that’s another course, university, an apprenticeship, employment or even starting your own business. Our full-time study programmes for 16–18 year olds go beyond qualifications. Alongside your chosen subjects, you’ll take part in sessions that build skills and confidence, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your next steps.

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SUPPORT

You’ll have personal and group tutorials (called GOALS) with your tutors, as well as further support from our highly skilled and dedicated team as needed.

NAVIGATE

Activities and experiences to develop skills through trips, visits, guest speakers, volunteering, enrichment, clubs and societies.

CAREERS SUPPORT

We provide excellent careers and next steps support, including work experience and other enrichment opportunities, as well as activities in college and visits further afield. We strongly believe in preparing students for their future,which means not only making sure they know the right answers but also ask the right questions. We are accredited to the Matrix Standard, which is the international standard for Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) services. Find out more by contacting our Careers Team at: careers@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk

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OUR SIXTH FORM SUBJECTS 2027/28

Our Sixth Form gives you the flexibility to build a study programme that works for you. You can mix A Levels with other options like V Levels and AAQs, so you’re not stuck choosing just one route. This means you can combine subjects you enjoy with courses that give you hands-on, career-ready skills. Whether you’re aiming for university, an apprenticeship or going straight into work, this mix helps you keep your options open whilst developing both the knowledge and practical experience that will set you apart. If you’re unsure which subjects or course types you can combine, our friendly Course Information Team is here to help. Call 01924 789111 or email courseinfo@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk WE RECOMMEND EXPLORING UCAS SUBJECT GUIDES TO SEE WHICH SUBJECTS ARE MOST USEFUL FOR YOUR CHOSEN PATH, USING THE QR CODE. 8 Sixth Form Guide

A LEVELS + Art, Craft & Design + Biology + Business + Chemistry + Economics + English Language + English Literature + Film Studies + Further Mathematics* + Geography + History + Law + Mathematics + Media Studies + Photography + Physics + Psychology + Sociology *Please note this must be studied alongside A Level Mathematics, and applicants must have gained a GCSE at Grade 8 or above – this can be studied as a fourth subject.

V LEVELS + Digital Systems & Data + Education

APPLIED QUALIFICATIONS AND ALTERNATIVE ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS (AAQs) + Applied Psychology + Applied Science + Criminology + Health & Social Care + Medical Science + Sport & Exercise Science

CLICK ON OUR QR CODE FOR DETAILED COURSE INFORMATION FOR EVERY COURSE Sixth Form Guide

WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE? PHOTOGRAPHER Annual salary: £17,000 to £45,000 Take and process pictures of people, places, products and events.

FASHION DESIGNER Annual salary: £24,000 to £40,000 Produce new clothing and fashion ranges using their creative and technical skills.

SIXTH FORM COURSES

ART, DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY A LEVEL + +

Art, Craft & Design Photography

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Annual salary: £20,000 to £40,000 Create visual branding, adverts, brochures, magazines, website designs, product packaging and displays.

INTERIOR DESIGNER Annual salary: £23,000 to £45,000 Interior designers plan the internal layout and decoration of public, commercial and residential buildings and spaces.

Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.

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WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY? “In Art, I really enjoy the personal investigation project. My tutor has helped me develop my skills and feel confident about my ability. With my art class, we visited a graduation show at Leeds Arts University where they showcased their final projects – it was inspiring to see other people’s work. After I complete my A Levels, I am going to Sheffield Hallam University to study Illustration as my dream job is to be an illustrator in the creative industry.”

Scarlette Studied A Level Art, Media Studies & Photography

WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE? BUSINESS ANALYST Annual salary: £23,000 to £55,000 Investigate situations and problems to find improvements for businesses.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE Annual salary: £45,000 to £120,000 Lead an organisation and put plans and policies into place to help it be successful.

SIXTH FORM COURSES

BUSINESS & MANAGEMENT A LEVEL + +

Business Economics

BUSINESS PROJECT MANAGER Annual salary: £29,000 to £75,000 Plan tasks and organise people and resources to complete work projects on time and on budget.

SALES MANAGER Annual salary: £22,000 to £70,000 Sales managers organise, coach and lead teams of sales representatives to work towards agreed targets.

WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY? “My favourite thing about my courses was my tutors as they were all supportive, helping to prepare revision and interactive materials to help our understanding.”

Amelia Studied A Level Law, History and Business Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.

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WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE? PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHER Annual salary: £32,000 to £49,000 Responsible for the educational, social and emotional development of children aged 5-11.

NURSERY MANAGER Annual salary: £23,000 to £35,000 Run early years childcare centres, providing day care for babies and young children from birth to 5 years.

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CHILDCARE, EARLY YEARS & CHILDHOOD STUDIES V LEVEL +

Education

SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS TEACHER Annual salary: £32,000 to £49,000 Work with students with learning difficulties or disabilities, adapting their teaching to the students’ needs.

EARLY YEARS TEACHER Annual salary: £27,000 to £40,000 Specialists in early childhood development and work with children up to the age of 5.

Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.

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ABOUT THE COURSE Lessons will explore how people learn, the role of educators, and how different environments shape development. You will engage in discussions, research tasks and real-life case studies to apply your knowledge to practical situations. You will also have opportunities to observe practice, analyse case studies and hear from professionals working in education and childcare.

WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE?

SIXTH FORM COURSES

COMPUTING V LEVEL +

Digital Systems & Data

CYBER INTELLIGENCE OFFICER Annual salary: £23,000 to £35,000 Gather information about where threats to Information Technology (IT) systems come from and how they work.

DATA SCIENTIST Annual salary: £32,000 to £82,000 Data scientists use software, artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyse and interpret large amounts of data .

APP DEVELOPER Average salary: £25,000 to £55,000 Design, build and maintain applications for mobiles, tablets and websites.

ABOUT THE COURSE

IT SUPPORT TECHNICIAN

Throughout the course, you will develop an understanding of how digital systems work and how data is used in modern organisations. Lessons combine theory with practical application, allowing you to explore computing systems, data management and digital technologies in real-world contexts.

Annual salary: £30,000 to £47,000 Identify and solve software and hardware problems on computers.

Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.

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WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE? SOLICITOR Annual salary: £30,000 to £80,000 Advise clients about the law and act on their behalf in legal matters.

JOURNALIST Annual salary: £25,000 to £45,000 Research and write articles for local, regional, national and online publications.

SIXTH FORM COURSES

ENGLISH & HUMANITIES A LEVEL + + + + +

English Language English Language Geography History Law

MARKETING EXECUTIVE Annual salary: £20,000 to £50,000 Promote a company’s products, services or brand including tasks such as writing and editing content for print and online campaigns.

SECONDARY SCHOOL TEACHER Annual salary: £32,000 to £49,000 Secondary school teachers teach children from 11-16 or up to 19 in schools with sixth forms.

Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.

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WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY? “I really enjoyed studying Law at College, particularly learning about human rights law which has made me want to become a Barrister in the future. On my course, I’ve learnt problem solving skills and how to apply Law to different scenarios – we even got to visit Leeds Crown Court to watch a real case and see how trials work.”

Lyla Studied A Level Criminology (A), Law (A*) and Psychology (A) DESTINATION: Law at the University of Leeds

WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE? BROADCAST JOURNALIST Annual salary: £23,000 to £42,000 Research and present the news on TV, radio and the internet.

VIDEO EDITOR Annual salary: £18,000 to £45,000 Bring together images and sound for use in film, TV and online productions.

SIXTH FORM COURSES

FILM MEDIA & TELEVISION A LEVEL + +

Film Studies Media Studies

STAGE MANAGER Annual salary: £22,000 to £48,000 Make sure the sets, equipment and props are ready for the opening of a performance.

WEB DESIGNER Annual salary: £18,000 to £40,000 Web designers use their creative and technical skills to design new websites and redesign existing ones.

Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.

WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY? “I enjoy the practical aspects of my subjects and using my creative eye for projects. I’ve gained lots of confidence since studying here and have had opportunities for extracurricular activities such as a trip to Bradford and a cinema trip to watch Fight Club. I am going to look for a Film Apprenticeship and the College will support me with finding and applying for these.”

Amara Studies A Level Art, Film and Media Studies

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WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE? NURSE Annual salary: £30,000 to £51,000 Care for people who are sick, injured or have physical disabilities in an NHS or private hospital, at a health centre, hospice, care home, client’s home or in a prison.

SIXTH FORM COURSES

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE AAQ +

Health & Social Care

MIDWIFE Annual salary: £30,000 to £53,000 Support pregnant people and their babies before, during and after childbirth.

SOCIAL WORKER Annual salary: £32,000 to £48,000 Help to protect vulnerable children and adults from harm or abuse and support people to live independently.

PARAMEDIC Annual salary: £28,000 to £43,000 Respond to emergency call-outs and give people life-saving medical help.

Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.

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ABOUT THE COURSE The course specification includes a number of health-occupation and science-related units, including Human Lifespan and Development, Human Biology and Health, Principles of Health and Social Care Practice, Health, Policy and Wellbeing, Promoting Health Education and Safe Environments in Health and Social Care.

WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE? DATA ANALYST STATISTICIAN Annual salary: £23,000 to £62,000 Collect numbers and statistics to identify trends, create models and present results.

SIXTH FORM COURSES

MATHS A LEVEL + +

Further Mathematic Mathematics

ACCOUNTANT Annual salary: £22,000 to £65,000 Help people and businesses manage their money effectively.

MECHANICAL ENGINEER Annual salary: £26,000 to £52,000 Design, build and install machinery used in industries like power, engineering, transport and manufacturing.

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER Annual salary: £30,000 to £70,000 Software developers design, build and test computer programmes.

WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY? “I’ve learned transferable skills at College that I will take with me to university and beyond. I’ve grown in confidence, independence and I’m now able to engage with a range of people. My tutors and the College’s Careers Team were so supportive when I was considering what my next steps were going to be, giving me guidance on different university courses and the opportunity to a ttend a UCAS fair – which helped confirm my future plans.”

Jack Studied A Level Maths (A), Chemistry (A), Biology (A) and EPQ (A) Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.

DESTINATION: Chemical Engineering at the University of Leeds

Sixth Form Guide

WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE? BIOMEDICAL SCIENTIST Annual salary: £25,000 to £45,000 Test patient samples and help doctors and healthcare professionals diagnose, prevent and treat disease.

DOCTOR Annual salary: £37,000 to £140,000 Diagnoses and treats illness and disease in patients admitted to hospital.

CHEMICAL ENGINEER Annual salary: £30,000 to £60,000 Develop ways to turn raw materials into everyday products.

PHYSICIST Annual salary: £28,000 to £61,000 Physicists study the behaviour of matter and energy and form theories to explain how everything fits together.

SIXTH FORM COURSES

SCIENCE A LEVEL + + +

Biology Chemistry Physics

AAQ + +

Applied Science Medical Science

WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY? “This is the beginning of my journey to getting my dream job of becoming a Paediatric Doctor. I instantly knew after visiting Wakefield College’s Open Events that it was the right place for me. Thanks to my tutor’s invaluable support, I’ve become so much more independent and have gained skills like time management. The most important lesson I’ve learned is the importance of hard work, and I will be keeping this with me through my next steps to university.”

Dylan Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.

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Studied A Level Biology (A), Chemistry (A) and Psychology (A) DESTINATION: Medicine at The University of Edinburgh

WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE? FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGIST Annual salary: £35,000 to £57,000 Study criminal behaviour and help people who have committed crimes.

WELFARE OFFICER Annual salary: £24,000 to £32,000 Give support and free advice to the public on social, financial or personal issues.

HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER Annual salary: £24,000 to £40,000 Hire, develop and look after employees in a company.

COUNSELLOR Annual salary: £24,000 to £46,000 Counsellors help people talk about their situation and feelings in a safe and supportive way and help them to cope and make positive changes.

Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.

SIXTH FORM COURSES

SOCIAL SCIENCES A LEVEL + +

Psychology Sociology

LEVEL 3 CERTIFICATE/DIPLOMA +

Criminology

LEVEL 3 EXTENDED CERTIFICATE +

Applied Psychology

WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY? “I’ve really enjoyed my time at Wakefield College. I’ve been supported from start to finish by the Wellbeing Team and my tutors. I appreciated the freedom of college as I was able to prioritise the areas I wanted to focus on. Although I was responsible for my own success, my tutors were brilliant in giving me tips on different revision methods which helped massively before my exams.”

Hannah Studied A Level Law (A), Sociology (A) and Psychology (B) DESTINATION: University of Leeds

Sixth Form Guide

MENTORING FOR EXCELLENCE Are you a high-achieving student and see your future at one of the UK’s top universities? Then our Mentoring for Excellence programme is here to help you! Over the years, our Mentoring for Excellence programme has helped many of our students achieve places at a number of Russell Group universities, including The University of Cambridge, Durham University, The University of Edinburgh and University of Oxford.

WHY TAKE PART IN THE PROGRAMME?

STRONG UNIVERSITY LINKS

We have strong connections with some of the UK’s top universities to support your progression.

UCAS SUPPORT

Access to workshops, work experience and mentoring to strengthen your UCAS personal statement.

BROADEN YOUR STUDIES Scan forfo more in

Option to take an additional subject alongside your A Levels and complete an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) to boost your UCAS application.

ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Take part in trips, interactive workshops, guest talks and explore current affairs through structured activities. 20 Sixth Form Guide

“There were some great opportunities to support my future career paths during my time at Sixth Form. We went to a UCAS university fair and also had a visit from a HMP Wakefield Prison Officer who explained what their work consists of. This helped me think of my next steps after college.”

ELLIE SUBJECTS:

“The Mentoring for Excellence Programme is a fantastic opportunity which many of our students have already benefitted from. Don’t let it pass you by, take advantage of the chance to maximise your potential!”

A Level Psychology (B), Sociology (A), English Language (A)

DESTINATION: Advanced Psychology at the University of Leeds

Karen Ralphs,

Head of A Levels at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group

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BEYOND THE CLASSROOM Our Sixth Form students get ample opportunities to enjoy college life outside of the classroom. Students have explored options for their futures through university visits, career fairs and guest speakers as well as having fun on trips and days out.

CULTURAL VISITS Our A Level Film & Media students visited the National Science and Media Museum to explore its exhibitions and learn about the history of film, media and photography.

UNIVERSITY VISITS

FILM CLUB

Students have visited universities across the country to consider their next steps in education. These have included the University of Law, Leeds Universities, University of Huddersfield, Durham University and more.

Sixth Form students host their very own Film Club once a fortnight where they discuss all things film, nominate discussion topics and share their passion for cinema.

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AT THE COURTS A Level Law students visit Leeds Crown Court each year to attend a public viewing of cases, see how the courts operate day-to-day and learn about careers in Law.

UP IN THE DALES Geography students explored the beautiful Yorkshire Dales on one of their recent trips.

INSIDE: HIS MAJESTY’S PRISON WAKEFIELD  Each year, HMP Wakefield speak to our Social Sciences students about what its like to work in a prison, talking through their day-to-day roles, training toolkits and how they restrain and move prisonsers.

Sixth Form Guide

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Q] WHAT DOES STUDYING OUR SIXTH FORM COURSES ENTAIL? Sixth Form is a big step up from GCSEs. You’ll need to do lots of independent study, including homework, revision, reading and research. This prepares you for university and beyond.

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Q] WHAT IS AN A LEVEL?

Q] IS SIXTH FORM RIGHT FOR ME?

A Levels are the traditional academic route to university, focusing on theoretical study. They are mainly assessed through final exams, so success depends on your preparation and revision. Throughout the two years, you’ll complete assessments and mock exams to track progress and build confidence for your final exams.

You might like Sixth Form if you’re the kind of person who:

Q] WHAT ARE ALTERNATIVE ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS (AAQS)? AAQs are advanced qualifications designed to give learners the best of both worlds - the academic rigour of A Levels with the practical application of vocational study. + + + + +

Equivalent in size and level to one A Level. Can be studied alongside other A Levels. Blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills in a specific vocational area. Carry UCAS points, opening doors to higher education. Equip learners with the knowledge, skills and attributes needed for future employment.

Q] WHAT IS A V LEVEL? V Levels are two-year qualifications, similar to A Levels. They offer a more practical route to study and will be available to be taken alongside A Levels within a mix-and-match model.

+ + + + + +

Enjoys academic learning and delving deep into subjects. Is comfortable with exams and independent study. Plans to go to university and needs specific qualifications to get there. Likes structured lessons and clear academic progression. Wants to keep future options open whilst still heading in a focused direction. Our Sixth Form courses suit students who are curious, motivated and ready to explore subjects in depth.

Q] WHAT ARE OUR STANDARD ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?

5 GCSEs at Grade 5-9, including English Language and Maths at Grade 4 or above. Exact requirements will vary depending on the subject.

Q] WHERE CAN I PROGRESS TO AFTER STUDYING AT SIXTH FORM?

Our Sixth Form focus on subjects that open doors to higher education, including Russell Group universities. It also prepares you for higher apprenticeships or employment.

V Levels will be assessed by: + + +

Written exams Coursework/assignments Practical or applied assessments

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KEY DATES 2026/ 27

Scan the QR code or visit www.heartofyorkshire.ac.uk/ news-events/events/ to find out more and register

OCTOBER 2026

JUNE 2027

Wednesday 21st October 2026, 5pm-7pm

Wednesday 16th June 2027, 5pm-7pm

OPEN EVENT

NOVEMBER 2026

JULY 2027

Saturday 21st November 2026, 10am-12pm

You will be able to try out your chosen courses, meet new friends and get a real taste of what college life is all about at our New Student Day in July.

OPEN EVENT

FEBRUARY 2027 OPEN EVENT

Wednesday 10th February 2027, 5pm-7pm

HAVE YOU SUBMITTED YOUR APPLICATION? If not, do so as soon as possible. Applications received by February half-term will be given priority for an interview date. If you need advice please call our Course Information Team on 01924 789111.

NEW STUDENT DAY

AUGUST 2027

RESULTS DAYS AND ENROLMENT

A Level, Vocational Technical Vocational and T Level results released, as well as GCSE results. If you need help or advice about your next steps, visit our guidance events at your school or in college. Once you’ve received your results in August, you will be invited to the College to enrol.

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HOW TO APPLY 28 Sixth Form Guide

CHOOSE YOUR COURSE

COMPLETE YOUR APPLICATION

Attend one of our Open Events or explore our wide range of courses and select the one that’s right for you. If you are unsure what you would like to study, call our Course Information Team on 01924 789111 who will be happy to help.

Apply online through our website at: www.heartofyorkshire.ac.uk by selecting ‘APPLY ONLINE’ on one of your chosen courses. You’ll then be prompted to add your other choices on the application form.

ATTEND A SHOWCASE EVENT

ACCEPT YOUR PLACE

Once we’ve received your application, we will invite you to a Department Showcase Event where you will have the chance to ask questions about your chosen course and make sure the course is right for you.

Confirm your offer to secure your spot as soon as possible, via the MyHeartofYorkshire app.

ATTEND OUR NEW STUDENT DAY

Participate in course-related activities, meet other students and find out what college life is like in July.

ENROL FOR YOUR CHOSEN COURSES

This will enable you to become a full-time student before starting with us in September.

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GIVING YOU THE BEST START As a Sixth Form student, you will be able to make the most of our state-of-the-art facilities and expansive learning materials. Our Sixth Form Centre in the Harrison Building has dedicated classrooms and spaces for learners and is home to our Library and Student Central. We also have specialised science laboratories, sports facilities and an Art, Design, Photography and Media centre. Our campus also has a range of social spaces, including our onsite Coffee Shop which proudly serves Starbucks coffee – providing you with a space to relax, grab a drink and meet with friends. Our Refectory also serves a range of delicious hot and cold food.

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START YOUR EXPERIENCE Across the College, student life extends beyond the classroom. It’s about finding your voice, building connections and making the most of your time on campus. Here’s how you can get involved...

STUDENT CENTRAL

Student Central is your one-stop hub for support throughout your time at college. You can access a range of services here including the Students’ Union, Student Voice, Student Activities and Student Wellbeing.

VOLUNTEERING

There are a lot of opportunities for students to get involved with community action at college. Previously, students have participated in Unloc’s Sustainability Student Leadership Academy where they learnt about carbon literacy and led their own sustainability projects in college and the local community.

STUDENT LEADERS & STUDENT VOICE

Make the most of your college life by becoming a Student Leader and enjoy enrichment activities, clubs, social trips and special interest groups. As a Student Leader, you’ll also support the Students’ Union, creating opportunities for you and your peers to connect, explore and grow. Student Leaders across the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group meet throughout the academic year to discuss and make decisions around student activities, clubs and college life at Student Leader Conferences.

SUPPORT & WELLBEING

Whether you need someone to talk to, guidance on personal challenges or help accessing additional services, our Support & Wellbeing Team offers confidential, compassionate support tailored to your needs. Sixth Form Guide

START WHERE YOU BELONG We’re proud to hold inclusion and belonging at the heart of everything we do here, with Ofsted praising our inclusive nature that values each and every student, ensuring you feel like you belong from the get-go.

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AT COLLEGE YOU WILL BE SAFE, SEEN & SIGNIFICANT. + Safe, sensory-friendly and quiet areas + A welcoming, student-first culture + Progress and achievement celebrated + Accessible and adaptable learning + Known by name + No judgement or bias + Clear anti-bullying policies + Supportive and compassionate staff + Diversity is embraced

THERE’S ALWAYS SOMEBODY TO SPEAK TO… + Pastoral Tutor: Group tutorials, one-to-ones, support with your progress at college and personal issues, CV writing and careers advice. + Safeguarding Team & Student Experience Support Leaders: People you can speak to if you have any questions, worries or concerns. + Student Wellbeing Officers: If you ever feel overwhelmed or need help due to any personal problems, the student Wellbeing Team can support via 1:1 meetings, small groups and drop-ins. + Counselling: Counselling is free and available to all students at college during term-time with our Counsellors available for face-to-face meetings, online or over the phone. + Inclusion Coaches: Offer support and workshops at the Hubs at each campus.

THERE’S ALWAYS SOMEWHERE YOU CAN GO… + Quiet Spaces: Our College offers a space dedicated to quiet contemplation, personal reflection or prayer. + The Hubs: The Hubs offer a calming environment where students can go if they feel overwhelmed. + ARC (Resource Centre): Where learners can take a break from the classroom, study independently and work with Inclusion Coaches on various activities.

Sixth Form Guide

WORK PLACEMENTS Work placements give you the chance to gain real-world experience, build valuable skills and explore potential career paths before you leave college. They help you understand what it’s really like to work in your chosen field and can give you a head start when applying for jobs or further study. At Wakefield College we ensure placements are flexible and designed to fit around your studies. They can take place during term-time, as extended opportunities alongside your course, or as short-term projects during college breaks. Each one offers hands-on experience in a professional setting and helps prepare you for life after college. Find out more about the wide range of work experience opportunities available, by contacting the Work Placements Team on 01924 789413 or at: workplacements@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk

Some of our work placement partners:

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MEET MANDY My work placement with Vico Homes has been a great experience. I worked in the Income Management Team and completed work for the Accounts Team, as well as shadowing administration and customer service roles. It has really prepared me for a career in Business.”

Course Level 3 Business

Work Placement Income Management Team at Vico Homes

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Margaret Street, Wakefield, West Yorkshire WF1 2DH www.wakefield.ac.uk General Enquiries: t: 01924 789789 e: info@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk Course Information: t: 01924 789111 e: courseinfo@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk Part of the: Follow us: www.heartofyorkshire.ac.uk 36 Sixth Form Guide

This document has been printed sustainably on paper purchased through the World Land Trust carbon capture scheme.