Prospectus 2026 -2027
Welcome to the Sixth Form at King Edward’s
It is with enormous pleasure that I welcome you to this latest edition of our Sixth Form Prospectus. I hope the pages that follow inspire you to join us for the most exciting two years of your education so far.
The King Edward VI Sixth Form is full of enthusiastic young people that are unafraid of challenge, and care enormously about the people and environment around them.
Our Sixth Form is unashamedly academic. Classes are small and taught by subject specialists. You will be encouraged to debate and challenge ideas, have open-minded discussions and explore your subjects in both breadth and depth. Many will choose to maintain a wider curriculum by embarking on the Extended Project Qualification.
Our academic curriculum is complemented through the Foundation Studies programme. Here all our pupils develop the wider skills needed for future success; the core programme ranges from delivering presentations to personal finance, politics to sustainability while optional modules include cookery, art-appreciation and travel safety. Additionally, we welcome a diverse range of guest speakers to the Open Forum programme. All Sixth Formers are expected to attend these carefully curated weekly talks that seek to widen their understanding and challenge their preconceptions through speakers with interesting and inspiring stories to tell.
Many of our Sixth Formers choose to stay well beyond the end of the school day; to work in the Concourse or the Library, to take part in sport or rehearse for a drama production, to use the gym facilities or the Art Studios. Being a Sixth Former at King Edward’s means being inquisitive, ambitious, caring and inclusive. It is the time where you get to specialise
academically, develop your independence and challenge yourself personally.
Through all this we seek to support you with outstanding pastoral care. A team of dedicated tutors work with each pupil individually to support their progress during the Sixth Form, and supported by the Careers and Higher Education team; we work to support you and help you realise your next steps beyond our gates.
We are incredibly proud of our Sixth Form and welcome you to come and visit us, to see for yourself the opportunities on offer.
Dr Emma Thomas Director of Sixth Form
Why the Sixth Form at
King Edward’s
In the last 5 years
31
Last year
8 91% 95%
In 2024, 89 students were accepted to Russell Group Universities with 6 students accepted to Oxbridge
44.1% of grades were A* and A have been offered places at Oxford and Cambridge have been offered places for Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science
28
A level subjects
In the last 5 years of students achieved A* - C grades of students that applied achieved a place at either their first or second choice university
49
An average class size of 8 students students
Clubs & Societies Exclusive to KES Sixth Form
Dedicated Study Space
Our dedicated space for Sixth Formers
Trips to a range of destinations including Sri Lanka, South Africa, Prague, New York and many more.
Guest
Speakers
at Open Forum talk to students, sharing diverse life stories and insights into various fields.
Previous guest speakers have included: Chris Lubbe – Nelson Mandela’s former body guard, Josh Coombes - ‘Do something for nothing’ founder, Francis Benali – charity fundraiser and former professional fotballer, and Natasha Devon - Body image and mental health campaigner. Be part of an Alumni Network of Nominated for Outstanding
Care In The 2023 Muddy Stilettos Best Schools Awards 13,000 Old Edwardians School Leadership Opportunities
Support & Guidance in the Sixth Form
King Edward’s is committed to providing pastoral care of the highest quality to all of its students.
We have a whole school approach to pastoral care, focusing on each individual emotionally and physically, with an ethos among students of supporting one another. Each student is closely monitored through the roles of tutors, teaching staff and non-teaching staff.
Each student has a range of resources, communities and people to go to for support.
Tutors
Your tutor will play a key role in your time at Sixth Form. Your tutor will get to know you well, monitor your progress and support and guide you. You’ll have time with your tutor five mornings a week.
Pastoral Team
Your Head of Year has an office in the Concourse and is available every day before school, and at numerous points throughout the day, to talk to you about any aspect of your school life or academic, personal and social development. They will offer practical and emotional support throughout your two years in the Sixth Form.
Wellbeing Centre
The school offers a full time staffed wellbeing centre for students who need more immediate support and a space to decompress. Once they have digitally signed in they can choose a more private or more open space in which to sit and they are offered the chance to speak to someone about any issues they are experiencing.
Counsellor
We have an experienced counsellor onsite throughout the school day. Students can book a confidential slot with the counsellor for support, whether it’s school related or not.
King Edward VI School was shortlisted for Outstanding Pastoral Care In The 2023 Muddy Stilettos Awards.
Curriculum Support
All students at King Edward’s have, as a matter of principle, equal access to the school’s curriculum, notwithstanding any disability or identified learning difficulties. Sixth Form students, who have been assessed with a Specific Learning Difficulty and are on the Curriculum Support Register, will be monitored and their provision based around their SEN reviewed annually. Examples of support that can be offered by Curriculum Support include: study skills, literacy and social emotional intervention.
School Nurses
We have a team of school nurses on-site throughout the school day. Students can pop in and see the nurses at any point.
Our Sixth Form Concourse
The Sixth Form Concourse is a dedicated space for Sixth Form students to study, relax, and meet friends in between lessons.
The Concourse opened in September 2022 and provides our Sixth Form students with a modern, versatile and purpose designed hub in which students can work, socialise and relax.
Lunch bar
This provides students with the chance to make themselves drinks and snacks whenever they’re in need of a pick-me-up.
The café also operates a world food lunch service, providing those who sign up to school lunches the choice of delicious street food options. The large, open and modern area surrounding the café, provides students with the space to socialise, relax and spend some time away from the rest of the school.
The Study Centre
There is a large dedicated study centre. Students can use this during free periods, before and after school and for silent study sessions. The space is completely laptop friendly, with printing facilities, ample desk space, individual booths and group tables, perfect for collaborative working.
Facilities in the Sixth Form
From a dedicated space for Sixth Formers, study spaces, fully equipped classrooms, science labs, a modern theatre space, a dance studio, extensive sports facilities, a library home to over 15,000 books, and more, students have all the resources to support them during their time at King Edward ‘s Sixth Form.
Hill Lane
King Edward’s has occupied the Hill Lane site since 1938. With over thirteen acres it comprises an extensive range of facilities including a number of additions and major refurbishments completed over the last few years. The site also has a games field, a sports hall, new netball courts and new full astro pitch.
Wellington Sports Ground
Situated on Stoneham Lane, just ten minutes from the main school site. It contains thirty-three acres of grounds, six tennis courts, four netball courts and a water based astro pitch. A large pavilion with eight changing rooms, a kitchen and catering facilities for over one hundred students is also available.
The Study Centre
The Study Centre is a dedicated space neighbouring the Sixth Form Concourse just for Sixth Formers. Students are encouraged to use this space for independent, quiet study away from distractions.
The Thould Library
The library is the heart of the school. This bright, popular space can be used for study, reading, meeting like-minded peers and joining our Library Leader team. Spread over two floors, the library area provides a mix of formal work space and comfortable quiet reading areas, home to over 15,000 books, including fiction, nonfiction, magazines and academic texts.
The Dobson Theatre
The Dobson Theatre is a modern, versatile space designed to host a diverse programme of events for the school. The Dobson Theatre is frequently used for plays, music, dance, presentations and lectures.
Fitness Suite
Sixth Formers have the opportunity to develop physically through the use of our fitness suite. All students are inducted on how to use age appropriate movements and equipment in the facility and this gives them the opportunity to attend the fitness suite during lunch times, in free periods and after school. Students are
educated on how to develop their own training programmes, as well as having access to specialist 1:1 advice from the Head of Strength and Conditioning. There are also weekly fitness classes run in the suite that aim to challenge students to ensure they reach their physical ambitions.
Classrooms
There are 92 classrooms available to students at our Hill Lane site. All classrooms are large and fully equipped with technology and facilities to assist students’ learning, including science labs, dedicated music practice rooms, art studios and ICT rooms.
Wellbeing Centre
The Wellbeing Centre connects all of the relevant areas of the school for enhancing the students’ wellbeing: learning support, the counsellor, the nurses, and a dedicated wellbeing room. The wellbeing room has been designed to be a quiet space in the heart of the school where any student can go when they need to get away from the hustle and bustle of school life. The extra comfy chairs and bean bags are ideal for our Peer Support programme, in which students offer their time to talk to younger students and offer support.
Life Outside the Classroom
King Edward’s Sixth Form aims to develop young people who are well prepared to face the challenges of university life and beyond. They will have achieved their short term goals – good A level results – and will be able to bring to bear the relevant life skills and adaptability needed in order to enhance their prospects beyond education.
At this stage of a young person’s education, the emphasis should be on what is possible. The academic rigour
of the Sixth Form curriculum at King Edward’s lays the foundations, but what happens beyond the classroom plays a crucial role in making them rounded individuals.
A vibrant co-curricular programme emphasises our belief that education is more than a set of grades. Our Sixth Formers are encouraged to take the opportunities that are on offer, at home and abroad. Throughout these crucial two years, the students are guided by a tutor in small groups. Our Higher Education advice is well targeted and successful in helping the students to get the attention they need to make the most of their abilities.
The Sixth Formers will also get the opportunity to sign up for expeditionsrecent trips have included South Africa, Iceland, Indonesia and Sri Lanka. Projects run by the Sixth Form students include a long-established Summer Camp for local young carers and Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association (PDSA).
The School is committed to encouraging each Sixth Former to challenge
themselves. Through travel, or contributing to a team working on a project, they each discover what they’re truly capable of.
Clubs & Societies
Outside of the classroom, students are encouraged to get involved in a wide range of co-curricular activities, clubs and societies. Most of the opportunities are run by staff members, with a few organised and run by the students themselves. There are over 23 clubs and societies exclusive to the Sixth Form.
Academic Enrichment
Students will have a wide range of opportunities and experiences beyond the classroom. Whether they are learning Mandarin, self-defence, research skills or student cookery, our aim is to encourage students to embrace new challenges that build their confidence and resilience. Academic ambition and success is enhanced by a positive mindset that we encourage students to adopt in a variety of environments.
Leadership
There are plenty of opportunities for students to build and practise leadership skills. There are formal and informal roles of responsibility for students to get involved with.
Sport
Every Sixth Former takes part in our Wednesday afternoon Games programme. This programme gives each student a chance to switch off from academic work, and to engage in something physical. There are also opportunities for students to represent the School, in sport through competitive fixtures. A selection of Sixth Formers are invited to join the Elite Sports Performers Programme.
Trips & Duke of Edinburgh
Within the Sixth Form there will usually be around 100 students engaged in the Duke of Edinburgh Awards; some completing their Silver Award, and others already making progress on their Gold Awards.
Creative Arts
There is a myriad of opportunities for students wishing to express themselves through the Creative Arts. Enabling our community to develop intellectual curiosity through the Creative Arts and embedding the value of creativity in the culture of the Sixth Form is what we celebrate!
Charities & Partnerships
Our Charities Commission is headed by Sixth Form students, they spearhead school-wide awareness campaigns and fundraising efforts, rallying the entire student body to get involved. They organise a diverse array of events and support three charity projects distinct to the Sixth Form. Our sixth form students are also encouraged to support our partnership events.
A Day in the life of a Sixth Former
Meet Ben
Ben is one of our Upper Sixth students and has kindly shared some highlight moments from his final year in our Sixth Form. From lessons and leadership roles to co-curricular activities and time with friends, his experience reflects the breadth of Sixth Form life at KES. To read his full case study, see page 71.
Upper Sixth Form Student Example Timetable
P1 08:40 - 09:05 Registration 08:40 - 09:05 Registration 08:40 - 09:25 Free Period 08:40 - 09:05 Registration 08:40 - 09:05 Registration
P2 09:10 - 10:00 Free Period 09:10 - 10:00 Art 09:30 - 10:15
P3 10:05 - 10:55 Business 10:05 - 10:55 Art 10:20 - 11:05
09:10 - 10:00
10:05 - 10:55
09:10 - 10:00 Business
10:05 - 10:55 Art
P4 11:15 - 12:05 Geography 11:15 - 12:05 Free Period 11:25 - 12:10 Free Period 11:15 - 12:05 Open Forum 11:15 - 12:05 Business
P5 12:10 - 13:00 Free Period 12:10 - 13:00 Geography 12:15 - 13:00 Free Period 12:10 - 13:00 Free Period 12:10 - 13:00 Free Period 14:10Foundation15:00Studies 14:10 - 15:00 Games 14:10 - 15:00 Foundation Studies 15:05 - 15:55 Games
Academic Enrichment in the Sixth Form
In the Sixth Form we believe that students benefit enormously from engaging with more than the A Level syllabus of their chosen subjects. Academic and personal development is enhanced by learning new skills, sharing experiences and striving for ambitious goals.
We want our students not just to succeed in their examination courses but also to look beyond Sixth Form to undergraduate study, professional qualifications and career pathways. We encourage our students to think about where they would like to be in 5 years or 10 years and how they can achieve these goals. We have created an academic enrichment programme that offers students plentiful opportunities to both hone fundamental skills, push the boundaries of their intellectual world and experience entirely new fields. There are 4 elements to academic enrichment in the Sixth Form with each element providing a different way in which students’ formal education is complemented by less formal learning.
Open Forum
During the course of their time with us in the Sixth Form, students will hear from over 40 guest speakers during weekly Open Forum sessions. We invite a range of inspiring individuals into School to talk about their achievements, how they have overcome challenges and what inspires them. Our speakers are explorers, fundraisers, authors, photographers, scientists, mental health champions, military veterans, Holocaust survivors and a former bodyguard to an icon of the twentieth century. We invite speakers from both the local area and further afield and we often hear from Old Edwardians (KES Alumni). Each story that our students hear gives them an insight into life beyond school, beyond the classroom and beyond their own experiences.
Lower Sixth Foundation Studies
Enabling our students to make a successful transition from GCSE studies to A level studies and from adolescent to Young Adult is at the core of our Foundation Studies programme in the Lower Sixth. Here, all students participate in a series of three week courses throughout the whole academic year. These cover areas linked to academic engagement, wellbeing, citizenship and planning for life after the Sixth Form. These courses are delivered by teaching staff who have particular interest and expertise in these areas as well as some external providers.
The Courses include:
• Academic Research Methods
• Presentations
• Health & Sexual Wellbeing
• Politics & You
• Student Finance
• Living Sustainably
• Essential First Aid
• Introduction to UCAS
• Gap Year planning
Upper Sixth Foundation Studies
The enrichment courses on offer in the Upper Sixth aim to give students the opportunity to try entirely new activities or return to those that they’d like to brush up on. By engaging in creative, physical and practical challenges students will enjoy a different type of learning and push themselves to embrace the unfamiliar.
We offer over 20 different courses from which students select 5 to participate in during the Autumn and Spring terms. Each course runs for 4 weeks, apart from Japanese and Mandarin that last for two terms and are certificated.
These courses are delivered mainly by King Edward’s staff with a particular expertise in that field although we also work with external experts and professionals.
Languages
• Japanese
• Chinese Arts & Culture
• A Bluffers’ Guide to Culture
• Photography
• Holiday Italian
• The Story of Film
• Dungeons & Dragons
Sport & Fitness
• Powerboating
• Strength & Conditioning
• Self Defence
• Navigation & Seamanship Mental Wellbeing
• Resilience – turning pressure into performance
• Mental Health First Aid Kit Community
• Science Roadshow
• Forest School
• Volunteering Practical skills
• Touch Typing
• KESTED
• Survival Cookery
Extended Project Qualification(EPQ)
All students have the option to undertake the Extended Project Qualification which is equivalent to half an A level once completed and assessed. Students choose a research topic in the Autumn Term of the Lower Sixth and are supported to frame this into a specific line of enquiry that they commence research for in the Spring Term. Students are allocated a supervisor who will guide them through the whole process until completion in the Autumn Term of the Upper Sixth when the EPQ culminates in a presentation event. Here students will present their research via an academic poster to the KES community. Each supervisor is responsible for a small group of students enabling them to build strong working relationships and give personalised guidance. In recent years the topics researched have been hugely varied: land reforms in Zimbabwe, the biodiversity of the New Forest, the effects of blue light on sleep, gene therapy as a treatment for macular degeneration, human rights and secret courts, contemporary Japanese literature and sustainability in fashion.
Full details of this course can be found on page 52.
Sport in the Sixth Form
Taking part and competing in sporting activities is a big part of life at King
Edward’s, and we believe it’s important to follow
a path of commitment, preparation and hard work.
There is a wide variety of sports on offer in the Sixth Form. Beyond the two weekly timetabled Games lessons Sixth Formers participate in (which include: fitness, climbing, pilates, golf and archery), students have the opportunity
to represent the School in sport. Competitive fixtures usually take place on Saturdays at Wellington, or at the competitor school’s location. Students involved in competitive fixtures are expected to attend after school training sessions, and will practise the sport during Games lessons.
The major competitive sports are Rugby, Hockey and Cricket for boys, and Hockey, Netball and Cricket for girls. Each of these sports also enter national cup competitions and have had good success in recent years. There is also a boys’ football team, that competes in the local Sixth Form College league, with fixtures taking place in the timetabled Games lessons. There are also opportunities to compete in other sports, including Badminton, Tennis and Basketball.
Elite Sports Performer Programme
There are over 50 students at King Edward VI Sixth Form who are competing in their chosen Sport at a regional level or higher. The Elite Sports Performer Programme aims to provide these students with an additional support system, to assist them in achieving their potential in their sporting field whilst also fulfilling their academic goals.
Students who are invited on to the programme will receive mentoring support that works alongside the whole school pastoral system as well as access to the fitness facilities, tailor-made training programmes (if required) and an invitation to a series of talks from visiting speakers that cover a wide range of topic areas that are relevant to sports performance at a high level. Students will also have the chance to present to younger students in the school about their sporting achievements.
Our Elite Performers are fortunate to receive expert Strength and Conditioning advice in the form of a series of workshops and personalised 1:1 sessions. Students are taught how to move effectively in Strength and Conditioning sessions, the sessions also provide the athletes with a personalised training programme.
The Elite Sports Performer Programme supports our Elite Sports Performers in achieving both their sporting and academic potential, through:
• Assisting our Elite Sports Performers in managing their time between training, competing, resting and studying
• Liaising with their coaches
• Communicating with their subject teachers at King Edward’s and making them aware of their commitments to their sport throughout the week and at weekends
• Assisting in their short term and long-term goal setting
• Offering students Strength and Conditioning workshops to help minimise risk of injury
• Supporting the Elite Sports Performers throughout their potential rehabilitation processes
• Increasing awareness of sporting issues through a series of talks and visits
The Creative Arts in the Sixth Form
The Creative Arts Faculty champions opportunity in the arts. Engaging creatively, building core strengths and qualities enables our community to expand intellectual curiosity through the Creative Arts. Embedding the value of creativity in the culture of King Edward’s is what we celebrate!
Creative Arts will give you skills such as resilience, problem solving, confidence through performing, critical thinking, community and social collaboration, wellbeing, organisation, team work and creative thinking; the list goes on and on. Our programme offers exceptional choice and opportunity to develop intellectual curiosity. Whether you have a passion for photography, musical theatre, or dance, we encourage everyone from enthusiasts to experts to get involved.
The Drama department boasts fantastic opportunities in the Sixth Form for productions and plays. The Dobson Theatre is well equipped for those not only with an interest in dramatic performance to engage but production, behind the scenes lighting and sound tech. We run masterclass workshops with industry professionals and run
regular theatre trips. The A Level Drama course is a comprehensive course of study which equips students to gain transferable skills but also to be successful in further pursuits in the Theatrical industry with many going on to secure Drama School positions.
The Dobson Theatre houses our Steinway concert grand piano, used in our regular recitals, concerts, and masterclasses as part of the Music Department’s annual programme. There are opportunities for students of all abilities to partake in a wide range of choral, jazz and orchestral ensembles. Our rock and pop musicians
can make the most of our recording studio and showcase their talents at our annual Battle of the Bands.
The expanding and vibrant Dance Department has a purpose-built dance studio which hosts a diverse range of clubs to suit interests from ballet, street to musical theatre. The pinnacle of the Department is the spectacular annual Dance Gala which showcases dancers of all styles and abilities. The Department is designed to give opportunity to explore capabilities and self-expression in a thriving and inclusive environment.
Art has a purpose-built studio, with an open-door policy. Inventive imagination is greatly encouraged, and the Sixth Form have opportunities for life drawing as well as the rich art and photography clubs available.
Music Scholarships
Sixth Form Music Scholars reflect the most able and highest achieving of our performers here at King Edward’s. Scholars gain a wealth of benefit unique to King Edward’s as we prepare young musicians for performance careers and university study. Scholarships are awarded on audition to successful candidates. Scholarship offers comprise of financial support towards the cost of instrumental or vocal lessons. Scholars receive showcase concert opportunities, masterclasses, trips and lecture series invitations for elite musicians.
Destination of A Level musicians and Scholars have included: Birmingham Conservatoire (Jazz Performance), Oxford, Cambridge, Royal Academy of Music, Trinity College of Music, Royal College of Music, Royal Northern College of Music, KCL, Brunel and Bristol.
The Creative Arts make links with charities and local primary school partnerships. It can open the door for Sixth Formers to get involved in community projects or using projects for the Duke of Edinburgh Award skills section.
The KES production of Chicago
Clubs & Societies in the Sixth Form
Clubs & Societies
Exclusive to Sixth Form at King Edward’s:
There is something to suit everyone in the clubs and societies offering at King Edward’s. Sixth Formers, particularly, take a leading role in running our engaging offering which includes 55+ clubs each term.
You can run clubs, choose guest speakers, give presentations, you name it!
The opportunities for leadership outside the classroom through clubs and societies are your chance to explore passions and talents whilst growing your skill set. If you want to try your hand at podcasting, now is your chance. Where a club does not yet exist, we will support you in setting one up.
• Biological and Anatomical Drawing Club
• Book Club
• Booker Prize Reading Challenge
• Charities Commission
• Chess Club
• Coundley Historical Society
• Cryptic Crossword Club
• Dance Club
• Economics Society
• Electronics Club
• Feminist Society
• Football Club
• French Debating
• French Film Club
• Geography Society
• Law Society
• Life Drawing
• Lunar Society
• Medical Society
• Neurodiversity Society
• Problem Solving in Chemistry
• Senior Debating Society
• Spanish Film Club
Duke of Edinburgh Award
Within the Sixth Form there will usually be around 100 students engaged in the Duke of Edinburgh Awards; some completing their Silver Award, and others making progress on their Gold Award.
The Duke of Edinburgh Award programme is hugely valued at King Edward’s, and plays a big part in the co-curricular programme. We actively
encourage students to engage with the scheme, to stretch and challenge themselves in ways that help them develop personal qualities that will serve them so well in adult life.
School clubs and societies help participants achieve their Volunteering, Physical and Skills sections and we have a well-stocked, and free to loan equipment store, to support students for their expeditions. This means that with your own boots and clothing, we can equip you with the best quality outdoor gear, so that you are ready to get out there and achieve!
The Duke of Edinburgh Manager helps facilitate students’ progress across their DofE sections and provides training
for participants in preparation for the expedition section. Silver expeditions are in Dartmoor and Gold expeditions venture further afield to the mountains and hills of Wales and the Lake District, all staffed in-house by our qualified and dedicated team.
If you are coming to King Edward’s already armed with a Silver Award, you can enrol straight away onto the Gold programme, otherwise the Silver Award is easily within your grasp during your Lower Sixth Year. The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a pathway to leadership, teamwork, communication, independence, growth, confidence and achievement. It is also highly valued by universities and employers.
Travel & Trips in the Sixth Form
Every year our Sixth Form students get multiple opportunities to travel the globe, to learn outside of the classroom and enhance their understanding of chosen subjects and the world.
Language students have the opportunity to practise their language skills in France, Germany and Spain.
We’ve taken Creative Arts students on tours in Paris, Prague, Austria and New York.
Students studying any of the art subjects frequently visit museums, galleries and theatres internationally and locally,
from Greece to Brighton, London to Southampton.
In addition, there is a comprehensive Sports Tour programme. Recent tours include visits to South Africa, India, Sri Lanka and Europe.
There are also expeditions on offer which have previously taken place in Tanzania and Vietnam. Biologists, and anyone interested, can join Operation Wallacea for two weeks of scientific research.
Previous locations have included Indonesia, Mexico, Honduras, Madagascar and the Galapagos. Biology and Geography students will have a few residential days of fieldwork in the Lower Sixth. Lastly, students taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award will take part in expeditions, which is detailed on page 25.
Iceland 2025
Salamanca,
Sixth Form Student’s Drone Image from Iceland Trip 2025
Charities & Partnerships in the Sixth Form
Our student-led Charities Commission is an integral part of school life, boasting a sizable and active membership.
Sixth Form members of the Commission are enthusiastic contributors to our community, utilising assemblies to educate peers on pertinent issues and campaigns deserving of school attention. Throughout the academic year, they organise a diverse array of events, consistently raising approximately £10,000 annually. This initiative is a cornerstone of school life, with the Sixth Form taking the lead.
Within the Sixth Form, there are three distinctive charity projects. We collaborate with the Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association (PDSA), dedicated to enhancing the lives of children and families affected by Down Syndrome. Our
students actively engage by organising activity sessions and participating in group outings. The Summer Camp initiative offers a residential experience for young carers, meticulously organised and operated by Sixth Form students. Partnerships Opportunity Project (POP) delivers an array of activities and fund raising tailored to Kings Copse Primary school, a local school for visually impaired students.
Participation in these projects spans two years, requiring students to exercise creativity and devise effective fundraising strategies to support their endeavours. A commitment during School holidays is required; Summer Camp’s residential programme and the Partnerships Project’s activities take place in July, while PDSA Activity Days occur at the end of August.
Our Sixth Form students are also encouraged to support our partnership events. These events take place throughout the year and offer local
primary schools the opportunity to experience a range of exciting learning activities.
Engagement in these initiatives not only forges lasting memories for Sixth Form students but also leaves a lasting impact on the children involved. These projects cultivate enduring friendships and impart invaluable life skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
Leadership in the Sixth Form
Throughout the Sixth Form, students have the chance to build and practise leadership skills. There are a range of formal and informal roles of responsibility for students to get involved with.
Leadership positions such as Head and Deputy Heads of School, Senior Prefects (known as ‘Prepositors’), Lower School Prefects, Wellbeing Prepositors, and House Captains are open to all by application. Different roles have different responsibilities attached, and all students are encouraged to put themselves forward for those roles where they think they can build skills, add value and have some fun.
Some Prepositors will be attached to specific year groups in the school, working closely with staff to support and mentor young students as well as helping organise events such as parents’ evenings. Other Prepositors take a leadership position in a whole school area, such as Charities, Partnerships, Sustainability, or Creative Arts.
Lower School Prefects join in and lead tutor group activities for younger students and may accompany them on team building trips. House Captains take responsibility for galvanising the House, picking teams and encouraging participation in the best spirit.
All Sixth Formers in positions of responsibility get to work closely with teaching staff; including regular meetings with senior staff to provide a student voice in the school’s decisionmaking process.
Sixth Formers also take the lead in a host of activities, from heading up academic societies to helping run and organise
school events. Training takes place for those with formal leadership positions, and all students benefit from peer support training in the Lower Sixth.
An important part of the selection process for leadership roles is to what degree students take up opportunities to help the school community in their Lower Sixth year. For example, Lower Sixth students are invited to train as peer supporters and offer up their time to younger students in the Wellbeing Centre. Additionally, there are activities like the Charities Commission and a range of diversity societies such as FemSoc and Multicultural Society that help promote worthy causes and offer opportunities to deliver assemblies.
Ingoing and Outgoing Sixth Form Top 5
Leavers’ Destinations
Unlock Your Future with KES in the Sixth Form
King Edward VI Sixth
Form
equips
students with the knowledge, passion and drive to continue their learning in Higher Education and beyond.
The following provides an overview of typical university destinations, courses and paths our students follow after Sixth Form.
Examination Results
44.1% of grades were awarded A* - A at A Level and 91.2% of the King Edward's Students achieved A* - C grade. A more detailed breakdown of A Level grades in 2024 can be found on page 33.
University Admissions
In 2024, 144 applications were made to university. Of these, 131 were made by current Upper Sixth students and 13 by Old Edwardians (KES Alumni).
University Courses
In 2024, four students were accepted onto Medicine courses and six were accepted into Oxbridge
University Destinations
89 places at Russell Group Universities were offered to King Edward's students. 91 places at the 'Top 25' (i.e. Russell Group, Bath, Medical Schools) were offered to Sixth Form leavers in 2024.
The below table highlights the most popular University destinations for King Edward's leavers (2024):
Careers & Higher Education Unlock Your Future with KES
You'll have an experienced team dedicated to supporting you during your time with us.
A flexible work experience programme is available to all students, providing an insight into an array of possible careers; subject specific and career specific Careers Conferences are advertised regularly; Sixth Form Meet the Expert Sessions provide students with the opportunity to meet people in different occupations (medicine, law, IT, engineering, science, finance, media, etc) and begin networking. Whilst the Foundation Studies programme of short courses offers insight into different aspects of preparation for life after King Edward’s such as presentation skills and basic budgeting.
HE Fair
The annual HE Fair provides students with the chance to meet representatives from most of the top 25 UK universities. Representatives are available for information on choosing the right higher education for you.
Careers Fair
The Careers Fair welcomes an extensive list of representatives from a variety of industries, careers, and professions to King Edward’s. Students have the chance to meet the experts and to learn more about opportunity, to find out more about career areas they know about but also to discover others that they may never have considered.
University Open Day Visits
In the Summer Term, University Open Day visits are arranged. Students considering Higher Education are strongly urged to view potential institutions.
UCAS Application Support
Towards the end of the academic year the Lower Sixth are introduced to the central UK university applications programme, UCAS APPLY and are encouraged to research various courses or other options that appeal to them. Students are also able to attend Personal Statement workshops to gain a better understanding of how to write the best personal statement of their own and advice is given to all members of the Lower Sixth on the whole application process. Throughout the year students are also introduced to other possible HE routes other than attending a UK university - such as studying abroad
or doing a Higher or Degree level apprenticeship. There are also dedicated staff members to assist students with their university applications.
Careers & Interview Advice
All Lower Sixth students have a careers interview with a member of staff. Informal careers advice continues to be given throughout the Upper Sixth Year as students progress through the university application process.
Post-Results Clinic
During the Summer holidays, a Post Results Clinic is available to offer advice to those candidates on receipt of their A Level results.
Meet the Expert
We are lucky to welcome various industry experts to our Sixth Form each term, where students get to learn more about careers across various fields they may be interested in after their time at King Edward's. These sessions give students the opportunity to ask questions and gain an insight to the day-to-day of a particular profession. Previous sessions have included professionals joining us from Medical, Allied Health, and Law as well as Business, Finance and Economics, and Engineering, with other sessions tailored to the needs and interests of particular.
2024 A Level Results
To
Choosing your A Levels
All students study a full-time course of three A Levels. Those wishing to study Further Mathematics will take four A Levels, and many students will choose to additionally complete the EPQ (Extended Project Qualification).
Curriculum FAQs
Very few university courses require four subjects, although students taking Further Mathematics, which is recommended for the most competitive How do I choose my subjects for the Sixth Form?
You will be studying a much narrower range of subjects than in the past and spending more time on each of them, so it certainly makes sense to choose subjects you know you enjoy! Equally, your results in these subjects will be your passport to Higher Education, so they should also be subjects in which you can reasonably expect to achieve good results. A combination of subjects offering a degree of variety of study is often a good idea.
If you have clear future intentions for university and beyond, check if you should take certain subjects at A Level. If you are not sure what you want to do beyond the Sixth Form, it’s best to choose a range of subjects that keep your options open. Take advice as widely as possible and visit the HE and careers office to talk to our dedicated HE staff.
Which subjects are the best preparation for university later on?
We believe that all subjects offered at A Level have good academic credentials and are suitable for study by Sixth
Mathematics and Engineering courses, will need to continue all four to allow for sufficient breadth.
The Sixth Form at King Edward’s aims to deliver consistently excellent results in a wide range of subjects. A favourable teacher to student ratio allows us to focus on the individual and promotes class discussion. Positive relationships with teachers are a feature of the Sixth
Form experience, making it an important stepping stone to the world of university and work.
A number of subjects are available at A Level that may not have been for students at GCSE. Students should not be discouraged to opt for ‘new’ subjects, but careful advice should be taken if considering more than two subjects not previously studied.
Formers intending to enter Higher Education. Some HE courses have specific subject requirements, very many do not. Students who are concerned whether their A Level subjects are appropriate preparation for their intended course of study at university should consult the websites of the universities concerned or look at the entry profiles for courses featured on UCAS Course Search. The HE and careers department can also offer guidance and advice.
Will I have the same teachers in both years in the Sixth Form?
Continuity of teaching cannot be guaranteed, but we will do our best to provide continuity for as many sets and students as possible.
Will subjects be examined in both the Lower and Upper Sixth?
Yes. All subjects will be examined in the Summer Term of the Lower Sixth year internally. In December of the Upper Sixth year, mock examinations are arranged by subject departments. A Level subjects will be externally examined in May and June of the Upper Sixth.
What
is
Open Forum and Foundation Studies?
In Lower Sixth, every student will enter the Foundation Studies programme and attend a series of weekly sessions designed to equip students with key skills and to extend their education beyond the examined curriculum. In Upper Sixth, the programme evolves into a series of five short courses chosen from a wideranging list. Full details of these will be made available in the Summer Term of the Lower Sixth year. In addition, all Sixth Form students will attend Open Forum, a series of weekly talks by staff and guest speakers, intended to interest, inspire and broaden the experience of all students. Please see page 18 for more information.
Any questions you might have which are not answered above should be addressed to:
Dr BM Waymark
Deputy Head (Academic) 023 8070 4561 bmwaymark@kes.school
Art and Design - Fine Art Art and Design - Photography
Civilisation
Art and Design – Fine Art
Course Overview
The AQA Fine Art course at King Edward’s offers a step up from GCSE into a world where you will experiment and try new ways of working, hopefully to broaden your approach to the subject. This might be through our life drawing classes or simply working on a scale never attempted before.
The Lower Sixth course is experimental in design and leads to a more specialised approach at full A Level. Flair is vital as is a willingness to try new things and a broad-minded approach to the creative process.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Art if studied at GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• Drawing
• Painting
• Printmaking
• Photography
• Practical investigation
Methods of Assessment
• Personal Investigation: 60%
• Externally-set Assignment: 40%
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Mr G Piggott
glpiggott@kes.school
Art and Design – Photography
Course Overview
The AQA Photography course will look at the social, cultural and artistic context of Photography. We have an extensive art and design library with over 3,500 titles. The department has its own IT suite running Adobe Creative Studio as well as an A1 printer and dedicated film scanner. There are also DSLR cameras and a wide range of film cameras including a 5x4 plate camera and dark room.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Art, Photography, Textiles, Graphic Design or DT if studied at GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• History of photography
• Contextual studies
• Creative application of camera skills
• Framing and composition
• Creating a narrative
• Understanding genres
• Personal Investigation
• Writing about images
• Using a darkroom: processing and printing
• Use of Adobe Creative Suite
Methods of Assessment
Lower Sixth:
• Experimental Project
Upper Sixth:
• Personal Investigation: 60%
• Externally-set Assignment: 40%
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Mr G Piggott
glpiggott@kes.school
Biology
Course Overview
This is a course that has been kept upto-date, dealing with topics in ways that are easily seen as relevant to everyday life. We teach Edexcel Biology A, which maintains the best of the Salters Nuffield approach. The course aims to: use topical contexts, be accessible yet intellectually demanding, emphasise application of knowledge, integrate activities and practical work throughout the course; make full use of a range of teaching and communication approaches and use student-centred, novel activities that show how biologists think and work in their professional lives.
Practical work is fully integrated into the units, with the use of living materials as a central focus of the activities. It includes practical study of a variety of living organisms, including humans and other
animals, plants and micro-organisms, as well as a 3-day field trip to Leeson House in Swanage for ecology work.
Entry Requirements
Grade 7 in Biology GCSE, or 7/7 in dual award Science.
Insight into Topics
• Lifestyle, health and risk
• Genes and health
• Voice of the Genome
• Biodiversity and Natural Resources
• On the ‘wild side’
• Immunity, infection and forensics
• ‘Run for your Life’
• Grey Matter
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: ‘The Natural Environment and Species in Survival’
• Paper 2: ‘Energy, Exercise and Coordination’
• Paper 3: ‘General and Practical Applications in Biology’
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Dr NC Wortham ncwortham@kes.school
My time at KES Sixth Form has been great. I have been able to form great relationships with my teachers which makes me look forward to each lesson and I feel comfortable to ask questions whenever I need to. Every week the teachers run revision sessions for students which has benefited me greatly and I really enjoy having small classes because I have become much more confident over the last 2 years. I participated in the Chemistry and Biology Olympiad which was a great challenge for me.
I think the sense of community in the KES Sixth Form is really important. There is a lot of support here from teachers and friends. The Concourse provides everything as I can eat lunch there, study and meet my friends.
I enjoy the clubs and societies here at KES and I try to make the most of them. I am part of the Feminist Society and we go to Year 7 tutor groups and talk to the students about feminism and important topics. Every lunchtime and after school I’m always occupied with a club and I am very glad the school offers these activities as everyone can take part in them which is very inclusive.
I would say there is a transition between school and the Sixth Form and even between Lower and Upper Sixth in terms of the workload but I think by starting and revising earlier and being consistent I was able to tackle the challenges and the transition. Overall it has been a great experience at KES Sixth Form.
My Highlights during Sixth Form:
• The school trip to Salamanca - I was able to learn not just the language but the culture too.
• The Carol Service at Romsey Abbey - I enjoy singing in the chamber choir especially at the Carol service
• The Christmas song competition was also very fun as it is a tradition at KES and it involves the whole school
My plans after KES:
I am planning to study Medicine at Barts and the London University after I leave KES. I think the school offers a lot of support and guidance in terms of careers. There is a Medical Society that I attended which really helped me understand the application process and different Doctors would come in to speak to us about their profession which made me more motivated and inspired to study medicine.
My message to students looking to join the Sixth Form:
Stay organised and manage your time effectively. It can be a big step up in terms of responsibility and by staying on top of deadlines, it will help you feel less stressed and more in control. The hard work always will pay off, also don’t forget to have fun and to balance your work with activities you enjoy. Take advantage of all the opportunities as well and make the most of your time as it goes by very quickly!
Avantika
I joined KES in Year 7.
A Levels Studied at KES: Chemistry | Biology | Spanish
Clubs & Societies: Charities Commission, Feminist Society, Linguistics Olympiad Club, Multicultural Society, Chamber Choir, Symphony Orchestra, Netball Club, Medsoc, Mindsoc
Business
Course Overview
The provision of this course should enable you to develop a critical understanding of the internal workings of a business, and of its role in the economy and broader external environment. You will become aware of the effects of business behaviour from a range of perspectives and a variety of organisations.
During the A Level course you will be introduced to a number of business theories and models, and you will be expected to apply them to real world examples and case studies. You will require a range of skills including decision making and problem solving and where appropriate, the quantification and management of information.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Business if studied at GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• What is Business?
• Managers, leadership & decision-making
• Marketing management
• Operational management
• Financial management
• Human resource management
• Analysing the strategic position of business
• Choosing strategic direction
• Strategic methods: how to pursue strategies
• Managing strategic change
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: Multiple-choice questions, short answer-questions and two essays from a choice of four titles
• Paper 2: Data response questions
• Paper 3: Questions based on a business case study
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Subject Co-Ordinator: Mr M
Laverty molaverty@kes.school
Chemistry
Course Overview
A Level Chemistry gives you the opportunity to develop your appreciation of the topics that you were taught at GCSE level and a chance to find out about new themes and ideas that may have significant impact on society today. Like all A Level subjects, the two-year course will be demanding and rigorous, but this should allow you to develop a genuine in-depth understanding of this fascinating science.
The specification at King Edward’s is neatly organised into topics with core practicals embedded into the teaching. These practicals will cover a variety of experimental techniques and should allow you to gain confidence in your ability to manipulate apparatus and handle hazardous substances. We have five specific Chemistry laboratories that allow us to complete a significant number of practicals during the two-year course.
Entry Requirements
Grade 7 in Chemistry GCSE, or 7/7 in dual award Science.
Insight into Topics
• Atomic Structure
• Amount of Substance
• Bonding
• Redox
• Energetics
• Organic Chemistry
• Transition Metals
• Equilibrium
• Kinetics
• Analytical Techniques
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: ‘Advanced Inorganic and Physical Chemistry’ (30%)
• Paper 2: ‘Advanced Organic and Physical Chemistry’ (30%)
• Paper 3: ‘General and Practical Principles in Chemistry’ (40%)
• Science Practical Endorsement: These are a selection of experiments chosen by the exam board that you need to be confident in from a theoretical and practical point of view. They are internally assessed and externally moderated. Many universities request a ‘pass’ in the practical endorsement as part of their offer.
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Mrs LA Millington lamillington@kes.school
Classical Civilisation
Course Overview
Classical Civilisation offers students the opportunity to study the archaeology, architecture, art, history, literature, philosophy, politics, social history and religion of the Classical World, and to develop their understanding of their social, historical and cultural contexts.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in a Humanities subject at GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• World of the Hero: you will read Homer’s Iliad and Virgil’s Aeneid, studying the literary techniques, heroic themes and the social, cultural and religious context of the poems.
• Imperial Image: using prescribed literary and visual/material sources, you will study Augustus and his propaganda regime from his association with Julius Caesar, his leadership, his elevation to Emperor, his culture changes, and his position as pater patriae.
• Greek Religion: using prescribed literary and visual/material sources, you will study the Greek gods, the personal experience of the divine, religion in society, places of worship, rituals and priests, philosophical beliefs.
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: ‘The World of the Hero’ (40%)
• Paper 2: ‘The Imperial Image’ (30%)
• Paper 3: ‘Greek Religion’ (30%)
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Miss IM
Painter impainter@kes.school
Computer Science
Course Overview
The OCR Computer Science A Level qualification empowers students to build understanding of core computer science principles. Computational thinking and programming skills learned in the classroom are transferred into creating real-world systems, giving students experience of developing a fully realised solution. Through our A Level course students will develop their analytical skills relevant to problem solving across all industries.
In the Lower Sixth, students will be introduced to the fundamental technical principles of computing, computational thinking and problem solving as well as studying data exchange, software development, data types, and legal and ethical issues. In the Upper Sixth, students will build their skills by applying computational thinking and problemsolving to a practical problem of their choosing.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Computer Science if studied at GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• Components of a Computer
• Systems Software
• Software development
• Exchanging data
• Networks and web technologies
• Data types
• Data structures
• Boolean Algebra
• Legal, moral and ethical cultural issues
• Computational thinking
• Programming techniques
• Algorithms
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: ‘Computing Systems’ (40%)
• Paper 2: ‘Algorithms and Programming’ (40%)
• Programming Project: Internally assessed, externally moderated (20%)
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department:
Mr DG Cutler dgcutler@kes.school
Dance
Course Overview
Dance is an exciting, dynamic, and challenging course that nurtures both technical and expressive dance skills. Students will explore a diverse range of dance styles and techniques, refining their performance abilities while also developing their own choreographic voice. The course provides an in-depth study of key practitioners, professional works, and the historical, social, and cultural contexts of dance.
Beyond practical skills, students will cultivate essential life skills such as creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and resilience. They will gain confidence in performing, analysing movement, and articulating their ideas with clarity.
Dance students have the chance to experience live professional performances and engage with industry experts, offering them invaluable insight into the world of dance and choreography.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Dance if studied at GCSE. Minimum of 4 students for the course to run.
Methods of Assessment
• Component 1: Performance & Choreography (50%)
• Component 2: Critical Engagement (50%)
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Dance Co-ordinator: Stacey
Barnett sjbarnett@kes.school
Design and Technology
Course Overview
Students will study the OCR Design and Technology Product Design course, this strengthens learners’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills within a creative environment, enabling them to develop and make prototypes/products that solve real-world problems. During their project work students can specialise in a range of materials areas such as, resistant materials, graphic design or fashion and textile Design. This qualification aims to excite and engage learners with contemporary topics covering the breadth of this evolving subject. Students from King Edward’s who have studied Design and Technology can progress into a range of higher education areas including engineering, architecture, fashion, costume design and product design.
The Design and Technology department at King Edward’s is a well-resourced centre which compromises; two multimaterial workshops, a dedicated textiles room, an ICT suite and materials preparation rooms. The department is well-equipped with CNC machinery and processes available. There is full technical support from the department technician.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Design & Technology if studied at GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• Identifying requirements
• Learning from existing products
• Wider issues
• Design thinking
• Materials and components
• Technical understanding
• Manufacturing processes
• Viability of design solutions
• Health and Safety
Methods of Assessment
• Non-Examined Assessment (coursework) (50%)
• 2 final written papers (50%)
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Mrs AML Blow amlblow@kes.school
OllyI joined KES in Year 7.
A Levels Studied at KES: Mathematics | Physics | Design & Technology | EPQ
Clubs & Societies: Greenpower (7 years), Robotics (2 years), 1st XI Cricket, 2nd Rugby, Hockey, Lunar Society (President), Physics Olympiad
Settling into Sixth Form felt like a natural next step, especially as I already knew everyone from previous years. Moving on to A Levels was an exciting shift — the subjects felt deeper and more engaging, which made the step up from GCSEs really rewarding. With the right support and a bit of time to adjust, I quickly found my stride.
My Highlights during Sixth Form:
• South Africa Hockey Tour
• Blundells two Day Cricket Match
• Student Robotics Final
My plans after KES:
Flight school, join British Airways, potentially British Antarctic Survey. Applied for Aerospace Engineering and Rocket Science at uni but I’d much rather go flying.
My message to students looking to join the Sixth Form:
At KES, the experience is what you make of it. If you’re willing to embrace the opportunities and push yourself, it becomes so much more than just a place to study. The relationship between students and teachers is outstanding, and it’s been one of the most rewarding parts of my time here.
Drama and Theatre Studies
Course Overview
Drama and Theatre Studies is a vibrant, creative, challenging and stimulating course. It allows students to develop theatrical skills that will allow them to perform on stage and create innovative relevant contemporary theatre from a directional and design perspective. Students will also hone important life skills such as negotiation, cooperation and time management and improve their abilities in public speaking; presenting information in varied and engaging ways and commanding the attention of an audience.
There will be compulsory theatre trips throughout the course. There will also be extra workshops organised to connect students with contemporary theatre practitioners and professionals.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Drama if studied at GCSE.
Methods of Assessment
• Component 1: ‘Drama and Theatre’ (40%)
• Component 2: ‘Creating Original Drama’ (30%)
• Component 3: ‘Making Theatre’ (30%)
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Mrs LA Gilmour lagilmour@kes.school
STUDENT CASE STUDY
Alex
I joined KES in Sixth Form.
A Levels Studied at KES:
Drama | History | Psychology
Clubs & Societies: The Badgers (School Band), Rugby Club, Acting Rehearsals, Musical Theatre Rehearsals, Coundley Historical Society.
My time at KES Sixth Form has been brilliant. Looking back I joined the school as a slightly reserved individual in a brand new environment but over a short period of time I found my feet and opened up. I take Drama, Psychology and History, a diverse range of subjects that I find equally fascinating. The teachers are enthusiastic and good fun supporting us each as individuals, not simply as a group of students. Although I’ve chosen to take a different career path to many of my peers, the teachers are always there willing to support me. The activities outside of academics such as Foundation Studies, Open Forum, clubs and societies are hugely beneficial in broadening our interests and knowledge.
My highlights during Sixth Form:
• Performing in the Sixth Form play ‘Our Country’s Good’
• Battle of the Bands (2023/2024)
• The Sixth Form collaboration with ‘Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association’
My plans after KES:
I’ve been auditioning to attend drama school this year, gaining places on competitive courses with the support from the Creative Arts Department at KES.
So far I’ve received offers from:
• ArtsEd
• Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama
• Trinity Laban
• Emil Dale Academy
• Guildford School of Acting
For my future career I aim to become a professional actor, performing on West End stages. My goal is to perform in professional films and essentially make a name for myself in the performing arts industry.
My message to students looking to join the Sixth Form:
The KES Sixth Form is welcoming and enthusiastic. Joining KES in Year 12 might be daunting but it truly is a wonderful place to be! The teachers and Sixth Form staff will support you in whatever path you choose to take. Although KES pushes you to pursue academic excellence, don’t therefore shy away from the fantastic co-curricular opportunities King Edward’s has on offer. My advice is to open as many doors as possible, experiment to give yourself options, don’t let failure or misfortune stunt your growth and most importantly enjoy yourself.
Economics
Course Overview
Economics is a contemporary, thought provoking and evolving subject that considers various aspects of human behaviour. This course concentrates on how we behave when faced with the economic problem that the world has too few resources to produce enough goods and services to satisfy all its people. Given this microeconomic problem, choices must be made about what, how and for whom to produce goods and services.
Economists study how people, businesses and governments make choices and the consequences of their decisions. The macroeconomic side of the course considers the national and international economy, government economic policies and the trade-offs that exist between inflation, economic growth, unemployment, trade & inequality.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Economics, Business, or a Humanities subject if studied at GCSE.
Insight into Topics
Microeconomics
• Economic methodology and the economic problem
• Individual economic decision-making
• Price determination in a competitive market
• Production, costs & revenue
• Perfect competition, imperfectly competitive markets & monopoly
• The labour market
• The distribution of income & wealth: poverty & inequality
• The market mechanism, market failure & government intervention in markets
Macroeconomics
• The measure of macroeconomic performance
• How the macroeconomy worksaggregate demand & supply analysis
• Economic performance
• Financial markets and monetary policy
• Fiscal policy and supply-side policy
• The international economy
Methods of Assessment
Lower Sixth:
• A mixture of written work throughout the course and end of year assessment which will examine the material covered to date and the assessment skills for A level.
Upper Sixth:
• 3 final written papers (33% each)
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head
of Department:
Mr P Sheppard psheppard@kes.school
English Language
Course Overview
As a subject, English Language offers an opportunity to develop a detailed analytical understanding of the way language works, the way it is used and in which it is closely intertwined with social values.
This course will enable you to develop a range of skills essential for further education and employment. Studying English Language will help you to acquire a greater technical understanding of how languages work. You will also explore the relationship between language and the development of ideas, beliefs and attitudes; society and social interaction; and the construction of identity.
Critical awareness of language not only helps you understand how to express
yourself, but also how others use language and for what purposes. You will become a more active and discerning reader and listener, as well as a more skilled, confident writer.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in English Language GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• Textual Variations and Representations
• Language Diversity - gender, accents and dialects, occupation, social groups
• Language Change and Global English
• Child Language Development
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: ‘Language, the Individual & Society’
• Paper 2: ‘Language Diversity & Change’
• Coursework: ‘Language in Action’
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Mrs HK Arnold hkarnold@kes.school
English Literature
Course Overview
A thorough grounding in literature automatically provides knowledge of our literary heritage while at the same time increasing the student’s awareness of cultural values. history, sociology, psychology, and almost every branch of human knowledge.
Literary study expands our capacity to sympathise with other human beings, enhances our ability to see and imagine human complexity, and broadens our intellectual horizons by enlarging our power to experience life vicariously.
Studying English Literature at A Level allows students to explore texts in more depth than at GCSE. You will be with
like-minded students, people who have chosen to do the subject because they enjoy it, which makes the level of debate more intense.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in English Literature GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• Tragedy: typical texts include King Lear, Death of a Salesman, Tess of the D’Urbervilles
• Crime: typical texts include Atonement, Rime of the Ancient Mariner, Brighton Rock
• Coursework: one essay on prose, one on poetry. There is some free choice here.
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: ‘Literary Genres’ (40%)
• Paper 2: ‘Texts & Genres’ (40%)
• Paper 3: ‘Theory & Independence’ (20%)
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Mrs JL Gunton jlgunton@kes.school
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Course Overview
In addition to the core A Level subjects, students are encouraged to undertake the Extended Project. The EPQ offers an opportunity to explore in depth an area of academic interest resulting in a qualification equivalent to half an A Level, graded up to A*. Depending on the grade achieved, the EPQ is worth up to 28 UCAS points.
The EPQ usually takes the form of a dissertation, but it is also possible to base it around a performance, work of art, experiment or field study. There are few restrictions on the subject matter, and the choice is down to the individual student in consultation with their supervisor.
Entry Requirements
Students should have the ability to work independently, meet deadlines and have a high level of personal interest in the chosen field of research.
Course Format
Lower Sixth: Research skills and academic referencing are taught to all students as part of Foundation Studies. Students that decide to take up the EPQ in addition to their A Levels will have additional guidance on formulating a research question on a specific topic during the Autumn Term. Supervisors will be allocated in the Spring Term with the first milestone for the project coming at the end of this term. Students recommence the Project after Lower Sixth examinations in the Summer Term and write their first draft by the end of this term.
Upper Sixth: Upon their return in September, students will have a second, full draft to discuss with their supervisors ahead of the creation of an academic poster for the presentation event in October. Students will complete and submit the Project by October half term to enable them to include it in their UCAS
application. Final results will be received from the exam board in March.
Methods of Assessment
The work is marked internally and moderated externally by Edexcel, the awarding body. Upon completion of the project all students also deliver a short presentation; forming part of the final assessment.
Find out more about the course at kes.school
EPQ Co-Ordinator: Mrs
S Burt sburt@kes.school
Rio
I joined KES in Year 7.
A Levels Studied at KES:
Biology | Chemistry | French | EPQ
Clubs & Societies: Sustainability Action Group, Charities Commission, Partnership Programme, Deputy Head
STUDENT CASE STUDY
I would say the best thing about Sixth Form at KES is the genuine care and support you get from teachers, facilitated by smaller class sizes and excellent resources. You feel like a true individual and you form really special relationships with others in the KES community.
The concourse is what makes Sixth Form feel especially unique and separate from the rest of the school- it’s the perfect space to work, relax, or chat with friends. Also, you form a more personal connection with teachers and classmates, which allows for really stimulating class discussions and more personalised support. In the Sixth Form, you are given more independence, and you learn about how to structure your time and prepare for life after school. Even though KES Sixth Form shares so much with the rest of the school, it feels remarkably different at the same time, and acts as the perfect stepping stone between secondary and higher education. I have been given so much support throughout my application for university, both in terms of choosing the right courses and writing a strong personal statement. My Biology teachers prepared me well for my admissions tests and offered me practice interviews before my Oxford interview, which I am very grateful for. Outside of uni applications, the Foundation Studies scheme allows you to get prepared for future life in terms of finances, travel, and even cooking. I also always look forward to Open Forum, where you can listen to a wide variety of inspirational speakers- you can see more of the world through their stories.
How I would describe the Sixth Form community:
The Sixth Form community is so vibrant and tight-knit. You can really feel a sense of camaraderie when you’re in the concourse, like everyone is genuinely rooting for each other We all know each other and there are always smiles or waves being exchanged as you walk past. There are so many different personalities and interests which mix and complement to make KES an exciting place to be.
My plans after KES:
I am planning on going straight to university reading Biomedical Sciences, and I’ve been given an offer from Oxford. I really can’t describe how excited I am for this opportunity to study my favourite subject, and I am grateful for the teachers and support at KES which have prepared me so well.
My message to students looking to join the Sixth Form:
Say yes to as much as you can. Your time as a Sixth Former will be genuinely enriched if you welcome the opportunities which you are so lucky to access. It’s scary to try new things and the extra commitments can feel difficult at first, but you will never regret doing them. Make the most of what KES Sixth Form has to offer!
French
Course Overview
French adds to the overall profile of a student and improves a student’s chances of getting into a good university and later into an interesting career. The size of the classes allows for considerable individual attention and a great deal of lively interaction. Each class has a team of teachers, and students have a 25-minute lesson with our French assistant each week. There are numerous opportunities available to develop linguistic skills, be it in lunchtime workshops, borrowing a French DVD or book, or by taking part in a trip to France.
Entry Requirements
Grade 7 in French GCSE.
Insight into Topics
Lower Sixth
• The changing nature of family
• The ‘cyber-society’
• The place of voluntary work
• A culture proud of its heritage
• Contemporary francophone music
• Cinema: the 7th art form
• One film – from a choice of Les 400 Coups, La Haine or Au revoir les enfants
Upper Sixth
• Positive features of a diverse society
• Life for the marginalised
• How criminals are treated
• Teenagers, the right to vote and political commitment
• Demonstrations, strikes – who holds the power?
• Politics and immigration
• One literary text – from a choice of No et moi (Delphine de Vigan) or Boule de Suif et autres contes de la guerre (Guy de Maupassant)
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: Listening, Reading & Writing
• Paper 2: Writing
• Paper 3: Speaking
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Ms KM Clement
kmclement@kes.school
Geography
Course Overview
A Level Geography provides a contemporary and dynamic opportunity for students to engage with the world around them. The aim is to inspire a love of Geography for lifelong learning, drawing on issues that are relevant to a student’s own learning of the subject in a variety of contexts. The A Level specification has been designed to strengthen geographical and fieldwork skills gained at GCSE and delve more deeply into content.
Geography offers students the opportunity to develop their debating and discussion skills, and their statistical and analytical skills as well as applying an evaluative approach in extended writing. There are numerous transferable skills
gained through Geography which can be utilised by students across all subjects as well as in their future careers. We follow the OCR A Level Course.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Geography if studied at GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• Coastal landscapes
• Earth’s life support systems
• Changing spaces; making places
• Global migration
• Human rights
• Hazardous earth
• Disease dilemmas
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: Physical Systems (22%)
• Paper 2: Human Interactions (22%)
• Paper 3: Geographical Debates (36%)
• Non-Examined Assessment: Investigative Geography (20%)
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Ms TL King tlking@kes.school
German
Course Overview
There is a strong emphasis on fluency and oral competence and authentic materials are used on topic areas that are chosen to be relevant to young people in a social, vocational, educational, literary or political context.
Students are given time for directed study in which they are expected to undertake independent research. There is also a weekly lesson on an individual basis with a language assistant to enhance oral competence. These arrangements allow for a thorough coverage of all skill areas and flexibility in meeting the varied needs of the individual student. The more complex grammatical structures required for the Lower Sixth are supplied in an intensive structured programme especially designed to bridge the gap between the less rigorous nature of GCSE and the demand for independence expected of the more mature student.
Entry Requirements
Grade 7 in German GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• Aspects of German-speaking society: current trends
• Artistic culture in the German-speaking world
• Multiculturalism in German-speaking society
• Aspects of political life in the Germanspeaking world
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: Listening, Reading & Writing
• Paper 2: Writing
• Paper 3: Speaking
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Mr R Soames
rdsoames@kes.school
History
Course Overview
We live in a dramatically changing world and the opportunity that the study of History provides to ground our understanding of the present in the context of the past, and thus to reach more profound understanding of contemporary issues, is more important than ever. The A Level History course is designed both to engage and excite our students through the choice of relevant and thought-provoking material and also to encourage contemplation over issues that are immediate to us today. Students study three units for History A Level and outside the syllabus the department offers regular and structured preparation for the EPQ and Oxbridge entry. There is also a Historical Society that meets every fortnight, a Sixth Form History magazine and regular trips to places such as Canterbury, Hampton Court and the Tower of London, together with a biennial trip to Washington D.C.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in History if studied at GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• Paper One: The British Empire c.18571967. This paper covers the reasons for the expansion and eventual demise of the British Empire, together with the effect of the Empire on both the “subject peoples” and the British themselves.
• Paper Two: USA 1945-1980. The American Dream? This paper offers the history of the post-war USA up to the election of Ronald Reagan as President in 1980, covering such issues as the Civil Rights struggle, the JFK assassination, the Vietnam War and the Watergate Scandal.
• Coursework: a student-researched 4,500 word essay. Students will be able to choose their title from a wide range of topics including, but not limited to, the French Revolution, the American Civil War, the abolition of slavery and rebellions under the Tudors.
Methods of Assessment
Two 2.5-hour examinations at the end of the course and assessed coursework.
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Mr NJ Diver njdiver@kes.school
Charlie
I joined KES in Year 7.
A Levels Studied at KES: History | Spanish | Maths | EPQ Clubs & Societies: History Society, Cricket, Football, Head of School
STUDENT CASE STUDY
My time in the Sixth Form has been one of great personal development from me as I have gone from feeling like a child to an adult. I have always endeavoured to get involved in any possible opportunity which has led me to some incredible experiences and my responsibility over the past year has been an amazing opportunity. The opportunities once you reach the sixth form totally dwarf that of the rest of the school and there is genuinely a remarkable number of possible activities to get involved in. Over the past two years I have been to Spain and Sri Lanka for academic and sporting trips, gained considerable experience in public speaking, which has gone from something I feared to something I now enjoy. The sheer amount of choice and options in the sixth form both academically and beyond the curriculum is what makes KES Sixth Form so great and prepares you for life beyond KES. The transition from school to sixth form is one that may seem daunting but has been the most enjoyable period of my education so far as you gain a greater sense of independence and responsibility which allows you to truly find your passions and strengths.
My Highlights during Sixth Form:
• Being Head of School - has allowed me to meet some amazing people and gain incredible life skills such as public speaking, organisation and networking
• Sri Lanka cricket tour - it was incredible experiencing a new culture and playing sport in another country
• Spanish trip to Salamanca - it was amazing to see how far my language skills had come on and the trip gave me a unique sense of excitement and impetus to improve at Spanish
My plans after KES:
I am (hopefully) off to Oxford to do History with Spanish next year as long as I get 3 As. Beyond there I am not sure but the idea of running a business has always interested me.
My message to students looking to join the Sixth Form:
My message to those looking to join is that you get out of the Sixth Form what you put into it - if you throw yourself into a variety of opportunities you will no doubt reach the end of your time feeling fulfilled and having enjoyed yourself. Additionally, the other big key to making sure you enjoy your time is being organised - if you are confident you are on top of all your work and commitments then it allows you much more freedom and flexibility - even with all my responsibilities this year I have still managed to have a great year!
Italian
Course Overview
Studying Italian at A Level allows the learner to move from the physical acquisition of the language at GCSE to its practical application; using the language to enter the worlds of culture, politics, history and society in this fascinating and beautiful country.
With one of the leading European economies and a healthy manufacturing and export market, many employers seek people who speak Italian as well as English fluently; Italian can be combined with a wide variety of subjects, both at A Level and as a Degree. It is key to future studies, research and careers in the fields of art history, literature, archaeology, philosophy, music, fashion, and business. In addition, the skills learnt along the way; communication, rationalisation, organisation, intercultural awareness, are all highly valued in the job market.
Entry Requirements
Grade 7 in Italian GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• Changes in Italian society (evolution of the Italian family, education, world of work).
• Political and artistic culture in Italian speaking countries (music, media, cultural heritage).
• Italy: a society in evolution (the positive impact of immigration in Italy, the problems of migration, the North/South divide).
• From Fascism to today (Mussolini’s rise to power, Fascism during the Second World War, from dictatorship to democracy).
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: Listening, Reading & Writing
• Paper 2: Writing
• Paper 3 : Speaking
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Subject Co-ordinator: Mrs S Rugge-Price sjrugge-price@kes.school
Latin
Course Overview
Latin A Level offers students the opportunity to develop their language skills along with their appreciation of Latin literature. A highly regarded qualification, Latin works well with any combination of subjects, including the sciences, dealing with both the logical and the imaginative. The study of Latin leads to a greater understanding and appreciation of our own civilisation and heritage and is still highly relevant to the world today.
Entry Requirements
Grade 7 in Latin GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• Development of Linguistic skills and nuance.
• Cultural understanding of either Republican or Imperial Society through reading of prose set verse text.
• Cultural understanding of either Roman satire or epic poetry through reading of verse set text.
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: Unseen translation (33%)
• Paper 2: Prose composition/ comprehension (17%)
• Paper 3 & 4: Prose literature & Verse literature (25% per paper)
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Miss IM Painter impainter@kes.school
Mathematics
Course Overview
Mathematics is the most studied of all A Level subjects, both here and nationally. Not only is the subject challenging and interesting, but it also gives students the skills and knowledge to access a wide range of courses for further study. Students are required to study both Mechanics and Statistics in addition to the Pure content of algebra, calculus and trigonometry. We follow the OCR B (MEI) specification.
The course emphasises how mathematical ideas are interconnected and how mathematics can be applied to model situations using algebra and
other representations, to help make sense of data, to understand the physical world and to solve problems in a variety of contexts, including social sciences and business. It prepares students for further study and employment in a wide range of disciplines involving the use of mathematics.
Entry Requirements
Grade 7 in Mathematics GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• Pure Mathematics
• Mechanics
• Statistics
Methods of Assessment
Three 2-hour examinations
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Further Mathematics
Course Overview
OCR A Level in Further Mathematics B (MEI) is both deeper and broader than A Level Mathematics. It is designed for students with a real enthusiasm for Mathematics. As well as building on the algebra and calculus introduced in A Level Mathematics, the A Level Further Mathematics core content introduces complex numbers and matrices, fundamental mathematical ideas with wide applications in mathematics, engineering, physical sciences and computing. Choosing Further Mathematics means that you do a double A Level course in Mathematics requiring you to commit to continuing studying with four A Levels.
Entry Requirements
Grade 8 in Mathematics GCSE
Insight into Topics
• Pure Mathematics
• Mechanics
• Statistics
Methods of
Assessment
• Mandatory Core Pure Examination (50%)
• Non-core content options: additional mechanics, statistics, or pure options as well as numerical methods and modelling algorithms. (50%)
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Mr GA Eyssens gaeyssens@kes.school
I joined KES in Year 7.
A Levels Studied at KES:
Mathematics | Further Mathematics | Physics | Chemistry
Clubs & Societies: Coding
Club, Chess Club
Despite attending KES for 5 years previously, starting Sixth Form was a very refreshing experience. I like the transition to being more independent and self-sustaining, even though it can be scary to think that we’ll all be adults at the end of it.
My subject choice was mainly due to interest and higher education plans. They all felt very new and much more challenging. I enjoy all of them, from performing titrations in Chemistry, to learning about integral statistical distributions in Further Maths. I love the much smaller class sizes as we get to understand and offer support to each other. Co-curricular activities are promoted by our teachers, for example there are many maths or science olympiads that are challenging and fun!
Open Forum is one of my favourite parts of Sixth Form. Most weeks are very engaging and they expose you to many different experiences! From one speaker being held captive in Russia to another being Nelson Mandela’s bodyguard, each week is refreshing and is something I can look forward to.
My Highlights during Sixth Form:
• Winning the House Christmas song competition (twice!)
• Participating in the Ritangle and M3 maths competitions
• Being an expert liar in Among Us at lunch
My plans after KES:
In September, I hope to be starting an undergraduate degree in Computer Science at the University of Oxford. Despite not taking the A Level, I’ve come to believe that computers are a great tool that are taken for granted even now. I’m planning to learn more about machine learning, and perhaps enter the world of academia after.
My message to students looking to join the Sixth Form: KES Sixth Form is a wonderful opportunity. Even just as a stepping stone to higher education or work, you definitely won’t forget your time here! Take advantage of every experience, whether they are co-curricular activities or the Physics Olympiad. It’s a unique time and it’s exciting to feel more grown up!
Music
Course Overview
The A Level Music course imaginatively explores the three musical disciplines: performance, composition and analysis. Following the OCR specification, students can tailor the weighting of their coursework to their strengths. Each student receives excellent levels of guidance in preparing a performance recital, supported by a wide range of musical expertise across genres such as Jazz, Classical, and Musical Theatre. Our musicians benefit from access to up-todate music technology, and a resident accompanist on staff.
Entry Requirements
GCSE Music Grade 6-9 and Grade 6 Diploma completed on an instrument or voice.
Insight into Topics
• Instrumental music of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven
• Popular song – blues, swing and big band
• Development in Jazz
• Religious music of the Baroque period
• Programme music 1820-1910
Methods of Assessment
• Unit 1: Performing (35%)
• Unit 2: Composing (25%)
• Unit 3: Historical Study (40%)
Advanced Musicianship Course
A Level Music pupils receive additional weekly enrichment tuition in music technology, orchestral arrangement, Oxbridge Music & Conservatoire preparation, Improvisation, Keyboard Skills and conducting.
Find out more about the course at kes.school
• Innovations in music, 1900-present day Head of Department: Ms T Hayden tjhayden@kes.school
Physical Education
Course Overview
Studying Physical Education at A Level will give you a fantastic insight into the amazing world of sports performance. Not only will you have the chance to perform or coach a sport through the non-examined assessment component, you will also develop a wide range of knowledge into the how and why of physical activity and sport.
The combination of physical performance and academic challenge provides an exciting opportunity for students. You will be able to apply the vast array of theoretical topics within the subject to your own sporting experiences, and in turn learn how to develop and improve performance. Physical Education is studied through a range of different contexts and the impact it has on both ours and others’ everyday lives. You will
learn the physiological way our body works in sport, the Psychological reasons that some people outperform others, and will delve into the ethical considerations behind the use of drugs and the influence that modern technology is having in and on physical activity and sport. Alongside this you will develop a programme based on improving your own performance in sport.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Physical Education if studied at GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• Applied Anatomy and Physiology
• Skill Acquisition
• Sport and Society
• Exercise Physiology
• Biomechanical movement
• Sport Psychology
• Sport and Society and the role of Technology in sport.
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: Factors affecting participating in physical activity and sport
• Paper 2: Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport
• Coursework: Practical performance in physical activity and sport
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Mr A J Leathem ajleathem@kes.school
Physics
Course Overview
Students follow the OCR B A Level Physics course endorsed by the Institute of Physics. Many students go on to study higher education to study Engineering and Physics amongst a wide range of other disciplines. Taught simultaneously by a pair of Physics teachers, students experience two strands of the course at once.
Fundamental aspects of Physics that underpin later study are covered in the Lower Sixth with many areas that overlap significantly with IGCSE Physics. This enables the students to make an easier transition to A Level Physics.
Entry Requirements
Grade 7 in Physics GCSE, or 7/7 in dual award Science.
Insight into Topics
• Dynamics and Mechanics along with Imaging and Signalling
• Sensing and Materials along with Wave and Quantum Behaviour
• Research Project
• Modelling of radioactivity and capacitance
• Cosmology and Special Relativity
• The Ideal Gas Laws and Gravity
• Circular and Periodic motion
• Electromagnetism
• Electric and Magnetic Fields
• Atomic and Particle Physics along with Uses of the Atom
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: Fundamentals of Physics (41%)
• Paper 2: Scientific Literacy in Physics (37%)
• Paper 3: Practical Skills in Physics (22%)
Practical Endorsement in Physics (nonexam assessment) reported separately.
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Mr RS Simm rssimm@kes.school
Politics
Course Overview
The A Level course studies the implications and practice of different political systems, as well as in-depth studies of different political ideologies. Politics deals with such ideas as power, authority, rights, liberty, and justice and examines contemporary politics as it occurs.
Through your study of contemporary politics, you will develop a strong understanding of the factors shaping both the British and American systems. You will also gain insight into some of the great political ideas which have shaped the world we live in. This subject helps in the development of discussion and debating skills and encourages you to think beyond the constraints of a textbook.
The study of Politics will certainly provide many opportunities for you to become a more knowledgeable and critical thinker.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in a Humanities subject at GCSE.
Insight into Topics
UK government and politics
• Democracy and participation
• Political parties
• Electoral systems
• Voting behaviour and the media
• The Constitution
• Parliament
US government and politics
• US Constitution and federalism
• US Congress
• US Presidency
• US Supreme Court and civil rights
• US democracy and participation
Political ideas
• Anarchism
• Conservatism
• Liberalism
• Socialism
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: UK Politics and Core Political Ideas
• Paper 2: UK Government and Non-core Political Ideas
• Paper 3: Government and Politics of the USA
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Subject Co-ordinator: Mrs RK Potter rkpotter@kes.school
Psychology
Course Overview
Psychology is one of the most popular A Level and degree course in the UK, demonstrating that although Psychology is a new subject for many at A Level it often becomes a passion that develops into a lifelong career. Students are encouraged to become independent thinkers who can critically analyse. The answer to the question ‘Why am I the way I am?’ is multifaceted, and therefore the study of Psychology is also very broad. It includes studying the relative influences of genes, upbringing and the environment on behaviour. Key historical events that changed the world are explored and students analyse how these can be explained from a psychological perspective. The causes and treatments of mental illnesses including Depression, Anxiety, Phobias, OCD and Schizophrenia are also investigated. All students have the opportunity to carry out and analyse their own research throughout the course,
for example in the Lower Sixth students visit Marwell Zoo to observe animal behaviour. Other course events include a mock trial at the Royal Courts of Justice and an interactive ‘Brain Day’ for which an acclaimed neuroscientist helps students to understand the influence of the brain on behaviour.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Biology GCSE, or 6/6 in dual award Science.
Insight into Topics
• Psychopathology- OCD, phobias, depression
• Memory- including eyewitness testimony
• Schizophrenia- diagnosis, causes and treatments
• Forensic Psychology- including how to catch a criminal!
• Social Influence- including why we obey extreme orders
Methods of Assessment
• Three two-hour exam papers
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Miss EC Ewan ecewan@kes.school
Choosing where to study for your A Levels at 16 is a big decision, and I genuinely believe staying at KES was the right one for me. Having already been here for five years, settling into Sixth Form felt natural, and my friends and I made a real effort to welcome new students into the community.
I’ve really benefited from the small class sizes, the wide range of co-curricular activities, and the many opportunities available, I’ve tried to get involved in as much as I can. Becoming captain of the football first team and a house captain has been a highlight of my year. I’ve enjoyed representing the school in matches on Wednesday afternoons and leading students from different year groups during house events.
One of the biggest changes I noticed moving into Sixth Form was how the relationship with teachers becomes more relaxed and supportive. There’s a lot more trust placed in you too—like having free periods to manage your own time, which has helped me become more independent.
My Highlights during Sixth Form:
• Football matches
• Christmas house song competition
• Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association events
My plans after KES:
Marketing and management with a year abroad at Exeter, I want to create sports adverts for the biggest companies.
My message to students looking to join the Sixth Form:
KES offers a much more structured environment than any other college, as well as all of the co-curricular activities like charities and leadership positions, you won’t be able to find these at any other college. The benefits from the concentrated learning environment and other activities will help you become the best version of yourself before university.
I joined KES in Year 7.
A Levels Studied at KES: Geography, Business, Psychology
Clubs & Societies: Football team, House events, Gym, PDSA and charity fundraisers
Religious Studies
Course Overview
Philosophy, Ethics and Religion come under the auspices of Religious Studies. The aim of the subject is to provide students with sound knowledge of key thinking in three key areas which help humans explore questions of meaning.
Studying this subject is not simply about learning a body of knowledge, it is also about learning an invaluable skill – how to recognise, evaluate and construct arguments, whether on the page or in classroom debate. The department aims to promote honest and robust discussion and to provide students with a stimulating, enjoyable and academically rigorous study of philosophy, ethics and developments in religious thought.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Religious Studies if studied at GCSE.
Insight into Topics
• Philosophy of Religion: students study philosophical language and thought, and issues and questions raised by belief.
• Religion and Ethics: students explore key concepts and the works of influential thinkers, ethical theories and their application.
• Developments in Religious Thought: students study Christianity systematically, exploring various topics.
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: Philosophy of Religion (33.3%)
• Paper 2: Religion and Ethics (33.3%)
• Paper 3: Developments in Religious Thought (33.3%)
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Mr AE Cross aecross@kes.school
Spanish
Course Overview
Spanish at A Level is the gateway to communicating with over 400 million speakers worldwide and a key to a fun and truly diverse culture. The Lower Sixth course builds on the foundations laid at IGCSE and although there are some familiar topics form the basis of the language course a lot of new vocabulary is added. As the course progresses, more advanced structures are introduced and by the end of the first term you should find yourself beginning to cope successfully with understanding and communicating in genuinely advanced Spanish.
Spanish at A Level is not simply a language course, it delves into a wide variety of topics, ranging from history, geography, economics, current affairs, popular culture to film and literature, so there really is something for everyone. By the end of the course, our best students achieve near-fluency in a wide variety of topics and situations.
Entry Requirements
Grade 7 in Spanish GCSE.
Insight into Topics
Lower Sixth
• Aspects of Hispanic society: current trends: Traditional and modern values, cyberspace, gender equality.
• Artistic culture in the Hispanic world: Role models, Spanish regional identity, cultural heritage.
• Film - El Laberinto del Fauno
Upper Sixth
• Multiculturalism in Hispanic society: immigration, racism, integration.
• Aspects of political life in the Hispanic world: young people’s issues, monarchies and dictatorships, popular movements.
• Literature - La Casa de Bernarda Alba
Methods of Assessment
• Paper 1: Listening, Reading & Writing
• Paper 2: Writing
• Paper 3: Speaking
Find out more about the course at kes.school
Head of Department: Mrs EM Ladislao emladislao@kes.school
Your Year Ahead
JULY 2025
External Applications Open
Please complete our online enquiry form to receive your application pack if you are an external applicant wishing to join our Sixth Form in September 2026.
Students who are current students of our Senior School do not need to apply.
THURSDAY
KES Sixth Form Open Evening
This event is for students currently in Year 10 and their parents/guardians. This event will provide a strong insight into the exciting subjects offered in the Sixth Form, and will help students seriously consider their next steps.
External Applicant Open Afternoon
These are informal, low-key events for current Year 11 students and their parents which takes place during a normal Sixth Form day, giving you the opportunity to see King Edward’s on a typical afternoon.
WEDNESDAY 11 FEBRUARY 2026
Closing Date for External Applications
Please complete your application to join us in September 2026 by this date.
Sixth Form Interviews for External Applicants
Senior members of staff and subject specialists will interview prospective candidates.
Admissions & How to Apply Your journey to joining the Sixth Form
We are excited to welcome you to our Sixth Form in September 2026, the below should act as a guide for your next steps before joining us.
Entry Requirements
For external applicants we would like students to achieve at least six GCSEs at grade B/6 or higher. We also expect all students to have achieved a minimum of C/4 grade in both English Language and Mathematics.
Additionally, we expect students to have achieved a B/6 or higher at GCSE in the
relevant subject or its near equivalent unless there are mitigating factors. An A/7 is preferable, however, and in a number of subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Languages it is the expectation that a student achieves at least an A/7 grade at GCSE. This is to ensure that the student’s knowledge and skills are at a suitable level to allow access to the subject in the Sixth Form and to offer the realistic prospect of a successful outcome at A Levels.
New Subjects
If there is a subject that you would like to study at A Level but haven’t studied previously, you should have done well at GCSE level in an equivalent subject.
The Lower Sixth to Upper Sixth Transition
The continuation of a subject into the Upper Sixth is dependent on achieving a pass grade in the Lower Sixth examinations. Students must study a minimum of three courses to full A Level.
If you have any questions about the curriculum at Sixth Form, please email Dr Waymark bmwaymark@kes.school or call 023 8070 4561.
External Applicants: Looking to join King Edward VI Sixth Form?
We are excited that you are looking to join our Sixth Form in September 2026.
The first step in your journey to joining us is to email our Registrar, Mrs Sheppard (admissions@kes. school) to request an application pack. The deadline for all applications is Wednesday 11 February 2026. Once applications are reviewed, applicants will then be invited for an interview with a senior member of staff and subject specialists here at our Sixth Form.
As a result of these interviews, and on the basis of a student’s potential GCSE results, either conditional or unconditional offers of a Sixth Form place may be made via email. The closing date for acceptances is Wednesday 25 March 2026.
Any questions? If you have any questions about the application process, please contact our Registrar, Mrs Sheppard, who will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
We look forward to welcoming you to our Sixth Form soon!
Are you already a student in our Senior School?
On successful completion of your GCSE courses and having met the entry requirements, you will have automatic entry to the Sixth Form. If you have any subject specific queries in the meantime, please email Dr Waymark (bmwaymark@ kes.school) or call 023 8070 4561.
Advice on choosing your subjects
We encourage students to talk to their subject teachers before choosing your A Level subjects. Your tutor will be able to give you advice on your intended combination of subjects too.
Fees
Sixth Form Fees
The fee for 2025/2026 is £24,030 per annum all-inclusive with a 5% reduction for siblings who are not receiving any bursary awards. For the convenience of parents, this annual fee is divided into three termly payments of £8,010. All sports, sport fixtures, societies and clubs are included within the fee. The only exception is Sailing Club, which requires a £60 yearly membership fee, Paddle Boarding, which is pay as you go and curriculum trips, which are subsidised. Optional extras include: lunches, school bus, insurance, instrumental tuition, residential trips and tours.
Lunches
From Autumn 2025 the cost of lunch is £6.50 per day. For that price, students have a choice of salads, soups, sandwiches, hot dinners, vegetables and desserts. Sixth form students are able to have their lunch in the Concourse.
Financial Assistance
for External Applicants
Bursaries
Our School was founded on the principle of creating educational opportunities in Southampton. This founding ethos remains as important to us as ever. We are proud to offer a number of Bursary Awards every year and we currently have 57 Bursary Award holders at King Edward’s, including 15 in the Sixth Form.
A Bursary Award either completely or partially covers a pupil’s school fees. They are awarded to pupils who perform strongly academically and would not otherwise be able to access a King Edward’s education. If you have the motivation to succeed, a Bursary Award at KES can provide the financial support to help you to fulfil your ambitions.
Thanks to a generous gift from the Frank Misselbrook Foundation, 100% Bursary Award holders are eligible to receive support with extra costs. This includes:
• School lunches
• Travel on school buses, when living more than two miles from the School
• Device for learning
• An allowance to spend on school trips at any time whilst at King Edwards
Awarding Criteria
In the 2026-27 academic year, subject to your capital assets, if your gross family income is below £46,000 you may qualify for a full Bursary Award, covering 100% of fees. Between £46,000 and £92,000, a sliding scale operates for partial Bursary
Awards. This scale is subject to annual review. We aim to assist as many families with bursaries as possible. However, there is always significant demand and we are not always able to offer support to all of those who are eligible.
To apply for a Bursary Award, please contact our Admissions Team, who will send the application form to you. Families will need to pay a reduced non-refundable application fee of £36 alongside application. In assessing eligibility of the Bursary Award, we partner with Bursary Administration Limited. They will request information on all relevant sources of income and capital assets and pass this to the School. Once awarded, the entitlement to a Bursary Award will remain with a pupil throughout his or her time at the School, subject to financial circumstances being reviewed annually and appropriate behaviour and engagement.
EPA Sixth Form Bursary Awards
Thanks to the generous support of the EPA Cephalosporin Fund, we are pleased to offer the EPA Sixth Form Bursary Award. This additional science bursary is in memory of Sir Edward Penley Abraham (EPA), who studied at King Edward’s from 1924-32 and went on to become a noted biochemist. Sir Edward was instrumental in the development of the first antibiotics penicillin and cephalosporin. The EPA Cephalosporin Fund, a charitable trust Sir Edward established before his death, wish to support promising young
scientists in Southampton who would like to study at KES, but may not have the financial means to do so. If you have a passion for science, please consider applying for this bursary in addition to our normal bursaries. This will give you a greater chance of securing financial support. The awarding criteria are as follows:
• The EPA Sixth Form Bursary Award covers 100% of school fees, so you will need to have a household income below £46,000 to apply.
• You need to be joining from a state school.
• You must be choosing to study Biology or Chemistry at A Level.
• The selected pupil will have high predicted GCSE results in Biology and Chemistry and perform well in subject interviews.
The Frank Misselbrook Sixth Form Bursary Award
The Frank Misselbrook Sixth Form Bursary in Business and Economics
Thanks to the generous support of the Frank Misselbrook Foundation, we are pleased to offer this additional bursary for pupils passionate about Business or Economics. The awarding criteria are as follows:
• Applicants must be joining KES for sixth form from a state school.
• You must require 100% financial support to come to KES, so your household income will be below £46,000.
• Applicants must be planning to study Business or Economics at A level.
• You must have a strong overall grade profile.
• You will perform well in an interview with the Head of Department for Business or Economics, displaying a genuine passion for the subject and ideally a desire to study Business or
Economics at University. Please note that whilst we advertise this bursary every year, it is only awarded when an outstanding candidate is available.
Sports Scholarships
Scholarships of up to £700* are available for exceptional sports performers entering the Sixth Form. These awards recognise students who have competed at regional level or higher in their chosen sport(s) and showcase outstanding dedication and talent. Candidates will be invited for an interview, and members of the Sports Faculty may also attend a fixture or training session to observe their performance. Successful applicants will join the prestigious Elite Sports Performer programme, where they will be expected to demonstrate unwavering commitment to school sport and inspire others as role models within the student body.
Music Scholarships
Sixth Form Music Scholars represent our most talented and accomplished performers, showcasing exceptional skill and dedication to their craft. These scholarships, worth up to £1,000*, provide a wealth of opportunities designed to support young musicians as they prepare for careers in performance or further study at university. Awarded through audition, these scholarships are open to students taking A Level Music, with the value of each award tailored to individual circumstances. Applicants should be performing at grade 8 standard on one or more instruments and will be invited to audition. During the audition, candidates will perform a piece on their primary instrument and take part in an interview to discuss their musical journey and aspirations.
*The award is granted as a one-off sum, distributed across the two years of Sixth Form study.
My first exposure to KES was with the partnership programme that was running with my primary school. I came along with my class and took part in Science, Art and Philosophy sessions and my Head Teacher subsequently encouraged me to apply for a place.
The day I found out that I had passed the entrance exam and had been offered a full bursary place was a happy and emotional one for me and my family. We held a big party to celebrate and I was even prouder when I first started in Year 7 when the Head, Mr Thould, came up to me and told me, “Your paper is one of the best that I’ve read”.
In my final year at KES, I studied four A Levels in Maths, Further Maths, Computing and Physics. I was delighted to achieve four A*s and am now studying Mathematics with Mathematical Computation at Imperial College London. For now, I am uncertain about the specific direction I want to take with my
career. I am currently exploring creative paths outside of pure STEM, an area that I really enjoyed in school, with hopes to incorporate these somehow into my career. I envisage myself somewhere in the likes of academia, AI, or entrepreneurship: all I can say is, watch this space!
Alongside working hard on my academics, I was heavily immersed in cocurriculars at KES, attending somewhere in the region of 30 different clubs over the seven years. I found these to be a really valuable opportunity to delve into my interests outside of the curriculum, and to see practical applications of my classwork. Greenpower was a highlight for me, and we built and designed a kit car that we raced at Goodwood. I was also an active member of Lunar Society, delivering several mathsthemed lectures, and I served as Head of Sustainability in my Upper Sixth year.
KES was instrumental in helping me get to where I am today. Being surrounded by so many like-minded people within my peer group under the guidance and nurture of my teachers was my favourite part of KES. It provided me with the
perfect forum to explore my passions and develop my intellectual curiosity. This spark is something that has somewhat contagiously caught on in my sisters and other family members too, with the effects of me going to a school like KES echoing well beyond my own individual growth.
I would encourage anyone thinking of applying for a bursary to attend KES to ‘Go for it’. Although it might all seem a little daunting, joining a brand new school, and leaving behind a lot of your friends, there were so many benefits to coming to KES, some that I’m only realising now, and I can’t imagine myself having been anywhere else.
I am truly grateful to all those who have supported the King Edward VI Foundation, and I want you to know that your generosity has reached far beyond a simple scholarship. A KES Bursary truly transforms lives: it fuels success stories, cultivates a community where diverse perspectives converge, and empowers all individuals to thrive. I look forward to being able to give back in whatever way I can to the school that has helped me so much.
(KES 17-24)
Financial Assistance for current KES students
If you are a current student at King Edward’s these are the financial assistance options available to you.
Academic Scholarships
Academic scholarships are awarded to a limited number of internal pupils moving into the Sixth Form. These are awarded to pupils of the highest academic merit and carry an annual value of 2.5% of the fee along with access to our scholars’ enrichment programme.. There is no need to apply for an academic scholarship as all Year 11 pupils are automatically eligible for consideration.
Sixth Form Awards
A number of Sixth Form Awards providing fee remission into Sixth Form are available on entry for internal candidates. To qualify, a student should
be assessed by the school as likely to qualify for entry to the Sixth Form on academic grounds. The family income need not come within the requirements for a formal bursary but we will need to establish with parents that financial assistance is justifiable. A Sixth Form Award could be awarded in addition to a Scholarship or Bursary funding. Please contact the Bursar (bursar@kes.school) for an application form.
Sports Scholarships
Scholarships for talented sports performers at entry into the Sixth Form carry an annual value of 2.5% of the fee. Candidates will have competed at regional level or higher in their chosen sport(s) and will be invited for interview. Members of the Sports Faculty may also ask to observe a fixture or training session. Successful candidates will be invited into the Elite Sports Performer programme and will be expected to demonstrate a high level of commitment to school sport as well as being a role model to other students.
Music, Drama and Art Scholarships
Sixth Form Music, Drama and Art Scholars reflect our most able and highest achieving performers. Scholars gain a wealth of benefits as we prepare them for performance careers and university study. Scholarships of 2.5% will be awarded to successful candidates. Auditions will take place in March 2026. For Music Scholarships, applicants will be invited and should be performing at grade 8 standard on one or more instruments. The candidates would be required to perform a piece on their first instrument, alongside some oral tests and sight-reading.
Bursaries
If you currently receive a bursary then that will continue in to the Sixth Form.
Parent & Student FAQs
What GCSE grades do I need?
We expect students to have achieved a B/6 or higher at GCSE in the relevant subject or its near equivalent unless there are mitigating factors. An A/7 is preferable, however, and in a number of subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Languages it is the expectation that a student achieves at least an A/7 grade at GCSE. Please see page 76 for more information.
What is the application and interview process?
If you are an external applicant, the first step in your journey to joining us is to email our admissions team on admissions@kes.school to request an application pack. The deadline for all applications is Wednesday 11 February 2026. Once applications are reviewed, applicants will then be invited for an interview with a senior member of staff and subject specialists here at our Sixth Form. Please see page 76 for more information.
If I’m already a King Edward’s student, do I need to apply?
If you are already a student in our senior school, we will assume you will continue your journey into Sixth Form.
On successful completion of your GCSE courses and having met the entry requirements, you will have automatic entry to the King Edward’s Sixth Form. Please page 77 for more information.
How many A Levels can I study?
All students study a full-time course of three A Levels. Those wishing to study Further Mathematics will take four A Levels (including Mathematics), and many students will choose additionally to complete the EPQ (Extended Project Qualification). Please see page 34 for more information.
What is the EPQ (Extended Project Qualification)?
In addition to the core A level subjects, students are encouraged to undertake the Extended Project Qualification. The EPQ offers an opportunity to explore in depth an area of academic interest resulting in a qualification equivalent to half an A Level, graded up to A*. Depending on the grade achieved, the EPQ is worth up to 28 UCAS points. The EPQ usually takes the form of a dissertation, but it is also possible to base it around a performance, work of art, experiment or field study. Please see page 52 for more information.
What is the dress code in the Sixth Form?
Sixth Form students are not expected to wear School uniform, but their dress and appearance should be in a style that would be appropriate for a formal business environment, as well as in keeping with a school environment.
Can I leave the school premises during the day?
We encourage students to take full advantage of directed study and free periods. Students are free to leave the school site when they do not have a timetabled lesson. To facilitate safety, students are requested to use their ID cards when exiting the gate.
How many King Edward’s Sixth Form students go on to university and what do they study?
In 2024, 144 applications were made to university by KES Sixth Form students. Of these, 131 were made by current Upper Sixth students and 13 by Old Edwardians (KES Alumni). Our students continue to study a range of subjects at university. Please see page 30 for more information.
How many King Edward’s Sixth Form students go to Oxbridge?
In 2024, 6 students were accepted into Oxbridge.
What support is available regarding Higher Education and careers advice?
As a Sixth Form student you'll have an experienced team dedicated to supporting you during your time with us. Please see page 32 for more details.
Will I receive help with applying for work experience?
A flexible work experience programme is available to all students, providing an insight into an array of possible careers. Please see page 32 for further information.
What co-curricular activities are available?
There is something to suit everyone in the clubs and societies offering at King Edward’s. Sixth Formers, particularly, take a leading role in running our engaging offering. Please see page 24 for more information.
What trips and expeditions are available?
In previous years, Sixth Form trips have included Indonesia, Tanzania, Paris, Mexico, Honduras, Madagascar and the Galapagos as well as destinations closer to home, such as London and Brighton! Please see page 26 for more detail.
What pastoral support is available?
King Edward’s is committed to providing pastoral care of the highest quality to all of its students. Please see page 8.
What does a typical school day look like?
The majority of your timetable will be scheduled classes for your chosen subjects, but you’ll also have set periods for Games, Open Forum and Foundation Studies. The rest of your time is for private or supervised study. The management of these study periods is down to you and will help you to succeed in your subjects. Remember, the timetable doesn’t account for the work you should be doing outside of the classroom. Please see page 16 for a typical day in the life of a Sixth Former.
What financial assistance is available?
Please refer to page 78 for information on the financial assistance available to both external and internal applicants.
How many external students usually join King Edward’s in the Lower Sixth?
Typically, around 20 students join the Lower Sixth.
How easy is it to make friends?
The Sixth Form at King Edward’s is warm and welcoming, meaning making friends is very easy, especially as the Concourse is a sociable place just for Sixth Form students!
Will I have a buddy when I join?
On joining the Sixth Form you will be assigned a Sixth Form buddy to help you find your way around, meet other Sixth Formers, and find your feet.
If I have access arrangements for my GCSEs, will I have these at King Edward’s too?
We have an experienced curriculum support (SEN) department. Please see page 8 for more information or contact Mrs Fort, Head of Curriculum Support (lefort@kes.school).
King Edward VI Sixth Form