EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT LIFE IN THE SIXTH FORM
“The Old Palace, a 15th-century Tudor building once home to the bishops of Ely and now the most impressive sixth-form centre we have ever seen. An incredible space with classrooms, refectory, common rooms, gym and accommodation. Leavers regularly head off to some 50 different UK destinations, including Russell Group universities, Oxbridge, conservatoires, filmmaking schools, and art and design colleges.”
TALK EDUCATION, 2024
A welcome from the Sixth Form Team
King’s Ely Sixth Form is a place where everyone can feel at home
Underpinning all that we do is our belief that only when you feel known, supported and appreciated as an individual will you be able to achieve your best. We are a close-knit community with the Sixth Form team working alongside you, our students, providing a reassuring yet unobtrusive support network as we equip each of you to take greater responsibility for the decisions you make and the way you spend your time.
Our countless day-to-day interactions ensure that everyone is seen and heard whilst our small class sizes mean that teachers know precisely the right balance of support and challenge each student needs to ensure that you learn effectively and progress to fulfil your potential. Housed in the beautiful and inspiring surroundings of the Old Palace, we have plenty of space for studying, relaxing and socialising in a warm and friendly environment whilst remaining fully part of the wider school.
We embody a diverse range of backgrounds, passions and ambitions, grounded in the belief that we are all enriched by the achievements of those around us. King’s Ely sixth formers leave us at the end of two years as outward looking young people with a strong sense of self-worth. They have the confidence to know how they can effect positive change in the small ways as well as the great.
Mrs Bennell Head of Sixth Form
A word from some of our students
Sofia, Class of 2024
Sofia achieved a place at the University of York this autumn to study Biomedical Sciences. She studied Biology, Chemistry, and Psychology at A-Level.
Sofia said: “The offering for international students at King’s is very well developed and welcoming. From the small classes which allow you to really participate and ask questions, to the events that the school organises throughout the year to enable you to learn about other cultures and share things about yours! I will miss the gorgeous Old Palace Gardens, where I spent my afternoons during the Summer Term.”
Fares, Class of 2024
Fares is studying Computing (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning) at Imperial College London. He studied Maths, Further Maths, Physics, and Computer Science at A-Level.
Fares describes the support that he received at King’s as “superb in all aspects”. He said: “Teachers would happily engage in deep discussions on topics within the subject, even if they were far beyond the curriculum, which really helped my understanding of the subjects, and the career I potentially want to pursue. Support during University applications and writing my personal statement was also exceptional.”
Lily, Class of 2024
Lily achieved a place at Gonville & Caius College, Cambridge this autumn to study Anglo-Saxon, Norse, and Celtic. She studied Biology, Chemistry, and History at A-Level.
Lily’s parents said: Although it has meant sacrifices to fund this type of education, the environment of supportive learning for such a wide range of topics has really suited our daughter. From the school dinner servers to her cello teacher and musical director, from those arranging mock university interviews to individuals looking after her in the medical centre when neededthank you to everyone who has played a part in Lily’s amazing time at King’s.”
David, Class of 2024
David is studying Medicine at the University of Sheffield. He joined King’s Ely Sixth Form when his family relocated to Cambridgeshire from South Africa. He studied Maths, Biology, and Physics at A-Level.
Despite being at King’s for a short while compared to some of his peers, David certainly got stuck into school life. He was a Prefect, he captained the 1st XI Boys’ Hockey Team, he played for the 1st XI Rugby Team, he joined our Avicenna Society for budding medics and vets, and he is in the process of completing his Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
David said: “King’s is a caring school community in which support is always available. Everyone goes above and beyond to help you, both academically and pastorally. I am going to miss my friends, and study periods in which group work was done and discussions happened with my peers.”
Ellie, Class of 2024
Ellie achieved a place at Central Saint Martins, University of the Arts London this autumn to study Architecture. She studied Fine Art, Maths, and French at A-Level.
Ellie boarded in Hill House, which she says “enabled her to create close friendships and memories that she will keep forever”.
When asked what she thinks makes King’s unique compared to other schools, Ellie said: “The support within the creative fields. I have felt very valued at King’s, especially so by the whole Art Department. My Art Teacher encouraged me to always push my creative skills to their full potential.”
Thomas, Class of 2024
Thomas is studying Horology at Birmingham City University. He studied Politics, Product Design, and Photography at A-Level.
When asked what he plans to do career wise, Thomas said: “After University, I hope to fix/make watches for a respected watch brand. When my grandfather passed away, he left me his Rolex watch. I was fascinated by how it worked, and this is what sparked my interest in Horology. It is a very niche degree, but all my teachers were so supportive, encouraging me to pursue what really interests me.”
Figurativ ely King’s
Exam Statistics 2024 23% A*& A
A Levels of the 95 students in the Year 13 cohort
22 pupils have achieved all A* and A grades in their subjects 45% A*-B
43 students have secured all A*-B grades
Higher Education Statistics 2024
48
UK destinations
64 different courses including Engineering, STEM, Medicine, AI, Philosophy, Maths, History, Economics, International Relations and Horology.
Top
UK universities
4 students taking up places at Oxford or Cambridge including a prestigious organ scholarship
of our students at their first choice Higher Education Institute
International destinations including the University of Auckland in New Zealand
Why King’s Ely Sixth Form?
Be part of a community
Join a vibrant team of over 200 familiar and new faces
Benefit from being in a truly multi-cultural environment, sharing cultures, beliefs and backgrounds
Be based in the very special environment of The Old Palace, enjoying access to the exclusive Refectory, Fitness Suite, Common and Study Rooms
Enjoy the support of trusted experts in the choice of Higher Education destinations and in the completion of your UCAS application
Grow into your best self
Nurture your leadership potential with our Leadership Diploma; clarify what matters to you, learn how to motivate yourself and develop a growth mindset, focusing less on comparing yourself with others
Hone your awareness of the skills that really matter through our Year 12 Extended Learning programme (preparing for the world of work, public speaking, understanding Artificial Intelligence, study and revision skills)
Step up and lead a club, activity or charity venture for the wider community
Throw yourself into all areas of school life (house, sport, music, drama)
Go beyond the curriculum by attending academic clubs, societies and lectures from experts in their fields
Stand out from the crowd with an EPQ in a topic you really love
Get the best insight into what is out there through the extensive Careers and Higher Education Programme. The Mentor Match initiative could connect you to someone in industry who is doing the job that you really want
Broaden your Horizons as an Ely Scheme Instructor
Challenge yourself and give something back through the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme
Let your hair down at our Sixth Form Socials
Welcome BBQ
Ceilidh
Christmas Charity Ball
Chinese New Year Disco through the decades ‘Frolic’ on the Lawns Summer Ball
Year 12 Scholarships
A limited number of scholarships are available in Academic, Art, Sport, Drama & Dance, Music and STEM. Full details available at www.kingsely.org/sixth-form-scholarships
Any scholarships awarded prior to Year 12 remain with the student through the Sixth Form provided that the conditions of the award continue to be met. The deadline for applications is Friday 25th October. Assessments dates as follows:
Sports
STEM
Music
Art, Dance and Drama
Saturday 9th November
Saturday 16th November
Monday 18th November
Tuesday 19th November
Academic Saturday 23rd November
What you need to secure your place
To join our Sixth Form you will need a minimum of six subjects at Grade 5 or above, with four of these being at least a Grade 6. In order to continue a subject in the Sixth Form, students will need a minimum of a Grade 6 (or Grade 6 in facilitating subjects for subjects they have not previously studied).
A full list of GCSE requirements for onward A level study appears on the following pages of this leaflet.
“In terms of academics I have really enjoyed Avicenna, the medicine and vet club, as it has greatly helped me in finding opportunities and discovering more about medicine. I also love my teachers as I feel that I can ask them questions at any time and if I ever need extra support they always arrange a time. Outside of academics I love competing in house events from singing in house song and ensemble to debating in interhouse competitions.”
GCSE requirements for A level study
Subject
Biology
Prerequisite
Minimum GCSE grade 6 for Double Award Science/Biology. As 10% of the course has mathematical content, grade 7 at GCSE Maths is needed to study this subject.
Business Studies (Extended Certificate)
Business Studies (A Level)
Chemistry
Classical Civilisation
Grade 5 in English and Maths
Classical Greek
Computer Science
Core Maths
Drama and Theatre Studies
Economics
English Literature
Film Studies
Fine Art
French
Further Mathematics
Geography
It is important to note that Business Studies requires a combination of Maths and English skills and significant weakness in either of these subjects will make it difficult for the student to succeed at A Level. A minimum grade 6 in both Maths and English is required or a grade 6 in GCSE Business Studies.
Minimum GCSE grade 7 for Double Award Science/Chemistry. As 20% of the course has mathematical content, grade 7 or equivalent at GCSE Maths.
Evidence of an enjoyment of reading; an ability to write essays. You do not need to have studied Classical Civilisation at GCSE; the A Level course is different and stands alone. No knowledge of Latin or Greek is required as the texts are studied in English. Classical Civilisation complements and illumines a wide variety of other subjects.
A minimum grade 6 in Greek at GCSE.
Minimum requite grade 7 in GCSE Maths.
Ideally GCSE Maths grade 4 or equivalent.
It is not necessary to have taken GCSE Drama, but a passion for theatre and some experience in performance/design would be an advantage.
Minimum grade 6 in GCSE English and GCSE Mathematics.
It is expected that students taking A Level English Literature have a minimum grade 6 or equivalent in both GCSE English and GCSE English Literature.
Minimum grade 6 in GCSE Art and Design.
Minimum grade 6 in GCSE French.
Minimum GCSE Maths grade 8 or equivalent.
Minimum grade 6 in Geography or a related subject at GCSE.
German Minimum grade 6 in GCSE German.
Subject
Prerequisite
History Although students do not need to have studied History at GCSE level, it would be expected that potential candidates would have a minimum grade 6 in Humanities related subjects e.g. Geography, RS, History.
IELTS
Students who join the school who have been living outside the UK and not an EEA or Swiss national are strongly recommended to take an English language test.
Latin A minimum of grade 6 in Latin at GCSE.
Mathematics
Music
Philosophy and Religious Studies
Photography
Physical Education
Minimum GCSE Maths grade 7 or equivalent.
GCSE Music, grade 5 Theory, and an instrument/voice to at least grade 6.
A minimum grade 6 in English at GCSE, as well as a love of ideas and an ability to write essays.
Minimum grade 6 in GCSE Art and Design.
Minimum grade 6/6 in Double Science or equivalent in Triple Science. A grade 6 in both the written and practical papers of GCSE PE taken. Students should be playing sport at first team level or equivalent.
Physics
Minimum GCSE grade 7 for Double Award Science/Physics. As 40% of the Physics course has mathematical content, grade 7 or equivalent at GCSE Maths. It is strongly recommended that students study A Level Maths alongside the Physics A Level course.
Politics Obviously, you will not enjoy the course unless you have a genuine interest in politics, current affairs and the world around you. Students are expected to have a minimum grade 6 from one or more of the following GCSE subjects: History, Geography, RS, English Language, English Literature or other humanities based subjects.
Product Design
Psychology
Spanish
Sport BTEC
Textile Design
Minimum grade 6 in GCSE 3D Design or Engineering, a minimum grade 6 in GCSE Maths as 40% of the course has mathematical content and a minimum grade 5 in GCSE English as 50% of the A Level are written answers and coursework is a major part of the course.
Minimum Grade 6 in at least two of the following subjects - English, Maths or Biology.
Minimum grade 6 in GCSE Spanish.
Minimum grade 6 in GCSE Art and Design.
What we love about the Sixth Form at King’s Ely
We think our Sixth Form is great. But we would say that wouldn’t we! So we asked our current Years 12 and 13 students to tell us what they loved about life in the Sixth Form at King’s Ely. Here’s some of what they said.
“One thing I love about King’s Ely Sixth form is the balance of freedom and responsibility that you have as well as the help that you receive to really flourish. I also really like the community and how the years manage to mix well and you can create new friendships. Lastly, I really enjoy the sixth form lessons because you are allowed to just get on with work that you know you have and you can learn to balance your time for work and free time.”
“The socials have been an amazing way to make friends with the other members of the sixth form, mix between the years and a brilliant informal setting to just relax and have a great time. The sport you are offered in the sixth form is fantastic, with ranges from the term time team sports, to personal strength and conditioning, stretching and mobility and so much more.”
“I joined Kings Ely this year, I really love the school as it really feels as if it has a sense of community with the Old Palace being our sixth form centre. I do History, Politics and Textiles with all my teachers being really engaging, making it a lot easier to learn. The textiles department is amazing with so many things to create. I also do netball and tennis which I really enjoy here at King’s as everyone is so supportive and the coaches are really helpful.”
“King’s Drama is the reason I came to Kings, and also the reason I have stayed and have loved it so much; at Sixth Form level we have been able to do so many exciting things like taking a show to the Fringe. Academic support is also excellent at Kings, and I also enjoy the boarding experience since I have made such good friends in my new 6th form house.”
“Six Form is the time to take on leadership roles and learn the importance of responsibility through doing so. There are lots of activities you can enjoy in Six Form and it is great fun taking part in both sport and music. Six Form boarding houses offer a lot of activities and various events, but the most impressive thing is the deep friendship that can be developed.”
“I really appreciate the freedom that comes with sixth form, it feels like a very progressive change from senior school which helps me feel more prepared for the future. I also especially appreciate the constant support from teachers in the sixth form, it’s so important and extremely helpful. I’m really enjoying the social aspects of sixth form; The school environment is so encouraging and allows me to feel confident in myself.”
“I love being able to just take a break from studying by going into town for coffee during your frees!
The socials are so much fun and really help to de-stress after a busy week! The smaller class sizes mean you can have a more personal relationship with your teachers. It’s great that everyone knows you!”
“I have loved the personalised feel I am given in lessons. With the small class sizes I feel my lessons are tailored to our individual needs and our teachers have more time to know us personally and work with us individually.”
“Life in Sixth Form at Kings is ideal. The Old Palace has a natural essence which makes study and school life relaxed but productive. The facilities, especially sporting, are perfect for breeding humble competitiveness and excellence.”
“King’s is made from a wide and diverse network of excellent students. It has extensive and superb co-curricular opportunities. The Sixth Form community is tightly-knit.”
“I particularly enjoy the diversity which means you make friends from lots of different schools and cultures.”
“I find the community is such a key aspect of the 6th Form, making it much more enjoyable.”
“The three things I love most about the Sixth Form are the increased freedom which feels like an amazing step up to adult-hood. The beauty of our space. The huge variety of co-curricular opportunities there are to get involved in.”
“There are many reasons why the Sixth Form here at King’s is great. Firstly, I think that the socials put on by the teachers, staff and kitchen team are amazing. The food is always tasty and the activities are fun to get involved with. I also enjoy the freedom of the Sixth Form, being able to go into town and relax, while also being able to study in the Long Gallery or silent study.”
“I enjoy studying a few subjects of your choice in a great amount of depth, as it makes me feel like I can focus on what I am truly passionate about. There is a rich social life and friendly atmosphere in the sixth form, as there are many social events and other opportunities for both year groups to mix. I enjoy the freedom and independence in the sixth form; for instance, you are able to go into town during free periods.”
“The wealth of opportunity at King’s means everyone here can thrive. This is not just academically but also through the extra-curricular activities. The diversity of work spaces, alongside those for when you are feeling more social, in The Old Palace is something for which I am hugely grateful. The fact that these spaces are also open to both Year 12 and 13 means you forget entirely about years groups, only emphasising the idea that it is just one united Sixth Form!!”
