Welcome to King Edward VII Academy. Founded in the sixteenth century, our school has been a beacon of academic excellence and tradition for over 500 years, where generations of students have embarked on a journey of discovery and achievement.
Nestled in the heart of King’s Lynn, our historic campus blends the charm of its Grade II listed building with state-of-the-art facilities, providing an inspiring environment for both academic and personal growth.
Our ethos is rooted in fostering an inclusive, nurturing, and academically challenging environment where every student is empowered to reach their full potential and become a responsible global citizen.
Supporting You Through Every Step
Making the transition from keys stage 4 to key stage 5 is a big step and in order to help you make this transition KES Academy sixth form provides a variety of support.
After your GCSEs have finished you will be able to attend our Sixth Form Transition Day. The day is designed to introduce you to the subjects you will be studying and the sixth form way of working. You will also be set summer transition tasks for each subject to ensure that you are as well prepared as possible for the start of your sixth form studies.
During the day you will get the chance to:
Meet the Sixth Form leadership team, sixth form teachers and current sixth form students
Tour the school and the sixth form facilities
Understand the curriculum programme and enrichment opportunities we offer Attend four taster lessons in subjects you are interested in taking at A-Level
Meet the KLTFC coaching staff involved in the football coaching programme
When you join in September you will follow a transition programme during form time for the first two weeks of term. This will ensure that you are supported as you make the transition to key stage 5 and make the best possible start to your sixth form journey. All new pupils will work closely with existing pupils within the academy during their transition period and into their first term.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
At KES Academy Sixth Form we are continually developing and improving our approach to emotional health, wellbeing and mental health. We aim to foster an ethos that promotes mutual respect, learning and successful relationships among young people and staff.
Your Pastoral Support Team work closely with; the Safeguarding Team, our SEND Department, Football Academy, medical professionals, teachers, family and yourself, to ensure that you have access to the best support and advice for your situation.
The Pastoral Support Team is made up of Mr White, Mrs Gedge, Mrs Spindler and the team of sixth form tutors and your subject teachers. As a team we are aware that wellbeing includes your physical health, and we work to ensure that you are mentally, physically and emotionally fit and healthy to learn and enjoy achieving.
Additional sources of support can be found through Mrs Buck who works closely with a variety of external agencies such as Thurlow House, The Benjamin Foundation and Norfolk LGBTQ+ Project.
The Sixth Form Office and Pastoral Team do not require you to make an appointment to see them. You can pop along to the office for a chat, and maybe a cup of tea, with Mrs Gedge. Although some members of the pastoral team teach, there is always someone to listen when you need to talk.
We pride ourselves on looking after the whole student and encourage healthy and safe relationships, support with medical concerns and helping you balance your additional responsibilities.
The main aim of the Sixth Form Pastoral Support Team is to guide you through your educational achievements and challenges and to build a community where everyone feels valued.
Sixth Form Life
The Sixth Form Day
The typical sixth form day runs from 8.30am to 4.00pm and includes six one-hour lessons, form time, lunch and a break.
Students will receive a timetable on enrolment. Students are expected to study independently for each subject, which will include completing work that is set, revising from your notes, or doing further reading. For each subject, you can expect to do up to five hours of independent study a week, although this will vary depending on the course.
At KES Sixth Form, there are several areas for quiet study or if your timetable for the day doesn’t include lesson time, you are welcome to leave site to revise at home.
Our cafeteria offers freshly made hot and cold opinions for lunches, including sandwiches, pasta and pizza. Alternatively, our school is within close proximity several supermarkets, and the town centre offering an extensive range of restaurants and cafes to meet with peers outside of class hours.
Non-Uniform
It is important to maintain high standards of personal appearance; the Sixth Form is a place of study and the smart casual dress code reflects that.
Students taking part in the Sport and Physical Activity course should wear either KESA or KLTFC branded tops and may wear appropriate tracksuit bottoms or shorts. Please visit our website for more information.
Extracurricular Activities and Enrichment
We are proud of the wide variety of opportunities on offer at our sixth form. We strive to develop students’ character by encouraging them to buy in to a culture where sixth formers take the lead in the lower school and wider community.
In taking the many extracurricular opportunities on offer, students not only make a positive contribution to their school, but leave us with excellent A-Level grades having developed the key transferable skills crucial to their future success. These opportunities include:
Reader Leaders
Paired reading with students from Years 7-9
Learning Leaders
Supporting the teaching of classes at Key Stage 3 and 4
Year 11 Mentoring
Supporting individual students in Year 11
Charitable organisations
The Interact Club meet regularly to organise fundraising events for a variety of charities
Prefects
A prestigious role, prefects are seen as role models to the younger years, are the face of and representatives of the Sixth Form, and are known for their role amongst students, staff and the community
Sports teams
Our extremely successful P.E. department run a wide range of sport teams
We also work in conjunction with a variety of external support providers including the University of Cambridge HE Plus, Norfolk Constabulary and Young Enterprise, to provide extensive, varied and bespoke enrichment activities.
Furthermore, our sixth form encourages students who are fluent in additional languages to sit A-Level examinations in order to gain credit for their skills.
Maths and English GCSE resits are available and mentored on a weekly basis. The science department support their students with additional maths for science sessions. The Year 12 and 13 students often work with the main school as Subject or Wellbeing Mentors, Reader Leaders and Sport Leaders. Furthermore, students are supported in completing further maths and the extended project qualification, on top of their main A-Level subjects.
Students coordinate their own social and charity events including the Year 13 Leavers Prom.
This extensive but not exhaustive list provide some examples of the additional activities available to all students to make their own unique contribution to the KES Academy and wider Kings Lynn communities.
Our Courses
The decision of which courses to take at sixth form, is a very important one, both when it comes to the courses themselves and your career aspirations.
You need to consider the subjects that are essential for some career destinations such as medicine, as well as consider those subjects you enjoy and know you will do well in.
Most students will study three courses, but it is possible to choose a fourth subject where this is appropriate for the student. Please visit our website for detailed subject information.
The following courses are available at King Edward VII Academy Sixth Form:
Art
You will enjoy developing your understanding of the visual world, learning practical skills and responding to ideas and issues in ways that are personal to you. Art is about looking, learning, thinking and communicating ideas in reference to contextual studies. It offers you the chance to use your creativity and express yourself in a personal way.
Biology
In this course, you will develop practical skills and knowledge of biological principles, and gain an understanding of how all life is connected. Independent research is required, and it is strongly advised to study alongside another science subject.
Business Studies
Some wish to set up a business to make money for themselves or their family or because they want to contribute something special to the life of their community. Others have no desire to set up a business but know that being successful in their chosen career will mean that they have to manage people, finance and marketing as well as make strategic decisions.
Successful entrepreneurs and managers have enthusiasm and commitment. If you have these traits, then this may be the course for you.
Chemistry
This course will cover six modules, each divided into key topics;
• Development of practical skills in chemistry
• Foundations in chemistry
• The periodic table and energy
• Core organic chemistry
• Physical chemistry and transition elements
• Organic chemistry and analysis.
Computer Science
If you enjoy problem solving and programming then you will certainly enjoy this course.
The focus of much of the work you will do is on computational thinking; tackling complex problems by breaking them down into smaller, more manageable parts in order to develop efficient solutions. There is also a significant amount of mathematical content in the course so if you enjoy mathematical problems then, again the course will suit you.
Computer science also allows you to demonstrate your creativity; the development of problem solving and programming skills will allow you to create and program solutions in a variety of ways.
Criminology
This qualification looks at the types of crime that take place within our society. How do we decide which behaviour is criminal? How do we explain why some people commit crime and how can we use different theories of criminality to explain this behaviour?
You will study real life cases in order to gain an understanding of the criminal justice system from the crime scene all the way to the courtroom and look at how social control is achieved within our society.
Economics
There are many reasons to study economics - from the huge range of skills you will gain, to the exciting types of employment you will be geared for. Economics teaches how to make well-informed decisions, and tries to make sense of the world around us. It is a Russell Group University facilitating subject and held in high regard.
We are always happy to talk through subject choices with you and offer further guidance and advice, so please do get in touch if you need help selecting courses.
English Language & Literature
This course is for anyone who loves stories. You will explore a variety of texts whilst discovering how language and literature has been used to challenge social, historical and political stances.
Geography
Our geography course is inherently multidisciplinary in a world that increasingly values people who have the skills needed to work across the physical and social sciences.
As part of this course, there are great trips on offer including Iceland, the East England coastline and local rivers and environs.
History
If you have a passion for history and enjoyed studying the subject at GCSE, or want to have an understanding of how the world has been shaped, then this is the subject for you.
History at A-Level is exciting and challenging, as you will enjoy debating with your peers and with your teachers about a variety of historical topics, analysing information to make judgements and learning about key characters and events from the past that still resonate today.
Mathematics
Studying A-Level mathematics will increase your knowledge and understanding of a variety of mathematical techniques and their
applications. It will develop key employability skills such as logical reasoning, problem solving, communication and resilience, and it provides excellent support for the study of other A-Level subjects and preparation for a wide range of university courses.
Modern Foreign Languages (Spanish/French)
This course covers topics similar to those learnt at GCSE and KS3 but in more depth and linked to current social issues in the target language countries. Grammar and translation skills will be taught within lessons as well as speaking skills.
Photography
Photography is about looking, learning, thinking and communicating ideas. It inspires creative thinkers.
Photographers explore a wide range of techniques to create images that make a personal statement about things that have interested or concerned them. The most exciting aspect of photography is that you are capturing the world as you see it. This course will help you to develop your creativity, learn to express yourself visually, and let your imagination go wild!
For more information about each of our courses and entry requirements, please visit our website.
Physical Education
This course encourages a holistic understanding of sport and physical activity; you will receive a well-rounded introduction to the world of PE, sport and sport science through the combination of physical performance and academic challenges.
You will need to be actively involved in a sport outside of the academy. In addition, you will need to purchase an academy kit for the course and text book.
Physics
Our A-Level physics course will cover six modules, each divided into key topics;
• Development of practical skills in physics
• Foundations in physics
• Forces & motion
• Electrons, waves & photons
• Newtonian world & astrophysics
• Particles & medical physics.
Studying A-Level maths alongside A-Level physics is a pre-requisite of the course.
Product Design
In your first year, you will explore many process and techniques. You will be taught how to render designs using spirit markers, use industry standard 3D CAD software and many practical techniques whilst designing and making different products.
In your second year, you will select an area to specialise in; product design, interior design, architecture or graphic design.
“ KES Sixth
Form is a great environment to study in, through both the independent study room as well as the group study rooms. The staff are always more than happy to help!
STUDENT
Psychology
Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behaviour. It is an excellent A-Level subject to study: it is interesting, exciting and challenging.
Studying psychology helps to develop transferable skills of analysis, communication, evaluation and argument. It changes the way that you think and perceive the world forever, you will no longer be able to watch the news or read articles without considering the bigger picture and the interaction of contributing factors that lead to a variety of human behaviours.
Religious StudiesPhilosophy and Ethics
It is a challenging and thought provoking specification as it demands students learn to think logically and write skilfully. Simply from the viewpoint of the skills it builds, it is a course worth doing. It is a popular course and encourages learners to adopt an enquiring, critical, and reflective approach to the study of religion. It allows students to reflect on and develop their own values and opinions in light of their study.
Sociology
Sociology offers insights into social and cultural issues. It is relevant to the society that you live in, so you are bound to enjoy learning about topics that are relevant to your everyday life.
Have you ever wondered why society has developed the way it is? If so, this is the subject for you. You will develop a multiperspective and critical approach to understanding issues around culture, religion, crime, childhood, family structure, education and social power. You discover how to think about the issues surrounding these topics yourself and learn to look at the world in a new way.
“Some of my favourite extracurricular activities include being a part of the events committee and getting to plan interesting and fun events for the sixth form. I also really enjoy being a part of the drama technical team as it gives me something really fun to do alongside my studies. The sixth form has loads of activities to join in with, and I really like having the opportunity to try out new things and meet new people!
Alina, KES Alumni - studying Medicine at Oxford University
Preparing You for Post-18
Our Sixth Form team pride itself on the support we offer our students in preparing for life after sixth form. Evidence of the quality of advice and guidance we provide can be seen in the fact that over the past five years 98% of our students have gone on to either university, an apprenticeship or full time employment.
Your ambitions and dreams are important to us, and we aim to help you reach your full potential.
We have a strong team of Tutors and Teachers who have an extensive experience of working with Sixth Form students and the life changes that you approach.
We monitor your progress and provide targeted intervention to help you feel confident in your growing knowledge and skills. Regular assessments ensure that you, your family and teachers are able to guide your learning to meet your academic and personal targets.
Parent guardian meetings, information evenings and visiting speakers ensure that you and your family are fully informed of
the steps needed to ensure quality learning, revision and progress.
University applications are guided and checked by Higher Education Champions, subject teachers and tutors. Each application is then personally and individually finalised by the Head of Sixth Form, to ensure that each student has the best chance possible at achieving the degree place that they aspire to study.
We strongly support students to follow the education and employment path that best suits them. We have had considerable success with supporting our students in joining apprenticeships at Level 2, 3 and 4.
Form Group and Tutorials
The experienced sixth form tutor team provides key support to students during form time. Tutors offer a reliable point of contact for guidance, helping students make informed decisions about their future after sixth form. Form time is essential for delivering advice on next steps and offers valuable support in preparing students for their goals. Additionally, tutors cover compulsory PSHE content, which equips students with important life skills for adulthood. This supportive relationship and guidance helps students stay motivated and focused on their future success.
Our History
King Edward VII Academy is a wellloved school and has been a beacon of educational excellence in Norfolk since the Sixteenth Century.
King Edward VII Academy has passed through several different incarnations since its founding in 1510 by a prosperous merchant who wanted to invest in the future. When the school moved to its present site, it was entirely appropriate that it should be named after the King who opened the new buildings and always took a keen interest in its achievements.
The school’s Grammar traditions live on but are complemented with the inclusive approach of a comprehensive school. For over 500 years the school has had the motto Crescat in horas doctrina “let them hourly increase in learning”. As an educational establishment, what better way to sum up the aims of the school - for all it’s students to hourly increase their learning, free from interruption.
Our alumni has seen academic success at all levels. Every year King Edward VII Academy sees record numbers of its students achieve
their first choice university, from Oxford to Cambridge to Exeter and Leeds. Dr Thusin de Silva who received an MBE this year for his work in the department of infectious diseases, was a student at King Edward VII Academy for 7 years.
Every year the best performing student in King Edward VII Academy Sixth Form is awarded the Royal Gold Medal, a tradition that was established by the Prince of Wales in 1865. The schools unique relationship with the Royal Family sees the selected scholar, accompanied by the students family and the Principal, attend Sandringham where he or she is presented with the Gold Medal by the Sovereign.
King Edward VII Academy has an amazing past with a rich history, and it is carving a new future that celebrates the old and new. The schools recent collaboration with King’s Lynn Football Club brings exciting new opportunities to its Sixth Form. The school promotes academic excellence but offers pathways for all its students.
Our House System
Our House system is engrained in our history, and is a major part of our schools ethos, linking closely to all aspects of life as a student at King Edward VII Academy.
Students are placed into a House upon arrival to King Edward VII Academy. Our four Houses are:
Lancaster School
Edinburgh York
Keene Thoresby
Gloucester Windsor
Our House System celebrates its links with many notable men who contributed to King Edward VII Academy’s unique and outstanding achievements, integral to everything that we do, the values it represents and the opportunities it provides.
At the heart of KES Academy lie our House Values which are integral to academy life. Our shared values are Teamwork, Empathy, Passion, Creativity, Determination, Self Belief, Honesty and Respect and all students are provided with opportunities to excel in all these areas throughout their educational experience.
Our values are strengthened by the wide range of leadership opportunities we provide from Form Leaders to Prefects to Sports Captains and many more. We are fortunate in having an extensive and ever-increasing range of clubs available from art to chess, homework club and karaoke on a Friday, all
of which serve to develop our students’ sense of self, sense of belonging and enable them to gain character and cultural capital.
House art & design challenges have proved very popular additions with GoGo Dinosaurs in 2020 enabling our students to create ‘Doris’ as part of the Norwich trail. House maths challenges get high levels of participation and are created by older students. New events introduced include dodgeball, handball, gaming, designing, raising money for charity events, and science experiments! Annual events totalling nearly one hundred, are the substance behind our House System belief of “giving all students the opportunity to have a moment”. Each half term, we reward achievement, progress and excellence. The House system ensures regular contact for pupils and access to competition, across the year groups.
Pictured right: The triumphant School House in 1954.
SEND Support
We strive to provide a high-quality provision for all learners. We work towards providing a provision that not only supports students to meet their educational goals but also assists them to develop the skills necessary to make a successful transition into adulthood.
We have a dynamic team of staff with experience working within a wide range of sectors including healthcare, careers and recruitment, hospitality, education and emotional well-being. Please get in touch to discuss how we can support you during your time at KES Sixth Form.
Financial Support
We want as many students as possible to experience the benefit of learning at King Edward VII Academy Sixth Form, and we encourage students who are eligible to apply to our bursary scheme.
The 16-19 Bursary Fund offers help to students at King Edward VII Academy Sixth Form to support students aged 16 to 19 in overcoming specific financial barriers to participation so they can remain in education.
The Fund is split into two categories: 1. Vulnerable Bursary 2. Discretionary Bursary
Students are encouraged to apply if they have extenuating circumstances leading to a financial need in attending and participating in sixth form. Further details can be found on our website.
Students are encouraged to apply if they have extenuating circumstances leading to a financial need in attending and participating in sixth form. Further details can be found on our website.
I’d like to specifically thank KES’ amazing sixth form staff who have consistently gone above and beyond to support me academically and pastorally - having people believe in you is something that will always make a difference!
Kamile, KES Alumni - studying History at Cambridge University
Entry Requirements
To study with us, you need to have at least five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including a grade 5+ in both English and mathematics. For sport and physical activity and health social care these courses can be offered at 1, 2 or 3 A-Level equivalent and/or alongside A-Levels for those students with appropriate grades.
We do accept equivalent Level Two qualifications, such as BTEC and OCR Nationals, but they will only count as one grade as we look for achievement in five separate disciplines. We reserve the right to make exceptions to these conditions through the discretion of our governing body, who will consider any exceptional personal circumstances upon application by the student concerned.
If you’re not sure about which courses are best for you, please get in touch to discuss your options. Please refer to our website for subject specific entry requirements. Coursedetailsarecorrectattimeofpublicationbutmaybesubjecttochange.
How to Apply
You can apply online by visiting helpyouchoose.org or the King Edward VII Academy Sixth Form website kesacademy.org.uk/apply.
If you have any questions or issues with your application, please contact our Administration Officer, Mrs Gedge at rachelgedge@kesacademy.org.uk.
We are part of Inspiration Trust, twice ranked the country’s top family of comprehensive schools for pupil progress
