At Thomas Paine Sixth Form, we believe in empowering every student to succeed, both in their academic outcomes and in becoming confident members of our society, ready to lead fulfilling futures.
We want our students to succeed and inspire others in whichever profession or pathway they choose for their future. We achieve this by ensuring that everyone commits to making outstanding progress, enjoys and engages in their learning, and are prepared to take on challenges without the fear of failure.
Our academic curriculum is supported by lots of extra-curricular enrichment opportunities, including a range of trips and visits, participation in music, sport and art events and activities, and opportunities to develop leadership skills.
Whilst we have high expectations of all our students, we make sure they receive the personalised support they need to develop as a young adult. We are committed to ensuring that our students are recognised as individuals and receive the pastoral care they need to thrive both academically and as a person.
Sixth Form Life Typical Day
Thomas Paine Sixth Form is a full-time educational provision. Your day will be a mixture of taught lessons, form time, independent and supervised study sessions and enrichment activities. Students are expected to study independently for each subject, which will include completing work that is set, revising lesson content, or doing further reading.
The move to sixth form is all about you starting to take responsibility for your own studies and making choices about your future. We encourage you to be more independent - but we will also be on hand to support you when you need it.
Students are encouraged to use laptops or tablets to support them in note taking, accessing lesson resources and online platforms, and staying organised. We
support students who do not have access to their own devices.
Sixth form students do not have a specific uniform however clothing should be appropriate for a working and learning environment.
Students have regular check ins with their form tutors and the wider sixth form team is always available to support students with any concerns.
Our sixth form dogs, Lexie and Albus are also on hand to support throughout the day!
Sixth Form Student Union
The Thomas Paine Sixth Form SU Committee has an important role in helping to make decisions relating to sixth form life. The Student Union engages in charitable and community activities and arranges social events too. Any student can apply to work with the SU Committee and it offers a range of leadership opportunities and responsibilities.
“Every one of my subject teachers will sit down with me and go through everything until I understand it.”
Supporting You Through Every Step
At Thomas Paine Sixth Form, you will be supported every step of the way. Our sixth form is a close knit environment with a strong community feel, where the sixth form staff know every student by name.
Academic Support
Academic support is provided by our dedicated Academic and Pastoral Mentor who is responsible for supporting students studying in the study centre, managing external tuition and supporting with the development of study skills, organisation and time management.
Our wider sixth form team ensures that every student receives targeted support, mentoring students who are struggling, or students that may require an extra challenge. They can liaise with teachers so that subjectspecific support is provided. Our teachers are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for each student.
SEND Support
Our vision is for all of our students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to be integrated fully into life at Thomas Paine Sixth Form, and that all students have access to high-quality teaching.
At Thomas Paine Sixth Form we aim to ensure all members of the school community support students with SEND. We work closely with our SENDCO and SEND Lead Practitioner to ensure all students identified as having SEND have equal access to all aspects of the curriculum as far as possible.
Pastoral and Safeguarding Support
We pride ourselves on the care that we give to all students to help them feel safe, supported and happy at sixth form. Our pastoral and tutor programmes support students in managing their physical, emotional and mental health. Students also learn about issues linked with becoming an adult.
We are committed to keeping staff, pupils and visitors safe. Our Designated Safeguarding Lead ensures that effective support is provided to students that need it and our strong pastoral system ensures that all students are well known and their needs understood.
Financial Support
We want as many students as possible to experience the benefit of learning at Thomas Paine Sixth Form. You may be able to access a range of funding options to help you in your studies. We encourage students (who are eligible) to apply to our bursary scheme.
The 16-19 Bursary Fund offers help to students aged 16 to 19 in overcoming specific financial barriers to participation so they can remain in education. 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.
Preparing You For Post 18
At Thomas Paine Sixth Form we are committed to preparing you for your future and empowering you to reach your academic and personal potential. You will begin preparing for your next steps from the moment you join us.
We work in partnership with the Norfolk Higher Aspirations Scheme (HAS) and University of East Anglia. Partners of HAS also include Oxbridge, University College London and Norwich University of the Arts. These organisations offer a wealth of information and provide a range of opportunities, including interview preparation, trips and visits.
Open Days
We run visits to the University of East Anglia, and to Oxbridge universities. In addition, we are happy to support you attending open days at other universities.
Work Experience
As part of your sixth form experience you will complete work placements in a sector related to your own aspirations. The precise format and timing of this will depend on what is most suitable for you. We support students in seeking opportunities directly with employers.
Careers Programme
You will have access to personalised advice throughout your time with us. Our Careers Advisor meets every Year 12 student to discuss future aspirations and offer advice and guidance on careers and higher education. This support is continued into Year 13 where you will receive expert assistance in preparing your university/apprenticeship applications or taking your first steps into work.
We organise regular careers events, with guest speakers from a variety of sectors, and workshops on applying for jobs, managing your finances and advancing your career.
Gregson Scholars Programme and Applications to Competitive Courses
The Gregson Scholars Programme offers support to students who are looking to apply to highly competitive courses or institutions. Full guidance is given in Year 12 on preparing to make applications to competitive courses with interview preparation and ‘supercurricular’ activities that help set you aside from other high-achieving students. With the support of our partnered organisations, students can participate in activities such as mock interviews, lectures and admissions test preparation.
“The Gregson Scholars programme encouraged me to apply to Cambridge and aim higher, helping me prepare for admissions tests and with interview preparation. Sixth Form supports you however you need.” - Sarah Yr13
“Thomas Paine Sixth Form helped me work towards my dream of becoming an airline pilot and has been super supportive in helping me get into my dream flight school.” - Tate Yr13
Our Courses
It is really important to make informed decisions when you choose subjects for sixth form, 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 and engineering, as well as consider those subjects you enjoy and know you will do well in. Thomas Paine Sixth Form offers you the opportunity to choose your own combination of courses, and to pursue different specialisms, based on your strengths and prior performance in individual subjects.
Details relating to subject specialisms can be found on our website and we can advise you on course choices at the interview stage.
The majority of students will study three courses, but it is possible to choose a fourth subject where this is appropriate for the student.
We are always happy to talk you through subject choices if you need further guidance and advice, so please get in touch if you need some help selecting courses.
Entry Requirements
To study with us, you need to have at least five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including a grade 4+ in both English and Mathematics. Subject specific entry requirements can be viewed on our website. If you’re not sure about which courses are best for you, please get in touch to discuss your options.
Course details are correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
To see more detailed information about each course and to see alternative entry requirements, please scan the QR code.
Art
Art is a deeply human subject, offering insights into complex ideas and emotions. It is a creative subject for those who enjoy the challenge of communicating their ideas visually.
What you will study
Art is assessed through your portfolio with 60% coursework and 40% exam:
Recording information, drawing and photography
Developing ideas by responding to artists’ work
Refining your ideas and practical work
Final pieces of work
What can I do with A-Level Art?
It is a gateway into the creative industries including film and media, advertising, design disciplines such as fashion, interior design, product design, architecture and of course fine art.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ Art.
Business
In Business you will be exposed to real life business case studies and evidence to contextualise theory and develop a sound understanding of how businesses operate.
What you will study
There are four themes you will study:
Marketing and people
Managing business activities
Business decisions and strategy
Global business
What can I do with A-Level Business?
This qualification supports entry to a range of business and enterprise associated higher education courses, such as management, finance, entrepreneurship and economics, when taken alongside other qualifications.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in Business. Otherwise you need, Grade 5+ in English Language or English Literature and a Grade 5 in Maths.
Biology
Biology is where we delve deep into the study of living organisms, including humans, plants, insects and even fish. Developing an understanding of cell biology and exploring the biochemistry shared by all life on Earth.
What you will study
There are six modules you will study:
Development of practical skills
Foundations in biology Exchange and transport
Biodiversity, evolution and disease
Communication homeostasis and energy
Genetics, evolution and ecosystems
What can I do with A-Level Biology?
You can go on to study at university for degrees such as medicine, zoology, forensics, veterinary science or dentistry. Showing you can think analytically, research, study and communicate complex ideas.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6+ in Biology and Grade 5+ in Maths or a Grade 6+ in Combined Science and Grade 5+ in Maths.
Chemistry
Chemistry helps you to develop research, problem solving, and analytical skills. It helps you to challenge ideas and show you work things out through logic and step-by-step reasoning.
What you will study
There are six modules you will study:
Development of practical skills in chemistry
Foundations in chemistry
Periodic table and energy Core organic chemistry
Physical chemistry and transition elements
Organic chemistry and analysis
What can I do with A-Level Chemistry?
People who study chemistry go on to a range of courses in the future, including university degrees in chemistry, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, forensic sciences, chemical engineering and many others.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6+ in Chemistry and Grade 5+ in Maths or a Grade 6+ in Combined Science and Grade 5+ in Maths.
“Sixth Form teachers are experts in their subjects and help to develop our interest in subjects beyond the curriculum.”
Computing
Computing is a subject where you will learn about the principles of computer science, systems, programming, and security and encryption. You will also learn how professionals analyse and develop applications.
What you will study
There are six units that include:
Fundamentals of programming (Python)
Fundamentals of data structure and representation
Computer systems, architecture and organisation
Theory of computation
Functional programming
Problem solving and algorithm design
What can I do with A-Level Computing?
You can go on to a range of Level 4 Apprenticeships, degree courses, and internships, including games computing, mobile app development, website development, and computer science.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6 in Computer Science. Otherwise you need Grade 6+ in Maths.
Drama and Theatre
Drama is a subject for people who have a passion for performance and explorative study through practice and analysis. Giving insight into the creative process through notable historical and contemporary figures.
What you will study
There are three components to study: Drama and Theatre
Creating original drama
Making theatre
What can I do with A-Level Drama and Theatre?
People who study performing arts, alongside other A-Levels go on to a range of courses in the future, which includes drama, theatre, and courses such as English and law.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in Performing Arts / Drama. Otherwise you need Grade 5+ in English Language, and an audition may be required.
Criminology
Criminology is the study of crime, explanations for crime and social reactions to crime. As an interdisciplinary social science subject, criminology draws on a range of perspectives.
What you will study
There are four units you will study:
Changing awareness of crime
Criminological theories
Crime scene to courtroom
Crime and punishment
What can I do with Level 3 Criminology?
You can go on to further your education with relevant degree courses to enable you to gain employment in such areas as: community development worker, police officer, prison officer and social worker.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in English Language and Maths.
English Language and Literature
Whether you love fiction, autobiographies, poems, plays, newspapers or creative writing, English Language & Literature is the subject for anyone who loves stories.
What you will study
There are five parts to study:
Remembered Places – Paris Collection
Imagined Worlds – The Handmaid’s Tale Poetic Voices – Carol Ann Duffy Society – The Great Gatsby Dramatic Encounters – Othello
What can I do with A-Level English?
People who study English enjoy a wide spectrum of university and career options in the future, including journalism, media, English, theatre and drama, marketing, public relations, law, and many more.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in both English Language and English Literature.
Food Science and Nutrition
A subject for people who enjoy cooking and have a passion for learning about food. There is a strong emphasis on practical work, making this an ideal choice for students who prefer learning through doing.
What you will study
You can achieve a Certificate or Diploma in Food Science and Nutrition, depending on the number of units studied:
Planning to meet nutritional needs (mandatory)
Ensuring food is safe to eat (mandatory)
Experimenting to solve food production problems
Current issues in consumer food choice
What can I do with Level 3 Food and Nutrition?
People who study Food Science and Nutrition can gain entry to higher education courses such as human nutrition, public health nutrition, food science and technology.
Entry Requirements
Level 2 Pass in Hospitality and Catering or Grade 5+ in Food Preparation and Nutrition.
Further Maths
Further Maths broadens and deepens the mathematical knowledge and skills developed when studying A-Level Maths, introducing you to imaginary numbers, matrices and hyperbolic functions.
What you will study
The course consists of Pure Mathematics and two applied topics – mechanics and additional pure.
French
Studying French A-Level will give students the ability to advance their linguistic and communication skills and further insights into a range of social, artistic, cultural and political topics.
What you will study
The course covers a variety of topics including the importance of family in French society, Francophone music, French cinema, French politics and current issues in immigration and integration of French society. Students also undertake their own research project for the speaking exam based on any topic of their choice.
What can I do with A-Level French?
Learning French makes you a great communicator, listener, and a reflective learner who can think on their feet. You could work or study abroad, or even start another language.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in French Higher Tier.
Geography
Geography gives you the opportunity to learn about how the human and physical processes of our everchanging world work. You will investigate topical global issues and develop a broad range of skills.
What you will study
There are eight topics in this course:
Tectonic processes and hazards
Landscape systems, processes and change
The water cycle and water insecurity
The carbon cycle and energy insecurity
What can I do with A-Level Further Maths?
People who study Further Maths go on to a range of courses in the future, it is a must for anyone planning on studying degree level mathematics or degrees that are strongly mathematically related such as engineering or computer science.
Entry Requirements
Grade 8+ in Maths and you need to be taking A-Level Maths.
Globalisation Shaping Places Superpowers Global development and connections
What can I do with A-Level Geography?
This subject supports the study of other A-Level subjects well and can lead to degree courses in geography, geology, environmental science, as well as other humanities and sciences.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in Geography. Otherwise you need Grade 5+ in English Language.
Graphic Communication
Graphic communication conveys information and ideas through visual means. The critical element for a graphic designer is the effective communication of a message or idea through organisation of images and words.
What you will study
Graphics is 60% coursework and 40% exam and is all assessed through your portfolio. The four components that you are assessed on are:
Recording information
Developing ideas by responding to artist’s work
Developing your ideas through graphics
Final pieces of work
What can I do with A-Level Graphic Communication?
A-Level graphic communication prepares you for degrees in advertising, illustration, branding and information design.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in Art.
History
History is a subject for people who like to ask questions about how things came to be the way they are today. You will gain insight into the nature of humanity which can seem both strange and familiar to us.
What you will study
There are four parts you will study:
Modern Britain (1930-1997) with an enquiry on Churchill
Popular culture and the witchcraze in the 16th and 17th centuries
Russia from (1894-1941)
Coursework
What can I do with A-Level History?
People who study history go on to a range of courses in the future, including university degrees in history, law, journalism, literature, languages and many others.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in History.
Health and Social Care
Health and Social Care is a subject for people who like to know how we can care about the different people that live in our society and how we can provide the best levels of care for all.
What you will study
There are six parts to study:
Principles of health and social care
Person-centred approach to care
Anatomy and physiology Nutrition
Supporting people with mental health conditions
Supporting people with long-term physiological conditions
What can I do with Level 3 Health & Social Care?
People who study Health and Social Care go on to a range of courses in the future, including university degrees in nursing, social work, mental health, and many others.
Entry Requirements
Level 2 Pass in Health and Social Care or a Grade 5+ in Science.
Maths
The Maths course is designed to expand on your existing mathematical skills as well as introducing completely new techniques to prepare you for a career with a mathematical or scientific basis.
What you will study
Two thirds of the course will be Pure mathematics, and the other third Applied; split between statistics and mechanics. The pure mathematics includes calculus, trigonometry and coordinate geometry to name a few.
What can I do with A-Level Maths?
People who study Maths go on to a range of careers and university degrees including, finance, engineering, medicine, programming, architecture and proves incredibly beneficial for law, geography and business.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6+ in Maths.
“My favourite thing is the support you get from teachers and staff. They always make it known you are welcome and always care about what you want to do.”
Media Studies
The media saturates everything we do in the developed world. Pupils are given the tools to analyse and critique the media; affording them the chance to see the ways in which the media pervades their lives.
What you will study
There are four parts to this course:
Media language
Representation
Audiences
Industry
What can I do with A-Level Media Studies?
People who study Media Studies go on to a range of courses in the future, including university degrees in media studies, journalism, literature, film studies and many others.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in English Language or English Literature. Desirable to have studied Art and Design, Grade 5+ and ICT, Grade 5+.
Music Technology
Music Technology is a fascinating and hugely rewarding subject. You will learn the art of recording, from setting up microphones to mixing and mastering music using advanced software.
What you will study
There are four parts to study:
Component 1: Recording
Component 2: Technology based composition
Component 3: Listening and analysing
Component 4: Producing and analysing
What can I do with A-Level Music Tech?
Music Technology can lead to a career in sound engineering or composition either in live venues, broadcast studios, film sets, recording studios, or composing for film or computer games.
Entry Requirements
BTEC Music Level 2 Merit or a GCSE Grade 5+ in Music.
Music Performance
Music is a subject for people who have a passion for performing, rehearsing and study. Gain insight into the creative process through studying performance skills, historical context and all genres of popular music.
What you will study
There are four parts to study:
Unit 1: Practical music theory and harmony
Unit 2: Professional practice in the music industry
Unit 3: Ensemble music performance
Optional unit: (internal assessment)
What can I do with BTEC Music?
People who study Music go on to a range of courses in the future, including music performance, events organisation, production arts and music technology.
Entry Requirements
BTEC Music Level 2 Merit or a GCSE Grade 5+ in Music.
Performing Arts - Dance
Performing Arts - Dance, is a subject for people who have a passion for performance and explorative study. Allowing the exploration of creative intentions to be realised in performance.
What you will study
There are four parts to study:
Unit 1: Investigating Practitioners
Unit 2: Developing Skills & Techniques for Live Performance
Unit 3: Group Performance Workshop
Optional Unit: (internal assessment)
What can I do with Level 3 Performing Arts?
People who study performing arts, alongside other A-Levels go on to a range of courses in the future, which includes Drama, Theatre, Dance and courses such as English.
Entry Requirements
GCSE Dance Grade 4+ or a BTEC Level 2 Merit in Dance.
Photography
Photography is a subject for creative thinkers who enjoy the challenge of communicating their ideas through photography.
What you will study
Photography is 60% coursework and 40% exam and is assessed through your portfolio.
Recording information - taking high-quality photos
Developing ideas by responding to photographers work
Editing your ideas and practical work
Final pieces of work
What can I do with A-Level Photography?
People who study photography go on to a range of courses in the future. It is a gateway into the creative industries including film and media, advertising, design disciplines, architecture and of course photography.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ Photography.
Politics
Politics affects every aspect of our lives and is constantly changing and evolving. The A-Level helps you understand the role politics plays in relation to current local, national, and global issues.
What you will study
There are three parts you will study:
UK Politics
UK Government
USA Comparative Politics
What can I do with A-Level Politics?
People who study Politics go on to a range of courses in the future, including university degrees in politics, law, journalism, philosophy, economics and social sciences. A-Level Politics develops your essay writing, critical analysis and evaluative skills.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in English Language or English Literature.
Physics
Studying physics gives you the opportunity to explore the universe and to look at theories to explain what is observed. Combining practical skills with theoretical ideas to develop descriptions of the physical universe.
What you will study
There are four parts you will study:
Forces and motion
Electrons, waves and photons
Newtonian world and astrophysics
Particles and medical physics
What can I do with A-Level Physics?
Possible career paths include engineering, medicine, forensic science, astronomy, cosmology, electronics, power generation and more.
Entry Requirements
Grade 6+ in Physics and Grade 6+ in Maths or a Grade 6+ in Combined Science and Grade 6+ in Maths.
Portuguese
Portuguese will inspire students to have an appreciation of the language, literature, film and culture of the Portuguese-speaking countries and areas where it is an official language.
What
you will study
There is a variety of engaging themes including: politics, contemporary society, music, immigration movements, dictatorships and the capital to India. Students will study a literature text and a film and will continue to use their translation skills into both English and Portuguese. They will learn grammar and more in-depth study of how the language works.
What can I do with A-Level Portuguese?
Portuguese A-Level can lead to jobs in tourism, translation, hospitality, marketing, business, law or education amongst many more.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in Portuguese Higher Tier.
“Teachers boost your confidence which means we feel more positive about ourselves and feel as though we can do anything.”
Product Design
Product Design is a creative qualification that gives you practical skills and theoretical knowledge. You will discover what it means to be a designer, alongside the skills sought by higher education and employers.
What you will study
There are two parts you will study:
Technical principles (external written exam)
Design and making principles (internally assessed)
What can I do with A-Level Product Design?
People who study Product Design go on to a range of courses in the creative industry such as architecture, product design including engineering and construction.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in Design and Technology. Otherwise you need a Grade 5+ in English Language and Grade 5+ in Maths.
Sociology
Sociology is a social science that studies human societies, interactions, and processes that preserve and change them. As an interdisciplinary subject, Sociology draws on a range of perspectives.
What you will study
Sociology
Education
Families and Households
Research Methods
Crime and Deviance and more!
What can I do with A-Level Sociology?
You can further your education with relevant degree courses to enable you to gain employment in such areas as: teacher, social researcher, marketing, journalist, detective, police officer and more.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5 in Sociology. Otherwise you need a Grade 5 in English Language or English Literature.
Psychology
Studying Psychology enriches us by helping us to understand human behaviour much better, with all its social interaction, language, communication, motivation, emotions, and decision making.
What you will study
There are three parts to study:
Introductory topics: social influence, memory attachment and psychopathology
Psychology in context: approaches, biopsychology and research methods
Issues and options in Psychology
What can I do with A-Level
Psychology?
Psychology gives you experience of scientific theory, maths & research skills, history and essay writing, so it can complement a range of subjects and careers.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in Psychology and Grade 6+ in English or a Grade 6+ in English and Grade 5+ in Maths.
Spanish
Spanish is widely spoken all over the world. The ability to communicate in another language other than your own will give you another perspective on many aspects of life.
What you will study
The course covers 12 units over the two years, including: the influence of the internet, the feminist movement, multiculturalism, regional heritage, monarchies and dictatorships. You will study the film, Ocho Apellidos Vascos by Emilio Martínez-Lázaro, and the book Como Agua Como Chocolate by Laura Esquivel.
What can I do with A-Level Spanish?
People who study Spanish can move on to any career and many continue at university, gaining access to learning another language too. It can lead to jobs in tourism, translation, education, marketing or business.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in Spanish Higher Tier.
Sport is a subject for people who like to know how the body works, how sports performers recover from training and injuries, and how to coach various groups of people.
What you will study
There are five parts to study:
Body Systems (Exam)
Sports Coaching (Coursework)
Sport Organisation and Development (Exam)
Sports Injuries and Rehabilitation (Coursework)
Sports and Exercise Psychology (Coursework)
What can I do with Level 3 Sport?
People who study Sport go on to a range of courses in the future, including university degrees in Sport and exercise science, sports coaching, physiotherapy, and many others.
Entry Requirements
BTEC Sport Level 2 Merit or Grade 5+ in PE.
Additional Qualifications
Textiles
Textiles is a subject for artists who want to explore their ideas through textiles. You will get to make work in a range of techniques from making through to printing.
What you will study
Textiles is 60% coursework and 40% exam and is all assessed through your portfolio. The four components that you are assessed on are:
Recording information
Developing ideas by responding to artist’s work
Developing your ideas through textiles
Final pieces of work
What can I do with A-Level Textiles?
People who study Textiles go on to a range of courses in the future. It is a gateway into the creative industries including studying fashion, surface design or interior design at degree level.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in Art.
Students can also elect to take on an additional qualification, studying Core Maths or taking on the Extended Project Qualification, alongside their main course choices.
Core Maths
Core Maths helps to develop confidence in representing and analysing authentic situations and to build skills in mathematical thinking, reasoning and communication.
What you will study
Paper 1 - a mixture of general maths, financial maths, real life estimations and mathematical analysis. Paper 2 - There are 3 different papers to choose from. At the end of Year 12 you will get to look at the different topics in these papers and decide for yourself which one to study.
What can I do with Level 3 Core Maths?
The skills developed through the study of maths are in high demand from employers and universities. Some universities reduce offers if you have a high grade in Core Maths.
Entry Requirements
Grade 4+ in Maths.
Extended Project Qualification
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a great opportunity to experience university-style study and expand your knowledge in an area of interest.
What you will study
The EPQ requires you to complete an independent project where you identify, design, plan and complete an individual project, applying a range of organisational skills and strategies to meet agreed objectives.
What can I do with the Extended Project?
The Extended Project supports applications to apprenticeships, employment, and university. Some universities offer bursaries, or could lower the grades required for entry, based on strong EPQ performance.
Entry Requirements
Grade 5+ in English Language.
Extra-Curricular Activities and Enrichment
All Thomas Paine Sixth Form students are able to take part in extra-curricular activities including those run by Thetford Academy. The Sixth Form Student Union Committee runs dedicated extra-curricular activities that are only for Thomas Paine Sixth Form students.
Activities on offer include:
Educational visits and trips close to home and further afield
Wider reading opportunities
Specialist workshops
Guest speaker programme
Music lessons
Opportunities to participate in performing and creative arts
Participation in sporting activities
Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Thomas Paine Sixth Form also offers students the chance to take part in the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme. Students can learn new skills and take part in an expedition to the Peak or Lake District.
“It’s nice being able to do an activity that allows you to get outside of the classroom, experience new things and gain new skills.”
Facilities
Thomas Paine Sixth Form provides students with a number of dedicated facilities. The Study Centre offers a quiet study space with computer access and support from a full-time member of staff who is available to help you with your studies. The Library has a dedicated Sixth Form section with access to course books and wider reading material. Sixth Form students have exclusive use of the library terrace, an outdoor space for relaxation and study. Our Media Suite is available for quiet study with access to Mac computers and specialised software.
Sixth Formers have exclusive access to the common room, a mature social area where you can socialise and unwind, with access to kitchen facilities. You will also have access
to the Cafe, providing hot meals, drinks and snacks throughout the day, separate from the main school canteen.
Thomas Paine Sixth Form students also have access to the wider facilities of Thetford Academy including science laboratories, dance and drama rooms, art and technology spaces, a music studio and practice rooms, and sports facilities. Sixth Formers can also make use of the Fitness Suite following the completion of an induction with a member of the sports department.
Travelling to Sixth Form
Thomas Paine Sixth Form is located on Croxton Road just off the A11 and has nearby rail and bus links.
By Car
Students can park their car, motorcycle or moped in the Thetford Academy car park, free of charge. Licensed registration numbers will need to be shared with our Sixth Form Admin Officer.
By Bicycle
We have secure bike racks on site and lockers are available for storage (lockers are available at a charge).
By Rail
All students at Thomas Paine Sixth Form are provided with a railcard to get discounted train travel to sixth form and across the UK, with Thetford train station a short 20-minute walk away.
Travel Schemes
Wherever you are travelling from within Norfolk or Suffolk, there are discounted Travel Schemes available.
Norfolk Students - Post 16 Travel Scheme www.norfolk.gov.uk/post16transport Suffolk Students - Suffolkonboard www.suffolkonboard.com
Thetford Train Station
Thomas Paine Sixth Form
Applying for your place
1 Come to our open evening
Take a look at our facilities, discover the different course options available to you and discuss Sixth Form life with staff and student ambassadors.
2 Send off your application
Once you have decided on your courses, apply online by visiting helpyouchoose.org or on the Thomas Paine Sixth Form website thomaspainesixthform.org/apply.
3 Interview
We will invite all applicants to an interview where you can tell us about yourself and ask questions about course options or Sixth Form life more generally.
4 Offer
You will receive a conditional offer to study at Thomas Paine Sixth Form. Your place at Thomas Paine Sixth Form will be dependent on your GCSE results meeting our entry requirements.
5 Applicant Day
All applicants are invited to our Applicant Day event where you will get the chance to meet other applicants and experience life at Thomas Paine Sixth Form.
6 Enrolment and Induction
You can enrol at Thomas Paine Sixth Form as soon as you have your GCSE results. You will have a full induction in September to help you settle in.
If you have any questions or issues with your application, please get in touch at info@thomaspainesixthform.org.
