Sixth Form Prospectus

Sixth Form 2023/24

CONTENTS

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3 Headmaster's Welcome 4 Admissions 5 Mission 6 Values 7 Reputation and Awards 8 Wellbeing 9 Tutor System 10 Sixth Form Curriculum 12 So Much More Than A Levels 13 A Different Way of Learning 14 Building Your CV 15 Creative Arts 16 S.T.E.M 17 Sports 19 Rest & Play 21 Moving On 23 A Day In The Life 24 Fees 25 Policies 26 Map

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on the titles above to visit each section

Opportunity is everywhere in the Sixth Form at Nottingham High School, and you can succeed here as part of a driven and positive academic environment where mutual respect is central.

WATCH

Click to watch the Headmaster’s welcome

You will have the chance to lead others as part of our House and Prefect system; to perform on stage, in a concert or on the sports field; to collaborate in one of our societies; to travel as part of a departmental or co-curricular trip, and so much more.

At Nottingham High School you will benefit from our expertise in every aspect of school life. Our focus is on supporting you as an individual, whether that’s helping you make the transition into Sixth Form life, guiding your academic progress, or advising you in making university and career choices.

Our tutors will care for you, respect and nurture your individuality and will be alongside you every step of the way. We take as much pride in developing you as people as we do in your academic results.The Sixth Form is a strong community with so much mutual support within it.

We welcome students into the Sixth Form from a wide range of state and independent schools. They choose us to prepare them to move on to university and because of the wide range of opportunities here both in and out of the classroom. We offer taster sessions to all those wishing to join us in the Sixth Form so that you can make an informed decision.

Countless students have chosen to join us at Nottingham High School for their Sixth Form career. Why not visit us and explore whether this is the right place for you?

HEAD'S WELCOME

APPLICATIONS We encourage you to apply by the end of the Autumn Term and we process applications as they arrive. We do consider applications made later, but may not always be able to accommodate all subject choices.

Application forms are available from our Admissions Department. Once we have received your application and registration fee, we will send you an acknowledgement which will include details of the selection procedures.

If you are successful, we will offer you a place within two weeks of the interview. Your acceptance will then be expected within 2 weeks together with a deposit of £800.00.

ADMISSIONS Entry into Year 12 (Sixth Form) is by interview, considering current academic achievement at GCSE/iGCSE. As a guide, we expect you to gain a minimum of five Grade 7s in your GCSE subjects with Grade 7 (or higher) in the subjects you wish to take at A level. We will request an academic reference from your current School which must be received prior to an interview.

WATCH Click to watch Head of Admissions Ruth Boxer talk about the admissions process.

For full details of our Admissions Policy, please see our website Ruth Boxer - Head of Admissions

We enable students from diverse backgrounds to flourish in an academic, compassionate environment engaging and inspiring every pupil to maximise their potential and enjoyment. We nurture quietly confident and happy children who are intellectually curious and cared for as individuals.

MISSION

EXCELLENCE

INDIVIDUALITY

RESPECT

EMPATHY

CURIOSITY

We have high aspirations and pursue excellence across all areas of our provision. We nurture individual pupils to achieve their highest potential and make a positive impact in the world.

We value each child and member of staff as an individual and embrace diversity in all its forms.

We create the conditions in which our staff and children can be happy and flourish.

We are proud to be an inclusive and diverse community. We value kindness, integrity and modesty. We champion a culture of respect and understanding between all in the school community.

All of our provision is underpinned by empathy and tolerance. We seek to build resilience and empower children to make a difference in the world.

We value intellectual curiosity and creativity.

We want every child to develop a love of learning.

We embrace taking risks to enhance pupil development both academically and as people.

VALUES

AT NOTTINGHAM HIGH SCHOOL WE VALUE

REPUTATION AND AWARDS Nottingham High School has a strong reputation for academic success, yet as you get to know us, you will discover so much more: genuine cocurricular opportunity and real care of the individual.

We were delighted to be named East Midlands Independent School of the Year 2023, East Midlands Independent Secondary School of the Decade 2021 and to be ranked first for academic results in the East Midlands 2022, all awarded by The Sunday Times Independent Schools Guide. The Independent School of the Year awards named us the Coeducational School of the Year in 2022, and awarded us for healthy eating in 2020. Every bit as important to us though is the feedback from our parents. We are proud that pastoral care is consistently the highest-rated feature in our regular parental surveys.

However ready you are for the next educational stage, starting Sixth Form can be daunting.

Unfamiliar routines and people, new subjects, greater independence and responsibility, a different way of learning and studying, important decisions to make about your future.

At Nottingham High School, we put a lot of time and thought into making the transition successful. It matters greatly to us that you are happy here and that you feel that allimportant sense of safety and belonging.

How do we do this? We get to know you as an individual - what makes you tick, how best to motivate, encourage and help you, what you need to be happy and flourish. We build a support network around you, with your tutor at its heart, invested in your progress academically and as a person.

Like you, we hope that you will navigate Sixth Form smoothly, yet these crucial years can bring significant challenges. Your ability to succeed at school is intrinsically linked to your wellbeing, which is where our sector-leading Wellbeing Centre comes in. Home to our school nurse, counselling rooms, the learning support team and staff able to help with recovery from sporting injuries, for example, it integrates all wellbeing services under one roof. Think of it as a holistic sanctuary, designed to provide empathetic and joined-up support for you and your family through any difficulties.

WATCH Click to watch Deputy Head (Individuals) Lisa Gritti talk about our Wellbeing Centre

Imagine the value of someone who champions you and takes pride in everything you achieve. A critical mentor who knows what makes you tick. A person who asks questions rather than provides answers, because they believe you already possess the answers within you. At Nottingham High School, that person is your Tutor.

When you join our community, you are paired with a Tutor who concentrates solely on students in years 11 to 13. This specialist focus gives your Tutor tremendous knowledge and experience, equipping them to help you through these critical two years.

You meet your Tutor for half an hour daily, or almost daily, to discuss how school life and work is going. As well as supporting your academic progress and wellbeing, they guide you through life after school - putting together references for university and job applications, advising on course and university choices.

Relationships are central. Each Tutor looks after a group of around 10 students from Years 11-13.

This group soon becomes a source of mutual support as older students share their experience and let younger year groups know what to expect. Your Tutor, aided by Senior Tutors and the Assistant Head Individuals (Years 11-13), will work closely with you and your parents to ensure you get the most from your time in school. Tutors contact parents at key stages during the year but are always ready to answer questions and provide advice. We really value parental input; their perspective is vital to us supporting you well.

TUTOR SYSTEM

WATCH

Click to watch Assistant Head (Individuals years 11-13) David Gillet talk about our Tutor System

SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM All our students take three A-Levels, or four if you opt for Further Maths. In addition, you can choose to complete the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in Year 12, a popular option for those looking to study a topic in a great deal of depth.

We arrange options blocks in the way that allows us to accommodate the greatest number of students’ choices within the constraints of scheduling.

The following subjects are usually offered, subject to enough students opting to take them:

·Art ·Biology ·Chemistry ·Classical Civilisation ·Computer Science ·Design Technology ·Economics ·English Literature ·English Language ·Physical Education ·French ·Further Mathematics ·Geography ·German ·History ·Latin ·Mathematics ·Music ·Physics ·Politics ·Psychology ·Religious Studies ·Spanish ·Theatre Studies

LEARNING SUPPORT We have a responsibility to respond to your specific learning needs. The Learning Support staff timetable fortnightly individual lessons and assess progress in written reports shared with your parents.

Following consultation with you, your Tutor and the Deputy Head (Individuals) we may refer to outside support agencies if necessary.

SO MUCH MORE Learning extends far beyond the classroom with a range of activities and experiences that will open your eyes to life after A Levels.

Our careers adviser is always available for individual discussions; there is a thriving programme of careers talks by a variety of professionals; weekly Sixth Form Lectures cover a wide range of topics and inspirational stories.

You will have many opportunities to broaden and deepen your experience beyond your chosen subjects. Our Politics Society attracts a range of well-known politicians and political journalists. You could work with local business advisors to perfect your products and sales techniques as part of the popular Young Enterprise programme. The Model United Nations Society could open your eyes to the world of international diplomacy. The Eco Schools Society might appeal if you are interested in environmental projects both in and outside School. Our Community Action group regularly undertakes projects to help local charities too; your input here could be central to helping others.

Mrs Auterson - Head of Careers

THAN A LEVELS

Eleanor Roosevelt famously remarked that ‘with freedom comes responsibility’.

We think it’s a useful analogy for how Sixth Form differs from school. The less structured day requires greater self-motivation; the privileges go hand in hand with role modelling for younger students; the less formal teaching & learning style demands increased intellectual curiosity and individuality of thought.

Classes are small with an atmosphere of mutual respect between students and staff. The emphasis is on debate and interaction; developing your opinions through discussion with others is an important catalyst for independent learning.

Subject choice is substantial. All of our teachers are specialists in their field, with a contagious passion for their subjects. This manifests itself in the array of trips, Olympiads, clinics and challenges they organise to supplement and extend your subject knowledge: a Physics trip to CERN - a nuclear fusion test facility; Chemists entering the National Analyst competition; Psychology and Economics students attending lectures at local Universities.

The Sixth Form team will be on hand to challenge and support you as you adjust to this different way of learning. They will help you balance freedom and responsibility, tracking your progress throughout the Sixth Form to achieve your goals.

A DIFFERENT WAY OF LEARNING

With increasingly fierce competition for top university places and jobs, your personal development and experiences outside of the classroom are just as important as your grades.

As well as sport and structured activities, such as The Duke of Edinburgh award scheme and Combined Cadet Force, you can sign up for countless challenging activities: from computer programming and climbing to debating and politics. If none of the existing clubs and societies appeal, then you can start one that does. The accompanying enrichment programme is aimed at inspiring you to develop additional skills and interests; our speaker programme features talks and seminars on a range of topics and we have enjoyed visits by eminent politicians and television personalities.

You will be encouraged to take on a leadership role for your personal growth. Whether you’re a school prefect or a Maths Buddy for a younger boy or girl, you will reap the rewards that come from taking responsibility for others.

BUILDING YOUR CV

CREATIVE ARTS Whatever subjects you choose for A Level, exposure to the Arts provides a valuable creative outlet and develops essential skills for the workplace.

You might learn an instrument and join an orchestra, choir, or band. You could participate in drama productions, on stage or behind the scenes. You might prefer to lay down tracks in the recording studio or help paint the annual art department mural.

If music is your thing, there are over 30 concerts and music events through the year ranging from teatime concerts to formal concerts staged at a prestigious city venue. Plays, musicals and informal concerts are also regularly performed on campus, in our Theatre, Recital Hall and other purpose-built facilities.

If you are a budding artist, there are excellent printing and clay facilities, SLR cameras and an ICT suite with Photoshop and Graphics Tablets. If you are studying Art at A Level the Sixth Form Art Studio offers you your own space to work and exhibit.

Advances in Technology and Science are transforming our world at an incredible pace, and you must be literate in both these areas on leaving school.

If your passion lies in Design and Technology, you can draw on your intellect, creativity and problem-solving skills in the recently extended Design Technology building. 3D printers sit alongside traditional work benches to help you bring your creations to life.

There are many ways for Science and Technology enthusiasts to build on their knowledge. You could join Science, CAD and Young Engineers clubs. You might enter an Olympiad competition, apply to attend a national Chemistry camp or compete in a challenge to build a robot. There will also be trips for you to enjoy – a Spectroscopy Masterclass at Nottingham Trent University or a visit to Rolls Royce, for example

S.T.E.M

If you opt for Science A-levels, you will learn Chemistry, Biology and Physics separately. You will study the subjects’ relevance and practical application to daily life and will conduct experiments on a regular basis in our newly refurbished labs.

SPORT

The benefits of sport are well documented: improved self-esteem and confidence, a healthy mind and a healthy body. Sport teaches us about teamwork, to be gracious in victory and resilient in defeat. It is social, a great leveller and a wholesome way to counter life’s pressures.

WATCH

Click to find out more about Sports at Nottingham High School

The main sports are Hockey, Netball and Cricket for girls and Rugby, Hockey and Cricket for boys. There are also numerous other sports to try out within and outside of lessons.

Whether you aspire to play for a national side or just want to keep fit, you will find a standard of coaching and competition to match your ability and interest. You can experience the exhilaration of playing your heart out for house or school, cheered on by friends and family.

Facilities are plentiful and enjoyed by all. The gym is used as much for decompression with friends at lunchtime as it is for team strength & conditioning sessions; the swimming pool as much for water polo and kayaking as for training & galas.

The Sixth Form Centre offers a taste of university living. Set over two mezzanine floors at the very heart of the School, the contemporary, glass-fronted building provides large, light spaces in which to study and relax with friends.

REST & PLAY

The centre is open daily from 7.30am to 6pm. Hot and cold food is available throughout the day from the Brasserie; there are comfortable areas to work and to socialise with access to wireless internet throughout.

Much of your social life will be focused on the Sixth Form Centre, the heart and hub of the Sixth Form community, but it is only two minutes into Nottingham on the tram if you want to venture out at lunchtime.

We take as much pride in developing you as people as we do in your academic results

Education here extends way beyond the classroom

Helping you to realise your ambitions for university study and your future career is important to us.

Your personal Tutor, the Sixth Form team and the Careers Department will offer expert guidance every step of the way; from researching and selecting the right courses and universities, to helping you complete your UCAS form and make the strongest application you can.

There is no set path; our focus is always on you as an individual. We run special events explaining the university application procedure for both students and parents, concentrating on the most important aspects of decision making and tertiary education.

We give advice on apprenticeships for those exploring that route. If you are applying for specialist courses such as Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science, or other courses at the most competitive universities, we provide extra support.

Our approach works. Each year our students go on to study sought after courses at prestigious universities both in this country and abroad.

When you leave, you can stay in touch through the Old Nottinghamians’ Community. They provide useful social networks, contacts and advice for the world of work; they also organise regular social events and informal reunions to ensure that friendships live on long after you have left us.

MOVING ON

T Y P I C

Earliest time of arrival for students. Sport and Music Breakfast available in the Dining Hall (parents welcome) Reception, Student Services Office, Switchboard, Library and ICT Centre open Warning Bell to move to Form groups, Tutor set or Assembly (5 minutes) Form groups, Tutor set or Assembly (25 minutes) Transfer time Period 1 (60 minutes) Transfer time Period 2 (60 minutes) Break Period 3 (60 minutes) Lunch and Activities (70 minutes) Period 4 (60 minutes) Transfer time Period 5 (60 minutes) School Finishes Reception and Switchboard close.

Sixth Form centre closes. Latest time for Sixth Formers to leave, if not involved in an after-school activity

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07:30 – 08:40 07:45 – 08:40 08:00 08:40 – 08:45 08:45 – 09:10 09:10 – 09:15 09:15 – 10:15 10:15 – 10:20 10:20 – 11:20 11:20 – 11:45 11:45 – 12:45 12:45 – 13:55 13:55 – 14:55 14:55 – 15:00 15:00 – 16:00 16:00 – 16:30 17:00 18:00

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A DAY IN THE LIFE

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From September 2024

Fees are reviewed annually

Tuition Fees Individual music tuition Instrument Hire School Lunch

£6,275 per term £24.84 per 20 minutes £50 per term Pay as you go using Wisepay

The cost of stationery, exercise and text books is included in the tuition fee. Parents may wish to consider covering the School fees by means of insurance schemes. The School cannot endorse any particular scheme, but further information is available from your financial adviser. Fees are due before the start of each term and are paid by Direct Debit

DEPOSITS

RESULTS 2022 A LEVEL Number of Pupils 129 % of A* grades 33.2% % of A* and A grades 58.6% % A*, A and B grades 84.5% Number of Pupils with 3 or more A grades 57 GCSE Number of Pupils 117 % of A*/9/8 grades 61.4% % of A* and A or 7+ grades 81.8% % A*, A and B/6 grades 94.3% Number of Pupils with full set of A*/9 grades 3 Number of Pupils with all A*/9/8 grades 17

Parents will be asked to pay a deposit of £800 within two weeks of an offer being made. In the event of a child not taking up his or her place, the deposit will only be returnable under special circumstances at the discretion of the Nottingham High School Headmaster and Governors.

SIXTH FORM LEAVERS

APPLICATIONS

University Applying to University in 2023

A minimum of 5 As / 7s at GCSE is required for entry into Sixth Form. We will request an academic reference from the prospective student's current school, and upon receipt will schedule an entrance interview. We encourage Sixth Form applications for September 2024 entry to be submitted by 1st December 2023. Beyond this date, applications are considered but we cannot guarantee that we will be able to meet subject choices or places available.

Once we have received your application and registration fee, we will send you an acknowledgement which will include details of the selection procedures.

If successful, a place will be offered within two weeks of the interview and your acceptance will then be expected within two weeks, together with a deposit of £800. The offer of a place is conditional on the required grades being achieved at GCSE.

FEES

121 6

DEGREE COURSES Business/Management/Administration Computer Science Creative Arts/Music Engineering/Technology English Humanities Languages Law Mathematics Medicine/Dentistry/Veterinary Medicine Sciences Social Sciences

16 6 4 17 4 15 3 3 6 17 11 20

Please get in touch by emailing admissions@nottinghamhigh.co.uk or by calling us on 0115 845 2232 and we will send you an application form.

SCHOOL POLICIES Our Safeguarding Policy alongside all other Policies are available on the School website: www.nottinghamhigh.co.uk/policies Hard copies of any policy are available upon request.

POLICIES HOW TO FIND US

CHAIR OF GOVERNORS

We are a short walk or tram journey from Nottingham Town Centre, with ‘The High School’ tram stop on the doorstep.

Directions and information on transport links can be found on our website www.nottinghamhigh.co.uk

The current chairman of Governors is Mr S. Banks. He can be contacted by email at chairman@nottinghamhigh.co.uk

Nottingham High School, Waverley Mount, Nottingham NG7 4ED