Welcome to the Sixth Form
Where girls’ ambitions take off
The sixth form is bursting with opportunities to help every single girl develop into the best version of herself.
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Welcome
Welcome to Portsmouth High School Sixth Form and to the next exciting chapter in your educational journey...
Being a member of our sixth form means being part of a unique, closeknit community of ambitious and adventurous learners, who work creatively and collaboratively to achieve their very best. Our pupils delight in both the academic and co-curricular opportunities we provide, as well as the important friendships that are forged and life lessons learned during this next important chapter of your life.
We offer a wide range of subjects to study at A Level that are regarded as the gold standard as far as academic study is concerned. All our options are highly respected by top universities. We will create a bespoke, personalised timetable for each of our pupils. This allows you to continue studying the subjects that you love, extending your understanding and exploring them in greater depth. Undoubtedly you will find the work more challenging at this level, but also more satisfying. You may also, of course, decide to pursue a new option and additionally, you can make use of the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) which is offered to all pupils, to enable you to research an area of particular interest and to further enhance your university applications with the equivalent of an AS Level. PHS sixth formers are ambitious learners, encouraged to seek out challenges, take risks and embrace opportunities. Our classes provide the chance for you to experience
individualised learning and to form strong and productive working relationships with staff and peers alike.
Outside of the classroom, we offer a multitude of leadership pathways and initiatives to develop your sense of social responsibility. You may stand for election to the Head Girl or House Captain teams, offer peer support to your fellow pupils, represent the school in public speaking or as a member of one of our Duke of Edinburgh expedition teams, lead a charity fundraising project – the list is endless.
Through our enrichment programme, you will also be equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle all aspects of the next phase of your life. From careers guidance to money matters, cookery to driving, impressing at interview, and delivering the perfect presentation – we’ve got you covered.
The hallmark of a Portsmouth High School sixth former can be seen in both her success and her spirit. We will provide you with the confidence and competence you need to achieve; the lessons you learn here will stay with you throughout your life.
This is an incredibly exciting time for you, as you start to plan your future, beginning with your A Level
choices. I am sure you will enjoy having a good read through this prospectus. I am always on hand for a chat or to answer any questions. Drop me an email or call in to see me in my office within sixth form house, my door is always open, and I would welcome the opportunity to tell you more.
Mrs Katie J Wood Assistant Head (Pupils) and Head of Sixth Form k.wood@por.gdst.net 023 9282 6714
Academic Success
Girls learn differently and we set no limits on the ambitions that they set for themselves...
This summer saw another round of highly successful examination results for PHS sixth form students. Girls at PHS consistently achieve above their potential and thrive within our dynamic learning culture.
Their success is borne of their hard work and ambition but also bespoke and excellent teaching within the classroom. Girls are taught in small class sizes which enables highly personalised and targeted teaching. Their learning experience mirrors that of university seminars and encourages them to take risks and think creatively. At PHS we recognise that girls learn differently and we set no limits on the ambitions that they set for themselves.
Study Programme
Girls typically choose three A Level options for study. Along with their A Level subjects they will have Athene lessons and some
sessions of physical education. The remainder of the time is available for private study. You will meet your tutor every morning for registration and have an hour long tutorial once a week. One morning a week there is also a whole sixth form assembly.
Athene (Enrichment Programme)
Our enrichment programme is designed to ensure that the sixth form experience is focused on the whole education of the individual and not just examination results.
The programme consists of two hours a week of dedicated time to the EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) and typically 98% of the cohort obtain A*/A grades. This is an AS level equivalent and it is designed to ensure that students develop the skills required for university – such as research methods and time management.
Tutors mentor small groups of no more than six girls on a research project of their own choosing where 40% of the marks available are given for ‘how’ the project is completed and not just the outcome. Highly regarded by university admissions tutors, the project allows students to extend their learning beyond the A Level syllabus and to pursue an area of interest in detail. It is a great way of developing confidence in presenting work and is excellent preparation for university.
In addition we offer a range of ‘life skills’ courses taught in hourly sessions including: driver awareness, cookery, employability skills, financial awareness and presentation skills.
We also offer a Wellbeing course designed to help students understand how best to manage their workload, co-curricular activities and life in general.
Meet our students...
A Level subjects - Biology, Chemistry and Geography
I joined Portsmouth High school in Year 1 in 2012. Since then, I have fully embraced life at PHS.
The opportunities I have been given have been incredible, and I’ve cherished every moment of my journey. Some of my best memories at the senior school include our netball trip to Condover Hall in Year 8, Sports Days, Charity Week, the Fashion Show and participating in the annual PHS vs PGS rugby team netball match in sixth form.
Currently, I’m studying biology, chemistry and geography at A Level. Additionally, I’m undertaking an EPQ focused on Parkinson’s Disease in association with gut health. This year I was selected to take part in GDST LEAD (Leadership Enterprise Advanced Diploma) which has ignited my passion for business and entrepreneurship. I hope to combine this, with my interest in human biology and neurodegenerative disease, by pursuing a degree in Neuroscience with Entrepreneurship at University.
As a sports scholar, I’ve had the privilege of representing Portsmouth High School in various sports teams and playing for the Girls Day School Trust (GDST) Select netball squad. Being part of these teams has significantly boosted my confidence both on and off the court. It has also taught me the importance of being a team player. The guidance and encouragement from my teachers have played a crucial role in my academic growth and overall development. It has inspired me to aim higher and achieve my best.
I am honoured to be elected as Head Girl and to be part of such a great Senior Prefect team. I look forward to welcoming new members of the school and being the best role model I can be to the younger years. Collaborating closely with other students and teachers, I’m committed to making a meaningful contribution to our school community. This year we will be fundraising for the Lily Foundation on behalf of Otto’s Legacy. I am grateful for the opportunity to support such a beautiful cause.
PHS provides a highly supportive learning environment for all pupils. This has encouraged my ambitions and helped me to navigate not only my schoolwork but also to explore my abilities across so many different areas.
I have always been inspired to face new challenges with confidence and enthusiasm. As an academic scholar I have developed my growth mindset, enabling me to learn from my mistakes, and have been fully supported in taking part in the school’s GATE programme. This year, creating the school science newsletter, ‘The Microscopic Times’, with a view to making science-related news more accessible and engaging for all year groups. This has been a fun and energising experience, especially receiving feedback from my teachers and peers.
I am currently taking A Levels in chemistry, biology and mathematics with a view to hopefully studying medicine at
university. In addition to this, I am completing an EPQ which has allowed me to independently explore and research a topic of my own interest, a unique opportunity that I am thoroughly enjoying.
Outside the classroom, I’ve enjoyed being a member of the Symphonic Orchestra, volunteering for a local alumna and working towards my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, all of which have helped me to improve a number of key skills including teamwork and communication. The huge range of co-curricular opportunities on offer at PHS is invaluable for broadening your horizons and skill sets for life beyond PHS. And, over the next year, I aim to encourage others to get more involved.
I am honoured to have the opportunity of being part of the head girl team for the next academic year and am looking forward to seeing what we will achieve as we begin fundraising for the Lily Foundation.
Anusha
A Level subjects - Chemistry, Biology and Mathematics
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The uplifting atmosphere has definitely motivated me to do my best to succeed and aim high.
AMY
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Pastoral Care and Well-being
A unique and vitally important feature of our sixth form offer is our programme of pastoral support and care.
Girls are placed in tutor groups and have a form tutor. The form is like a mini family, where students look out for each other and share their insights and experiences of the A Level journey. Their tutor plays a highly supportive and nurturing role; and our tutors know their tutees incredibly well.
Alongside this, our Head of Sixth and her deputy provide pastoral support and care for the sixth form girls. We have a ‘the door is always open’ culture within the sixth form and our girls feel supported to talk openly about issues that are important to them. The sixth form has a successful mentoring system, which promotes resilience and independence. At the heart of our tutorial and enrichment programme is a commitment to student well-being and student happiness which leads the ethos of our school.
Outside the classroom...
If you want something done, ask a busy person. Work hard, play hard. “
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The Co-curricular Offer
Busy students are happy students, and there is a rich programme of activities beyond the classroom which ensures that all sixth formers enjoy a rewarding experience. Students run academic societies, in everything from medicine and science to philosophy, which provide opportunities to take their knowledge to the next level. Guest speakers, discussion forums and Sixth Form Council bring our students into contact with the world beyond the school gates, whilst an endless variety of music ensembles and sports teams encourages outstanding performance and team spirit. With musicals, plays and art exhibitions every year, there is a chance for everyone to show off their creative side too.
Physical challenge is part of the mix: bonding events and BBQs encourage everyone to push their own limits higher. Gold Duke of Edinburgh expeditions set the standard for fitness and resilience (especially in the wind and rain of Mount Snowdon). We go further afield too and our more intrepid types enthusiastically embrace the challenges of volunteering expeditions, most recently to South Africa.
Sixth form students make a real difference to the wider community — and learn a good deal about themselves in the process. Charity work is at the heart of sixth form life and each year we aim to raise at least £10,000 to support a variety of ventures, local and further afield. Fashion Shows, sponsored sky dives, battles of the bands and charity balls are just some of the events which get the whole community buzzing.
Bespoke Careers Advice
Careers is a key aspect of sixth form life at Portsmouth High School and students have unlimited access to a full-time, dedicated Careers Advisor
Skills Workshops
In Year 12 Employability Skills workshops form a valuable part of the Sixth Form Enrichment Programme. This culminates during the summer term with a visit to a university open day (University of Oxford every other year, alternating with Surrey or Sussex).
There is also a Careers Countdown event featuring alumnae in a Q&A panel offering, “Advice to my 16-year-old self”. This is followed by a skills workshop and a networking lunch when Year 12 host returning alumnae and are given the opportunity to put their new found skills into practice.
Careers Appointments
Careers appointments are readily available with our dedicated member of staff on hand to conduct ad hoc research for individuals and to identify and pursue opportunities for specific ambitions. Involvement in such activities adds value to each individual’s personal statement and university application really setting them apart from the crowd.
GDST Opportunities
As pupils of a GDST school our sixth formers are able to access a wealth of opportunities through GDST Insight Days at companies such as Gardiner and Theobold, Sky, Nomura, PWC, Rolls Royce and Siemens. Preparing candidates for the world of work has never been so important and we put a huge emphasis on exposure to the workplace as part of our careers education.
Morrisby Profiles
Each student’s Morrisby psychometric report and unique online careers page helps our careers team work with each individual to make plans for their
Head
of Careers, Mrs Davies
university application and support each student to develop their career goals. Although these profiles are done the year before joining the sixth form, students who are new to the school in Year 12 will be profiled and have the same level of support and advice.
Insight Days
Working closely with the local business community and the GDST to arrange insight days, competitions and work experience placements, the careers department is able to organise, for example, individual insights to an industry or profession.
Mock Interviews
Mock interviews with industry professionals also form an invaluable aspect of the university application process and are arranged for every Year 12 student in the early stages of the autumn term. Pre-med workshops are organised for aspiring medics, vets and dentists in the spring of Year 12.
What does it mean to be an alumna?
Being a Portsmouth High School and GDST alumna offers endless opportunities. The GDST have recently partnered with rungway.com, the online mentoring platform to create a pioneering app – GDST rungway – giving current sixth formers instant access to the wisdom of our alumnae – at the touch of a button.
And for alumnae just starting out in their careers, there is the option of one-to-one mentoring with volunteer alumnae willing to share the secrets of their own success.
On your way to becoming a leader...
Each student has a personal development plan, recording their skills and achievements in individual and team projects.
Sixth formers can apply to be Prefects or stand for election as Head Girls and House Captains. Prefects are offered opportunities in PR and Marketing, Clubs and Societies, Eco-Team projects and liaison with the prep school. Peer Supporters move up to become Peer Leaders, and all students receive presentation skills training which proves invaluable in their future careers.
MARCY “
I think that the part of the PHS sixth form which makes it stand out from the rest is the constant feeling of warmth that surrounds you.
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Meet our students...
Kate
A Level subjects - Mathematics, Chemistry and History
I joined Portsmouth High School when I was in Year Two – and can honestly say that I have never wished to pursue my education anywhere else. It feels very strange to be going into my 12th and final year here – and I am so grateful and excited that I can make the most of it by being on the Head Girl team.
I am currently taking A Levels in mathematics, chemistry, and history – along with an EPQ on the subject of politics and sport. I am hoping to either pursue a degree apprenticeship or attend university to study data science (or something similar). I also know I want to travel, as I think that it will be an incredible experience which would definitely push me out of my comfort zone.
Whilst at school I have had so many incredible opportunities which have allowed me to develop the skills needed so that I can do the best that I can in this role. From DofE to GDST LEAD, netball fixtures to school trips – I have been able to develop
my confidence both inside and outside the classroom. The experiences that I have had at school have been invaluable and I know that all the skills I have learned will help me a lot in the future.
I am honoured to be the deputy head girl in charge of charities, as this is the aspect of the head girl team which I am the most excited about. As a Year 12, I loved getting involved with charity week and the fashion show as well as all the other events which the school had to offer. Being able to bring the entire school together to support such a worthy cause is such a beautiful part of our school experience, and I am honoured to now play a larger part in it.
I know we have made the right choice in supporting the Lily Foundation – and I hope that as a school we will all help to raise as much money as possible in Otto’s legacy.
Sophie
A Level subjects - Biology, Chemistry and Mathematics
I truly am enjoying my time as a sixth form student. I feel completely comfortable around my peers and the staff in the sixth form house, and there’s so much to look forward to with Charity Week approaching next academic year, the trip to Borneo this summer and the numerous music concerts I enjoy getting involved in.
For A Levels, I am studying biology, chemistry and mathematics, alongside an EPQ. I have aspiration to study chemistry further at university, either on its own or integrated into a natural sciences degree. My top choices are currently Edinburgh and Durham, although it’s unfortunate how far away they are from Southsea.
A Levels are hard, but the school gives us endless support and encouragement to achieve our best. It really feels like the teachers have our backs, whilst also giving
us space to develop our independence. The freedoms of sixth form mean we must learn to manage our time, and the leadership positions allow us take on new responsibilities.
Being part of the Head Girl team is an honour and a thrill. As the Pupil Voice deputy, I will be chairing the student council meetings, where I can listen to the students’ ideas for ways to make the school even more inclusive, sustainable, and supportive. I hope to use the student feedback to help continue to make positive changes within PHS.
A Level subjects - History, Religious Studies and French
I joined Portsmouth High School in summer 2019 after moving house and immediately felt at home here. The friendly, supportive environment has encouraged me to aspire and challenge myself ever since. Now in the sixth form, I am studying history, religious studies and French at A Level as well as being heavily involved in the music life of the school and writing an EPQ on
the development of women’s football.
I am loving the sixth form. The house is a beautiful setting to work in and my A Levels are rigorous but enjoyable. Throughout Year 12 I have enjoyed many events such as the charity week fashion show and the annual gala concert where I had the honour of performing a solo for the
first time. In addition, I have taken part in numerous debating competitions which have grown my public speaking skills. Being a music scholar has given me the opportunity to get to know many girls in younger year groups. For example, since Year 9, I have run a select choir for girls in Year 7 who love to sing. It’s been brilliant to see their ability to sing both individually and as a group improve and I have enjoyed taking on that leadership position very much. As well as this I have volunteered in the prep school orchestra.
PHS has taught me since the beginning that your best achievements come from venturing outside your comfort zone. This is why I have continued the Duke of Edinburgh Award right
up to gold. Some of my most challenging moments have come on DofE expeditions but the feeling of completing a section or expedition exceeds the struggles and I have learnt and enjoyed so much from participating.
It’s a huge honour to have been selected for this year’s Head Girl Team. I am greatly looking forward to all our fundraising events as well as educating the girls on the reason why we have chosen the Lily Foundation. Getting to know the pupils through well-being events is very important to me and I hope to be a figure they can trust and feel comfortable talking to at any point. We are very close team with big aims and I’m so excited to see where this year takes us.
25 Kent Road, Southsea, Hampshire, PO5 3EQ 023 9282 6714
headsec@por.gdst.net
www.portsmouthhigh.co.uk www.gdst.net
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