The Sixth Form College Birkenhead Prospectus 2015

the sixth form college Prospectus | September 2015 Entry

Contents Wirral’s Sixth Form College............................................. 7 Why Choose Us................................................................11 Course Choices................................................................14 Level 3 Courses................................................................16 Level 2 Courses................................................................18 Support for Learning & Achievement..........................20 Progression......................................................................22 Student Life......................................................................25 Getting to College...........................................................28 Applying to College........................................................29 facebook.com/birkenheadsixthformcollege @BSFC

Scan the QR code to visit our college website on your mobile

Our Values Having the highest standards and expectations in everything we do Delivering high quality teaching and learning Enabling all learners and staff to achieve their full potential Creating a challenging and supportive educational experience Fostering confidence, independence, personal growth and aspirations Promoting equality of opportunity and respect in a safe learning environment

Mission Statement

To be an outstanding Sixth Form College providing high quality education for all.

3

The Sixth Form College - Birkenhead: Wirral’s sixth form college, specialising in A Level and BTEC courses for 16-19 year olds.

4

Welcome I am delighted that you are considering The Sixth Form College to continue your education. We are proud to be Wirral’s specialist sixth form college and a Centre of Academic Excellence for sixth form studies.

We offer excellent opportunities for students who want to move on from school and study in a college environment that allows them to develop as young adults and provides a springboard to university, employment and a rewarding career. Many students go on to Oxbridge and other top performing universities including those in the Russell Group.

Our college provides a mature and supportive atmosphere underpinned by a strong work ethic. This year we have opened new facilities to further complement the expert teaching by our highly committed, subject specialist staff. It means even more resources to help students make the transition from school to higher level study and to achieve their full potential.

We have high expectations of our students and believe that all can aspire, achieve and succeed. Each year our students are able to excel in their studies and attain results that exceed both local and national levels.

We look forward to welcoming you and encourage you to come along to a college Open Evening where you can meet current students and staff to find out more about the exciting opportunities on offer with us.

Kathryn Podmore Principal

We have made every effort to ensure that the information contained in this prospectus is accurate at the time of printing. The College reserves the right to make changes and cannot accept liability arising out of, or in connection with any revision.

5

expect more from your sixth form

You have high expectations, so have we.

Here are some you can expect from us:

Expect outstanding results at a high achieving Academic

Centre of Excellence

Expect to be taught by experienced, highly qualified subject

specialists

Expect the widest range of A Levels and BTEC courses and combinations in the area

Expect exceptional levels of support Expect to benefit from ÂŁ3.5 million investment in new

state-of-the-art facilities

Expect respect and to study with like-minded young adults Expect easy travel options to and from college from across Wirral Expect to take the perfect pathway to University or employment Expect to feel welcomed into our Sixth Form College community

6

High quality teaching and learning at Wirral’s Sixth Form College We are proud to be Wirral’s Sixth Form College one of just 94 specialist colleges across England.

As a Sixth Form College we are experts in educating 16-19 year olds from across Wirral and students join from all local schools and beyond. We offer the widest choice of A Level programmes in the area and the opportunity to study at a specialist sixth form provider with expert teachers and high-quality facilities.

We believe in the potential in all individuals and foster a culture of high aspirations for all students who study with us.

Our personalised approach, portfolio of courses and flexibility in timetabling allows us to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to study a programme that meets individual needs, to achieve the best results and support them for their next move.

Raising the Participation Age Raising the Participation Age requires a young person to stay in education until 17, but this does not mean you have to stay at the school you are currently at. You can choose to enrol at The Sixth Form College - a Centre of Academic Excellence for sixth form studies, and choose from the widest range of A Levels and BTECs in Wirral.

7

The College Advantage Research proves it. Sixth form college students are:

More likely to achieve top grades at A Level 7% more likely to achieve A*/A grades More likely to pass AS levels This is compared to students at non-selective, school-based sixth forms - taking into account similar subjects, GCSE results, catchment, family incomes, gender and ethnicity.

Source: 2012 study by Professor Daniel Muijs and Dr Natasha Rumyantseva, Education School, University of Southampton - as reported in The Times, August 16, 2012

Sixth Fo studentsrm College are m likely to achieve ore higher levels than theof attainment ir selective peers in nonm Sixth For aintained Academyms and Six Forms* th

succeed in all you do 8

* Source: 2014 study by London Economics: ‘Assessing value for money in Sixth Form education’

As a Sixth Form College we offer young people the opportunity to move on from school and we act as a valuable stepping stone between the worlds of compulsory education, and higher education and employment. The mature environment and wide range of activities we offer allow students to flourish and develop into young adults with a portfolio of skills and fully prepared for their next step.

To be a student at a sixth form college is to be part of an elite but not elitist group.

The evidence speaks for itself.

Take a look at the conclusions of recent reports by Southampton University academics. Sixth form college students have a greater likelihood of achieving top grades, more A*/A grades and AS passes thanks to: More choice of courses and combinations More specialist teachers - expert in teaching 16-19 year olds More opportunities to develop in a mature, young adult environment

‘The College has a strong focus on high aspirations and continuous improvement’ OFSTED December 2012

9

What sets a sixth form college apart from school?

More choice of courses, available in any subject combination, to suit each student’s ambitions and abilities.

Dedicated sixth form teachers and specialist support staff.

An adult approach to student learning, providing a ‘stepping stone’ from school to the world of employment or university.

Learning environments designed for sixth form study.

Sixth form colleges statistically outperform all other providers of 16-18 education.*

99% A L pass ratevel higher the both the an irral and natiW on average al

specialist learning environment

support ambition

dedicated

choice

outperform stepping stone

10

* Source: 2012 report by Sixth Form Colleges Association: ‘Sixth Sense - How Sixth Form Colleges help students progress to higher education and beyond’.

Why choose us?

A great education is never down to just one factor but to many influences that combine to offer students the very best chance of success.

At The Sixth Form College we are proud of the opportunities we offer students living in Wirral in terms of choice, achievement, progression, support and facilities.

“You’re encouraged to grow and develop into a responsible and conscientious adult - it has truly been the best decision of my life to continue my studies here” Jay Rourke

11

Choice The widest choice of A Levels and BTECs in Wirral Expert guidance to help students match choices with career aspirations A timetable that can accommodate virtually all combinations of student choices

Achievement 99% pass rate at A Level in 2014 - higher than the Wirral and national average Our A Level results are better than 72% of all other schools and colleges nationwide Majority of students make better than expected progress Over 26 years experience of educating and supporting young people in Wirral

Progression

More students going on to university than from any other Wirral sixth form The perfect stepping stone to Higher Education, further training or a career Dedicated staff to offer guidance into employment and further training Experienced tutors to support UCAS applications Work experience opportunities

12

Support

Outstanding help and encouragement every step of the way Caring teachers who are specialists in teaching 16-19 year olds Personal and Guidance Tutors who offer individual guidance Support throughout the Higher Education application process including visits to Oxbridge and other top universities, dedicated Russell Group advice via a University of Liverpool scheme, plus help with choices and personal statements Academic writing programme to enhance performance through improved writing Subject Plus sessions for students who would benefit from extra help in specific subjects

Facilities

Dedicated, single-site environment including The Hub - an exciting, university-style integrated learning space over two floors New facilities include: - New School of Art and Design - New Humanities building - New Science laboratories - New Learning Support area - New Student common room area and conservatory - Extended multi-gym

“Learn develop ers go personal od social an , employa d bili skills� ty OF STED Decembe r 2012

13

Course choices We offer all the help and advice you need to choose the best combination of courses for you as part of your overall study programme. Use the results/choices table below to start moving in the right direction: Predicted / Actual results

Course Choices

5 GCSEs at A* - C (including Maths or English Language)

Level 3 courses A Levels and BTEC qualifications

GCSEs at C - D

Level 2 courses BTECs and GCSEs

GCSEs at E - F

Please contact the Admissions Team for advice

All th guidanc e e need to b you u the right ild programm for you e

For detailed and up to date information on all subjects and courses visit www.bsfc.ac.uk 14

“The College is a great stepping stone between school and university and really helps you discover who you are, what you’re good at and what you need to improve” Gemma Carolan

15

Level 3 Courses Advanced Level A Levels and BTEC qualifications This illustrates a basic Level 3 pathway. We interview all students and offer places on an individual basis - tailoring a programme that takes into account the individual’s potential and aspirations.

We may take BTEC or other vocational qualifications into consideration if achieved at Merit to Distinction*.

University or employment or further education / other higher education course

Year 2 study 3 or 4 A Level subjects / BTEC equivalent qualifications

Year 1 study 4 or 5 A Level subjects / BTEC equivalent qualifications

ENTRY: 5 separate GCSEs including Maths and/or English Language grades A* - C

16

Choose from the following A Level subjects (AS and A2 including Applied subjects): Art & Design - Fine Art

Geography

Art & Design - Graphics

Government & Politics

Art & Design - Textiles

Health & Social Care

Biology

History

Business (Applied)

ICT (Applied)

Chemistry

Law

Computing

Mathematics

Dance

Mathematics - Further

Design Technology

Media Studies

Drama & Theatre Studies

Music

Economics

Physics

English Language

Psychology

English Language and Literature

Religious Studies

English Literature

Spanish

Sociology

Film Studies

Sport & Physical Education

French

Statistics (AS Only)

General Studies

BTEC Level 3 Qualification Subsidiary Diploma

Diploma

Business

Business

Law

ICT

Applied Science

Forensic Science

Equivalent to: 2 A levels

Equivalent to: 1 A level

Extended Diploma

Equivalent to: 3 A levels

Health & Social Care

Medical Science Sport

“The tutors put time into ensuring you understand the course content and are always willing to give extra support�

Sam Jones

This is a full-time programme that includes weekly work placements.

17

Level 2 Courses BTECs and GCSE qualifications This illustrates a basic Level 2 study pathway. We interview all students and offer places on an individual basis - tailoring a programme that takes into account the individual’s potential and aspirations.

Years 2 and 3 study Level 3 (Advanced Level) courses see pages 16 and 17 for further information

Year 1 study BTEC Level 2 Diploma May include GCSE resits (or equivalent courses) in Maths and/or English

ENTRY: GCSEs mostly at grade C or D

BTEC Level 2 Diploma Art & Design

ICT

Business

Media

Health & Social Care

Science

GCSE / Level 2 English

Maths

The College reserves the right to place students on an alternative Level 2 qualification in Maths or English. The qualification offered will be appropriate to the student’s level of ability and will be confirmed following a short assessment at the start of term.

For detailed and up to date information on all subjects and courses

visit www.bsfc.ac.uk/courses 18

“New students should join The Sixth Form College because it is a great place to study, and really engages you into using your imagination as well as making some great friends�

Jack Millington

19

Support for Learning and Achievement

Learning Support The College has a team of dedicated Learning Support staff, including Dyslexia specialists, who can provide support, advice and guidance for students with a wide range of learning support needs.

Tailored support can include: Support from a Learning Support Assistant inside or outside of the classroom to help with organisation, research, assignments or private study Dyslexia support Group support or discrete support in the classroom Note takers or readers Special examination considerations such as rest breaks, psychological support, extra time, readers, scribe or separate exam conditions Technical support including the loan of equipment such as laptops The team works closely with students, parents, schools, external agencies and college staff to ensure a smooth transition from school to college and students are encouraged to attend taster sessions before they start.

20

Advanced Academic Writing The Academic Writing Team support students to develop the academic writing skills required for Advanced Level study that involve being able to interpret a task effectively and provide a coherent and professional response. Students’ confidence and grades increase with the support from the Academic Writing tutors.

The support offered by the team includes; help with planning and structuring assignments and examination essays help and support with timing in examination essays help in proof reading skills help with referencing, citations and constructing a bibliography within assignments

Subject Plus Sessions Subject Plus sessions are timetabled sessions for students who would benefit from additional help and guidance in particular subjects.

Study Hall Study Hall is a timetabled session when students have an opportunity to do exam practice or attend extra lessons.

21

Stepping stone to a rewarding career The Sixth Form College is about far more than great teaching and excellent results.

Our expert Personal and Guidance Tutors and careers specialists are on hand to help students develop the skills and confidence they need to prepare for Higher Education and the world of work.

Above all we equip students to make the most of their new freedom and independence – to manage learning and plan their time as productively as possible.

develop

your potential

22

Full preparation for Higher Education Our Personal and Guidance Tutors get to know students extremely well and are there to help at all stages of the UCAS application process.

From information on Open Days and talks from former students, to organised trips to Oxford, Cambridge and other universities, we help students make the best choices to match their ability and ambition.

Our mentoring scheme with the University of Liverpool is aimed specifically at inspiring students to progress to a Russell Group University. This is a unique opportunity offered to our students who will benefit from talks and lectures by university staff and receive expert guidance.

Expert careers advice: one-to-one and online Students wishing to build careers straight after college also benefit from personalised support as part of their tutorial programme and our Careers Portal has software and online exercises covering all aspects of how to apply for jobs and apprenticeships and gain experience in interview techniques.

Access to valuable work experience Work experience is a vital foundation for developing students’ confidence and experience. So we make it an integral component of many A Level and BTEC courses. We also encourage students to take up work shadowing opportunities and voluntary placements.

00 Over 3 ress to og nts pr om The e d u t s r e rsity f unive orm Colleg n F Sixth r - more tha ea ral each y y other Wir n from a th form six

23

“A positive atmosphere of mutual respect among students is evident around the college�

OFSTED December 2012

24

Student life We’re The College for people who are going places Life at The Sixth Form College is busy, fun and productive. We work hard and play hard too - offering all the support, facilities, social life and CV-building activities you would expect at Wirral’s specialist Sixth Form College.

Tailored support to fulfil your potential

Personal and Guidance tutors - who get to know you well, working with you to ensure you make the most of your strengths and your time with us Weekly tutorials - covering topics such as Higher Education choices, careers, finance, personal safety and current affairs, as well as talks from a range of diverse speakers Expert Higher Education support - including help with UCAS applications plus access to university talks and open days at Oxbridge and other top universities Subject enhancement sessions - additional preparation and support in the lead up to exams

25

Exciting CV-building opportunities BE A STUDENT AMBASSADOR

Staff nominate students to represent the College and student body at internal and external events

SUPPORT FUN FUNDRAISING EVENTS

Including Children in Need, Comic Relief, Battle of the Bands, all organised

by Student Ambassadors and Head Student team

APPLY TO BE HEAD STUDENT

Your chance to represent your fellow students

JOIN SUBJECT TRIPS

To stimulating, course-relevant destinations including Iceland, Germany, Spain as well as UK locations

EARN THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S GOLD AWARD

No previous experience necessary, includes two expeditions to Snowdonia

VOLUNTEER

Arrange your own or college can help you find an opportunity

LEARN A NEW SKILL

Anything from British Sign Language to First Aid

BE A SPORT

Play football, rugby, basketball, netball, badminton and the college multi-gym is free to use

TAKE A CHALLENGE Anything from climbing the Three Peaks to completing an environmental project

JOIN A CLUB

Covering debating, film and many more

LEARN A LANGUAGE

Including Mandarin Chinese and other world languages

DO WORK EXPERIENCE

Organise a work experience placement with employers or apply to take part in national work experience schemes with leading multi-national organisations.

26

High quality IT & other resources The Hub - open access computers, text books, ebooks, journals, HE/Careers guidance, video wall. All operated by experienced staff Cutting-Edge technology - cross campus Wi-Fi that students can access on their own mobile devices, remote access to industry standard software packages and College files from home, access to a range of free Microsoft applications and Microsoft training as part of the College’s Microsoft Academy, personalised virtual learning environment plus a large number of IT devices for students’ use.

Great social mix

8SQ - our student common room, THE place to meet up over coffee or lunch Students from across Wirral and beyond - the chance to make new friends

Flying High: Our tailored programme for high achievers We fully appreciate the importance of ‘stretch and challenge’ offering a comprehensive range of options for high performing students including: Liverpool University Scholar’s Scheme Oxbridge opportunities Extended Project Qualification

27

Getting to College is easy

How to find The Sixth Form College The Sixth Form College is in Claughton Village next to Birkenhead Park.

By bus… The College is accessible via an extensive bus

network and there are regular buses to and from the College from across Wirral.

College bus services operate from West Wirral and South Wirral.

A FREE shuttle bus service runs each morning from Birkenhead rail stations to the College.

By rail… The College is a ten-minute walk from Birkenhead Park station.

By car… The College is a five-minute drive from Birkenhead town centre and is easily accessible from all parts of Wirral.

Information on the different travel options is available at:

www.bsfc.ac.uk

28

Applying to the College Here’s how the application process works:

First things first Submit an application form online at www.bsfc.ac.uk or complete an application form which is available to download online or from the College reception.

Nice to meet you We hold interview evenings from December onwards. This is a chance to discuss your predicted/actual GCSE results, course choices and recent school reports.

Your offer Following your interview, we will get in touch with news of your offer.

Getting to know us To help you settle in quickly, we invite you to attend our New Student Induction for all new students in June/July.

Start at College Time for new friends, teachers - and success!

Open Evenings Find out more at our Open Evenings Open Evenings are a great opportunity to visit the College, meet current students and talk to subject tutors about courses. Do join us on any of the following dates:

2014

Wednesday 12th November - 6-8pm

2015

Wednesday 21st January - 6-8pm Wednesday 18th March - 6-8pm

Competi for placetion high - so s is early to s apply the coursecure your cho e of ice!

29

the centre of academic excellence Park Road West, Claughton Village Prenton, Wirral CH43 8SQ Tel: 0151 652 5575 | www.bsfc.ac.uk