Welcome
The continued success of the Senior School at Sherfield is a testament to the exceptional work ethic exhibited by our pupils, the expert guidance provided by our dedicated teaching staff, and the nurturing environment that Sherfield School consistently offers. These elements collectively contribute to the flourishing academic and personal development of our students.
I firmly believe that the achievements of the Senior School are significantly enhanced by the unique advantages of our all-through school model. At Sherfield, it is entirely possible for a student to begin their educational journey in the Early Years Centre at just three months old and to continue seamlessly through to Sixth Form as a young adult. This continuity allows our teachers and staff to develop a deep understanding of each pupil and their family, fostering smooth transitions at critical stages of their academic journey. By thoroughly knowing each student’s strengths and challenges, we are able to tailor our support to ensure that their academic, pastoral, and co-curricular outcomes are maximised. Furthermore, this long-term engagement enables us to provide future references that truly reflect a pupil’s personality and achievements.
While academic success remains at the core of our mission, we are equally committed to offering a breadth of opportunities that enable every pupil to realise their full potential beyond the confines of the classroom. Whether excelling in competitive sports, engaging in enriching extracurricular activities, establishing new societies, or organising charitable events, Sherfield pupils are consistently encouraged to take initiative and showcase their individual strengths.
For the Senior School staff, there is no greater reward than guiding ambitious and engaged young people as they grow into curious, confident adults and lifelong learners. At Sherfield, all members of staff are united in this shared goal, striving to nurture students who are not only academically accomplished but also resilient, compassionate, and self-aware citizens.
Zoe Neville-Harris Head of Seniors
Sherfield is a friendly school where children who would perhaps go “unnoticed” at other schools, can excel and grow in confidence in a lovely atmosphere. YEAR 10
Stimulating Senior School
Learning in the Senior School is dynamic, stimulating, and engaging, driven by passionate and forward-thinking teaching.
At Sherfield Senior School, our outstanding teachers are dedicated to preparing students for success in exams, employment, and admission to the world’s top universities Our rigorous assessment methods ensure that students are well-prepared for public examinations, fostering their growth into independent and responsible adults.
Sherfield Senior School implements the Sherfield Cares strategy, a comprehensive support system designed to assist students throughout their Senior School experience. As students transition into young adulthood, they often require guidance in navigating the academic, social, and emotional challenges that accompany this stage of development.
To address these needs, a collaborative effort is made by teachers, tutors, the Head of Phase, Deputy Heads of Phase, as well as the school nurse, counsellor, and SEND department. Together, these professionals ensure that each student receives the necessary support to realise their potential and thrive in all aspects of their growth.
Sherfield Senior School pupils demonstrate high aspirations, which are further nurtured through the seamless transition into Sixth Form and their A Level studies. This progression is supported by the strong relationships they develop with their teachers and the expert guidance provided throughout their time at the school, ensuring continuity in their academic and personal growth.
In addition to our own pupils who have excelled in the journey from Early Years to Prep to Senior, we also welcome pupils who have completed their preparatory education at other schools and would like to complete their GCSE and A Levels at Sherfield. A number of overseas pupils join into our Senior School also, allowing our Seniors and Sixth Formers to benefit from cultural learning experiences.
A number of different curriculum pathways are offered in the Seniors, which ensure that pupils are studying courses suited to their individual aptitudes and abilities.
Academic Excellence
We pride ourselves on delivering a dynamic and comprehensive curriculum designed to inspire, challenge, and support our students as they prepare for their futures.
In year 9 students study a broad range of subjects and topics to extend their knowledge and start to consider their future pathways. There is close monitoring of all work, with a view to giving careful individual advice to pupils as to the number and combinations of GCSE courses that would be appropriate for them.
Our senior school curriculum offers a blend of traditional and innovative subjects, fostering intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning. The curriculum is used as a minimum framework which we extend in many ways, providing a variety of courses and qualifications.
In Year 10, students engage in core studies of English, Mathematics, and Science, alongside mandatory components such as Games and PSHE. These are complemented by a selection of optional subjects, providing students with the flexibility to pursue areas aligned with their individual interests and talents. The pastoral team plays a crucial role in guiding these decisions, ensuring that each pupil is well-positioned to excel and achieve their aspirations.
The available subjects encompass a diverse range of disciplines. For those interested in Finance and Business, Economics and Business Studies offer foundational knowledge and skills. Psychology appeals to students with a scientific inclination, particularly those interested in exploring research or the complexities of the human mind. Humanities subjects cater to students seeking to deepen their understanding of the world and refine their critical analysis abilities. French and Spanish are ideal for students aspiring to participate in global markets, while the Arts—both creative and performing—provide a platform for those passionate about design or the creation of compelling artistic works, whether for personal fulfilment or professional endeavours.
These pathways both engage their interests and build perfectly to the future pathways for the students that exist in our Sixth Form to ensure that all pupils have expert advice and guidance to achieve their desired academic outcomes.
Staff’s individualised support for pupils leads to external examination results in the senior school which show that pupils make good progress from their starting points. Some pupils make rapid progress.
Timetabling ensures that there is enough free time during the school day in which all pupils can relax, play or socialise. Afterschool activities provide enrichment, relaxation and the opportunity to learn new skills.
Whole Education
We believe in providing a holistic education that goes beyond the classroom.
Throughout the Senior School, pupils are presented with numerous opportunities to broaden their horizons and develop as global citizens.
Our enrichment programme is designed to offer students a diverse range of opportunities to extend their learning and personal development beyond the standard curriculum.
Enrichment takes place on Friday afternoons, providing a dedicated time for students to engage in activities that foster growth and character development. This programme is structured around well-established and highly valued awards, ensuring that students gain recognition for their efforts and achievements.
All students are encouraged to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Award, with Sherfield School serving as a dedicated DofE centre. We offer the Bronze and Silver Awards, with many pupils progressing to achieve the Gold Award during their time in the Sixth Form.
Our experienced DofE team provides comprehensive support to pupils throughout their journey, complemented by our robust enrichment programme and the extensive after-school club offerings. These resources, available during extended school hours, significantly enhance the opportunities for students to successfully complete their awards.
For those who do not wish to complete the DofE Award, we offer a selection of pathway options including performance arts, sports coaching and performance, live worldwise, business and enterprise, literary society, environment and sustainability and STEAM.
We focus on holistic student development through a strong sports and PE programme that promotes physical fitness, teamwork and sportsmanship. We offer a range of activities, including athletics, gymnastics, swimming and team sports. Beyond fitness, we educate students on nutrition, injury prevention and balanced lifestyles. Our inclusive approach ensures every pupil can find their passion, with opportunities to participate in interschool competitions and tournaments.
Preparing for Your Future
At the culmination of their educational journey at Sherfield, our pupils consistently achieve outstanding results, enabling them to secure places at the most prestigious universities in the UK and abroad. Central to the Sherfield experience is comprehensive career advice and preparation for university, both of which are integral to our educational ethos.
We take pride in our individualised approach, working closely with both pupils and their parents to ensure that each student progresses to the next stage of their education in a manner that aligns with their personal goals and aspirations.
Careers education within the Senior School is seamlessly integrated with the Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) curriculum. In addition, pupils have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of various professions through initiatives such as “World of Work Wednesdays” during tutor time and a series of career events held throughout the academic year. Students with specific career interests are encouraged to communicate with their Careers teacher, who can then customise their Unifrog Careers account to highlight relevant courses and resources tailored to their ambitions.
In Year 11, students engage in the Futures Programme on Friday afternoons, designed to prepare them for the subsequent stages of their academic and professional journeys. During the Autumn term, the focus is on financial education, which is crucial for their long-term success. This component is enriched by contributions from our alumni and guest speakers who inspire students to think strategically about their futures and the steps needed to achieve their goals.
In the Spring term, the emphasis shifts to academic needs, offering targeted support from our teaching staff to aid in preparation for mock and final examinations. These sessions are designed to enhance students’ understanding and readiness for their GCSEs, ensuring they reach their full academic potential.
As students transition into Year 12, the Futures Programme provides personalised mentoring for higher education, including tailored support for applications to Oxbridge, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, U.S. colleges, and degree-level apprenticeships. The programme also includes specialised assistance for university applications in Asia and Australasia, interview preparation with mock interviews, and partnerships to support university application processes. Additionally, students benefit from regular engagements with external speakers who discuss various career paths, as well as individualised assistance in securing high-quality work experience placements.
Our commitment is to offer comprehensive support that empowers students to navigate their educational and career trajectories successfully. We aim to equip every student with the knowledge, skills, and confidence necessary to realise their aspirations, whether they continue their education at a leading university or enter the professional world.
Upon completing their A Level studies at Sherfield, our pupils have consistently secured offers from and gained places at the UK’s top universities, including Imperial College London, Queen Mary’s London, Kings College London, UCL, University of Oxford, University of Bath, University of Exeter, University of Birmingham and University of Reading.
The support with higher education preparation has been brilliant and at the end of Year 12, I am so far ahead of so many of my friends at other schools. I have been given so much 1-1 support and guidance.
AAYAN, YEAR 12 STUDENT