Excellence & Opportunity
Prospectus 2025
Becoming a Sir John Deane’s Student
Key Dates 2024/25
Open Events
Our popular open events are a valuable opportunity for prospective students to explore our outstanding facilities, meet teachers and current students and find out more about their academic choices.
Saturday 5th October
Thursday 24th October
Thursday 21st November
Applications Open in October
The best way for students to secure their place at Sir John Deane's is to apply early. Application is straightforward and can be completed online. Applications will open in October for September 2024 entry.
Find out more: sjd.ac.uk
Contact our admissions team: admissions@sjd.ac.uk
Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College Northwich, Cheshire, CW9 8AF
T. 01606 810020
E. Admissions@sjd.ac.uk
Pre-Sixth Day
The Pre-Sixth events are attended by all new students and are a chance to experience life at Sir John Deane’s. The day is an opportunity to meet new friends, explore the campus and try all three chosen subjects. Students will be invited to one of the following dates:
Monday 7th July
Tuesday 8th July
GCSE Results Day & Enrolment
Once students have received their GCSE results in August, it will be time for them to confirm their chosen programme of study and formally enrol at Sir John Deane’s.
We invest time in setting our students up for academic success and this begins at enrolment.
We work with students and parents in order to build a programme of study which will allow students to grow in confidence, dream big and fulfil their aspirations.
From Thursday 21st August 2025
“ The thing I love most about college is the vast number of opportunities outside of the classroom to get involved ineverything from rowing to musical theatre!
“
Jamie Knutsford Academy
STUDYING
Mathematics, Physics, BTEC Performing Arts
FUTURE ASPIRATIONS
To study Physics at university.
ADVICE FOR NEW STUDENTS
Get involved with anything and everything you can - it's a great way to make new friends!
Sir John Deane's students are Curious
“ Everyone at college has been so supportive. My teachers, progress mentor and friends are all encouraging and make me feel like nothing is out of reach. “
Manar Bridgewater High School
STUDYING
Biology, Chemistry, Psychology
FUTURE ASPIRATIONS
To study Dentistry at University and hopefully become a Dentist.
ADVICE FOR NEW STUDENTS
Don't worry about taking opportunities and coming out of your comfort zone - try something new and enjoy it!
Sir John Deane's students are Caring
“ I've met so many great people from lots of different schools, who have become friends. I'm also really enjoying the independence that college gives you.
“
Tresor
St Nicholas RC High School
STUDYING
Mathematicss, Further Mathematics, Economics
FUTURE ASPIRATIONS
To study Politics, Philosophy and Economics at the University of Oxford and then go onto investment banking.
ADVICE FOR NEW STUDENTS
Do not worry about the social aspect of college - everyone is really welcoming.
Sir John Deane's students are
Responsible
Excellence and Opportunity E
stablished in 1557, Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College prides itself on a long tradition of academic excellence. We provide specialist A level provision in more than 30 subjects and are proudly ranked amongst the highest achieving sixth form colleges in the country.
The impressive riverside campus, situated in the heart of Cheshire, welcomes incredible students from across the region along with an outstanding calibre of teaching professionals.
A culture of exceptional student support puts the learning and success of every individual at the heart of what we do.
A high proportion of our students go on to higher education with around a third securing First Class Honours from the country’s top universities, leaving them well placed to advance in their chosen path.
Principal’s Welcome
Here at Sir John Deane’s we believe that every student should experience a passion for their subjects, a love of learning and an ambition to succeed.
Studying here means that you will meet some of the most committed, exciting teachers in the country and work alongside brilliant people like you in an environment that hums with energy and excitement.
Being a Sir John Deane’s student means that you are curious, caring and responsible; Curious to learn and to explore, caring about your future and the contribution you will make to the world, and responsible for being the very best you can be.
As our extraordinary results over many years show, the College has a transformational effect on the lives of our students. We will open your horizons and help you find your place in the world, whilst helping you achieve the success you strive for.
We are committed to giving you a special college experience, and on behalf of all teachers and current students we very much look forward to welcoming you to our sixth form.
Christopher Atherton Principal
Mission & Values
Our teachers and education professionals hold a shared mission of excellence, opportunity and compassion.
We see the value in every student and help them to achieve their goals by creating an environment that understands and celebrates difference, whilst providing an incredible education and life opportunities for all.
Teachers who love to teach
We are committed to helping all students achieve the highest possible grades while making their two years at Sir John Deane’s among the most memorable of their lives.
Our teachers love to teach and love to learn. Our style of teaching is designed to inspire, motivate and challenge students.
All our teachers are specialists in their academic areas and students benefit from their deep commitment to the subject as well as knowledge and experience beyond the syllabus.
Passionate, engaging and driven, Sir John Deane’s teachers are a key factor in the success of students.
Academic Choices
Sir John Deane’s offers a traditional, academic curriculum, which provides the opportunity for students to grow and develop.
We offer 29 A level and six BTEC subjects which can be combined to create a bespoke programme of study.
Students study a total of three subjects. Full course information, including a detailed breakdown of topics and assessment can be found on our website.
Programme of study
Art & Design
Fine Art
Photography
Textiles
3D Design with Graphics
Music
Music Technology
BTEC Performing Arts
Theatre & Drama
Performing Arts
Humanities
History
Government & Politics
Geography
Economics
Law
Business
BTEC Business
English & Modern Languages
Science
Technology
Engineering
Mathematics
Social Sciences
Combined Programme
English Language
English Literature
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Electronics
AAQ (New BTEC) Applied Science
Computer Science
AAQ (New BTEC) IT
Mathematics
Statistics
Psychology
Sociology
AAQ (New BTEC) Health & Social Care
Media Studies
Physical Education
BTEC Sport
We offer a combined A level and BTEC programme where students can study a mix of A levels and BTEC Extended Certificates to gain their equivalent three A level grades.
Discover more about each of our subjects with our online video guides www.sjd.ac.uk/subjects
Outstanding Results
Sir John Deane’s has consistently topped league tables for outstanding results and is ranked amongst the highest achieving sixth form colleges in the country.
2024 Results
In 2024 Sir John Deane's students celebrated incredible high grade success, with 80% of all A level entries awarded A*, A or B.
50% of all A level grades were A* or A, compared to 27% nationally, while 52 students achieved three A* grades or more.
96% of all BTEC entries were awarded a Distinction* or Distinction, while all students achieved a Merit or higher.
Higher Education & Careers Support
Throughout their two years at College, students will receive guidance and opportunities which will help them make informed and aspirational choices about their next steps.
Our careers programme includes:
A rich culture of support, advice and guidance from teaching staff and mentors
An annual University Fair held at College
Apprenticeship and Employers Fair
Interview preparation and practice interview days
Dedicated Careers Hub with expert advisors
A unique programme for students applying for higher and degree level apprenticeships
Dedicated Higher Education information events for parents
Visits to university open events
Education
The majority of students progress to excellent universities, gaining places at prestigious Russell Group Universities, conservatoires, medical schools and Oxford and Cambridge.
Apprenticeships
Many students are successful in starting their careers or professional programmes upon completing A levels and are supported in securing higher level apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships at some of the UK's top employers, including Airbus, Bentley and Unilever.
Academic Excellence
Bright, highly engaged and ambitious students choose to advance their studies at Sir John Deane’s.
We encourage, challenge and drive them to achieve excellence in all they do. Opportunities for extension work are built into all schemes of learning along with a range of clubs and societies to help them extend their knowledge and interest in specific subject areas.
Oxbridge
We have a longstanding relationship with Oxford and Cambridge universities, both of whom welcome applications from our students. Our dedicated Oxbridge programme supports suitable applicants, offering thorough preparation and guidance at every stage, including one-to-one mentoring and interview techniques.
Students have been accepted to study a range of subjects including mathematics, medicine, veterinary science, biological science, chemistry, engineering, English literature, languages, history, philosophy and economics.
Medics, Vets and Dentists
The College runs a bespoke programme of support for aspiring medics, vets and dentists.
Students are guided through every step of their application by a specialist team of senior teachers. The bespoke programme includes rigorous interview preparation, scientific research projects, work placements, personal statement support, UCAT and BMAT entrance tests, external guest speakers and workshops.
Last year, 35 students secured places on highly competitive degree courses in medicine, veterinary science and dentistry at some of the UK’s top institutions.
Hartford Church of England High School
Now studying Chemistry at the University of Oxford after achieving straight A*s in Chemistry, Mathematics and Physics
Emily Bromley-Davenport
Enrichment Opportunities
We value the importance of balancing study with the wider development of our students.
The College’s extensive programme of co-curricular activities provides endless opportunities for students to express themselves creatively, indulge in new passions and extend their skills and knowledge in a chosen subject area.
Among the activities available is the College’s thriving Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme as well as music and performing arts, volunteering, peer mentoring schemes and student leadership roles.
Young athletes have the opportunity to represent the College in a number of team sports including football, netball, rugby and basketball, while our riverside location has created a proud history of rowing success.
We offer a rich programme of clubs and societies, including the popular Debate Society, History Society, Women’s Society, Chess Club, LGBTQ+ Society and a number of specialist short courses.
Regular guest speakers also contribute to the enrichment of students, adding to a culture of curiosity and love of learning.
SirJohnDeanes
Support & Wellbeing
Joining Sir John Deane’s is an exciting step from the familiar surroundings of school and the time a student spends here will direct them on their future path to success.
It is vital that every student feels well supported from the first day they arrive at the College, giving them the confidence and resources to fulfil their potential.
All students are assigned a Progress Mentor who will be their advisor during their time at the College. It is their role to build a positive relationship with the student and their parents, discuss career and Higher Education options and prepare them for life after Sir John Deane’s.
All students meet with their Progress Mentor once a week during Personal Development tutorials.
Learning Mentors
All students have access to a dedicated team of Learning Mentors who are based in the College’s Focus Centre.
Learning Mentors offer support with many areas including revision and exam preparation, time management and essay planning. Our Learning Mentors also work closely with teachers to ensure that our students with SEND achieve their learning potential.
Sian Aryee Teacher of Sociology
"We celebrate and value our unique diversity and are committed to creating a culture of inclusion and belonging.
We are an anti-racist College, actively working to ensure that all students, regardless of their race and ethnicity can learn as equals."
Diversity & Inclusion
Sir John Deane's is an inclusive organisation, where individuals are respected, valued and supported and everyone has the opportunity to fulfil their potential.
Students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities are given the support they need by teachers and mentors. All students have access to a dedicated team of Learning Mentors who are based in the College’s Focus Centre. Our Learning Mentors also work closely with teachers to ensure that our students with SEND can achieve their learning potential.
We are proud to be an actively anti-racist College, working as a community to celebrate and embrace the unique diversity of all students and colleagues. The College's popular Diversitas Committee involves students working together to raise awareness and celebrate different cultures and identities.
We embrace the vital role we have in guiding our students to be good citizens of the world, students who positively contribute to our society and are leaders of the future.
A Learning Environment
Walking into Sir John Deane’s you are immediately uplifted by the sense of light and space.
The £28 million transformation has created a world-class learning environment that students can thrive in and feel proud to call their own.
The historic Brunner Hall, built in 1907, is a reminder of the College’s history and tradition, while state-of-the-art facilities and modern, purpose-built classrooms represents its continuous evolution.
Students have access to places and resources that support every element of their study, including the Albright Library, a fully equipped IT drop-in centre and a number of study areas, including silent study zones.
Amongst the impressive facilities there are scientific laboratories, rehearsal studios, a professional theatre, dance and recording studios, an outdoor art studio, large courtyard and two Starbucks cafes. Rowers can take advantage of the Riverside Boat House, while students also have access to an all-weather pitch, purpose-built sports hall and large playing fields.
The College looks forward to opening its new £2 million learning space in Autumn 2024, which will feature additional classrooms and dedicated study spaces.
Transport
At Sir John Deane’s we promote a culture of care and responsibility to the environment and therefore we encourage students, where possible, to walk, cycle or use a bus to travel to College.
The College currently operates bus services from Warrington, Halton, South Manchester, Congleton, Sandbach, Crewe and Nantwich as well as Helsby, Frodsham, Bunbury, Tarporley, Macclesfield, Knutsford and Kingsley, picking up at a number of stops along the way. These buses are accommodated within the College site.
Public transport is available from many other areas too, full details of which can be found on the College website.
Driving
Those who wish to drive can apply for a permit to park their car on campus. There is no charge for this.
Financial Support
Students may be eligible for financial assistance with the cost of books, equipment, transport, College meals or educational visits from the 16-19 Bursary Fund.
Full details of this are available on our website, or alternatively you can contact a member of the finance team.
NEXT STEPS
Step 1
Applying early is the best way to secure a place at Sir John Deane’s.
Step 2
The Pre-Sixth Day is an opportunity for new students to experience life at Sir John Deane’s and try their three chosen subjects.
Step 3
Working hard and achieving high grades at GCSE will prepare students for their next challenge and life at sixth form college. SirJohnDeanes
Apply online
Application is straightforward and can be completed online. Please visit our website:
Saturday 5th October
Thursday 24th October
Thursday 21st November
online at sjd.ac.uk/admissions/open-events