“In the sixth form, students benefit from a very highquality education in a broad range of subjects. Lessons are highly demanding, and students rise to that challenge exceedingly well.” – OFSTED 2023
Introduction and Welcome
Heanor Gate Spencer Academy Sixth Form is truly distinctive in that it is a highly successful 16-18 academic provider set within the grounds of the school. As a Sixth Form, we pride ourselves on striking the balance between academic excellence and the development of aspirational and responsible young people, ready to achieve their full potential. In June 2023 the school was rated as outstanding by Ofsted in all categories, including the Sixth Form.
Our achievement and pastoral system ensures that all students are supported emotionally and are given opportunities to access a wide range of opportunities. A high proportion of our students move onto Higher Education, and the Sixth Form leadership team has a wealth of experience supporting students in applications to a range of highly competitive courses and institutions. Heanor Gate Sixth Form is the post-16 destination of choice for our own year 11 leavers and continues to be popular among those from other 11-16 schools.
Our class sizes are small and allow for the very best learning environments, with a new purpose built Sixth Form building due for completion in 2025/26.This Sixth Form space will provide additional teaching classrooms, IT spaces, seminar space, a study room and a large social/ common room.
As you will see from this prospectus, we provide an extensive range of courses, developed in line with the aspirations of our students, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity for a truly personalised study programme.
Richard Graham Assistant Principal
Matt Jones Principal
Why HGSA?
Heanor Gate Spencer Academy
Sixth Form is an established and forward thinking place to study where our students thrive with excellent results in a supportive and secure environment. We have an exceptional reputation for both the quality of education and the support of our students.
We know that choosing where to study after GCSEs is a big decision and one that will shape your future. We also know some young people have clear career ambitions but for others, this choice can be quite a daunting prospect so here are just a few of the reasons why our students chose HGSA Sixth Form:
OFSTED Outstanding
Excellent grades
Apprenticeship support and informed careers advice
UCAS expertise
Russell Group University links
Preparation for employment including CV workshops and interview skills
Wellbeing support
Friendly environment
High-quality teaching
16-19 Bursary
Brand new building
95% of 2024 UCAS applicants into their first choice University
As our numbers are smaller than those of a college, we get to know our students as individuals which means we know how you work best. You’ll be a part of a dynamic and talented student community where you will be given the opportunity to flourish.
Ultimately, we support you to aspire, learn and achieve!
Courses and Entry Requirements
Our Provision
At Heanor Gate Spencer Academy Sixth Form we offer one of the broadest ranges of courses available at local 16-18 providers.
This includes a range of level 3 vocational courses for students more likely to succeed with practical, coursework based elements; alongside a large number of traditional A level courses for those likely to thrive on the challenge brought by external examinations.
A LEVELS
An extensive assortment of A level qualifications designed to support learners in reaching their higher education and career ambitions.
General Entry Criteria: 5x GCSE grades 9-5, including English and Mathematics. Note: thatsomeAlevelcourseshavesubjectspecificentryrequirementsinadditiontoour generalcriteria.
LEVEL 3 VOCATIONAL COURSES
A range of courses following either a BTEC level 3 or Cambridge National level 3 specification. All courses are equivalent to A levels and widely accepted by University and apprenticeship providers. These courses offer a greater coursework aspect than more traditional A level qualifications.
General Entry Criteria: 5x GCSE grades 9-4, including English and Mathematics.
BEAUTY THERAPY
A 2-3 year programme initially focussing on the Beauty Therapy NVQ Level 2, followed by specialisation in a beauty strand(s) of your choosing.
General Entry Criteria: 4x GCSE grades 9-3, including English and Mathematics.
Courses
Applied Science
Art & Design
Beauty Therapy
Biology
Business Studies
Chemistry
Computer Science
Core Maths
Drama (Performing Arts)
English Language
English Literature
English Combined
French
Further Maths
Geography
Graphics
Health & Social Care
History
ICT
Law
Mathematics
Music (Performing Arts)
PE
Photography
Physics
Product Design
Psychology
Sociology
Spanish
Sport
Entry into Uniformed Services
Extra and Super Curricular and Enrichment
Academic grades are important but at HGSA Sixth Form you will go far beyond this with our enrichment programme on offer. Take a look at what opportunities you can get involved in to ensure that in two years, you’ll leave us a well rounded and developed individual. Our Enrichment is split into three categories, here are just a few examples of what we offer:
Extend
A vast array of University and Employer linked schemes
Super Curricular Programme
Work experience
Oxbridge and Medicine Societies
Wider Contribution
Peer Mentoring
Student Management Team
Community Care Home Project
Mental Health Ambassadors
Personal Development
Sporting groups
Theatrical and musical performance
First Aid Qualification
Brand New Onsite Gym
Learning Outside of the Classroom
We also take learning outside of the classroom and students participate in both national and international trips, these have included:
Annual Ski Trip
International expeditions including a 2 week trip to Sri Lanka
Washington/New York Trip
Subject field trips
University visits
Mock Law Court experience
University of Oxford and Cambridge residential tours and workshops
Life in Heanor Gate Spencer Academy Sixth Form
The average Sixth Form day at HGSA is made up of three one-hour lessons and two study periods. When you are not in lessons, you are trusted to utilise your independent time wisely. You have the freedom to leave the site during this time but we find that successful students have a healthy blend of completing homework and enrichment activities balanced with spending quality time with friends.
As well as your lessons all students will attend morning tutor group sessions and assemblies three mornings a week. These are valuable sessions that include up-to-date Sixth Form news, information and opportunities as well as helpful guidance on topics such as revision tips and work experience alongside Careers and University support.
We have Sixth Form only spaces for studying that include the common room for a more relaxed atmosphere as well as our quiet study rooms for those times when you need to focus with no distractions.
Within the Sixth Form block you will also find our bespoke canteen providing a range of food and drink options.
Former Students
Sixth Form is just the beginning of your journey, here are a few of our former students to tell you where their time at HGSA led them…
Ella Powell
Class of: 2019
Studied: English Language, Sociology, and BTEC Applied Science
Led to: Studying at Norland College training to be a Norland Nanny
Ellie Parkin
Class of: 2019
Studied: English Literature, Psychology and Health and Social (BTEC)
Led to: Studying Midwifery at Sheffield Hallam University, and is now a qualified Band 6 Labour Ward Midwife Working at Sheffield Teaching Hospital.
Megan Littlewood
Class of: 2019
Studied: Biology, Chemistry, Philosophy and Ethics, and English Literature
Led to: Studying Veterinary Medicine at the University of Nottingham. As of 2024, Megan is in her final year of University and is due to graduate in December.
Alice Allsopp
Class of: 2021
Studied: Biology, Chemistry and PE
Led to: Studying Medicine at Barts and the London School of Medicine.
Class of: 2018
Studied: A levels in Health and Social Care, Citizenship and English Language
Led to: A degree in criminology with psychology and now works in a prison as an Education Induction Coordinator.
Max Campbell
Class of: 2020
Studied: Politics, History and Spanish
Led to: Working for a Member of Parliament.
George Storey
Class of: 2019
Studied: English Literature, History, Psychology and Law
Led to: Studying Law at the University of Warwick and Queen’s University in Canada.
Aisha Homar
Georgina Crouch
Class of: 2017
Studied: English Literature, English Language, History and Fine Art
Led to: BA in English and Related Literature and a MA in Medieval Literatures and Languages, both at the University of York.
“After my masters, I completed my PGCE teaching degree in Secondary English at the University of Nottingham. I’m now a secondary and sixth form English teacher in the local area. Still a dedicated scout leader and still travelling wherever, whenever possible.”
Benjamin Buswell
Class of: 2014
Studied: Maths, Physics, Geography and (AS) Further Maths
Led to: Air Traffic Control Officer (Royal Air Force).
Holly Walker
Class of: 2020
Studied: English Language, Spanish and Sociology
Led to: Gaining a first class degree in English and Hispanic Studies at the University of Nottingham which included a year teaching English in a Spanish primary school.
“I’m now training to be a Secondary School Teacher in both of these subjects with the George Spencer Academy Trust.”
Maddison Amott
Class of: 2018
Studied: Fine Art, Photography and English Language
Led to: A degree in Fashion Communication and Promotion at NTU and securing a Marketing role at Boots Head Office working for No7 Beauty Company.
Emma Foster
Class of: 2021
Studied: Level 2 Beauty Therapy and Level 3 Massage Therapy
Led to: Working at The Beauty Temple (Spa and Health club in Castle Donington).
“I have also continued my studies at Heanor Gate Spencer Academy on my second Level 3 in Nail Technology, to further enhance my skills and qualifications for industry.”
Student Voice
“Sixth Form have lots of resources available to help our learning, I use their laptops everyday” – Paige (Y13)
“Teachers are all really friendly and helpful. They’ve helped me out with how to meet deadlines, how to organise my work and how to prepare for revision” – James (Y12)
“When I was struggling with my mental health, everyone was so supportive and understanding. It really helped me cope and get back on track” – Hannah (Y13)
“ I’m applying for University now and the teachers have given me so much support to guide me through and make sure my personal statement is good and unique to me” – Shauni (Y13)
“The transition into Sixth Form has been really stress free, you get treated like an adult, but if you need it the support is always there” – Alfie (Y12)
“I found Y12 a challenge but my love for the subjects and support from my wonderful teachers gave me the motivation to keep aspiring to reach my goals. I’m now in Y13, really enjoying it and things are going really well” – Ez (Y13)
“A-Levels are a challenge but the support is always there, just ask! I also love how we are treated and respected like adults” – Ebony (Y13)
“Sixth Form is a good experience, it’s enjoyable and the subjects I study are fun and interesting. I like the shorter days than in the main school!” – Lacey (Y12)
Sixth Form Support
As a student in HGSA Sixth Form, you will be welcomed into an inclusive community of staff and students that will encourage you in striving to reach your academic goals whilst ensuring you have a multitude of opportunities that mean you stand out from other candidates applying for Universities and Apprenticeships.
The Team around you:
Sixth Form Leadership Team – Our Sixth Form team has a wealth of knowledge and expertise that means you will be supported every step of the way in your Sixth Form journey. We will ensure that you are confident in developing excellent study habits, informed of opportunities, and staying on track to reach your targets all whilst building unique relationships that ensure you feel cared for and valued.
Personal Tutor – Every student has a Tutor that they will see three mornings a week and for regular one to one slots. Tutors are an excellent source of support for students and will deliver sessions on how to adapt to the demands of Level 3 courses, SMSC topics and guide you through the important Post 18 decisions that are here before you know it.
Teachers – Classes in Sixth Form are taught by our very best teachers that are subject specialists and have both learnt and often real world experience of their expert subject. Class sizes are small and this helps foster the perfect learning environment where you will be encouraged and challenged to ensure you reach your potential.
Well-being Team – We recognise that you are most likely to be successful if you maintain positive mental health. We also know that at times, the pressures of life inside and outside of school can be tough. HGSA have an in-house Well-being team who provide ongoing support to help students look after their mental health whether that’s strategies to utilise or ongoing chats. We work with you to support your individual needs.
Careers Team – If you speak to any of our Y13s, they will tell you that their time in Sixth Form flies by! For this reason, we begin preparing for your next steps early with bespoke sessions in tutor time alongside our careers focused Immersion Days and regular access to our careers team. 100% of our 2023 Leavers went on to University, Apprenticeships or Employment and this is testament to the excellent work of our inspirational team.
Financial Support – Students are able to apply for a financial bursary. The bursary will be paid directly to students from the Trust and is to help enable participation in education e.g. contributing towards travel costs, books and essential equipment. Students will be considered on an individual basis by the Trust but those from lower income households will be prioritised.
Parents and Carers
We recognise that the two years in Sixth Form are part of your child’s transition into adulthood and as such, we support students to develop skills in independence and resilience. However, Parents and Carers are a valuable and vital part of our Sixth Community. As a Sixth Form, we welcome open communication with parents and whilst we encourage our students to take responsibility for their own learning and development, we will ensure parents are kept informed throughout.
Staying Connected
We kindly ask that all Parents download the “Synergy” app as this enables us to share information including attendance updates and attainment reports.
Google Classroom is our online platform for students to receive both year group information and where subject assignments are set and submitted. As a parent, you can keep up to date with this by downloading the app and accepting the parental invite.
Parents’ evenings are held in both Year 12 and Year 13 enabling you to receive individual feedback for your child.
Our socials are also a great place to keep up with the latest news, events and information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply?
Scan the QR code on the back page which will take you through to our application platform Applicca.
How many subjects will I study?
All students take the equivalent of 3 A levels (though this can be a combination of academic and vocational courses). There are also opportunities to supplement your studies e.g. enrichment opportunities, MOOCs, work experience, Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), leadership and volunteering to name a few…
Can I mix A-level and vocational qualifications?
Yes.
Can I leave the site in the day if I don’t have a lesson?
Yes, (as long as you sign in and out) although this can be dependent on academic progress.
Will I fit in if I go to another school?
Absolutely you will. A large number of students come from other schools to Heanor Gate Sixth Form and our school community is proud to welcome new students to our family. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to get to know other students but support is on hand should you find this a struggle.
Will there be an interview?
Yes, you will be invited to an interview to discuss the subjects you are interested in studying, but also so you can get to know us.
Will there be work experience opportunities?
Yes, all Y12’s do 1 week of work experience, usually in July.
What about SEND support?
HGSA Sixth form is a highly inclusive setting where all pupils are given the chance to shine brightly. The Learning Support Faculty (T block) is committed to supporting every student as an individual, whatever their needs. We support every student in the process of reaching their academic and social potential, making use of personalised support.
What if I change my mind about the subjects I choose?
Don’t worry, if you apply for a subject then change your mind, this is okay as long as you meet the entry criteria for the new subject. If you make this decision on or before results day, get in touch and let us know. Once you’ve begun your studies, you can still change courses up to 3 weeks into your programme of study by speaking with the Sixth Form Team.
About Spencer Academies Trust
Spencer Academies Trust is a family of schools spread across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Leicestershire. We are proud to provide quality education for over 16,000 children and young people from a diverse array of communities, guided always by our core values: aspiration, partnership and responsibility. We have 6 Sixth Forms who work collaboratively to ensure that we offer the widest opportunities for all our students. We are exceptionally proud of our results which places us in the top 10% nationally. These results enable our students to progress to a wide range of destinations at some of the most competitive institutions and courses including Oxford, Cambridge and Medicine, and higher apprenticeships at companies like Rolls Royce. We work closely with partners both locally and nationally, including University of Cambridge and University of Nottingham. All of our Sixth Forms provide the very best pastoral care so that each student feels that they belong to our family, as we prepare them to become well rounded world citizens with a bright future ahead of them.
Susan Sharp, Executive Director of Post 16
