Stephen Perse Sixth Form Cambridge - Prospectus

Richard Girvan

Welcome to the

Stephen Perse Sixth Form

The Stephen Perse Sixth Form offers Day and Boarding students the chance to succeed academically and in the applications they make to universities, as well as in choosing and pursuing their future careers. We offer scholarships and bursaries to new and existing students every year.

At Stephen Perse, students achieve exceptional results and go on to study a wide range of subjects at some of the highest ranked universities in the UK and around the world. An exceptional education is about much more than good grades. It is about strength of character, learning to innovate, communicate and collaborate. At Stephen Perse, outstanding academic results are achieved alongside palpable personal development. Excellent teaching from teachers who are passionate experts in their subjects serves to inspire, support and enable our students to become independent thinkers with a moral purpose and a commitment to social responsibility.

Small group teaching and tutorials take place across all subjects. Every student is known and supported. University preparation is exemplary, with wide-ranging specialist advice across the arts, languages, humanities, sciences and medicine with individual careers and universities guidance and academic extension and enrichment.

Extensive sport, music, art, drama, creative and extra-curricular opportunities abound, with students gaining skills, breadth of knowledge and practical experience through team activities from model united nations to young enterprise, overseas trips and visits, and a broad range of talks and seminars delivered by some of the finest minds around Cambridge.

We encourage you to visit our well appointed, recently expanded buildings in the heart of Cambridge. Our inspirational setting combines the best of traditional Cambridge College architecture with brand new facilities and cutting edge educational technology and pedagogy. Ours is a dynamic, co-educational environment, with an ethos rooted in scholarship that reaches to the horizon in every direction.

Richard Girvan Principal

At the Stephen Perse Foundation, we educate and inspire the contributors to tomorrow’s world: intelligent young people with the creativity, compassion, confidence and conviction to question, evaluate and improve society.

Our campus

From academic studies to sports, music, drama and art, we are proud of our innovative learning environments and award-winning facilities. Our campus provides an inspiring environment for sixth form students to live and learn, right in the heart of Cambridge.

Not only do we offer first-class facilities and teaching spaces, we also provide an exceptionally welcoming and sociable learning environment. So every single student is empowered to get involved, try new things, and achieve their very best.

Excellent facilities

The days of sitting behind a desk, facing the front in silence no longer describe what learning looks like. Which is why, through design and technology and the creative use of space, we have created a different kind of learning environment. We offer:

• digitally connected classroom spaces

• modern science labs

• dedicated sixth form library

• outstanding sports facilities, including an impressive sports hall and the only rooftop sports pitch in Cambridge

• well-equipped music and performing arts facilities

• standalone Visual Arts Centre complete with an artist in residence

• our own nature reserve with access to the river Cam.

Cambridge is our campus

Cambridge is a world-famous centre of excellence for teaching, learning and culture. It is full of history, amazing architecture, museums, theatres, parks, gardens and restaurants. It is an outstanding place for our sixth form students to study.

A student city

Home to two universities, Cambridge is a small but cosmopolitan city with a lively student population. There’s always something going on, from music concerts to science and ideas festivals to free evening lectures from Cambridge academics.

Just 50 minutes from London by train, Cambridge is also one of the safest cities in the UK. It is small enough to be easily navigated by bike or on foot.

History & architecture

The University of Cambridge is over 800 years old. Its colleges and buildings - such as the world-famous King’s College Chapel and the stunning architecture of Trinity College - are scattered throughout the city and provide a breathtaking backdrop for visitors and residents alike. Many of the University’s museums, libraries and buildings are open to visitors.

Innovation & progress

Cambridge has helped to shape the world as we know it - from Sir Isaac Newton to the discovery of the structure of DNA by Crick and Watson. And to this day, innovation is a core part of the city’s identity, stretching far beyond academic research.

Arts & entertainment

There’s always something going on in Cambridge, from theatre shows to live music. Internationally renowned music, dance and theatre can be found at Cambridge’s biggest venues, including the Corn Exchange, the Junction, and the Cambridge Arts Theatre. Cambridge is also host to many festivals and celebrations throughout the year, such as the Cambridge Folk Festival, Film Festival and Jazz Festival.

Our academic offering

Stephen Perse Sixth Form offers an exciting and wide array of A Level subjects covering sciences, maths, the arts, modern foreign languages, classical languages, humanities and creative subjects.

Students complete either three or four A Levels. For those students taking three A Levels, opportunities exist to pursue a range of AS levels over the course of their sixth form studies, or to take language proficiency qualifications such as DELF/DELE or HSK.

In addition, many students complete the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) or an in-house research project through which valuable research skills are honed and students can develop a passion in a particular area of interest.

A Levels

Study A Levels at the Stephen Perse Sixth Form to benefit from excellent teaching, small class sizes, and all the support, challenge and inspiration you’ll need to reach your full potential.

You can choose from a wide range of A Level subjects to suit your individual goals and interests:

• Art and Design

• Biology

• Business

• Chemistry

• Classical Civilisation

• Classical Languages: Greek/Latin

• Computer Science

• Design Technology

• Drama and Theatre

• Economics

• English Literature

• Film Studies

• Further Mathematics

• Geography

• History

• Mathematics

• Modern Languages

• Music

• Philosophy

• Physical Education

• Physics

• Politics

• Psychology

• Religious Studies

• Sociology

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a Level 3 qualification worth the equivalent UCAS points of half an A Level. The EPQ is based upon a topic chosen by the student, often extending from one or more of the student’s study areas or from an area of personal interest outside their main programme of study. Whilst each student is allocated a supervisor, the student takes charge of the project.

As well as developing important study and research skills, it also encourages soft skills such as independence, helping prepare students for life after school.

Students undertaking the EPQ can submit either a researchbased essay or can opt to produce a practical project or ‘artefact’ with an accompanying shorter written report. An artefact can be a physical outcome such as a book or a short film. Alternatively it can be a presentation to a specific audience, a play, or an event such as a fashion show or a musical evening. In fact there is almost no limit to what can constitute an artefact, as long as it has research at its core.

What all projects have in common is that they must have a clear aim, be well planned, thoroughly researched and reflected throughout.

The Stephen Perse Foundation uses the AQA exam board specification. Students are required to undertake taught study skills sessions that count towards the 120 hours they need to dedicate to the project.

Timetabled enrichment

Each week, our students participate in a structured enrichment programme through which they develop crucial transferable skills and find innovative ways to contribute to society.

Over the course of a term, students contribute ideas to projects, plan the activities and, with staff, coproduce outputs ranging from dramatic productions, to Model United Nations conferences, to biodiversity renewal projects on our very own nature reserve. The aim of the enrichment programme is to form lasting legacies for students in terms of skills and memories and lasting impacts on our school and wider community.

Sport

All members of the Stephen Perse Sixth Form participate in sporting activities organised on a weekly basis, with additional sports provision for those who want to develop their skills further. While we field teams in all the major school sports, for those who prefer something a little different to organised team sport, we have provision for students to take part in a wide range of physical wellbeing activities, making extensive use of central Cambridge sport, fitness and activity venues, and our own facilities including for rowing and paddle sports on the River Cam.

Support and guidance

Through

Our small subject classes (max. 14) mean that no one gets lost in the crowd and students and teachers really get to know one another, ensuring our students always have someone to turn to about anything that may concern them, whether that’s their education or a wider issue.

One-to-one support

Every student works closely with their Tutor through regular meetings, gatherings and tutorials. Tutors also keep an eye on their academic progress and personal welfare and will be happy to provide one-to-one help and advice on anything raised. The mutual respect between student and Tutor is a hallmark of our community.

Although most of our students continue into higher education, we understand that everyone is different and that students will have their own individual goals. Our students work closely with their Tutor throughout their time at the Stephen Perse Sixth Form to explore their options and make the decision about their next steps that’s right for them.

University Guidance - UCAS Advisor

For those students continuing into higher education, we’ll get them ready for university entrance in the UK or abroad. Our tailored programme of learning includes researching courses, writing personal statements, practising for aptitude tests and interviews, and completing applications. We also host admissions teams from world-leading universities each year, giving students a unique opportunity to find out more about their courses and expectations.

If Oxford or Cambridge are in a student’s sights, we have a specialist team to advise them, led by a former Cambridge University college admissions tutor. We also have staff with specific expertise who have responsibility for supporting students with applications in science, medical and veterinary applications and in applying to US, Canadian, European and other universities worldwide.

Careers guidance

Our careers education and guidance programme gives students the opportunity to experience and understand the world of work and investigate possible career paths for their future.

We invite organisations such as Morgan Stanley and Deloitte to come in and explain the attractions of their training schemes, and we introduce students to the growing trend in degree apprenticeships.

We also partner with businesses in Cambridge and beyond to arrange trips and workshops that give students valuable real-world experience and a connection to the workplace.

Our exciting series of ‘Careers and Guidance’ talks and events runs throughout the year, giving our sixth form students the opportunity to meet and hear from renowned guest speakers from across industry and academia. These talks challenge our students to think differently, spark debate, broaden their outlook, and inspire them to consider different specialisms and career paths.

our tutorial programme in small Tutor groups (max. 12), we get to know our students as individuals, offering each individual the right blend of inspiration, challenge and support to ensure that they perform to the best of their ability and unlock a world of opportunities after the sixth form.

Boarding

Live with us in the beautiful city of Cambridge and enjoy a boarding environment that’s tailored to the sixth form experience.

Our boarding community is varied and diverse, with students from lots of different backgrounds. We combine the best of the support and guidance you’d get in a traditional boarding school with the independence and freedom only possible when catering exclusively for older students.

Independence

Our boarding experience is designed especially for sixth form students, with students living in the heart of the exciting city of Cambridge, just a short walk or cycle ride away from our teaching sites.

Our diverse community includes international students as well as students from across the UK. We also welcome local students who want to cut out the daily commute into Cambridge to give themselves more time for their studies, sports and other interests after school.

We promote an environment of trust and mutual respect between boarding staff and students. Students are encouraged to manage their own studies and develop their independence as young adults, learning valuable life skills in preparation for university and beyond.

Support

Student wellbeing - mental, physical and emotional - is our top priority. Our boarding community provides a friendly and safe place to live, and there’s always a knowledgeable, caring and trained adult on hand when needed.

We were praised in our most recent boarding inspection for the ways in which we safeguard and promote our students’ welfare, encouraging them to respect the values and beliefs of others.

Boarding students benefit from additional support with their studies too, through evening study sessions supervised by teachers, helping them strike the right balance between study, co-curricular activities and downtime.

Accommodation and facilities

Our boarding houses are mixed, but boys and girls have separate and secure living areas. Rooms are spacious and students have plenty of shared social and study spaces to take advantage of.

With private gardens, a bright dining room serving delicious and nutritious food, and well-equipped common rooms, Stephen Perse students can really feel at home with us.

Student rooms

All student rooms in our boarding houses are generously proportioned, with ensuite facilities. There’s plenty of space to work and relax in the evenings and at weekends.

Food and dining

Our boarding house has its own dining room where a wide selection of delicious meals are served. We cater for most special dietary needs, from vegetarian to Halal. Breakfast and evening meals are served during the week, with various lunch options available at the sixth form site and at weekends breakfast, lunch and evening meals are served in the boarding house.

Social spaces

The boarding houses have well-equipped common rooms, providing a great space for students to socialise and relax. They include a digital TV and DVD/ Blu-ray player, lots of comfy seating, and facilities for making tea, coffee and snacks. Each boarding house has a private garden, so students can get some peace and quiet in nature when needed. There are also beautiful Cambridge parks and green spaces right on our doorstep - just a short walk away.

Results and destinations

Our A Level students learn in small classes, taught by passionate teachers who offer just the right balance of support, challenge and inspiration. So it’s no wonder that at Stephen Perse A Level students achieve such excellent results and go on to study at top universities.

of students achieved at least three subjects at A*

of students achieved at least three subjects at A*/A 24% 44%

Leavers Destinations 2022

Boston University USA

• Liberal Arts

Brighton and Sussex Medical School

• Medicine

City, University of London

• Economics

Columbia University USA

• Liberal Arts

Goldsmiths, University of London

• Media and Communications

Harper and Keele Veterinary School

• Veterinary Medicine and Surgery

Imperial College London

• Biomedical Engineering

• Design Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

• Physics

King’s College London

• Biochemistry

• Modern Languages

• Music

• Neuroscience and Psychology

• Physics

Kingston University London

• Foundation Year Engineering

Lancaster University

• Finance, Accounting and Management

Liverpool John Moores University

• Mechanical Engineering

Northumbria University Newcastle

• 3D Design

Nottingham Trent University

• Product Design

Palacky University Olomouc Czech Republic

• Medicine

Purdue University, USA

• Liberal Arts

Queen Mary, University of London

• Engineering with Foundation

Queen’s University Belfast

• Aerospace Engineering

Royal Agricultural University

• Applied Equine Science and Business

Royal Holloway, University of London

• Politics and International Relations

Sciences Po, France

• Bachelor of Arts

St George’s, University of London

• Biomedical Science

The University of Edinburgh

• Chinese and Spanish

• Engineering

• History of Art

• Russian Studies and Linguistics

• Spanish and Classics

The University of Hong Kong

• Economics

The University of Manchester

• Linguistics and Social Anthropology

The University of Sheffield

• Law

• Medicine (Phase One)

University College London (UCL)

• Anthropology

• Biochemistry

• Classics with Study Abroad (4 Years)

• Economics and Statistics

• French and Russian

• Pharmacy

• Philosophy

University of Bath

• Modern Languages (French Advanced & Spanish Beginner)

• Politics with Economics

• Psychology

University of Birmingham

• Computer Science with Digital Technology Partnership

• Law

University of Cambridge

• Anglo-Saxon, Norse and Celtic

• Asian and Middle Eastern Studies

• Classics

• History of Art

University of Cumbria

• Physiotherapy

University of East Anglia (UEA)

• Law

• Medicine

University of Exeter

• International Relations

• Maths

• Zoology

University of Hertfordshire

• Astrophysics

University of Leeds

• Gateway Year to Medicine

University of Liverpool

• Veterinary Science

University of Nottingham

• Biochemistry

University of Nottingham

• Geography

• Management

• Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience

University of Oxford

• Fine Art

• Philosophy, Politics and Economics

University of Reading

• Museum and Classical Studies

University of South Wales

• Aeronautical Engineering

University of St Andrews

• Classics

• French

• Mathematics

University of Surrey

• Business Management

• Nutrition and Dietetics

University of Sussex

• Art History and Film Studies

University of the Arts London

• Psychology of Fashion

University of Toronto Canada

• Engineering

• Biochemistry

University of Warwick

• Physics

• History of Art

University of York

• Biology

University of Surrey

• General Engineering

Admissions process

Assessment process Year 12 entry UK students

Students will complete a CAT4 test as a prerequisite to be invited to an interview. We’re a high-achieving sixth form so most students joining us are predicted top grades in all the subjects they’re planning to study at A Level. However, we’re looking for academic potential above all else.

An offer of a place at the Stephen Perse Sixth Form will be conditional on achieving a satisfactory school reference and is conditional upon achieving a minimum of 50 points for the eight best (I)GCSE results. Points will be calculated from the 9 - 1 grading system. We require at least 7 points in any subject that a student intends to study in the sixth form where that subject is already being studied at (I)GCSE; for Higher Level Mathematics and Further Mathematics we require at least 8 points.

Offers are based on the subject choices declared on the application form. Should students later decide to alter the choice of subjects, this will be subject to availability and further aptitude tests may be necessary.

Assessment process Year 12 international students

An international applicant to our Stephen Perse Sixth Form is defined as anyone who meets one or more of the following criteria:

• any student who requires a visa (e.g. Dependent Leave) to reside in the country

• any student who requires a visa to attend the Stephen Perse Sixth Form (e.g. Child Student)

• any student whose parents/guardians live overseas

• any student not studying the conventional route of GCSE or IGCSE (including UK students returning from abroad) and for whom a standard offer based on GCSE or IGCSE examination performance would not be possible.

International students will complete a CAT4 test as a prerequisite to be invited to an interview. The CAT4 test can be taken remotely and interviews can be carried out via Google meet or Skype. We’re a high-achieving sixth form so most students joining us are predicted top grades in all the subjects they’re planning to study at A Level. However, we’re looking for academic potential above all else.

If you are an international student, please contact Helen Roberts Admissions Registrar before making an application. Email: admissions@stephenperse.com

Registration

Please visit our website to submit a registration form found on the link below.

www.stephenperse.com/application

Fees

Please note there is a non-refundable registration fee. Our current fees list is published on our website and can be found on the link below.

www.stephenperse.com/fees

Book a tour

The best way to experience our sixth form is to come and see for yourself. To book a tour please contact our friendly Admissions team.

Email: admissions@stephenperse.com

Telephone: 01223 454762