St Edmund's Sixth Form Guide

Sixth Form

Leading. Challenging. Exceeding.

The prospect of a Sixth Form education is a most exciting, challenging, and important one.

In recent years, on average 90% of our A Level students secured a place at their first choice of university St Edmund’s Sixth Form truly believes in your unique potential and is dedicated to nurturing your life goals.

At St Edmund’s Sixth Form you’ll encounter a dynamic blend of challenge, opportunity and unwavering support, enabling you to uncover and pursue your individual talents with confidence and energy. Our distinctive approach cultivates both your intellectual and social assurance, enabling you to realise your full potential, achieve your aspirations and contribute positively to society.

Regardless of the path you choose – be it athletics, science, acting, computer programming, art, music or mathematics – St Edmund’s stands firm in the belief that students who are inspired go on to become exceptional individuals.

Contents

2

stedmundscollege.org/sixth-form | admissions@stedmundscollege.org

Why St Edmund’s Sixth Form

06

Life at St Edmund’s Sixth Form

08

Your A Level choices

14

Boarding

15

Next steps

16

St Edmund’s Sixth Form

3

A warm welcome to St Edmund’s Sixth Form Choosing the right Sixth Form is a significant decision.

While A Level grades hold importance, it’s also a time to foster independence and self-confidence as you prepare for the future. At St Edmund’s we refer to our Sixth Form students as Rhetoricians, a tradition which dates back to our foundation in 1568.

Mr Liam Woodward Head of Rhetoric

Our varied enrichment programme, consisting of the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), study skills and career support ensures students challenge themselves to always aim higher. Furthermore, academic Societies remain a fundamental part of our activities programme. They are student-led and engender a deeper appreciation of a subject; being a member of them supports your application to university/apprenticeship and encourages networking, debate, and wider reading.

Our guidance for your UCAS application, or other pathway, is extremely comprehensive and provided by your personal tutor, the Higher Education Applications Coordinator and the wider Rhetoric team.

We provide a Sixth Form experience designed to equip you with the confidence you’ll need to go out

4

stedmundscollege.org/sixth-form | admissions@stedmundscollege.org

into the world and change it for the better, whether your next step is university, the workplace or elsewhere. It is a preparation for life.

In Rhetoric you’ll benefit from the personalised support of our dedicated subject teachers, ensuring you reach your full potential. We teach according to the principles of High Performance Learning, believing that ‘everyone can’.

Here, genuine friendships flourish and life in Rhetoric is brimming with laughter, enjoyment, and exploration. I wholeheartedly welcome those already at St Edmund’s to the next, exciting chapter of your Edmundian career.

To those not yet with us, I warmly invite you to consider us for this next step in your educational journey. Come and visit us and discover why St Edmund’s is the ideal choice for you.

“We provide a Sixth Form experience designed to equip you with the confidence you’ll need to go out into the world and change it for the better.”

St Edmund’s Sixth Form

5

Why St Edmund’s Sixth Form?

85% of students received A* - C grades 58% of students received A* - B grades 28% of students received A* - A grades

A unique Sixth Form From our exceptional facilities to our co-curricular opportunities where students can participate in over sixty varied activities – including the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award – there are many reasons to choose us.

Aiming for success

In recent years, on average 90% of our A Level students secured places at their first choice of university.

Facilities

Rhetoricians have their own designated study area, a common room where they can relax and enjoy the company of their fellow students, as well as their own coffee shop which is open throughout the whole school day.

Of course, as part of our wider College community, Rhetoricians will continue to benefit from all the study and recreational facilities including our library, IT resources, well-equipped art and music suites and sports facilities.

An inclusive and welcoming community

You will be part of our unique and inclusive community, grounded in the traditional values of Catholic social teaching: human dignity, solidarity and peace, care of creation, charity and, above all, community and participation, which provides a golden opportunity to develop new and existing friendships.

6

stedmundscollege.org/sixth-form | admissions@stedmundscollege.org

Realise your potential

With a dedicated team of exceptional teaching staff who are passionate about their subjects, understand your unique learning style and wholeheartedly believe in your potential, you can pursue your goals with determination and ambition.

Independence

In a nurturing environment, dedicated to inspiring and empowering young individuals, your intellectual and social independence will thrive. You will learn to set your own goals, plan your time and achieve both on your own and collaboratively: a perfect preparation for university and work.

Happiness

We prioritise your wellbeing, and we will support you in maintaining a healthy balance between your studies and broader co-curricular and social life. We firmly believe that a content and fulfilled state of mind enhances your capacity for achievement.

St Edmund’s Sixth Form

7

Sixth Form life at St Edmunds’

Leaver destinations

Succeed with us

Bournemouth University Multimedia Sports Journalism Brunel University London Mechanical Engineering Cardiff University Accounting and Finance City University of Hong Kong (CityU) x2 students City, University of London Economics Finance Civil Service Degree Apprenticeship J.P. Morgan Degree Apprenticeship King’s College London, University of London General Engineering Pharmacy Lancaster University Film and Creative Writing Sports and Exercise Science Leeds Beckett University Biomedical Science Nutrition Liverpool John Moores University Sport Business Loughborough University Accounting and Financial Management Manchester Metropolitan University Business Management Events Management Northumbria University Social Sciences Business Management Nottingham Trent University Accounting and Finance Business Business Management and Accounting & Business Management and Entrepreneurship

Applying the knowledge, skills, experiences, understanding, wisdom and values acquired during their time in Rhetoric, our students embark on remarkable journeys of achievement.

Perhaps you’ll follow in the footsteps of recent alumni who have ventured into disciplines such as architecture, law, medicine, business, fashion design, the creative arts, ICT or chosen an

8

apprenticeship. Alternatively, you may carve out your own unique path. Regardless of the direction you pursue, we want you to become remarkable leaders, a global citizens, and a force for good in the world.

stedmundscollege.org/sixth-form | admissions@stedmundscollege.org

Nottingham Trent University Business Management and Marketing Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) Finance Geography Journalism x2 students Queen’s University Belfast Sociology Ravensbourne University London Editing and Post Production Royal Holloway, University of London Computer Science (Information Security) with a Year in Industry Film, Television and Digital Production Modern Languages The University of Hong Kong (HKU) University College London (UCL) Mechanical Engineering Statistics, Economics and Finance University of Bath Engineering Integrated Mechanical and Electrical Engineering University of Birmingham Geography and Urban & Regional Planning Law Policy, Politics and Economics University of Bristol Biomedical Sciences Economics Mathematics with Statistics University of East Anglia (UEA) International Business Management with a Year in Industry Marketing and Management with a Year in Industry University of Exeter History x2 students

University of Glasgow Politics with Quantitative Methods University of Hertfordshire Illustration University of Hull Education Studies University of Leicester Accounting and Finance Criminology Mathematics University of Liverpool Accounting and Finance with a Year in Industry University of Manchester Mathematics Social Anthropology University of Nottingham Law Mechanical Engineering Management Mathematics and Economics University of Reading Business and Management University of Southampton Modern Languages (Spanish) and Business Management Psychology University of Surrey Biomedical Science Psychology x2 students University of the Arts London Interior Design Technical Arts for Theatre and Performance University of the West of England, Bristol Business and Management Law University of Westminster, London Computer Science Tourism and Events Management University of York Psychology

St Edmund’s Sixth Form

9

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) Rhetoric is an exciting time and a perfect preparation for life at university and beyond; an experience to be enjoyed.

Engaging in an EPQ enables you to cultivate your creative thinking, academic passion and independent research abilities while also potentially gaining valuable UCAS points.

An EPQ is an opportunity to research a topic of your choice, in order to produce one of the following: l Research-based written report l Production (e.g. dance, charity event, sports event, fashion show) l Artefact (e.g. a piece of art, composed musical performance, computer game) Where will your EPQ take you in your investigation? stedmundscollege.org/sixth-form

Leadership responsibilities within our community Punctuality, smartness of appearance, courtesy and respect for others are all attributes we see in our Rhetoricians as they enjoy their new level of independence and responsibility.

As young adults, we enable our Rhetoricians to have more privileges than their younger peers and in their final year many become Heads of School, Prefects, House Captains and leaders of College teams, clubs and societies.

Many students complete the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to

develop their sense of independence and responsibility. Others take an active leadership role as officers in our Combined Cadet Force.

In addition, our Rhetoricians are proud to wear a different uniform from the younger students, which is based upon smart business attire and worn with a House tie or badge.

“Through an excellent attitude to taking on responsibility and service to others, pupils grow in self-knowledge and develop values which prepare them to move successfully into the next phase of their education or employment.”

Recent ISI Inspection

10

stedmundscollege.org/sixth-form | admissions@stedmundscollege.org

St Edmund’s Sixth Form

11

Post Rhetoric – looking ahead During Rhetoric I, students are given the opportunity to prepare for UCAS and other career-related programmes such as apprenticeships (including degree apprenticeships). This involves guest speakers from universities and industry, university visits and a UCAS convention.

Finding a balance To ensure your wellbeing, you will have various avenues through which to establish a balanced study/life routine.

In addition to your tutor and subject teachers, comprehensive pastoral care is provided for all, including access to our nurses, chaplaincy and counsellor for any support you may need.

There are numerous options for staying active, ranging from our co-curricular timetable in Period 7, to working out in our dedicated on-site gym and swimming pool, and, of course,

engaging in competitive sports. We cater to all skill levels and interests.

Life in the Sixth Form is brimming with co-curricular activities, social gatherings, international trips, fundraising events, and more. These opportunities abound, facilitating the creation of lasting friendships and shared experiences.

Support when you need it most Taking the leap into sixth form studies marks a significant milestone. When you require guidance along this journey, rest assured that our support is exceptional.

Regular meetings with your tutor will play a pivotal role in reviewing your academic progress, addressing any emerging concerns and contemplating your broader objectives. Your subject teachers will provide engaging and meaningful homework assignments designed to refine your self-study skills and enhance your grasp of the subjects, promoting deeper knowledge, understanding, and application. Furthermore, our teachers 12

are accessible both before and after lessons, during breaks, and study periods, ensuring that each student receives the guidance necessary to reach their full potential.

It’s worth noting that all tutors and subject teachers collaborate with our Learning Support and English as an Additional Language (EAL) departments to access the most effective strategies for assisting students.

stedmundscollege.org/sixth-form | admissions@stedmundscollege.org

Students and parents have access to the online platform UniFrog which supports students in choosing an appropriate pathway and preparing applications. UniFrog also offers support with international

applications, such as those to the USA. Tutors,the Head of Rhetoric and the Higher Education Applications Coordinator meet regularly with students to monitor their progress throughout this process.

A diverse, international community within a Catholic school St Edmund’s College is England’s oldest Catholic school. The exploration of faith is never more important than in the final years of school. All Rhetoric students have religious education lessons and are encouraged to take a leading role in the chaplaincy life of the College, morning prayers, College services and at special times in the Church’s liturgical calendar.

You will become an integral part of a lively and welcoming community where authentic friendships flourish among students from all faiths and none, hailing from all corners of the globe.

Tutor groups – our small tutor groups offer ample chances for regular meetings with your tutor, fostering a close relationship where they can understand your unique needs and collaborate with you to help you achieve your aspirations. These groups also provide the perfect setting to delve into various valuable topics that can enhance your overall experience.

Each student meets their tutor every morning and for one lesson per week, where a programme of Personal, Health and Social Education is followed. Rhetoric Assembly is also held once a fortnight, focussing on all matters relevant to life in Rhetoric.

St Edmund’s Sixth Form

13

Your A Level choices We provide a diverse array of A Level subjects, each one delivered by a team of highly experienced and supportive educators.

Typically, our students opt to pursue three A Level courses, consistently attaining impressive outcomes spanning a broad spectrum, encompassing humanities, languages, the creative and performing arts, and STEM disciplines.

Art Biology l Business Studies l Chemistry l Computer Science l Design & Technology: Product Design (3D) l Drama & Theatre Studies

Economics English Literature l French l German l Italian l Spanish l Further Mathematics l Geography l History

IELTS Mathematics l Media Studies l Music l Physical Education l Physics l Politics l Psychology l Religious Studies

l

l

l

l

l

l

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is also available.

Details for each A Level course are available at: stedmundscollege.org/sixth-form

Further details can be found at: Business Level 3

Sport and Physical Activity Level 3

OCR Cambridge Technical Diploma (CTEC) From September 2024 we are excited to offer a new Rhetoric pathway – the Cambridge Technical Diploma.

Equivalent to 2 A Levels, and with a mixture of internal and external assessment, pupils will be able to opt for either Business Level 3 or Sport and Physical Activity Level 3.

This may be able to be combined with a Core Maths or an EPQ qualification (both equivalent to half an A Level), or studied as

14

stedmundscollege.org/sixth-form | admissions@stedmundscollege.org

a standalone qualification. This would depend on discussions with the individual pupil and their parents, and would take into consideration aspirations beyond Rhetoric, wider co-curricular commitments and the pupil’s GCSE profile.

“Our boarding community encompasses students from Year 7 to Year 13, forging a close-knit second family.”

Boarding Day and boarding students are one community within our Sixth Form, with boarders joining us from all over the world. Nestled in a tranquil, secure, rural setting, our boarding house is situated amidst lush and expansive grounds. It provides accommodation for over 100 boarders, representing over 20 nationalities.

Our boarding community encompasses students from Year 7 to Year 13, forging a close-knit second family that benefits from the guidance and support of our dedicated and caring staff. Boarding is the perfect next step to prepare for university life.

Living in Hertfordshire, boarders have the opportunity to partake in

a wide range of organised activities, spanning from classic experiences such as punting at King’s College, Cambridge to festive occasions such as our Christmas Carol Concert and weekend shopping trips to Ware.

Cultural outings to institutions like Thorpe Park, and Harry Potter Warner Brother Studios further enrich the boarding experience.

For more information, please visit our website at: stedmundscollege.org/boarding St Edmund’s Sixth Form

15

Applying to St Edmund’s Visit us We warmly invite you to arrange a personal visit or attend an open event to understand more about life at St Edmund’s and meet our leadership team, staff and students.

Apply for a place Current students

Our current Poetry students (Year 11) need not apply – they automatically progress to Rhetoric providing they meet the entry requirements.

See our website for further information: stedmundscollege.org/sixth-form/entry-to-sixth-form Initial option choices will be collected from current Poetry students in early December. Final options will be required in March of the year of entry.

New students

Entry requirements for our Sixth Form are on our website at: stedmundscollege.org/sixth-form/entry-to-sixth-form To apply, simply complete our online application form at: stedmundscollege.org/sixth-form/entry-to-sixth-form Contact us with any questions you may have at: admissions@stedmundscollege.org

Assessment and interview If you are taking GCSE/IGCSE courses, we will offer a Sixth Form place based on your predicted grades.

Students will also be invited to attend an interview with the Head of Sixth Form, and Head of Boarding where appropriate. Confidential references will be requested and reviewed from your current school.

stedmundscollege.org/sixth-form