WELCOME TO UCS SIXTH FORM
UCS Sixth Form is an exhilarating place to spend the next two years of your academic journey. It is not just about textbooks and exams; it is a dynamic and engaging environment where you will be challenged, encouraged and supported by passionate teachers who genuinely care about your subjects and your success. Ambition will define your time in UCS Sixth Form. Our diverse range of subjects, coupled with engaging teaching, will help you discover your potential in ways you never thought possible. You will choose subjects you are passionate about, and as you progress, your confidence in your abilities will soar.
But it is not just about what you achieve academically; it is about the friendships you will forge, the unforgettable memories you will create, and the relaxed moments spent in our welcoming state-of-the-art Sixth Form Centre. Here you will discover a vibrant community with countless cocurricular opportunities, the chance to take on leadership roles and the freedom to explore your interests beyond the
classroom. Whatever your path after UCS, these experiences will shape your future. These aspects enrich your Sixth Form life in profound ways, and we believe your wellbeing and happiness during these two years will be vital to your success.
What sets UCS Sixth Form apart is its unique atmosphere. It is a place where warmth and ambition coexist. Our students are not only successful academically but also emotionally fulfilled. We invest in your happiness and well-being throughout your stay here.
We want you to feel empowered, to find your voice and to realise your full potential. When you graduate, you will do so with confidence, knowing that UCS Sixth Form has prepared you for a bright and promising future. Your journey starts here, and we are excited to be a part of it.
“UCS Sixth Form has provided me with so many opportunities, from clubs and enrichment to sports and competitions. My main advice would be to throw yourself into as many things as possible, because you won’t know until you try. Seize every opportunity that comes your way – it could be incredibly useful for UCAS and future subject choices, but also for enjoyment and meeting new people.”
MEG
THE SIXTH FORM CENTRE
Joining our Sixth Form means having access to the AKO Sixth Form Centre – a space that is entirely dedicated to students in Years 12 and 13 (known within UCS as ‘Transitus’ and ‘Sixth’). Officially opened in 2021, the centre offers a cafe serving hot and cold food and drinks across the day, together with work booths, a conference area and more informal spaces. The Head of Sixth Form and the Sixth Form Team are based in the Sixth Form Centre in the day, meaning that they are easily on hand whenever advice and support are needed.
PASTORAL CARE
At our school, we take pastoral care incredibly seriously because we understand that your well-being is at the heart of your educational journey. We recognise that these years can sometimes be challenging, filled with pressure and significant changes. Many of these are very positive, but there may be times when you find things difficult, and during such moments we want you to know that we have a network of people ready to support you.
To equip you with the knowledge and tools to navigate your own well-being, we offer a comprehensive well-being course throughout the Transitus (Year 12). This course is a fundamental component of our Bios Diploma Programme and will prepare you to handle any challenges that may arise. It is designed to empower you so that if your well-being takes a dip, you are better prepared to bounce back.
We have two dedicated School Counsellors who are experienced in supporting young people through a wide range of issues.
Equally, the Well-being Officers of the Sixth Form Union are also committed to peer support and can dispense help or advice.
Throughout your time here, you will develop strong connections with your Form Tutors and Deme Wardens (aka House Masters). They will play a pivotal role in the support network that surrounds you. Your form group, in particular, will become a close and supportive community within the broader school environment.
What sets our pastoral care system apart is the seamless collaboration between Form Tutors, Deme Wardens, Sixth Form Team and Head of Sixth Form. This ensures that you have access to support and advice whenever you need it.
At UCS, we are committed to helping you negotiate the challenges and changes that come your way, and we look forward to welcoming you into our supportive community.
SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM
The heart of our Sixth Form experience is centred on ensuring students have a dynamic and engaging academic programme, aligned with our core Learning Values: Resilience, Responsibility, Resourcefulness and Relationships. We aim to cultivate in our students a genuine passion for learning, a wellrounded understanding of academic subjects and a deep expertise in their chosen fields.
Our primary goal is to foster independent thinking, empowering our Sixth Formers to extend their learning beyond the classroom. We believe in equipping students with the intellectual autonomy required to make this period of their education a personal and meaningful journey.
Art
Biology
Chemistry
Computer
Science
Design & Technology
Drama
Economics
English Literature
French
Geography
German
Greek
History
History of Art
Italian
Latin
Mandarin
Mathematics (A level)
Mathematics (Further)
Music
Philosophy
Physics
Politics
Psychology
Spanish
SIXTH FORM ACADEMIC JOURNEY
In Transitus (Year 12), students are encouraged to select four subjects to study. These subjects will be part of the A Level linear qualification system, designed to span two years of study with final examinations taking place at the end of the course.
As the Transitus year progresses and endof-year exams approach, students have the flexibility to consider their choices. Most pupils will complete the year on all four subjects, taking the end-of-year exams. After this, they can decide on their pathway with several options available. First, they can continue with all four subjects. Secondly, they may choose to drop one subject and pursue an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). Finally, they may focus solely on three A Levels.
This provides students with three distinct pathways to navigate their way through the final year of Sixth Form.
These options ensure that our young people have the freedom to tailor their education to their strengths, interests and aspirations, allowing for a personalised and fulfilling educational experience in the latter years of their school journey.
TEACHING AND LEARNING
What is the Sixth Form classroom like?
In the A Level classroom, lively and thought-provoking discussions are the norm. Our small class sizes ensure that every student’s voice is heard, fostering a collaborative and interactive atmosphere where ideas flourish. Here, you will engage in debates, share perspectives and challenge yourself to think critically about the subjects you are passionate about.
In the A Level classroom, you will embark on an intellectually stimulating journey that will prepare you for the challenges of university and beyond. It is the ideal environment to cultivate your academic talents, pursue your interests and shape your future.
“I’d say A Level study is like jumping face first into your subject of choice. You really are submerged in it, from the first day in the classroom to exploring it through everyday life, as there are so many opportunities beyond the classroom, especially talks from amazing speakers and work experience.”
PLUM
“My experience in Sixth Form has provided me with the wonderful opportunity to delve deeper into the subjects I was most interested in at GCSEs. The support from my teachers allowed me to develop an academic curiosity that has extended beyond the curriculum and find passions that I hope to take forward with me into higher education.”
SAMIR
LEARNING SUPPORT
If you ever find yourself struggling with a specific subject or a recent class topic, there is no need to worry. Our school is committed to providing additional support for students who require it, and every department has its own approach to offering assistance.
Each department may offer support sessions during lunch breaks or after school hours. Our goal is to ensure that you have the resources and guidance necessary to succeed academically.
We offer Study Smart Sessions, which are 20-minute one-on-one support sessions available to all UCS students. These sessions are specifically designed to enhance your study efficiency.
In addition, if you have an identified learning need, when you join our school you will have a one-on-one meeting with the Head of Learning Support. During this meeting, you will work together to create your Learning Support Profile, which will be shared with your teachers. This personalised profile guarantees that both in-class and out-of-class support is tailored to your individual needs, setting you up for success in your academic journey.
We are dedicated to equipping you with the tools and support to excel, so that you can make the most of your time at our school. Your success is our priority, and we are here to help you thrive academically and personally.
BIOS DIPLOMA PROGRAMME
Besides your A Level studies, all Sixth Form students will embark on the Bios Diploma, a comprehensive programme that enhances your academic experience. These classes are integrated into your weekly timetable and consist of both mandatory and elective modules. Upon graduation from UCS, you will receive your Bios Diploma and those who excel will earn Honours recognition.
Over the two years, you will have the chance to explore four ‘Electives’ of your choice. These elective courses are entirely up to you and can be aligned with your passions, skills or future goals. The flexibility is yours – select the courses that resonate with you, when you feel ready.
Our Core and Elective courses open doors to diverse ambitions. Whether you are interested in academic pursuits, projects, Higher Education preparation or discovering something entirely new, our course offerings go beyond the classroom, expanding your horizons and experiences.
Core courses allow you to delve into essential subjects:
Personal and Social Development:
This comprehensive curriculum explores critical topics like self-care, well-being, consent and equality.
Beyond UCS:
Prepare for life beyond UCS, covering UCAS, overseas applications, Oxbridge and career guidance.
Well-being:
Engage in discussions and explorations of well-being while learning practical strategies to support your mental health and that of others.
Praxis:
Dive into academic research through the Bios Project and the Academic Symposium.
Elective courses, on the other hand, are held on Fridays and offer you four different categories (A, B, C and D). You will take two ‘Electives’ each year – one in autumn and one in spring –with the requirement to select at least two from category A and at least one from any other category:
Academic courses:
These extend beyond A Levels, providing a glimpse into undergraduate-level studies.
Beyond the Curriculum courses:
Explore creativity, culture and co-curricular opportunities.
Community:
Engage in various volunteering experiences, taking you off site and into the local community.
Development courses:
Gain new skills or acquire qualifications through these enriching courses.
Your Sixth Form journey is about more than just classes; it is about personal growth, exploration and embracing your ambitions. With the flexibility to craft your own path, you will discover a world of possibilities and chart your course toward a bright future.
LEADERSHIP
Our school offers a multitude of opportunities for students to step into positions of responsibility, fostering a sense of leadership and community engagement. At UCS, we believe in nurturing wellrounded individuals who not only excel academically but also actively contribute to the school’s vibrant culture.
We operate a unique system that encourages students to volunteer or apply for various roles of responsibility across the school.
There are three primary positions of responsibility up for consideration:
Deme Captains
Deme Captains (aka House Captains) are selected by the Deme Wardens, playing a crucial part within their respective Demes during their final year at school. They lead pupils in competitions and events, becoming integral to the Deme’s spirit and activities.
Monitors
Led by the Captains and Vice Captains of Monitors (aka Prefects), this group has a significant role in the functioning of the Sixth Form and the entire school. Its responsibilities extend from the youngest year groups to the broader community of pupils and parents.
Sixth Form Union
The SFU oversees various aspects of Sixth Form life. It comprises Student Officers for areas such as well-being, sustainability and inclusion, and Women’s Officers. The officers collaborate closely with their Senior Tutor and the Head of Sixth to organise social, cultural and educational events for the Sixth Form. Elections are held for these posts, and the group regularly convenes to discuss matters relevant to the senior year groups.
HIGHER EDUCATION
During your time at UCS you will stand at the threshold of crucial decisions, and we are here to provide the guidance and support you need to make informed choices that will shape your future. At UCS, we take great care in offering personalised advice to each student about their future.
For most of our young people, the path ahead leads to university. Choosing the right course can be a life-altering decision, and our teachers and Heads of Departments are here to help. They will offer insights into your suitability for specific courses and share universityspecific information when available. Your Form Tutor will be your trusted guide throughout this process. They will discuss the implications of your choices, present further sources of information and guidance, assist with completing the UCAS Form (including your personal statement), and give unwavering support during the application process.
Behind the scenes, a dedicated team of professionals stands ready to assist you, within the Sixth Form Team. These experts are available for one-on-one meetings to track your progress, ensure your application’s success, and keep both you and your parents fully informed about the decisions being made and their implications.
While the majority of our students pursue Higher Education, some may opt for different paths such as studying abroad, Art Foundation courses, Drama schools or internships/school leavers placements. Rest assured, UCS will deliver the necessary support and guidance to navigate these diverse journeys. Our pupils go on to study at some of the best institutions in the world – but, crucially, they embark on futures which are right for them and that they are excited to begin.
CAREERS
Choosing a school isn’t just about where you will study; it is also about the opportunities it brings to shape your future. At UCS, we take great pride in our comprehensive Careers provision, ensuring that each student has the tools and knowledge to pave the way for their dream career.
We believe in exposing our students to diverse career paths early on. Through engaging talks and speakers, we offer insights into various professions. Whether you’re passionate about Foreign Languages, Journalism, Sport, Medicine, Law or Architecture, we host a range of networking events and have visiting speakers who can share their experiences and expertise with you. These sessions open doors to exciting possibilities and help you make informed decisions about your future.
Entrepreneurship is also a vital skill, and our Young Enterprise programme encourages pupils to think innovatively and develop their business acumen. You will have the chance to create, manage and run your own business, gaining hands-on experience that can be invaluable in any career.
Our annual Careers Fair is an exceptional opportunity to connect with professionals from a myriad of companies and industries. Examples of participating companies and professions range from technology and finance to healthcare and creative arts.
“With a robust Careers provision that includes talks, hands-on experience, networking and exposure to assorted professions, UCS prepares you for success in the ever-evolving world of work.”
MAX BARON
PERFORMING ARTS
Drama
Drama at UCS is inclusive and is centred on providing pupils with exceptional experience in theatre and the dramatic arts.
The annual co-curricular programme for Drama includes a Senior School Production, which carousels between a play and a musical each year. The productions at UCS are of an excellent standard, being brought to life in collaboration with a specialist theatre designer and performed in our dedicated theatre space.
Every year a group of pupils create, rehearse and perform an original play at one of the world’s biggest arts festival – the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
Pupils can also elect to participate in the Trinity Drama acting course. Pupils explore improvisation, vocal and movement skills, naturalistic acting techniques and are introduced to a diverse range of scripts. Trinity College examinations are highly regarded worldwide and from Grade 6 are awarded UCAS points. The Trinity provision at the school is led by Danny Swanson, a RADAtrained actor and teacher with extensive experience in theatre and performance.
“Despite not taking Drama A Level, this has not prevented me from immersing myself in the Drama activities on offer at UCS.
Not only did I have the opportunity to take part in both school plays, I was also able to participate in the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where I had the honour of performing a play for a week with my peers.”
TALIA
Music is more than just notes on a page; it is an expression of your inner creativity. At UCS you will have the opportunity to join a wide variety of ensembles, orchestras and choirs, each catering to different musical interests and talents.
The Music Department hosts some 30 concerts a year during lunchtimes and in the evenings, providing multiple occasions for you to showcase your musical talents, build a sense of community and celebrate the joy of creating music together.
Whether you are drawn to the choral harmonies of Scuola Cantorum and Altus, the grooves of Senior Jazz, the electrifying sounds of Rock School, the grandeur of Symphony Orchestra or the camaraderie of Concert Band, we have something on offer for you.
“What makes UCS Music so special is that it is open to anyone, regardless of whether you’re studying Music A Level or have been playing an instrument for ten years or only one. Despite not doing Music A Level, UCS has provided me with amazing musical opportunities from leading an orchestra to being part of a piano trio, among the regular solo recitals. The annual Deme Song event is one of my highlights of the musical year, because it is a way to work with people across the years and to create an exciting performance of our own while also making new friends and memories.”
OTTILIE
SPORT
Embarking on your journey at UCS, you will find a vibrant selection of sports waiting to welcome you. We understand the importance of physical wellbeing and the role it plays in your holistic development. That’s why we offer a diverse range of sporting options to cater to your interests and passions.
Every Wednesday afternoon, you will have access to a wide array of sports activities. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive programme that appeals to various interests. While we encourage active participation in major team sports like rugby, cricket, football, hockey and netball, we also offer a plethora of other
activities. From tennis, squash and bouldering to horse riding, spinning, rowing and yoga, there will be something for everyone.
At UCS we believe that a well-rounded education encompasses not only intellectual growth but also physical fitness and sportsmanship. Our sports programme is designed to help you discover your athletic passions, improve your physical health and develop essential life skills like teamwork, discipline and resilience.
As you join our exciting sports community, you will have the opportunity to explore and excel in various sports. Whether you dream of scoring goals on the football field, mastering the perfect serve in tennis or finding inner peace through yoga, we have the resources and support to help you achieve your sporting goals.
It is not just about competition; it’s about fostering a lifelong love for sports, fitness and well-being.
“Sport is a vibrant and integral part of the UCS culture. With beautiful sports grounds and dedicated coaches, we have the opportunity to excel in a wide range of sports, from basketball to football, swimming to netball. As a girl joining a boys’ school, I expected not much time dedicated towards elevating female sports such as netball, but I experienced completely the opposite. I have never been so integrated in and passionate about a sport!”
BEATRICE
CLUBS AND SOCIETIES
As a member of this school community, you are in for a world of opportunities beyond the classroom.
Many of our clubs are initiated and led by Sixth Formers, allowing you to shape the school’s cultural fabric. The Charity Discussion Group, for instance, encourages student involvement in the local community and promotes awareness of global charitable efforts. Our FemSoc is also spearheaded by students, giving you the chance to drive important discussions on gender equality and empowerment.
Whether you are into sewing, bouldering or nurturing your creative spirit through poetry and creative writing, our clubs offer a space for skill development. If you thrive on competition, we have clubs that cater to your competitive spirit. From debating to Model United Nations (MUN), you will have the opportunity to test your skills on a bigger stage and represent our school with pride.
Our clubs and societies also nurture academic excellence. STEM Breakfasts, for example, afford a deeper dive into the world of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. These experiences enhance your knowledge and broaden your horizons. If you have aspirations for Oxbridge or medical school, our clubs and societies can help you prepare. Join the Law Society, History Society, Medical Ethics Group or Debating Club to sharpen your skills and gain valuable insights.
Our clubs and societies in the Sixth Form are not just extracurricular activities; they are platforms for growth and discovery, providing a stage for you to take the lead.
TRIPS
School trips are more than just excursions; they are transformative experiences that leave an indelible mark on our educational journeys.
Our school trips are meticulously designed to enhance your academic enrichment. They take learning beyond textbooks and into the real world. For instance, our Bios ‘Elective’ courses lead students to the cultural treasures of London, including galleries, Parliament, the Supreme Court, theatres, museums and the Bank of England. They are a chance to witness History, Art and government in action. Geography and Biology students embark on fieldwork trips that immerse them in the natural world, with a standout experience for A Level Biologists being the ecological studies at Juniper Hall.
Meanwhile, our residential trips abroad are eye-opening experiences that broaden your horizons. Whether it’s exploring Mandarin and Geography in Singapore and Malaysia, delving into Economics in Brussels, or combining Maths and German in Berlin, such trips provide cultural and academic insights.
These experiences are not just about learning; they are about making memories that last a lifetime.
OLD GOWERS
All UCS pupils become Old Gowers upon leaving and join the Old Gowers’ Association, regardless of how long they have spent here. This is a body made up of nearly 8,500 former pupils of the school and exists to provide a point of connection both between Old Gowers, and between Old Gowers and the school today.
Belonging to this community gives alumni direct access to a wealth of opportunities, both professional and personal. They can connect with fellow Old Gowers for mentoring, career advice, CV review and job opportunities. And though our home base is on Frognal, you will find Old Gowers living all around the world – the OG community is truly a global network.
An area of particular strength for the Old Gowers’ Association is sport, as there are several sports teams for alumni and friends. Our OG cricket, fives, football,
tennis and rugby teams are always looking for players while the netball team was formally launched in 2023. There is always a place for you on an Old Gower team.
We work hard to develop the relationships that Old Gowers have with each other and with the school, and professional networking is one area of priority – giving Old Gowers from specific industries and careers the chance to develop their contacts’ books in their chosen fields. We also host reunions and parties to bring together OGs from all generations to reminisce, reconnect and give back to the school community.
We look forward to welcoming you back to UCS one day in the future, as an Old Gower.
PUBLIC EXAM GRADES
93% of A Level grades achieved by UCS students were A*–B 73 students scored straight A*–A grades in 2023
We encourage our Sixth Formers to set their horizons on what’s next and on how they can reach their goals, whatever these may be, while also exploring their identity and beliefs.
Our results continue to be exceptional and mark a richly rewarding conclusion to our young people’s careers at Frognal. In 2023, 93% of A Level grades achieved by UCS students were A*–B and 72% were A*–A. Such positive outcomes for a pupil body that also dedicates countless hours to partnerships, community and charity ventures, indicate that we are striking a healthy balance between the studious and the socially responsible.
We have worked hard to achieve coeducation that really works, successfully transitioning and integrating pupils so that they can inspire each other to live out their full potential.
