Sixth Form Prospectus
Fulfilment Through Challenge
Welcome to Wellingborough Sixth Form
This is your time. A time to explore your interests, challenge yourself, and shape the person you want to become. At Wellingborough, we’ll support you every step of the way as you take ownership of your learning, your goals, and your future.
Our Sixth Form is a vibrant, ambitious community, where you’ll be treated as a young adult. You’ll be encouraged to think independently, speak up, and lead. Whether you’re aiming for university study in the Sciences, Arts, or in a Creative subject, plan to pursue an apprenticeship or head overseas, we’ll help you get there—with confidence and clarity.
You’ll find challenge in the classroom, but also opportunity beyond it. From leadership roles to captaining a team, performing on stage, exploring creative passions or taking part in one of the many clubs
and trips we have to offer, there’s space here to grow in every direction.
This is a place where you’ll be known. Where your ideas matter. Where you’ll be inspired to aim high—not just for yourself, but for the difference you can make in the world.
Come and see what’s possible. We’d love to welcome you to Wellingborough.
Simon Hawkes Headmaster
Head of Sixth Form Welcome
Wellingborough Sixth Form is a place where we prepare you for life beyond school.
Academic work and success are central to this community, and the overriding ethos is that the pursuit of intellectual curiosity is both expected and encouraged in partnership with our experienced subject teachers.
In the Sixth Form there is an even greater emphasis upon expecting you to take personal responsibility for your work. As part of your studies, you will be provided with numerous opportunities to develop your leadership, interpersonal and organisational skills. It is also assumed that as a Sixth Former you will take on the responsibility of being a role model to younger pupils.
The Sixth Form offers you a vast range of opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom, enabling you to be well equipped for the challenges that lie ahead. This
includes an outstanding extra-curricular programme, together with highly competitive sporting opportunities.
Our supportive and experienced Sixth Form Team work with you, encouraging you to develop the skills and experiences that you need in readiness for your choices ahead.
Sarah Baxby Head of the 6th Form
Why Choose 6th Form at Wellingborough
Breadth of Curriculum
At Wellingborough, you’ll be encouraged to explore your talents and follow your passions through a broad and diverse Sixth Form curriculum. This is supported by a comprehensive enrichment programme that helps you go further and think deeper. Our dedicated teachers will challenge you intellectually and provide personalised one-to-one support, helping you achieve more than you ever thought possible.
Academic Challenge
At Wellingborough, you’ll be challenged to aim high and will be supported every step of the way to achieve outstanding academic results. Our students go on to study a wide range of degree courses, taking places at some of the UK’s most competitive universities. You could even follow in the footsteps of recent students who have secured places on prestigious programmes like PwC’s Flying Start Degree and other highly sought-after Degree Apprenticeships.
Pastoral support
At Wellingborough, you’ll be supported by a dual-layered pastoral system that combines the strength of our traditional House structure with the dedicated care of the Sixth Form Team. This means you’ll always have someone to turn to – whether you need academic guidance or personal support - ensuring you feel confident, cared for and ready to thrive.
Enrichment Opportunities
At Wellingborough, you’ll have the chance to get involved in a wide range of enrichment activities – from debating and chapel choir to the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. These opportunities help you develop new skills, pursue your interests, and challenge yourself beyond the classroom.
Leadership and Personal Growth
At Wellingborough, you’ll be encouraged to step into leadership roles and grow into a confident, capable individual—ready to make a difference both in school and beyond.
As a Sixth Former, you’ll have access to a wide range of leadership opportunities. You might become a School or House Prefect, act as a Peer Mentor, captain a sports team, or lead a section of the Combined Cadet Force. Whatever path you choose, you’ll develop valuable communication and teamwork skills while helping to shape the culture of the school.
You’ll also have the chance to get involved in volunteering, service projects, and charitable initiatives—making a real impact in your community.
From organising events like the Gala Dinner to leading the STEM Fair, you’ll gain the experience and confidence to lead with purpose.
Sporting Success
Whether you’re an experienced athlete or trying something new, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to get active and be involved in sport. Our Sixth Form Games and after-school training sessions offer excellent coaching and competitive fixtures. You can represent the school in sports such as cricket, rugby, hockey, netball, eventing, and golf—there’s something for everyone.
A Strong Sense of Community
Community is at the heart of life at Wellingborough.
As a Sixth Form student, you’ll play a key role in your House and the wider school community. You’ll engage with parents, governors, guest speakers, and local organisations—broadening your perspective and building valuable interpersonal skills. You’ll also have the chance to make a difference through charity work, organising events to support causes that matter to you.
Inspiring Environments, Just for You:
As a Sixth Form Student, you’ll enjoy exclusive access to spaces designed to support your wellbeing, learning and independence.
The Loft – Your Sixth Form Cafe
When you need a break from studying, The Loft is your dedicated café space—perfect for relaxing, socialising, and refuelling. Open throughout the school day, it offers a range of hot drinks and food, giving you the flexibility to grab a coffee, enjoy a snack, or catch up with friends in a comfortable, welcoming environment. Whether you’re taking a moment to unwind or preparing for your next lesson, The Loft is designed to make your Sixth Form experience even more enjoyable.
The Sixth Form Centre – Built Around You
Opened in 2022, our purpose-built Sixth Form Centre gives you everything you need to succeed. You’ll find modern study areas, breakout zones, a fully equipped IT suite, a spacious communal study space, and a wellstocked kitchen area.
This light-filled, flexible space is more than just a building—it’s a hub for learning, collaboration, and connection. You’ll have quiet areas for focused study, classrooms for lessons and careers lunches, and even an English reading corner to spark your curiosity.
The Sixth Form Centre plays a crucial role in supporting your academic journey, providing you with the resources and environment you need to thrive both independently and collaboratively.
Your Academic Journey
At Wellingborough, you’ll be part of a vibrant and supportive academic environment where you’re encouraged to aim high and think independently. With small class sizes, you’ll benefit from personalised attention and tailored guidance throughout your studies.
You’ll typically choose three A level subjects when you join the Sixth Form, giving you the flexibility to focus on the areas you’re most passionate about. To enrich your experience and broaden your skills, you’ll also have the chance to take part in additional programmes such as the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and the BTEC Sports Leaders Award.
Subjects provisionally offered to A level
• Art and Design
• Art Photography
• Biology
• Business
• Chemistry
• Computer Science
• Design and Technology
• Drama and Theatre
• Economics
• English Language
• English Literature
• French
• Geography
• History
• Mathematics
• Further Mathematics
• Music
• Physics
• Physical Education
• Politics
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Spanish
• Religious Studies
Co-Curricular
Beyond the Classroom
At Wellingborough, your Sixth Form experience goes far beyond academic study. You’ll be encouraged to take part in a wide range of co-curricular activities that help you grow as a person, discover new interests, and develop valuable life skills. Whether you’re passionate about the arts, sport, leadership, or service, there’s something for everyone—and every opportunity is designed to help you make the most of your time here.
CCF
Steeped in history is The School’s Combined Cadet Force is steeped in history and is a source of great tradition and pride. We are one of very few schools with four sections: the Royal Navy, the Royal Marines, the Army, and the Royal Air Force. Wellingborough School has produced some distinguished servicemen and women, and, in 1937, Wellingborough School was the first in the country to form its own Air Section.
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
At Wellingborough, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
The DofE programme is recognised by universities and employers for building resilience, teamwork, and leadership. While the Award includes four key sections— Physical, Skill, Volunteering, and Expedition—it’s the expedition that often creates the most unforgettable memories.
At Gold level, you’ll choose your mode of travel based on your interests, whether that’s walking, canoeing, or cycling. Past expeditions have taken students across Britain—from canoeing the stunning Great Glen to cycling the North York Moors and hiking in Snowdonia and the Lake District. It’s a chance to challenge yourself, bond with your peers, and create experiences that will stay with you for life.
Sport – Compete, Thrive, Belong
At Wellingborough, sport is a key part of your Sixth Form experience. Guided by our Sport for All ethos, you’ll have the chance to enjoy sport at your own level—whether you’re playing for fun, aiming for personal fitness goals, or competing at the highest level.
Through our partnerships with organisations such as Northampton Saints, Northamptonshire County Cricket Club, and Loughborough Lightning, you’ll benefit from expert coaching and development opportunities. Many of our students also compete in national programmes including England Hockey, GB Equestrian, and GB Baseball.
With outstanding facilities—including rugby and football pitches, cricket squares, floodlit artificial surfaces, tennis courts, athletics tracks, a multi-use sports hall, and a specialist indoor shooting range—you’ll have everything you need to train, compete, and grow.
At Wellingborough, sport is about more than just winning—it’s about building confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of being active.
Scholarship Programmes –Recognising Your Potential
At Wellingborough, we offer a range of scholarships to celebrate and support students with exceptional talent—whether that’s in academic subjects or co-curricular areas such as Drama, Music, or Sport. These awards are designed to encourage you to continue striving for excellence while playing an active role in school life.
Academic Scholarships
If you’re entering Year 12 or 13, you may be eligible for an Academic Scholarship. Successful applicants receive a personal grant and are expected to contribute actively to the academic life of the school. There’s no need to apply—your results are reviewed internally.
Co-Curricular Scholarships
If you have a passion for Drama, Music, or Sport, you can apply for a Co-Curricular Scholarship when entering Year 12 (or Year 13 in exceptional cases). You’ll be assessed through an audition, performance, or portfolio submission. Current students may also be eligible for assessment.
As a Co-Curricular Scholar, you’ll join a specialist development programme tailored to your discipline. This includes unique opportunities, expert mentoring, and bespoke training to help you grow and excel. Awards are reviewed annually and renewed based on your continued engagement and performance.
Life Beyond Wellingborough – Preparing for the Future
At Wellingborough School, we are proud that the overwhelming majority of our students go on to Higher Education, often taking places at some of the UK’s most prestigious universities and on highly competitive Degree Apprenticeship programmes.
With tailored support throughout your Sixth Form journey, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to take your next steps—wherever your ambitions may lead.
University and Career Support
You’ll benefit from a comprehensive programme of guidance and advice, including oneto-one support, university fairs, and dedicated information events for both you and your parents. We’ll help you prepare for every stage of the application process—from writing your personal statement to practising for admissions tests and interviews—so you feel ready to secure a place at your chosen destination.
Aspire Programme
If you’re aiming for the most competitive courses or universities—such as Oxbridge, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry, or Law—you can join our Aspire programme. Meeting weekly, you’ll work with like-minded students to develop your critical thinking, research, and communication skills. You’ll also receive tailored support with personal statements, admissions tests like the UCAT or LNAT, and interview preparation.
Aspire goes beyond the classroom, offering access to lectures, wider reading, work experience opportunities, and thought-provoking discussions. It’s designed to stretch your thinking and help you stand out in a competitive world.
“Aspire has really helped give me an edge in my application for medicine. The extra admissions test practice has also been useful, as well as extra help on personal statements, these should help me stand out and get into my first choice university.”
Sulaiman – Year 12
Exploring Your Future – Careers and Degree Apprenticeships
We understand that university isn’t the only path to success. That’s why we offer dedicated support for students interested in Degree Apprenticeships— programmes that combine academic study with handson experience in the workplace. Our Careers Department will guide you through every stage of the process, from researching opportunities to preparing for interviews and assessment centres. Many of our students have gone on to secure places on highly competitive schemes with leading employers.
External Speaker Programme
Each half term, you’ll hear from a guest speaker who brings fresh insight and inspiration to the Sixth Form. These thought-provoking lectures cover a wide range of topics—from global issues to personal development. Recent talks have explored everything from toxic masculinity to Arctic exploration, helping you broaden your thinking and enrich your applications for university or apprenticeships.
Careers Guidance and Resources
You’ll build strong links with our Careers Department and have access to a wealth of resources in both the Study Centre and Sixth Form Centre. Led by our Head of Careers, the programme includes one-to-one guidance, employer encounters, and a wide range of events and talks. Our careers provision is aligned with the Gatsby Benchmarks, ensuring you receive high-quality, meaningful support throughout your Sixth Form journey.
Destinations Day Planning What Comes Next
Destinations Day is all about helping you explore the full range of post-18 options—whether that’s university, apprenticeships, school leaver programmes, gap years, or something else entirely. You’ll hear from universities, apprenticeship mentors, Old Wellingburians, and professionals offering expert advice on everything from interview preparation to student finance and budgeting. It’s a day designed to inspire, inform, and prepare you for life beyond Wellingborough.
“The school engenders a sense of belonging , mutual support and respect. Consequently, pupils enjoy kind relationships with other pupils and adults alike. This is evident in the classroom and in the wider life of the school.”
ISI inspection, January 2025
A Lifelong Connection – The Old Wellingburians Network
Your journey with Wellingborough doesn’t end when you leave Sixth Form—it lasts a lifetime. As a former student, you’ll become part of the Old Wellingburian (OW) community, a global network of over 4,000 alumni who are just as passionate about the School’s future as they are about its past.
The Old Wellingburian Club, founded in 1897, helps you stay connected—with the School and with fellow OWs across generations. Whether through reunions, social and sporting events, or professional networking opportunities, you’ll always have a place in the Wellingborough community.
As an OW, you’ll benefit from a powerful career support network. Many alumni return to give talks, offer mentoring, and provide careers advice to current students. Others support the School through donations to our Bursary Fund, helping to ensure that future generations can access the same opportunities you’ve enjoyed.
You’ll also receive regular newsletters and updates, and can stay in touch through our active social media channels. From university to your professional life and beyond, the OW network is here to support and inspire you.
Notable Old Wellingburians include:
• Hamza Yassin – Wildlife cameraman, BBC presenter, and winner of Strictly Come Dancing 2022
• Andrew Loog Oldham – Original manager and producer of The Rolling Stones
• Michael Ellis – British politician and former Solicitor General
• Joe Stockdale – International showjumper and Olympic-level equestrian
• Alex and Ethan Waller – Professional rugby players
• Dan Roan – BBC Sports Editor and journalist
• Anna Turney – Paralympic alpine skier
• Philip Meeson – Executive Chairman of Dart Group (Jet2)
• Anne Panter – Olympic bronze medallist in field hockey
• Eric Barwell – WWII flying ace
• Sir William Gilliatt – Former Royal Gynaecologist
“Joining Wellingborough sixth form, new to year 12, has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. The support from both the teachers and students made the transition into a completely new environment so smooth. In activities such as Head Start, I found myself fitting in immediately and regretting not joining earlier. I have grown into the space and feel more at home than ever.” ”
Aggie – Year 12
A Beautiful Setting with Excellent Connections
As a Sixth Form student at Wellingborough, you’ll enjoy learning in a peaceful and inspiring environment. Set within 45 acres of beautiful grounds, the School offers the perfect balance of space, heritage, and modern facilities. Many of our original buildings, dating back to 1881, are still in daily use—blending tradition with contemporary learning spaces.
Wellingborough School is situated in the heart of the historic market town of Wellingborough. The school offers a calm and focused environment for a child’s formative years, with excellent transport connections that make it easily accessible from across Northamptonshire and beyond.
If you’re travelling by train, Wellingborough Station is just a ten-minute walk or a five-minute shuttle ride from campus. We run a regular private service to and from the station each day, with direct rail links to London St Pancras and quick connections from Kettering (7 mins), Bedford (13 mins), and Market Harborough (17 mins). Whether you’re commuting locally or from further afield, getting here is easy.
Come and See Us
We warmly encourage you to visit our school to see what we have to offer and all that makes a Wellingborough education so special.
Open Events
We would love to see you at one of our Open Mornings, where you can explore our facilities, meet our dedicated staff, and talk to current pupils.
Book a Private Tour
We would be delighted to arrange a private tour during term time. This offers the best opportunity to meet the Headmaster, discuss your individual goals, and see the Sixth Form in action on a typical school day.
If a term-time visit isn’t possible, we are more than happy to welcome you during the school holidays at a time that suits you.
To arrange a visit, please email our dedicated Admissions Manager, at admissions@ wellingboroughschool.org or call the team directly on: 01933 233496 or 01933 222427
Admissions to Sixth Form
Initial Enquiry
If you wish to register your interest in joining the school, please contact us to check availability in our Sixth Form.
You can do this by emailing Admissions at admissions@wellingboroughschool.org or calling 01933 222427.
You can also complete our enquiry form which can be found on our website.
Visit the School and Meet the Headmaster
Following your inquiry, you will be invited to visit the school for a private tour with the Headmaster, this is a wonderful opportunity for you to visit the school, and discuss your career plans.
You could also come along to one of our Open Events held throughout the year. Upcoming open events can be booked via our website.
Register
To register, your parent or guardian will need to complete our registration form and pay a registration fee of £120*. As part of the registration process, we will ask permission to request a reference, school report and your predicted grades from your current school to support your application for a place.
*The registration fee is non-refundable
Entrance Examination
You will not be required to sit an entrance examination, our decision to offer a place is dependent on your GCSE results, school report and interview with a senior member of the academic staff.
Offer of a Place
Following successful completion of the entrance requirements we will be able to offer you a place. An offer letter will be sent with an Acceptance Form and a copy of our Standard Terms & Conditions.
Acceptance of A Place
Completion and return of the Acceptance Form, together with the acceptance deposit of £600 will secure your place and will form the contract with the School. Your £600 deposit can be returned to you when you leave the school*.
*You will be given the option to donate your deposit to the Wellingborough School Foundation. This helps fund bursaries for pupils requiring assistance, or supports school improvements such as building projects, maintenance, and educational initiatives.
Welcome and Induction
To support your transition into Sixth Form, we offer a comprehensive induction programme. If you join at the start of the academic year, you’ll be invited to a threeday Headstart session in June with sample lessons, meetings with staff, and team-building activities, ending with a summer BBQ — a great way to settle in, explore subjects, and make friends. Parents and guardians also receive access to the New Parent Portal with key information and forms to complete before your first day.
“Pupils benefit from a well-structured careers education programme at the upper end of the senior school which enables them to make informed choices about their next-steps.”
ISI inspection, January 2025
Bursaries
We are proud to be a diverse and inclusive community. We believe that our fees should not be a barrier for children who would benefit from a Wellingborough education.
We offer means-tested financial assistance (bursaries) to eligible families, primarily for entry into the Senior School—typically in Year 7 or Sixth Form.
As the bursary fund is limited and demand is high, it is essential that applications are submitted on time.
We are proud to be one of the few Independent Schools in the UK to offer parents the option to spread the cost of school fees through monthly instalments – completely interest-free. By covering the cost of the interest ourselves, we ensure that families can benefit from greater financial flexibility at no additional expense. This service is provided through School Fee Plan, a trusted provider with over 20 years of experience in supporting parents with school fee payments.
If you would like further information, please ask our Admissions team.
Credit is subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants must be over 18.
Get in Touch
At Wellingborough School, we offer children and young adults a world of opportunity. We warmly invite prospective families to visit us, experience our environment, and discover what makes a Wellingborough education so distinctive.
Before making the important decision of where to send your child to school, we encourage you to get to know us.
Contact our Admissions Team: 01933 222427
admissions@wellingboroughschool.org
Wellingborough School, London Road, Wellingborough, NN8 2BX
