Good Schools Guide 2005 National Award winners in six subjects including 'Best selective state school for girls English Literature A Level'
- Exceptionally wide range of A and AS levels
- Separate, well-equipped Sixth Form building
- Opportunities for work experience
- Wide enrichment programme
- Expert Guidance on university courses and careers
We have at present 340 Sixth Formers. The majority of Year 11 students elect to stay on in our Sixth Form. Each year 25 new students join the Sixth Form, some of them from overseas.
Few jobs with prospects are available for young people who want to leave school at 16. Young people and their families are ambitious and realise the value of qualifications. Last year well over 80% of our Sixth Formers went on to Higher or Further Education. Whether you choose to go on to Higher Education or not there is plenty of evidence that qualifications are a great asset in the job market. Most of our A Level leavers have found secure employment with good prospects even when their A Level grades have been modest.
Most of our Sixth Formers enjoy their time in the Sixth Form for its own sake. They gain in maturity and confidence and make a very good impression on local employers who come in to give them practice interviews. Where students do feel unhappy about some aspect of their course we are very willing to give advice and help them to choose an alternative way forward, contacting outside agencies such as the Careers Service or an employer if appropriate.
A and AS Level Subjects
We offer an exceptionally wide range of A and AS levels, currently 35 subjects including Psychology, Business Studies, Drama and Theatre Studies, Music, Music Technology, Classical Civilisations, Design Technology and Film Studies, as well as traditional academic studies. Additional courses including a wide range of applied (vocational) A and AS levels are available through the offers schools in the Rainham Sixth Form Consortium.
Students are given a free choice of subjects, with plenty of guidance from careers and subject staff. Almost any combination of subjects is possible. Most students take four subjects in their first year in the Sixth Form, and three in their second year. They will also have the opportunity to take A Level General Studies. Other variations to this programme are available, and all such decisions are discussed fully with individuals to make sure that each student is following an appropriate course of study.
Enrichment Activities
Students also have a wide range of opportunities in the sixth form including: organising charity fund raising events; working with children in local primary schools; taking part in work experience with local firms and running clubs for younger students. Recreational activities are extensive, with students increasingly taking responsibility for the running of clubs and events. All students have the opportunity to take part in a varied sports programme during curriculum time.
In addition, students have the chance to be elected as prefects, or to apply to become a senior student. These students work closely with lower school forms or with particular departments within the school, and gain valuable experience and confidence from increased responsibility.
Who's Who in the Sixth Form
Mrs Horstrup is an Assistant Headteacher and Head of Sixth Form
Mr Hardwick is an Assistant Headteacher in charge of transition from Year 11
Miss Purcell is Deputy Head of Sixth Form and Head of IFS
Mrs Pilgrim is an Assistant Headteacher and Head of Careers. Consult her about subject choices and career paths.
Mr Moore is Deputy Head and Director of Studies. Consult him about subject availability and timetabling problems.
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