Start of Term

September is the craziest month for schools and especially for sixth forms when we have a new year 12 cohort experiencing their first taste of what it is to be part of a slightly new system and set of expectations. However, we’ve weathered the storm and there is a great buzz about the place as we settle into routines.

We’re really pleased with the way that the first month has gone and that students are living up to their status as senior students and role models. Year 12 are already getting the hang of being more independent in terms of study and many are already putting their hands up to be part of our leadership teams across the school. Students are largely following the dress code, dressing appropriately for a school environment.

Personal development and enrichment

We are always keen to stress the theme of personal development for our students and this can take many forms. Leadership has been mentioned above but we also want student to volunteer in and out of the school community whether that’s helping a class in lower school, coaching a football side or helping at a local primary school or charity in town for an hour a week. There are also places available on nationally recognised courses offered by DofE and NCS. NCS | No We Can | National Citizen Service (wearencs.com)

We also expect them to go beyond their A level or BTec studies to enrich their CV. We’re delighted by the number signing up for EPQ  AQA | Projects | Project qualifications | Level 3 Extended Project Qualification  –  an extra qualification worth half an A level which encourages research into an area of personal interest and we encourage all students to do at least one Future Learn course a term to enhance their studies or develop new interests. FutureLearn: Online Courses and Degrees from Top Universities

Year 13 planning

It’s also an important time for Year 13 in consolidating their studies but also in exploring what is next in terms of apprenticeships, employment or higher education. They have been given all the tools to research their options but need to start the process as soon as possible. University applications are now open and you can bet some students from Leighton Buzzard* have already applied. Here are some links to help:  Get the Jump: explore your education and training choices | National Careers Service   UCAS | At the heart of connecting people to higher education       Not Going To Uni: Apprenticeships & Work Experience in the UK

Events

We also have a few events on the horizon worth sharing with you. At the end of this week we have the Macmillan Coffee (and cake) Morning which is run by the sixth form – please use parentpay to make a charitable donation. Year 12 will be attending a Higher Education and Careers’ Fair at Edgbaston on Tuesday 18^th of October and on the 20^th October we have a whole school careers’ day with representatives from many universities, employers and apprenticeship providers.

Bursary Fund

A reminder that there is a 16-19 bursary fund to assist students with expenses associated with their education – as a rough guide household income should below £35,000 to qualify. Please contact Mr Owen for more information on owen.g@thecoleshillschool.org

We’ll be in touch next half term with more updates from the sixth form.

With best wishes

The Sixth form Team.

*your daughters and sons will explain the Leighton Buzzard principle.