UCAS and Careers

The vast majority of students continue to university and for these individuals there is a robust and dedicated team to help all explore and make the right decision. Some pupils, however, want to take a break before picking up their books again whist others would rather explore the apprenticeship route. Whatever decision students make, we ensure that students leave our Sixth Form with the knowledge and skills they require to progress to the next stage of their life with confidence. 

“Writing your personal statement, filling out your UCAS application and sorting out references feels like a full-time job. However, the unwavering support here is invaluable. Because of the small class sizes and great relationships with your teachers, you feel so supported throughout the process.” – Sixth Form Student

A level Choices

Choosing the right A levels is important and we aim to be as flexible as possible tailoring courses and timetables to suit individual needs.  For undecided students we allow them to start with four subjects with the intention of dropping one during the first term. We encourage students to study subjects they enjoy and that suit their personal aptitudes. We offer a wide variety of subject options and provide one to one expert guidance to ensure students choose courses that will enable them to achieve their goals and aspirations at university and in future careers. 

University

The first decision is what to study. Students talk to their personal tutors, Director of Upper School and the Careers Coordinator. We look at expected results, future plans and aspirations as well as encouraging students to go to University Open Days, a number of which we visit with them on Lower Sixth trips.

The UCAS process can be daunting and we pride ourselves on the high standard and thorough nature of tutor support and guidance that we provide from the Lower Sixth through to the moment students gain their A-level results and begin their chosen degree courses. The process begins with a Higher Education evening in the Lower Sixth for parents and students. The evening is presented by Sixth Form tutors and university admissions staff. These guest speakers provide a glimpse behind the admissions process and what universities are looking for.

Filling in the UCAS form can be daunting, so we have a dedicated programme of support, where we work through the online form, to help students apply correctly.

“Writing your personal statement, filling out your UCAS application and sorting out references feels like a full-time job. However, the unwavering support here is invaluable. Because of the small class sizes and great relationships with your teachers, you feel so supported throughout the process.” – Sixth Form Student

Vets, Medics, and Dentists and those applying for Oxbridge courses have to apply early and we ensure that these students are fully prepared ahead of time, so they can concentrate on the details of their application in confidence. It’s an exciting time, and we work hard to ensure that students always feel supported at all times and never feel overwhelmed.

Oxbridge

Students wishing to apply for Oxbridge are given further support. A personal tutor assists with the application and interview process. Students meet with designated Oxbridge tutors at least once a week to guide them in the completion of their personal statement for their application, and subject tutors help prepare applicants for any specific course requirements and examinations. In addition students discuss interview skills and any wider knowledge/experiences they require to gain a place at these Universities.

Medicine, Dental and Veterinary Science, Law

These students also meet earlier deadlines for applications. They are also required to take specific tests including UCAT and additional tutor/teacher guidance is provided to support students in this process. 

Gap Years

‘Gap Years’ allow students to consider their options for further study and careers for a little longer, by deferring University entry following their completion of the Upper Sixth. Some students decide to take a Gap Year in order to gain further work experience in industry whilst others may decide to travel and work with charities and disadvantaged communities abroad. Whatever the reason, our Sixth Form students are supported in their plans, so that they leave our Sixth Form with purpose and vision. We encourage students to plan a Gap Year carefully, including visa and health concerns, how to fund travel and plan trips around UCAS commitments.

Careers and Work Experience

We link students’ work experience to  individual career aspirations and seek to provide students with opportunities to develop ‘soft’ and ‘transferable’ skills, which are highly sought after in industry. Although we provide individual support and guidance for students in finding a placement and have a broad network of contacts, we also encourage students to research and acquire positions independently. Former students have had wide opportunities: in the Royal Opera House,  the Houses of Parliament,  teaching in Germany and working with local business and government institutions such as Alton Council and Crown Court Services.