Sixth Form Prospectus 2014-2015 Post-16 Education from Erith, Trinity & Welling Schools
Jennifer A2 English Literature A2 History A2 PE Extended Project After considering all of my options for further education, I can safely say that staying on at Trinity was the right choice for me. Despite the challenging jump from GCSE to A-Level, the first year of the Sixth Form has been an enjoyable and eye-opening experience, with the guidance offered from the staff being very supportive. When considering my options for A-Level I was encouraged to choose subjects that I had an interest in and a passion for. For this reason I chose to study English Literature, Fine Art, History and Physical Education. At first I did not realise how much time each of these subjects required, but in the course of my first year I have been able to improve my time management skills in order to complete all of the necessary work. Next year I hope to go on to study Physical Education and Sport at university. I am currently completing my UCAS application and Personal Statement. The help I have been given throughout this process has been encouraging and useful, and as a result my application is almost complete, and I have already submitted several drafts of my personal statement. In order to enhance my application I have been encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities and I have therefore been helping to coach Year 7 and 8 netball teams as well as regularly umpiring matches. My ultimate goal is to train to be a PE teacher, and the support I have been given during my time in the Sixth Form will help me to achieve this.
Prospectus 2016/17
Welcome to
Trinity It is at this time of year, as students are reaching the end of their GCSE courses, that the next stages of education and training are being considered. Here at Trinity, we consider this next phase hugely important to an individual’s development and to their future education and careers. To this end, I would like to warmly welcome you to Trinity Sixth Form and to introduce the programmes that are available for the forthcoming academic year. The school has spent several years carefully developing and designing the range and levels of courses offered, ensuring that for each and every student a suitable path is available. We continue in this vein as this year we widen the offer of courses for students at Level 2 and Level 3 as well as our involvement with Partnership Sixth. The new multi-million pound Sixth Form Centre will be completed as this year group enters into the Sixth Form. This additional accomodation will provide dedicated and specialist facilities for those continuing their learning in Years 12 and 13.
At Trinity, it is crucial that students have the opportunity to extend their skills and broaden their horizons. The programmes here in the Sixth Form allow and encourage students to progress into employment, other Further Education courses and University courses at degree level. The relationships that we have already established with local universities, and that are now being developed, enable students to enter the world of Higher Education – and for significant numbers they will be the first in their families. This is real progress and real opportunity. Every area of the Sixth Form was inspected by Ofsted in 2011 and from teaching through to care, we are rightly proud of the many aspects of provision which are associated with excellent comments: “As a consequence of good teaching, they achieve well in their learning overall…” (Ofsted 2011) “A good curriculum has been developed…” (Ofsted 2011) “The relevance and success of the curriculum in meeting the differing needs of students is demonstrated by the data from last year…” (Ofsted 2011) “…high levels of support and guidance offered prior to transition…” (Ofsted 2011) The procedure to join our Sixth Form is a staged and monitored process where each applicant is given considered information, advice and guidance by experienced staff. Places are offered in accordance with the criteria set for each level of course. Those students who study in Trinity Sixth Form are a fundamental part of the whole school community. We expect them to fully embrace the values embedded in the Trinity School Code and engage with the Christian ethos of the school: two components essential to the life of Trinity as a Church of England school. Whatever path or course that you decide to pursue in the future, on behalf of all those involved here at Trinity School and its Sixth Form, I wish you every success.
Ian Collins Head Teacher
www.trinity.bexley.sch.uk
We are delighted to welcome all prospective sixth form students to Trinity School, which has a wide range of facilities and excellent teaching and support staff. Trinity School offers a positive environment for your learning experience. Being a student at Trinity School means gaining a wider understanding of your chosen subjects, furthering your education and developing a wide range of skills such as organisation and independence. The education you receive is tailored to suit you, with smaller classes leading to a better relationship between the student and teacher. A newfound respect is established as you are recognised as a young adult.
be part of a wider community, a supporting network of peers, teachers and pastoral team. Trinity’s Christian ethos makes your learning experience unique and will enrich your time at the school. Students are able to use dedicated areas such as the Library, common room, study room, and a separate area in an ICT suite where computers are readily available. You will be the first students to take advantage of the purpose built Sixth Form Centre, equipped with even more computers and dedicated learning spaces. Trinity Sixth also offers many extra-curricular opportunities such as peer tutoring, drama and music performance, a residential trip to Gilwell Park, university taster days an much more.
However, moving into the sixth form comes with high expectations and increased responsibilities. You are in control of your time management, making sure deadlines are met and targets are achieved. Independent learning is key in making your time at Trinity a success and, although supported by teachers, you are expected to push yourself to do the best that you can.
The choices that you make this year are very important and we hope that you will make the best decision for you. Whatever you choose to do we wish you success, and hope that you consider Trinity to help you continue your learning.
Students are able the make use of our state of the art Sixth Form facilities, including a dedicated study room and social space, an exclusive ICT suite where computers are readily available and specialist teaching rooms. This makes the Sixth Form experience at Trinity even more exciting, and equips students with all of the resources and tools they could possible need to achieve deserved success. Trinity Sixth Form offers you the opportunity to
Billy & Esther Head Boy and Head Girl
Prospectus 2016/17
With best wishes
Aims & Introduction The Aims of Trinity Sixth Form
The Application Process
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The Sixth Form at Trinity has expanded significantly over the last few years. We have taken time to ensure that the courses and subjects being offered suit the needs of our students and that they are developed and implemented with care.
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The Sixth Form at Trinity aims to challenge and support all students irrespective of gender, race or disability to fulfil their personal, social and academic potential. The curriculum will provide pathways of progression to Further and Higher Education and into careers. The Sixth Form embraces the values of the Trinity School Code within a strong Christian ethos. Trinity School aims to steadily expand the curriculum provision within the Sixth Form and ensure that standards of achievement continue to rise.
Why Apply to Trinity? There are many reasons to stay on at Trinity School. Past and present students say that there: • • • •
Are specialist teachers who work closely with students. Is a caring and supportive community with strong pastoral guidance. Are specialist facilities in all subject areas. Are opportunities for extra-curricular activities.
...and for those who have been through their GCSEs here, there: • •
Are teachers who know you. Is a familiar environment.
As a Sixth Form, we pride ourselves in matching courses to the requirements and abilities of the individual student. The success of every Sixth Form student is of paramount concern to the staff at Trinity. “Pathways of Progression” is a key term reflecting developments within the Sixth Form and means that courses are designed to enable students to progress along educational, training or employment routes. Irrespective of the course that each student undertakes, every individual is a member of the Sixth Form community at Trinity. In this booklet we outline the content of the core curriculum in which all students are involved. The Year 11 Transfer Form can be found inside this pack. Having carefully read the relevant parts of the Course Directory and from your most recent predicted grades, you should have a good idea of which subjects is appropriate for you. Internal Applications: All Year 11 Transfer Forms must be checked by your tutor and returned to Mr Godden by 11th December 2015. External Applications: Please fill in the Application Pack as directed and return to Mr Godden by 11th December 2015. Forms may be posted or delivered by hand. Finally, all courses in the Sixth Form are demanding and therefore a place is not automatic. A thorough guidance process occurs before offers of places are made. All offers made are conditional on examination results and subject viability.
www.trinity.bexley.sch.uk
Precious AS English Literature AS Government and Politics AS Religious Studies AS Sociology
In Year 11, like many others reading this I was very confused and anxious about going into the Sixth Form. I did not really know what or where I wanted to study. I did know however, that I wanted to branch out and start afresh in a new environment. I attended almost every Sixth Form open evening in Bexley, and after the positive welcoming I received at Trinity’s open and induction day I knew that this was the place for me. It was hard leaving a somewhere I had been for five years and knowing that I was going to be a newbie. I was nervous on my first day, but the positive and welcoming environment instantly reminded me of why I made this choice. I have found it very easy to make friends, and the teachers have made me feel like I have always been a member of Trinity. I know that I have made the right choice, and advise that if you are in a similar situation to me don’t be afraid to try something new and ask as many questions as you can before making your decisions.
Prospectus 2016/17
Trinity Sixth Form is a member of Partnership Sixth. This is a collaboration between Erith, Trinity and Welling Sixth Forms, which enables students to widen their possible choices at Level 2 and Level 3. Also, it allows those who need to access Level 1 courses a range of opportunities to do so. Essentially this joint venture allows students at Trinity, where their preferred course combinations clash at their home school, the chance to study the particular course at another. It also enables students to select a subject that may not be available in their home school. By working together, the three schools are able to offer subjects that would not be viable if offered at one school alone as well as offering a wider range of courses. As part of this arrangement, ‘Partnership Sixth’ has timetables aligned across the three schools. Trinity has operated this timetable for several years ensuring that we are able to manage this relationship for the longer-term to the benefit of all students concerned. As a result of this partnership, the various courses on offer at Erith and Welling Schools are detailed in the Course Guide. If this particular route helps to support your individual option choices contact either Mr Godden, Miss Patten or Miss Wallington for further advice and guidance.
www.trinity.bexley.sch.uk
Supporting Curriculum The Supporting Curriculum and Enrichment
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research their next steps...education, employment and training
It is essential that the curriculum offers more than just the ‘traditional’ subjects if students are to become part of a tolerant and understanding society. In addition, students must also be prepared to tackle the issues surrounding adult life. As part of its supporting curriculum, Trinity Sixth Form includes a wide range of initiatives which are designed to support and enhance the programme of study.
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view and interact with presentations delivered by outside agencies
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update CVs and Personal Statements
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practise interview techniques through role play
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visit the Higher Education Convention in order to gain advice and guidance for future choices.
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gain substantial advice and preparation for university applications
The main thrust of this additional study follows three core routes: 1. Tutorials & Enrichment - Additional activities to support the students’ development. 2. Religious Education - As a Church of England School, Trinity values the contribution that the Sixth Form make towards the spiritual life of the school. All students are expected to attend a timetabled lesson of Religious Education. 3. PSHE/Citizenship - A tailored programme which ensures students are prepared for the outside world. Religious Education and PSHE/Citizenship are jointly covered in a two year programme called Religious & Social Education.
The Tutorial Programme It is imperative that students are given the skills to prepare themselves effectively for the challenges they are going to face later on in life - be it Further and Higher Education or the world of work. Through the tutorial programme, the students are encouraged to:
Prospectus 2016/17
The Enrichment Programme Enrichment opportunities are designed to enable and encourage students to advance their skills, knowledge and experience in addition to their normal programme of study. There are several strands to this component and it covers scheduled and non-scheduled lessons. These include: Enrichment Lessons All Sixth Form Students come together to experience a wide variety of activities in order to develop new skills and have fun. Activities in the past have included: cooking courses, sign language, cycling proficiency, stage combat, touch-typing, Adobe Photoshop familiarisation and a host of sporting activities including golf and swimming. Performing Arts Students have been given the chance to direct performance as well as being members of the cast. This has allowed those involved to develop their management and leadership skills.
Year 7, 8 & 9 Residential Opportunities exist for the Sixth Form to volunteer as leaders for the residential at Gilwell Park.
Students are encouraged to reflect on and criticise the issues discussed; this is achieved through meaningful discussion and dialogue.
Peer Mentoring Students have the opportunity to complete a two day course developing their leadership skills and ability to work with younger pupils. Students can then employ these skills in the local community, completing a placement in a primary school or working with pupils in KS3.
Key topics include: •
Environmental ethics and moral issues
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Peace, war and terrorism
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God and the problem of suffering
Lesson Support Many students this year have volunteered to support Lower School pupils in a variety of subjects. It is evident that their confidence has grown and their ability to communicate with others has been enhanced.
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Conscience and freedom
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God and Science
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Sex and Relationships
Work Related Placement / Community Service If a student finds an appropriate work or community placement which fits with the timetable, the school will endeavour to support this extended learning.
As further preparation for adult life in a modern society, the programme also includes
If a student is aware they wish to follow a particular employment route in the future, such as teaching or nursing, they will be required to complete a work placement to access appropriate courses. Individual guidance will be given in this instance.
2. The Law - including employment legislation.
Work and University Experience Work Experience and University taster sessions (in certain subjects) are offered as part of the summer programme. Students are actively encouraged to attend University taster days.
4. Democracy; Government, voting, the electoral system.
Religious & Social Education
Each term there are “One-day conferences” and these are based on topics requested by the students, for example, marriage and relationships, war and terrorism and the environment.
This course is designed to help the students develop an understanding of Religious and Social issues.
1. Health Education
3. Economic Wellbeing; bank accounts, store cards, saving and mortgages vs rent.
Sixth Form Conferences
www.trinity.bexley.sch.uk
Emilie and Matthew Emilie: A2 Drama and Theatre Studies, A2 Textiles, Level 3 BTEC Music At Trinity there are numerous opportunities for the students to take part in activities to support learning outside of the classroom. One of my most memorable experiences has been undertaking the role of a team leader on the yearly Gilwell Park residential. After attending the trip in both Year 7 and 8 I was keen to go back in a different role. During the training weekend and the week itself I learnt vital skills in team building, time management and important issues surrounding child protection. As part of the training weekend we had the opportunity to go White Water Rafting on the Olympic course at Lee Valley. Despite being pretty cold in March, this was an amazing experience. The week itself was challenging and tiring, but also fun and the skills that you gain make it all worth it.
Prospectus 2016/17
The Sixth Form always have the opportunity to participate in school productions, in roles such as acting, stage management and set design. I have previously taken part in acting roles, which has supported my work within Theatre Studies. It was initially challenging to manage rehearsals around my workload, however with planning I have managed this effectively and enhanced my time management skills as a result. Last year I participated in the Creative Arts Evening, a night where Arts students are able to showcase their work to peers and parents. I enjoyed this experience and was able to receive useful feedback required for evaluations in Music and Textiles.
Matthew: AS Biology, AS Chemistry ,AS Mathematics, AS Sport and PE, Extended Project Attending trips for me is a way of extending my knowledge beyond the classroom. Last year I was lucky enough to attend the ski trip to Stowe in Vermont. Having a keen interest in sports this was great experience for me, and one that I hope to be able to attend again next year. Alongside this, like Emilie, I plan to attend the Gilwell Park residential this year. Hearing the stories of others I am excited for this experience and hope to enhance my skills in leadership and teamwork. When the term community service was first discussed in the Sixth Form, I knew instantly what I wanted to do. As a rugby player it seemed only natural to me that coaching was how I would be able to give something back. This term I have been assisting with coaching the Year 8 and Year 10 teams, and will be attending their matches. I am really enjoying being able to share my skills and knowledge with others,
and helping the team to improve their own. This is also supporting my learning in A-Level Physical Education, as I am able to implement strategies learnt in the classroom to real life situations. Although not quite extra-curricular, in conjunction with my A-Levels I have chosen to complete an Extended Project. This is a research project surrounding a topic which you are interested in, and does not necessarily have anything to do with what you are studying at school. I have chosen to complete a study into why people choose to eat unhealthy food rather than healthy food. I will be completing primary and secondary research and writing a report on my findings. The Extended Project alongside the other extracurricular opportunities available at Trinity help to enhance our skills outside of the classroom, and prepare us effectively for life beyond Trinity.
www.trinity.bexley.sch.uk
Michael AS Biology AS Chemistry AS History AS Psychology Extended Project
I have attended Trinity since Year 7, and have been in the Sixth Form here for around a month now. Although the Sixth Form is no easy feat, I feel that Trinity has enabled me to identify what I enjoy the most and what career path I would like to take in the future. The subjects I have chosen complement each other in various ways. Biology teaches me how life is formed, and what enables us to live in this diverse world. Chemistry allows me to see how chemicals react with each other, and in conjunction with Biology I can learn how elements react with not only each other, but with humans and the world around us. Psychology provides a fascinating insight into why we behave the way that we do and how our brain and experiences impact our everyday lives. History, whilst not being a science, has helped me to develop my essay writing skills – a very useful attribute.
Prospectus 2016/17
A-Levels are nothing like GCSEs, the jump is vast. However, I feel that Trinity has softened the landing in many ways. The Induction Day and Transition Packs eased us into the different way of working, and introduced us to the independent learning, motivation and maturity that are required attributes to succeed at A-Level. Without these it would be a great struggle to get through the year. However, with supportive teachers, the choice to pick subjects that you are interested in and allocated study periods for revision, these traits are easily learnt and adapted to. After completing my A-Levels I intent to take a path into Biochemistry or Psychology at university, which I hope will allow me to move into forensic pathology or psychology. I wish to attend an acclaimed Russell Group University and qualify with high grades. Short term pain for long term gain!
“An environment which enables students to harness and develop their talents and interests.�
Year 12 Pupil
Next Steps To ensure that you progress onto the correct course into Trinity Sixth Form it is important that you read the following information regarding the admissions criteria carefully. 1. Discussion with subject staff and your PPE grades will have given you a good idea of where your strengths lie. 2. We expect a very good record of behaviour, attendance and punctuality. Students must have shown commitment throughout their time at school to benefit from further study in Trinity Sixth Form. 3. The admission number for Year 12 is 140, of which up to 20 external students will be accepted. Oversubscription criteria will apply as outlined in the Application Pack. 4. These citeria should be read in conjunction with the criteria for Partnership Sixth.
www.trinity.bexley.sch.uk
Other Information So, what else...? Trinity Sixth Form also offers a wide variety of additional opportunities during the two year course. These experiences greatly expand the students’ understanding of subject areas, allow for social development and interaction, and further develop skills for Further and Higher Education and the work place. This year alone Sixth Form students have been involved in the following subject based activities: Art: visited galleries in London Biology: environmental survey and Dr Robert Winston conference Dance and Drama & Theatre Studies: performances in local and national theatres English Literature: additional lectures in London and theatre performances Geography: field study to Farningham and ‘masterclass’ conference German: attended European conferences in Finland and Italy and acted as ambassadors for the school Media Studies: National Film Week visits, running of Masterclasses for primary school pupils and documentary filming with Chocolate Films Psychology: part of National Film week PSHE has seen staff from the Local Health Authority attend Sixth Form lessons to consider the issues surrounding sexual relationships. Two students visited Auschwitz for a day trip and seminars with followup project.
Prospectus 2016/17
Many students in the Sixth Form also recognise that employers and admissions tutors at universities look for more than just the ‘academic’. As a result, several students at Trinity support younger pupils in class and contribute to the wider life of the school. Trinity Sixth Form has a Prefect system in operation, including a Head Boy and Girl and their deputies. The Sixth Form have recently returned from a trip of a lifetime to New York. Whilst there they experienced a wide range of cultural and subject specific visits from the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty to a backstage tour of Madison Square Garden. Being in a Sixth Form is not just about hard work... the students within the Sixth Form at Trinity School endeavour to arrange social activities in a variety of locations including the Sixth Form Leavers’ Day! Students this year have raised significant monies for charity and acted as ambassadors in a wide variety of roles. Next year, the above programme will continue to be extended, as will the supporting curriculum. There are many opportunities here in the Sixth Form at Trinity - take them.
Financial Assistance: 16-19 Bursary Scheme A small and targeted bursary scheme is in operation. For more details of the Government funding available, please speak to Miss Patten, Assistant Head of Sixth Form.
Adam Level 2 Cambridge Technical Media Studies Level 2 Cambridge Technical Sport and PE GCSE Law GCSE English Language Retake GCSE Mathematics Retake
Like other students, I am currently completing a one year programme of Level 2 Cambridge Technicals and GCSEs. The Cambridge Technical programme is very different to that of A-Levels. The courses are based around practical skills and assessed through coursework, with a number of different assignments throughout the year. But no exams! This means that keeping to tight deadlines and being organised is crucial and is a good way to prepare myself for the level of independent work required at the next level of study. After I have completed my one year programme I hope to move onto study A-Levels at Trinity, and I know that the skills learnt during this year will provide me with an excellent base of knowledge to do this. In the future I am interested in a career within law or sports and the subjects I have chosen reflect this.
www.trinity.bexley.sch.uk
Mr S Godden Head of Sixth Form trinitysixth@trinity.bexley.sch.uk ABBEY ROAD
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Tel: 01322 441371 Web: www.trinity.bexley.sch.uk Email: reception@trinity.bexley.sch.uk
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Trinity: Tuesday 3rd November 2015 (6pm) E
Key Stage 5 Options Evening:
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2. Partnership Sixth Options Evenings: Erith: Thursday 5th November 2015 Welling: Wednesday 11th November 2015 3.
Progress Evening & Year 11 Interim Report:
Thursday 19th November 2015
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Pre Public Examinations:
Monday 7th – Friday 11th December 2015
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Sixth Form Application deadline:
Friday 11th December 2015
6.
Pre Public Examination Results Day:
Friday 15th January 2016
7.
Sixth Form Transfer Meetings begin and offers issued: January/February 2016
8.
Year 11 Full Report issued:
Friday 11th February 2016
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Sixth Form Acceptance deadline:
Friday 18th March 2016
10. GCSE Examinations begin: 16th May 2016 (NB: Some practical and Language examinations may start sooner) 11.
Sixth Form Induction Day:
Thursday 30th June 2016
12.
GCSE Results Day:
Thursday 25th August 2016
13.
Results Meetings (Key Staff available):
Thursday 25th – Wednesday 31st August 2016
14.
Courses start:
September 2016 (exact date to be confirmed)
A member of