...raising achievement. Raising aspirations.
Sixth Form Prospectus 2014-2015
Post-16 Education from Erith, Trinity & Welling Schools
ALIX BLISS AS BIOLOGY AS GRAPHIC ART AS RELIGIOUS STUDIES AS SPORT
Going into the Sixth Form has been a big jump, but a great jump too. I have experienced more freedom and have been recognised as a young adult. The subjects that I have chosen are varied, giving me a good balance between academic, creative, scientific and analytical learning experiences. Sport and Biology complement one another well because many aspects of the A-Level Sport course focus on the physiological side of exercise. Religious Studies is allowing me to develop my essay writing and debating skills by making arguments for and against a range of controversial issues. Graphic Art allows me to display my creativity, beginning with a small idea and independently developing it into a project. The change in learning styles has made Year 12 a big jump from Year 11. In Year 12 your priorities change, firstly you are studying subjects that you have had the freedom to choose and that you enjoy. Your learning becomes more independent and you have to learn to structure your time more efficiently. I have learnt quickly the value of study periods and how important it is to manage your workload during this time. Alongside this, it is crucial to continue this outside of school. Although this may seem a bit overwhelming, I believe that you get out what you put in. Although I am currently unsure of the path that I would like to take after I finish my A-Levels, I believe that because of the balance of subjects that I have chosen, I will leave Trinity with a wide range of skills which will assist me in whatever I choose to do.
...raising achievement. Raising aspirations.
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.
Trinity Sixth Form offers you the opportunity to 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.
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.
Students are able to use dedicated areas such as the Library, common room, study room, and a separate are 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. With best wishes Cariss and Callum
...raising achievement. Raising aspirations.
Aims & Introduction The Aims of Trinity Sixth Form
The Application Process
•
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.
• • •
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 / Application 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 13th December 2013. External Applications: Please fill in the Application Form, Supplementary Form and Reference Request Form as directed and return to Mr Godden by 13th December 2013. 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
JACK THORNTON A2 GEOGRAPHY A2 HISTORY A2 PSYCHOLOGY
I attended Trinity School from Year 7 to 11. Following my GCSEs, I believed that after five years I was ready for a change and decided to go to college to study Music. After some time at college, I began to realise that something was missing. It turns out there were a few things that I had left behind at Trinity, not just friends but also teachers too. After being part of the same school for five years, it was easy to take it for granted. But it is only when I left that I realised what a great support system there is here at Trinity; there is somewhere to go whatever your problem is. So I expressed a desire to leave college and was welcomed back to Trinity and was able to start the Sixth Form. Leaving for college was a huge decision, one that I believed to be right at the time, but was one that perhaps I took on too soon. Trinity is unique. Here, in the Sixth Form, you are treated as an individual, not just one member of a large group. I am now back in an environment which suits me best in, in a place that as many pupils would also say, makes me feel comfortable.
...raising achievement. Raising aspirations.
Partnership 6th Trinity Sixth Form is a member of Partnership 6th. 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 Transfer Form and Application Form are accompanied by the corresponding blocks for Erith and Welling Schools too. If this particular route helps to support your individual option choices contact either Mr Godden, Miss Patten, Miss Greene or Mr Palmer for further advice and guidance.
www.trinity.bexley.sch.uk
ELLA LAURANCE ELLA LAURANCE A2 ENGLISH LITERATURE A2 RELIGIOUS STUDIES A2 SOCIOLOGY A2 THEATRE STUDIES After completing my GCSEs and spending a long time considering which would be the best pathway to take next, I can say with absolute confidence, that Trinity was the best decision I could have made. My ambition is to become a Primary School teacher and I am currently working on my application for university. I hope to attend either the University of Greenwich or Canterbury Christ Church University and I would like to focus on teaching the early years. The subjects that I chose to study at A-Level have challenged me, however I am working hard in order to achieve my goal and I know that these subjects have provided me with a good foundation of knowledge which I will take with me to Higher Education. There are many leadership opportunities available in the Sixth Form at Trinity. Personally, I took part in a peer mentor training course and I am now able to participate in ensuring that those who are seeking help are provided with the care, support and encouragement to aid their school life experiences. I am also a volunteer assistant in the school library helping students with their homework and carrying out library duties. I am also a senior prefect at Trinity School, and through this have the opportunity to demonstrate my appreciation for all I have gained from being one of its students. I am pleased to be contributing to the school’s continued success and I believe that it has provided me with the most secure stepping stone to a successful future.
...raising achievement. Raising aspirations.
The Supporting Curriculum The Supporting Curriculum and Enrichment The Enrichment Programme 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. 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: •
research their next steps...education, employment and training
•
view and interact with presentations delivered by outside agencies
•
update CVs and Personal Statements
•
practise interview techniques through role play
•
visit the Higher Education Convention and the ‘Design Your Future Fair ‘ in order to gain advice and guidance for future choices.
•
gain substantial advice and preparation for university applications
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 nonscheduled 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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.
www.trinity.bexley.sch.uk
Religious and Social Education This course is designed to help the students develop an understanding of Religious and Social issues. Students are encouraged to reflect on and criticise the issues discussed; this is achieved through meaningful discussion and dialogue. Key topics include: •
Environmental ethics and moral issues
•
Peace, war and terrorism
•
God and the problem of suffering
•
Conscience and freedom
•
God and Science
•
Sex and Relationships
As further preparation for adult life in a modern society, the programme also includes 1. Health Education 2. The Law - including employment legislation. 3. Economic Wellbeing; bank accounts, store cards, saving and mortgages vs rent. 4. Democracy; Government, voting, the electoral system.
Sixth Form Conferences 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.
...raising achievement. Raising aspirations.
DELAYNE SENIORMORGAN AS BTEC L3 A2 A2
COMPUTING MUSIC TEXTILES THEATRE STUDIES
Alongside learning there are a vast range of additional opportunities available to students in the Sixth Form. For instance, in March I attended a training weekend to become a leader for the Year 7, 8 and 9 Gilwell Park Activity Week. This was a challenging yet rewarding experience and included rock climbing, water sports, ghost walks and many other activities promoting teamwork, leadership and communication skills. All students have the chance to participate in activities which support and educate us through research into higher education. Last year I attended a Teaching Taster Day at a local university, giving me a good insight into studying a teaching degree at university and the profession itself. Taster events are offered throughout in many different subjects. I also attended the UCAS Higher Education Convention where I was able to meet current students and collect prospectuses for different universities. I have had a lot of positive experiences at Trinity Sixth and plan to be involved in many more this year. I have no doubt that these will enhance my UCAS application and will stand me in good stead for the future.
www.trinity.bexley.sch.uk
Admissions 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 mock examination 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 Borough Sixth Form Prospectus. 4. These citeria should be read in conjunction with the criteria for Partnership Sixth.
...raising achievement. Raising aspirations.
CHARLIE WRIGHT Cam TEC Cam TEC Cam TEC GCSE
ART ICT SPORT ENGLISH (RESIT)
Like other students, I am part of a three year course at Trinity Sixth Form. I am in the process of completing my first year – a one year programme of Level 2 Cambridge Technicals. I am studying this programme as I did not originally have the English GCSE grade needed to study the AS Level courses that I wanted to. So after discussions with the school, it was decided that I should begin with three Cambridge Technical courses, in conjunction with retaking my English GCSE. After retaking my English and gaining my C grade I am planning to move onto an A-Level programme to study Graphic Art, Photography and ICT. The Cambridge Technical programme is very different to that of A Levels. The courses are based around practical skills and assessed through course work, 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 A Level. I am able to further develop skills that I learnt at GCSE and gain a wider knowledge of my subjects. I am currently unsure what I would like to do after Trinity Sixth Form, whether it is university or employment. But I know that the skills that I will learn and experiences that I will have during my time here will be valuable to me whatever I choose to do.
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 The ‘values’ programme has been supplemented by an outside Theatre in Education group examining the hazards and dangers caused by drink-driving. PSHE has seen staff from the Local Health Authority attend Sixth Form lessons to consider the issues surrounding sexual relationships.
...raising achievement. Raising aspirations.
Two students visited Auschwitz for a day trip and seminars with follow-up project. 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.
KATE WATERS AS AS AS BTEC L3
DANCE ENGLISH LITERATURE THEATRE STUDIES MUSIC
I have found the transition from Year 11 in to the Sixth Form to be a challenge, but one that I am embracing. The workload requires more commitment both inside and outside of school, however I am already seeing how much this commitment can pay off. The subjects that I have chosen not only require me to complete coursework, but also have a central practical element. This involves not only managing my own study time, but also communicating with others so that we are able to participate in group work. Alongside this I have also auditioned for and been given a main part in this year’s school production. This has meant co-ordinating my time has been even more vital in order to complete my studying and rehearsals. I enjoy participating in extra-curricular activities and feel that this is important for my future. I am glad that I have been able to continue this into the Sixth Form in conjunction with my work. After finishing my A Levels at Trinity Sixth, I am considering either studying Musical Theatre at university or becoming a Drama teacher. The subjects that I chose for A-Level give me a good balance; and will allow me to move in to either one of these areas. I am sure that as I progress through my A Levels my choices will be shaped further.
www.trinity.bexley.sch.uk
Mr S Godden Head of Sixth Form Trinity Sixth Form
ELSA
ROAD
Erith Road Belvedere Kent DA17 6HT
Tel: 01322 441371 Fax: 01322 436723 Web: www.trinity.bexley.sch.uk Email: reception@trinity.bexley.sch.uk
Key Dates: 1. Key Stage 5 Options Evenings: Erith School Tuesday 5th November 2013 Trinity School Thursday 7th November 2013 * Welling School Wednesday 13th November 2013 2.
Consultation Evening & Year 11 Interim Report:
Tuesday 19th November 2013
3.
Mock Examinations:
Monday 9th - Friday 13th December 2013
4.
Sixth Form Application deadline:
Friday 13th December 2013
5.
Sixth Form Interviews begin and offers issued:
January 2014
6.
Year 11 Full Report issued:
Friday 14th February 2014
7.
Sixth Form Acceptance deadline:
Friday 14th March 2014
8. GCSE Examinations begin: Monday 12th May 2014 (NB: Some practical and Language examinations may start sooner) 9.
Sixth Form Induction Day:
Thursday 26th June 2014
10.
GCSE Results Day:
Thursday 21st August 2014
11.
Results Meetings (Key Staff available):
Thursday 21st – Wednesday 27th August 2014
12. Courses start: September 2014 (Exact date to be confirmed) *For more information see the Sixth Form noticeboard near the Sixth Form Office.