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Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Post-16 Education CONTENTS Abbeywood Community School ......................................... 4
WITH SO MANY OPTIONS
Ashton Park ........................... 8 Badminton School .............. 6 Brislington Enterprise College ...................................... 14 Bristol Grammar School ........................................................ 14 City of Bristol College ...... 12 Clifton College ...................... 15 Clifton High School ............. 7 Colston’s Girls’ School ...... 11 Colston’s School .................. 4 Kingswood Partnership... 10 Merchants’ Academy ........ 8 Nailsea School ....................... 9 Olympic Academy Bradley Stoke ........................................... 5 Red Maids’ School .............. 6 Royal High School ............. 10 South Gloucestershire and Stroud College ..................... 16 St Bede’s Catholic College ........................................................ 13
CONTACTS
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It seems to be getting harder for school leavers every year. Just when 16-year-olds think they have a grasp of the qualifications and institutions open to them when they finish secondary school, the goalposts are moved. And this year is no different. Education reporter Marc Rath reports.
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TUDENTS taking their GCSEs in the summer will have more options than their predecessors. With a difficult decision to make, many will focus their minds by concentrating on where they want further education to take them. Are they targeting a place at a particular university? Do they want the next couple of years of study to leave them well placed to secure a job in their preferred field? Are they unsure about a vocation and hoping to keep their options open? In the Bristol area, there are a growing number of sixth forms opening which are attached to secondary schools. Students are faced with deciding whether they want to stay on at school in a familiar environment surrounded by their friends or go to a college which may prepare them better for university life and give them the chance to meet new people. Students taking their GCSEs can now also consider a new type of school which has opened in Bristol – a University Technical College. The college, called the Bristol Technology & Engineering Academy, opened in Stoke Gifford last September and caters for students aged 14 to 19 with an interest in a career in engineering. To prepare them for life as an engineer, students work a much longer day than most of their peers, with lessons taking place between 8.30am and 5pm. Another type of institution coming to Bristol is studio schools, which are academies designed to equip pupils aged 14 to 19 with the knowledge, skills and experience needed to succeed in life and work. The model has been developed with employers, education agencies, government and other partners. The schools offer academic qualifications, with students spending time each week in work placements. There are plans to create a studio school on the site of The Grange School & Sports College in Warmley and at Wellsway School in Keynsham. As well as institutions, qualifications are
“ It’s worth
being aware of local opportunities and what’s happening in the city. Bristol is creating jobs in a diverse range of areas – its food culture and restaurants are out of proportion to the scale of other cities Cliff Shaw, deputy principal at City of Bristol College also changing. Education Secretary Michael Gove wants to alter the A-level to make it more academically rigorous with fewer modules and more riding on a final exam. The International Baccalaureate (IB) is becoming increasingly popular and can be studied at more and more colleges and sixth forms. Students are opting to take the IB for numerous reasons. For some, the qualification allows them to continue to study a broad range of subjects and introduces an international perspective to their learning. Others are choosing it as they believe universities are beginning to favour it over A-levels. Careers advisors will be on hand to guide students but they have to grapple with a few key decisions themselves. Cliff Shaw, deputy principal at City of Bristol College, believes taking a course with a view to a preferred career can prove to be a sound move. But in this fast-moving digital age it can be hard to predict which industries will have longevity.
Mr Shaw, who has vast experience in post-16 education, recommends researching employment sectors which are expanding. He said: “Bristol is a city which seems to be booming and there are all sorts of industries associated with that – leisure and tourism, retail, engineering, digital technology and visual arts. It has a great cultural history, with music and performance. I would say to students ‘Have a look at apprenticeships’ when there is growing employment. “Think about the opportunities locally and regionally. There’s Hinkley Point (nuclear power station) – there’s more investment going into that than the Olympic site in London. There will be a whole manner of skills needed for that – from civil engineering to catering and security. “It’s worth being aware of local opportunities and what’s happening in the city. Bristol is creating jobs in a diverse range of areas – its food culture and restaurants is out of proportion to the scale of other cities.” Apprenticeships are a growing area for the college, which now has 2,346 in 150 placements. The college also offers 28 different A-level subjects. Mr Shaw, who was appointed by the college in April, recommends school leavers visit the colleges or sixth forms they are considering attending. Mr Shaw said: “The best way of making choices is going into the workplace or college to sample it. There is a greater choice and more to choose from – there are open evenings and taster days. “A website or prospectus is one thing but talking it through helps form the decision.” And he says there is a safety net at the college for students who find themselves on a course they are unhappy with. Mr Shaw said: “We have something called a six-week swap not drop. If young people are on a course and they suddenly think the course isn’t what they want, they have six-week window to transfer across to another course. We can give students advice and guidance and move them across to the right programme.”
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Post-16 Education
YOU NEED TO CHOOSE CAREFULLY
● International Baccalaureate students at St Brendan’s Sixth Form College – Maliek Curtis, Joe Pusey, Adam Hinchliff Walz, Abi Miles and Phoebe Thomas
THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE biochemistry or human physiology.” Adam Hinchcliffe Walz, 16, of Bath, said: “The IB is a lot of work but as long as you are organised, it’s fine. I chose it because I didn’t want to specialise.” Tibaba Adeniyi, 16, from Longwell Green, said: “Doing an IB was initially a parental suggestion and when I looked into it I thought it would be the right thing for me. I thought I would love to a lot of subjects and have small class sizes.” Second year IB student Abi Miles, 18, from Longwell Green, said: “It can be really stressful at times but I think the outcome will be worth it. I would recommend it to people who don’t want to specialise and those who are organised. I think I will have an advantage over A-level students.” Phoebe Thomas, 18, from Bath, said: “I chose to do an IB because I had moved here from America and wanted to keep my options open. I didn’t want to study only three or four subjects.” The IB is aimed at encouraging students to think independently, and to explore their creativity. Students do coursework in college and take written exams at the end of the programme. At the University of the West of England (UWE) there has been an increase in applicants studying the IB over the last few years. Keith Hicks, of UWE, said: “UWE was one of the first universities to recognise a wide range of qualifications other than A-levels including the International Baccalaureate but the university also recognises the achievements of those who have other equivalent qualifications from local colleges.” Roseanna Cross, head of undergraduate admissions at Bristol University, said: “The university accepts a wide range of qualifications for entry and the IB is now a well-established route to higher education. In the last two years, we’ve accepted 200 undergraduate students each year who took the IB.”
Our students leave with much more than the best exam results Aisling Favourite subjects: Economics, History, German Loves swimming Grade 5 cellist and soprano, Plays in the Symphony Orchestra, Senior and Chamber Choirs Year 7 Peer Mentor
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THEY could be considered indecisive. But for a group of students at St Brendan’s Sixth Form College, a desire to keep all their options open was the major draw of the International Baccalaureate. The teenagers chose the IB as it allowed them to continue studying a broad range of subjects, unlike A-levels, which call on students to specialise in three or four areas. The IB is an increasingly popular option for school leavers and has become a qualification looked upon favourably by universities. Internationally recognised, it is a challenging and well-rounded programme followed by students around the world. Until recently it was only taught in a minority of independent schools, but is now an option in some state schools. St Brendan’s is the only state school or college to offer the IB in the West of England. As well as the three compulsory elements of the IB, students can take a further six subjects from a pool including languages, sciences and the arts. Because it is still an emerging qualification, class sizes at the college in Brislington are very small and in at least one subject there is one-on-one tuition. First year IB student Joe Pusey, 17, from Keynsham, chose to study the IB after earning seven A*s in his GCSEs. His six IB subjects are maths, English, biology, chemistry, Spanish and psychology. He said: “I wanted to carry on doing a range of things. I liked the variety of subjects with the IB. It’s hard work but I like it.” Maliek Curtis, 17, from St Agnes, said he chose the IB because he didn’t want to narrow his options. He hopes the qualification will help him get a scholarship to study in America. Maliek said: “The IB is a really good course. There’s a small number on the course and you get to know each other really well – we are all good friends. I want to go on to study chemical engineering,
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Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Post-16 Education
Sharing helps school to be one of best in area
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BBEYWOOD Community School made further progress to consolidate last year’s status as one of the top two post-16 centres in South Gloucestershire last summer. Abbeywood is a member of the Concorde Partnership, along with Bradley Stoke Community School, Patchway Community College and South Gloucestershire and Stroud College, with whom the schools share a timetable. Transport is provided for students to travel to other centres for half-day timetable blocks. This has led to a significant increase in the range of courses available to students in all centres and gives opportunities for shared planning and training for staff as well.
● Head Boy at Abbeywood Community School, Scott Cousins “I am studying two of my A-level subjects at the Abbeywood post-16 centre and through the highly successful Concorde Partnership I study sport at SGS College. Last year I surpassed my AS targets,
Abbeywood Community School gaining an A in maths in addition to three B grades. “Abbeywood’s fantastic A2 results, a great ‘work hard, play hard’ attitude and a vast range of opportunities have enabled Abbeywood post-16 centre to become one of the best in the area. Please visit and judge for yourself.” ● Head Girl at Abbeywood Post-16 Centre, Fiona Morris “I have attained excellent AS level results and have chosen to continue studying in this happy and friendly environment, where I feel so comfortable learning. “I took part in amazing enrichment programmes last year and have even started running my own film club this year for the whole school. Envision was a major charity project for the school last year where a
small group of post-16 students ran events to raise a substantial amount of money for a local mental illness charity. The post-16 centre has provided me with valuable life lessons and skills that I will undoubtedly need when I venture into the world of university and I will be forever grateful.”
“ The post-16 centre has provided me with valuable
life lessons and skills that I will undoubtedly need when I venture into the world of university and I will be forever grateful.
Head Girl Fiona Morris
Sixth Form First class learning Encouraging independence of thought and capacity for self-motivated study Bridging the gap between school, university and work Producing confident and responsible young adults Fostering imagination through performing arts Tradition of excellence in drama and music Strong sporting tradition – team sports and individual pursuits For further information contact Denise Sollis (Tel 0117 965 5207) denisesollis@colstons.bristol.sch.uk Colston’s School, Stapleton, Bristol BS16 1BJ www.colstons.bristol.sch.uk
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Scholarships and bursaries available Registered Charity No 1079552
‘Careers advice really helps’ Colston’s School
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S they neared the end of Year 11, Polly Woodbridge and Jess Graham thought hard about their choice of sixth form. Polly, who lives in Stoke Bishop, faced her decision in 2012, when she elected to transfer from single sex education to the co-educational Colston’s School, where she is now in the upper sixth. “I’d known for some time that I wanted to change schools for A-levels,” said Polly. “After five years of all girls I felt I needed to get back to a mixed school. Apart from the reassurance of its academic record, I knew that Colston’s had a strong family atmosphere.” Polly is studying biology, history and psychology at A-level, and plans an “early years” course at Birmingham City University in order to teach children aged 3-7. “Colston’s has already enabled me to gain work experience at Henleaze Junior and Glen-
frome Primary Schools,” Polly explained, “and one of the great bonuses here is that I can gain classroom experience at our own lower school whenever I have free time.” Jess, from Chipping Sodbury, left her secondary school last summer to join Colston’s, following in the footsteps of her brother, Jacob. He had joined Colston’s lower sixth two years earlier and is now studying electrical engineering at Loughborough University. Jess said: “I was settled at my previous school with many good friends, but was worried about class sizes.” In Year 12, Jess is studying English language, drama, photography and psychology. The school is helping her select from a range of media courses at university, coupled with careers advice. Polly added: “I have found that having a full time careers adviser at Colston’s is incredibly valuable. It makes such a difference to know that you can talk one-to-one to an expert in the school as often as you need – it’s very much part of the sixth form experience.”
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Post-16 Education
Strength is in community and ‘can-do’ attitude
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INCE opening in September 2010, the post-16 centre has gone from strength to strength. Students learn in a new building with state-of-the-art learning spaces and excellent pastoral care, which ensures each individual uses their time as a springboard into the future. Working within the Concorde Partnership, the school offers students the opportunity to study a wide range of courses in a way which suits them. With specialist facilities, including dance and TV studios, pioneering music technology equipment and a strong IT provision, the school is as committed to traditional academic subjects as it is to innovative courses, which reflect the modern era. Last year, more than 70 per cent per cent of the 2013 cohort successfully applied for university or higher education places. Again, this year, more than 78 per cent have applied for higher education.
Olympic Academy Bradley Stoke As part of a wide-ranging support system, each student benefits from the assistance of a dedicated post-16 learning mentor. Although it is vitally important to prepare students for formal examinations, the school also equips them with a range of essential life skills, from strong employability in a dynamic job market, to the self-motivation and practicalities of planning a life-changing gap year. Alex Shoferpoor, head boy, said: “I believe that one of the main strengths here at Bradley Stoke is the cohesive, community attitude with which students conduct themselves and the subsequent positive ‘can-do’ thinking, something I believe is reflected in the high levels of student achievement and the friendly atmosphere within the school.”
YOUR JOURNEY TO SUCCESS BEGINS AT
ABBEYWOOD COMMUNITY SCHOOL POST 16 CENTRE
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT US AT: WWW.ABBEYWOODSCHOOL.COM OR CALL… 0117 3075660 FOR INFORMATION Community School
�e� �oad, Stoke Gi�ord, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, BS3� �SF
BRADLEY STOKE COMMUNITY SCHOOL POST 16 CENTRE
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT US AT: WWW.BRADLEYSTOKECS.ORG.UK OR CALL… 01454 867940 FOR INFORMATION Bradley Stoke Community School
Fiddlers Wood Lane, Bradley Stoke, South Gloucestershire, BS32 9BS
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Abbeywood
DISCOVER YOUR FUTURE AT
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Post-16 Education
Most girls study at first choice of university
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ADMINTON sixth form’s proactive and independent approach to learning, together with small class sizes and the passion and enthusiasm of its teachers, ensures that the vast majority of girls are able to study at their first-choice university, many of which are among the most elite and competitive in the world. Central to the philosophy at Badminton is its holistic approach to education, as headmistress Rebecca Tea explains: “Our girls often say that, despite having to juggle university applications, coursework and preparation for exams, the sixth form is worth the wait! “They get satisfaction from pursuing their own specific academic interests. At Badminton, applying their knowledge happens as much beyond the classroom as within it. The sixth formers are always busy with their research projects (last year saw one of the science research team publish an iBook on molecular gastronomy and this year one of our girls was a winner in the National Council of Women
“ Badminton not only offers a wide range of A-level subjects, but we also organise important events, including careers seminars, an ‘opportunities’ fair and a ‘skills for professional life’ afternoon.
Badminton School
Head of sixth form Kate Dodd
Great Britain’s National Competition) and engaging with nationwide debates and essay competitions. “It is these aspects of their sixth form life, along with their enjoyment of sporting moments or House competitions they are planning, that they enjoy chatting about when I catch up with them over a supper or breakfast. Encouraging and supporting our girls to develop as individuals and to expand and explore their ambitions, both in their academic work and co-curricular activities, is right at the heart of Badminton’s ethos.” Head of sixth form Kate Dodd expands on this by saying: “Badminton not only offers a wide range of A-level subjects, but we also organise important information events, including careers seminars, an ‘opportunities’ fair and a ‘skills for professional life’ afternoon to help the girls chose their path and explore the opportunities open to them.”
The sixth form girls enjoy more freedom and, consequently, more responsibility, which helps to prepare them for the transition towards leaving school and succeeding with their university course or gap year challenge. Girls leave Badminton ready to face the changing and challenging wider world and, when they do, they take with them a strong network of lifelong friends developed through a wealth of shared experiences. An open morning is being held on Monday, May 5. For more information, call 0117 905 5271, or email admissions@badmintonschool.co.uk.
Pride as university offers come rolling in for sixth-formers
A world-class education in the heart of Bristol.
Red Maids’ School
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Open Morning Monday 5th May 2014
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Badminton nurtures intellectual curiosity and challenges enquiring minds in a supportive community. Our girls’ enthusiasm for the arts, sport and their many activities keeps the School vibrant – come and see for yourself! T: 0117 905 5271 • E: admissions@badmintonschool.co.uk • www.badmintonschool.co.uk
@AcorntoOakBris
HIS year’s upper sixth students at The Red Maids’ School are reaping the rewards of the hard work spent on their university applications now that the offers are rolling in. Between them, of the 63 who applied to university this year, they currently hold 122 offers from Russell Group universities, including nine from Cambridge, UCL and Imperial – the three highest ranked universities in the UK, according to QS World rankings. Places offered include those to study medicine, veterinary science, law, economics and engineering, as well as some less traditional choices such as liberal arts, environmental science, and theatre and performance. The application process is by no means at an end, with a number of students still waiting to hear back from universities. Isabel Tobias, headmistress at The Red Maids’ School, said: “We are delighted for the girls and their teachers who have supported them through the whole process and can be rightly proud to see their students receive offers from some of the most prestigious universities.” In other Red Maids news, sixth formers Isobel Trout and Imogen McAndrew beat stiff competition to each win a place at the 2014 World Affairs Seminar (WAS) in the United States in June. The event at Carroll University, Wisconsin, will debate the topic “World Health – issues and responsibilities”.
“ We are rightly proud to see
students receive offers from some of the most prestigious universities. Isabel Tobias, headmistress at The Red Maids’ School
The WAS is an innovative, rigorous academic programme for students aged 16 to 18, which aims to improve understanding of world problems and help create future world leaders. The seminar gives students a chance to interact with leaders from government, international organisations, the media and business.
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Post-16 Education
Aiming to help individuals find what drives them
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DISTINCTIVE group of students leave Clifton High every year with clear ambitions and goals. Many look outside the box for their futures in our ever-changing and unpredictable world. Career plans range from mine clearance diving to couture fashion; from music journalism and music therapy to the tough world of UK politics. And with some of the best reputed science and mathematics departments in the South West, these careers always feature highly in CHS students’ sights; from neuroscience and pharmacology to veterinary science and software development. Some take gap years to gain experience through volunteering or internships, others move straight into university courses or careers. Whatever their choices, all are well supported and they go armed with all the life skills, extra-curricular experiences and academic successes they need to allow them to open doors along the way. The diversity is welcomed and ap-
Clifton High School preciated by Dr Alison M Neill, Head of School, who says: “There are no rules dictating what is right for everyone. Most important is that each individual identifies their passions and chooses a path that will be driven by these. “One beauty of the scale and personality of Clifton High School is that we are able to help every individual student discover what drives them, make their life-shaping decisions and bring their ambitions to reality, be it via a direct route into their chosen career, an immediate move into higher education or using a gap year to increase their experience and consider careful decisions. “Yes, of course examination results matter, but they do not define all that young people are or all that they will become. The road of life twists and turns and our real learning and education come along the journey.” Making informed choices about edu-
cation in the uncertainties of the current climate is a challenge for students and their parents. Small class sizes, dedicated pastoral care, excellent results, attention and encouragement for the individual along with a myriad of extra-curricular opportunities make Clifton High School an excellent option for A level study; a sixth form that realises that there is something brilliant in every individual.
“ One beauty of the scale and personality of Clifton High School is that we are able to help every individual student discover what drives them, make their life-shaping decisions and bring their ambitions to reality. Dr Alison M Neill, Head of School
Right from meeting staff at the
open day
at Clifton High School, and ever since, our son and daughter have developed in confidence and become
motivated & inspired in their learning.
Find out for yourself: Open Morning: Thursday 12th June
realising individual brilliance...
0117 933 9087 ● Red Maids sixth formers Isobel Trout and Imogen McAndrew
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www.cliftonhigh.bristol.sch.uk
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Post-16 Education
‘Our job to make sure we provide best education’
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HOOSING the right environment and courses is a vital decision for young people. Here at Ashton Park Sixth Form we are with you every step of the way. So what makes Ashton Park stand out from the crowd? The impressive and diverse range of courses available enables students to choose, specialise and excel in the subjects that will help them in their future. 2012 A-level results were among the best in the country (top 25 per cent nationally, ALPs analysis). Students are engaged in super-curricular activities that build their confidence and make the difference in a competitive world. All take part in work shadowing. for example media students are involved in the Talent Ticket boot camp, business students are involved in the Shares for Schools competition and photography students work alongside local artists at Spike Island. This shows universities and employers that students are willing to go that extra mile. Head teacher Tessa Thomas be-
Ashton Park lieves that the successful track record in terms of supporting students to get into university, including Oxbridge and the Russell Group, is the result of high quality teaching and learning. However, university is not for everyone, so her team invest a great deal of time and energy preparing students for training and employment. Students are encouraged to get involved in a range of extra-curricular activities locally and further afield. Students regularly visit our link school in Kenya, tour the southern hemisphere to play sport, and Duke of Edinburgh groups are regularly out in the mountains honing their skills. Coupled with this is a thriving leadership and volunteering programme, with many of our students developing confidence and enhanced skills whilst on placements out in the local community. Director of Sixth Form Sue Cutts realises that it can be a tough world
for young people today. She adds: “It’s our job to make sure that we provide the best education, delivered by skilled staff with great enrichment opportunities for all.” This is what makes the Ashton Park Sixth Form experience so unique.
“ It’s our job to make sure that we provide the best
education, delivered by skilled staff with great enrichment opportunities for all.
Director of Sixth Form Sue Cutts
Ashton Park Sixth Form Centre With you every step of the way With a commitment to “life-long learning” we are confident that each of our students will be well prepared for the exciting challenges of the 21st Century
Impressive Results | Amazing Facilities Broad Range of Courses | High Level Care Exciting Activities and Opportunities
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Don’t miss out …come and see us! Tel: 0117 3772742 Email: info@ashtonparksixthform.co.uk Web: www.ashtonpark.net/sixthform
Inspired to learn and to lead
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ERCHANTS’ Academy supports students so they can achieve more than they ever thought possible. The aim is to provide the knowledge, understanding and experiences essential for the successful transition from school to higher education, work or further training. On offer is a stimulating range of Level 3 courses that will enable students to leave the academy with qualifications valued by universities and employers. Young people can also try activities, meet people, test their skills and capabilities and learn how to lead. Two sixth formers last year went to Japan on a science programme and high-level speakers visit the academy to share their experiences. The brightest scholars are encouraged to aim for Russell Group universities and the academy staff want all sixth formers to achieve their ambitions and aspirations. In-
Merchants’ Academy dividual support and guidance is especially vital now that all must stay in education, work or training until they are 18. Chris Curling, chair of governors, says: “The governors place the very highest importance on the excellence of our sixth form, not only for its academic and vocational courses, but also for the range of other activities which prepare them for life.” The academy is in a unique position to help young people realise their dreams because of the exceptional opportunities offered by its sponsors, the University of Bristol and the Society of Merchant Venturers. These include mentoring by university staff and students as well as some financial support for sixth form and undergraduate study.
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Tuesday, March 4, 2014
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Post-16 Education
Pleased to launch our foundation Nailsea School
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AILSEA School sixth form is achieving results that place it in the top three in the Bristol area (source, Daily Telegraph). It offers more than 30 A-level subjects and has a proven track record in innovation. Following the success of the groundbreaking Driving Force programme, Nailsea sixth form is pleased to announce the launch of its new foundation year programme. The intensive one-year course is designed to prepare students for a range of paths to further and higher education, as well as developing the employability skills demanded by top employers. On completion, each student, with advice from the committed sixth form team, can select the path they feel is right for them; professional employment, a local apprenticeship, an extended college course or continued higher study at Nailsea School. Mr Duncan, Deputy Head of Sixth Form, said: “We want the foundation year to become the benchmark measure of students that are the best trained, most knowledgeable and most mature students in the region.”
Our vision is to ensure that all students achieve more than they ever thought possible.
SIXTH FORM Merchants’ Academy is one of the country’s most rapidly improving schools, having received national recognition for its high standards. Our Sixth Form is growing constantly and now offers a wide range of Post 16 courses delivered in a state of the art, student-focused environment.
WHY CHOOSE MERCHANTS’ ACADEMY FOR YOUR STUDIES?
• Unique scholarships for high achievers, including free iPAD, INTERNATIONAL VISIT plus CAREER SUPPORT from top businesses and the UNIVERSITY of BRISTOL! • EXCLUSIVE work experience opportunities • A leadership residential course • FREE GYM MEMBERSHIP!
hat Come and see w we have to about!
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APPLY ONLINE NOW AT: www.merchantsacademy.org
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Post-16 Education “ We encourage, motivate and support girls to see the bigger picture, to become adventurers and to value self-reliance and independence of mind; selfdiscipline and the determination to outstrip expectations and the imagination and courage to take risks and seize all the opportunities ahead of them. Director of College, Andrew Melton
CLICK. CONNECT. SHARE. LIKE. Get social and join us at our next Sixth Form College Open Day. Thursday 24th April 1pm – 4pm
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@royalhighbath www.facebook.com/TheRoyalHighSchoolBath
Nursery • Junior School • Senior School • Sixth Form College
Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5SZ Tel: 01225 313877 Email: royalhigh@rhsb.gdst.net www.royalhighbath.gdst.net
Opportunity A launch pad for life for our high-achieving girls HE Royal High Sixth Form College is a launch pad for life for young women. A-level: Our results improved yet again last year with almost 60 per cent of students achieving A*/A grades; 42 per cent of students achieved at least one A* and 13 students achieved at least two A*. These results meant that just under 90 per cent of leavers won places at their chosen universities. International Baccalaureate: Last year’s outstanding International Baccalaureate results included five students achieving more than 40 points from a maximum of 45. The IB point average was 36, way above the global average of 30 points. This is the only sixth form college in Bath to offer the two-year Inter-
THE GRANGE SCHOOL & SPORTS COLLEGE HANHAM HIGH SCHOOL MANGOTSFIELD SCHOOL THE SIR BERNARD LOVELL SCHOOL
THE KINGSWOOD PARTNERSHIP
OUTSTANDING EPB-E01-S5
BY WORKING TOGETHER
‘THE OUTSTANDING KINGSWOOD PARTNERSHIP PROVIDES UNRIVALLED OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IN THE AREA’
OFSTED
Royal High School, Bath national Baccalaureate diploma, a vital and integral part of our broad sixth form offer, as an alternative pathway for Years 12 and 13. The IB is an internationally recognised qualification which develops subject breadth and depth, a portfolio of personal attributes, an inter-cultural insight, key cognitive strategies, problem solving and independent research and writing skills that academic institutions and businesses demand. But it’s not all about academic success, as Director of College, Andrew Melton, explains: “If you leave school, any school, with a string of
impressive exam results and not much else, then something is wrong. Here, among like-minded young women, it’s your chance to shine, to excel at the things you love doing and to use these two years as a launch pad for your future success. “As new technologies unfold in the global workplace, it’s vital that young women are empowered, not only to play their part in today’s trends, but to lead new ones. “We encourage, motivate and support girls to see the bigger picture, to become adventurers and to value self-reliance and independence of mind; self-discipline and the determination to outstrip expectations and the imagination and courage to take risks and seize all the opportunities ahead of them.”
Working together to give ‘unrivalled opportunities’
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HE Kingswood Partnership is a well-established consortium of four schools: The Grange School and Sports College, Hanham High School, Mangotsfield School and The Sir Bernard Lovell School. Working together means that these schools can offer post-16 students an extremely wide range of courses. There are, for example, more than 50 Level 3 courses on offer to the 600 sixth-form students currently studying in the partnership. Level 2 programmes are offered at all four schools, enabling students to choose the courses that are right for them. Ofsted has said that “the quality of information, advice guidance and support for students is outstanding” and that “the partnership’s curriculum range, access and development are outstanding, with clear progression pathways for students”. The four post-16 centres organise
Kingswood Partnership their courses and timetables in the same way so that all sessions last for a morning or an afternoon, enabling students to move between centres on a transport system that is provided free of charge. Each centre uses the same type of reports for post-16 students and there is a common approach to discussing progress and setting targets with students on a one-to-one basis. Employers, training providers, colleges and universities are looking for more in their applicants than just good qualifications. Broad experience and the development of useful, relevant and transferable skills are also important factors. Superb business links with more than 500 employers, a growing
“ The partnership’s curriculum range, access and development are outstanding, with clear progression pathways for students. Ofsted
range of internship opportunities and an excellent programme of extra-curricular activities mean that the partnership provides unrivalled opportunities for young people in the Kingswood area. For more information, see www.kingswoodpartnership.org.uk or call 01454 86807
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Tuesday, March 4, 2014
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Post-16 Education
Sixth-form community gives girls confidence to pursue ambitions Colston’s Girls’ School
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HE sixth form at Colston’s Girls’ School combines a traditional academic approach with a strong pastoral system to create confident, independent and resilient students who are ready to move on to higher education and into fulfilling careers. Students from Colston’s Girls win places at universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Exeter and Sheffield, on courses such as mechanical engineering, medicine, modern languages, mathematics and law. Science and mathematics are two of our most popular subject areas with excellent provision and results and, as one of the students stated: “The science facilities are great here and single sex is a real positive as it is easier to focus.” Colston’s Girls’ School has a languages specialism, which opens up additional opportunities. The school offers both a bespoke Oxbridge and a medicine preparation programme and provides mentoring and careers advice, encouraging girls to pursue their ambitions. Specialist teachers have a passion for their subjects, a love of learning and a great desire for their students to achieve well.
“ The school offers both a
bespoke Oxbridge and a medicine preparation programme and provides mentoring and careers advice, encouraging girls to pursue their ambitions.
Another student commented: “The teachers are much more helpful and supportive here.” The sixth form is a small community, with its own base in a refurbished Georgian building with university-style seminar rooms. The Year 12 and 13 students play an active role in the main school and are involved in a wealth of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, including Young Enterprise, Green Team, Envision volunteering, robotics, public speaking, Duke of Edinburgh Award, music, drama, charity events, and sports such as karate, dance and fitness classes.
l s e Y can
Colston’s Girls’ School Sixth Form
Yes l can... study my chosen subjects at the best universities T. 0117 942 4328
www.colstonsgirls.bristol.sch.uk
EPB-E01-S5
E. admissions@colstonsgirls.bristol.sch.uk
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Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Post-16 Education
Star chef has great memories of college City of Bristol College
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ANY former students of City of Bristol College have gone on to enjoy successful careers. Among them is Michelin-star award winner Josh Eggleton, who owns The Pony & Trap restaurant in Chew Magna.
What did you like about your time at the college?
● We were able to cook a different dinner every day for the college restaurant, which was good fun, and it was great to get the practical experience, too. I liked the interaction with the other chefs and meeting new people.
Describe your role at the Pony &Trap
We offer
the widest range of post-16 courses in the Bristol area.
EPB-E01-S5
Visit our website or call us to find out more... cityofbristol.ac.uk |
/cobcollege |
0117 312 5000
● As the owner, I’ve got a number of roles. I direct all parts of the restaurant so I decide the direction we’re going in and how to move the pub forward. I manage all the restaurant staff, including recruitment, and I’m in the kitchen all the time. When we do weddings I do the menu, meet the couple, do whatever needs doing at the event and will help clean up afterwards. It’s a very hands-on role!
What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given? ● Work hard and work smart. If you’ve got a good work ethic you’ll be fine.
What advice would you give anyone wanting a career in your industry? ● I’d say be prepared for putting in a lot of hours and hard work. If you can do that you’ll be fine. Don’t think it’s going to be a walk in the park because it’s not. The amount of work and the hours you have to put in isn’t for everyone. You either love it or you don’t.
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Tuesday, March 4, 2014
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Post-16 Education
www.bristolgrammarschool.co.uk
Whole School
Open Mornings Wednesday 19 March 2014 9.45am–12.30pm
Friday 9 May 2014 9.45am–12.30pm
To book your place or to request a prospectus, please call ture ven Ad Hollie Skerritt on 0117 933 9885. ips dsh ien r F
Learning
Life changing
College Our learning climate is vibrant, optimistic, confident St Bede’s Catholic College
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TAFF at St Bede’s will do whatever it takes to help bring about success and enable young people to walk tall, with confidence. St Bede’s is an outstanding Catholic College where students are encouraged and supported to achieve their full potential. There is a calm and industrious environment where young people are valued, stimulated and challenged to develop all their talents. High standards are expected from, and for, all within our community. Students are encouraged to strive for excellence in a culture where achievement and effort are valued and celebrated. The climate for learning within the college is vibrant, optimistic and confident. Education is student centred so that those
who study here can become active, enquiring, critical and open-minded thinkers and, ultimately, responsible citizens who will live lives of integrity and service. The learning environment nurtures academic achievement, preparing students with the necessary skills for future study. They are expected to conduct themselves in a mature and studious manner, enabling personal growth and community enrichment. The staff see it as their duty to nurture students’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development so that they will grow in the knowledge that, in God’s eyes, each one is unique and of infinite worth. St Bede’s offers a range of co-curricular opportunities to enrich and broaden horizons, developing skills and talents, equipping the young people with the resilience to meet new challenges with confidence. Students have open access to outstanding and extensive sporting facilities and take part in a variety of sports both onsite and beyond.
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“ St Bede’s offers a range of co-curricular opportunities to enrich and broaden horizons, developing skills and talents, equipping the young people with the resilience to meet new challenges with confidence.
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Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Post-16 Education
Helping students achieve, whatever the goal Brislington Enterprise College
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RISLINGTON Enterprise College post-16 centre is a small, friendly environment where staff know their students personally and focus on building strong relationships with them. Courses are carefully chosen based on the specialist and high quality teaching, learning and facilities in those areas. There is a range of different courses that fit into the areas of work that are vital to the economy today. While the college recognises academic achievement is imperative, it appreciates there are many other ways to achieve personal goals and successes, and support students in achieving this. The careers adviser is part of the post-16 team and helps students explore all the options available once they finish their qualifications. As well as organising work experience, voluntary work and university visits, students receive help with job applications, CVs and interview skills. The post-16 area is a separate community within BEC, designed to stimulate and motivate students. There are state-of-the-art facilities for the subjects on offer, and a large common room and lockers for all the young people. Students in post-16 education relish the close knit community and feel content and happy with their surroundings, each other and their teachers. To receive a post-16 brochure, for an informal chat, or to arrange a visit, contact director of post-16 Sara Hayes on 0117 377 2055 (ext. 2030), or email shayes@because.org.uk.
POST-16 at BEC
Valued pupils gain confidence
R It’s not too late to register your interest: contact shayes@because.org.uk for more information, an informal chat and/or tour.
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Friendly Meaningful Community Vocational Small Sharing Career Future Specialist Mentoring Success Personalise Advice Brislington Enterprise College, Hungerford Road, Bristol BS4 5EY Tel: 0117 377 2055-info@because.org.uk-www.because.org.uk
ECENTLY judged by the Independent Schools Inspectorate as a “confident school which makes outstanding provision for pupils’ education,” Bristol Grammar School is attracting more and more students to its sixth form. Director of sixth form, Justin Harford, explains: “Strong friendships and relationships between students, their peers and their teachers underpin our thriving community. Students feel valued and develop confidence, motivation and aspiration.” At A-level, nearly 83 per cent of grades over the past four years were either A*, A or B, results which enable BGS students to go on the university and courses of their choosing. Twelve members of the current upper sixth have received offers from Oxford or Cambridge, plus one student from the class of 2013. Six are holding offers to study at Oxford, ranked the world’s sixth best university in the QS World University Rankings, and seven offers from Cambridge, placed third. Fourteen offers from UCL and Imperial College mean the current total of offers from top six universities for BGS students is an impressive 27. BGS is also represented at the two in-
Bristol Grammar School stitutions placed first and second in the rankings, Harvard and MIT, with two Old Bristolians currently studying at Harvard and one at MIT. A-levels remain central to the sixth form’s strong academic curriculum, encompassing 28 subjects. The Extended Project Qualification is popular with students, offering them opportunity to showcase independent learning skills. The qualification is coveted by leading universities. Getting involved in co-curricular activities is a key part of life at BGS. One afternoon each week is devoted to an activities programme when students can choose to tackle a Duke of Edinburgh Award or gain a new skill such as photography. The school offers an extensive sporting programme, with another afternoon dedicated to individual and team competition or recreational health and fitness. Prospective students can request a prospectus, book an individual tour or arrange a personalised taster session by contacting the recruitment office.
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Tuesday, March 4, 2014
15
Post-16 Education
Exams How summer ‘top ups’ can get the best out of students Clifton College
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Prepare to achieve Monday 7th - Friday 11th April 2014
“ The courses target students
keen to top up their subject knowledge in order to maximise their chance of examination success.
form staff beforehand about specific educational needs and demands. Classes are taken by highly qualified, experienced and motivating tutors, who are not only committed to delivering results, but are also experienced examiners. Students can choose to take one or two subjects over the course of the week, with each subject comprising 15 hours of intense revision. For those students taking two subjects, an option to board for the week is provided, offering students home-cooked and nutritious meals, and a variety of bedroom options. Following dinner, students will participate in evening study time, where they may indulge in independent revision in the library or consult with the course tutors. If you would like to book a place on the Clifton College Easter revision course, visit www.ccsl-cliftoncolle ge.com, or contact the course manager, Brad Clark, on 0117 3157 143, or bclark@cliftoncolle ge.com.
• A full range of GCSE,AS and A2 Level subjects available • Tutors with experience as examiners leading study sessions • Individual assessments and coaching on exam techniques • Advice in final preparations • End of course report for parents • Superb recreational facilities • Residential stay available
For further information:
0117 315 7143 bclark@cliftoncollege.com
www.ccsl-cliftoncollege.com
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O help prepare students for examinations in the summer, Clifton College will be holding revision courses, Monday to Friday, April 7-11. The courses target students keen to top up their subject knowledge in order to maximise their chance of examination success. Courses focus on 3 specific areas: ● Subject revision: covering common areas, topics of difficulty, and areas to focus on and revise. Students will be able to feel considerably more confident in their knowledge and abilities. ● Exam technique: understanding that knowledge alone is not enough, the courses focus heavily on how to interpret questions and write high-grade answers. ● Exam practice: students will be encouraged to apply their knowledge by answering past exam papers, improving essay writing techniques and enabling students to experience timed exam conditions. These papers will be checked by the course tutor, identifying strengths and weaknesses. The courses are made up of small, intimate class sizes of just 10-12 students, with tutors delivering personal and interactive teaching methods and students enjoying one-on-one attention. With small class sizes comes the worry that each student will be required to learn the same topic, regardless of their capabilities in that area. The courses aim to eradicate that problem by encouraging parents and students to in-
Easter Revision Courses 2014
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Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Post-16 Education
Keep an eye out in
Offering more choice and a wider range of facilities
www.bristolpost.co.uk/education
www.westerndailypress.co.uk/education
For
Educa ion
Advertising Features Education Correspondent Marc Rath 0117 934 3637 marc.rath@b-nm.co.uk
Advertising and Features 0117 934 3428 Marc England marc.england@b-nm.co.uk
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0117 934 3769 Ellie Pipe eleanor.pipe@b-nm.co.uk
Lifelong Learning
South Gloucestershire and Stroud College
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OUTH Gloucestershire and Stroud College (SGS) is a new college formed by the merger between Stroud College and Filton College. These two successful colleges merged in February 2012, to give students more choice, greater opportunities and a wider range of facilities from a single, larger college. At SGS, we have three main campuses – Stroud, Filton and WISE – as well as many local community venues, and we welcome around 15,500 full-time and part-time students of all ages every year. We also have sites in the centre of Bristol, at the West of England Academy of Art and at the Bristol Zoo & Gardens. Our campuses are based in state-of-the-art buildings in great locations – Filton and WISE are within easy reach of the centre of Bristol, while our Stroud campus is based in the beautiful five valleys, in the county of Gloucestershire. As a merged college we now offer a vast range of courses with an even wider choice of subjects – from business to sport, engineering to performing arts – we probably have a
“ Our experienced and passionate staff work hard to help our students achieve their career goals. vocational or academic qualification for you. What is more, SGS has an excellent reputation for delivering work-based programmes such as apprenticeships, higher apprenticeships and
professional training; so if you are after a practical course that will teach you the skills you need for your chosen career, you’ve come to the right place. Our experienced and passionate staff work hard to help our students overcome any personal challenges and achieve their career goals. We are proud of SGS, and committed to making the new college the best it can be for our students. A strong partnership with the University of Gloucestershire also means excellent opportunities for students who choose to progress on to higher education.