A Message From The Assistant Head Of Sixth Form, Mr Thompson

What a difference a year makes and as the covid restrictions continue to lift, life in the Sixth Form is certainly on the path to normality and has continued to gather pace throughout Term 1, culminating in the return of our annual Silly Sports Day and Christmas dinner this week.

The results from the Year 12 Suitability assessments in week 5 were encouraging and demonstrated that many students had quickly adjusted to the rigours of their A Level or BTEC subjects. It was also important that a small group of students were able to use this period to reflect and choose more suitable subject options.Such decisions are never easy.

After a second UGPE series and finalisation of their predicted grades, it all became real for the Year 13's too - the UK and US applications process has been extremely positive and many of our students currently have desirable university offers “on the table”, have options of home status (if eligible) or are currently preparing for interviews as a I write this article.

The addition of a Mindset lesson this year has added a new dimension and, taught exclusively by the Sixth Form team, we have been extremely pleased with the commitment the students have demonstrated to this area, as well as the return of the Careers and Leadership lessons.

Academically, there is no doubt that our Sixth Form students are under pressure from the beginning of Year 12. It is however important as a school that we stress the importance of 'play' and 'perspective'.

The Common room, whilst providing the opportunity to complete a homework assignment or carry out group work, also has capacity to allow our students to relax. It is imperative that our students strike the correct balance. The weekly challenges continue to provide a fun, yet competitive end to the week and I do look forward to the day when we can get all of the Sixth Form together to have a challenge on the secondary pitch.

Our students continue to be role models and a presence around the school campus and it has been superb to see our newly appointed Prefects out on duty, many students continue to lead the academic societies this term and also support the reintroduction of after-school sports in Years 7-11. The House Captains came to the fore during the preparation of the dance videos for National Day and the Senior Prefects did a fabulous job during Silly Sports day.

This has certainly been an action-packed 16 weeks and with the holiday upon us, it is important that each student now finds time to 'down tools' and celebrate the festive season with their family and friends. If you are travelling, we wish you a safe journey and if you are staying in Abu Dhabi, we wish you a restful and relaxing time. To those that celebrate it - Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year when it comes.