Sixth Form
Ad Caelestia Sequere Reach for the Stars Our school motto is what we encourage our students to do and at Highworth we promote a community where all members are: Reflective, creative and innovative Eager for life-long learning Aiming to achieve their full potential Considerate, confident, independent individuals Happy in a caring, respectful community
Welcome Judged by Ofsted as OUTSTANDING for the second time, we pride ourselves on not only our high academic achievement, but also our high quality student care and support. Hence, it is no surprise that our Sixth Form is thriving with the majority of students gaining their first choice university course, including places at Oxbridge and Russell Group universities.
We are outstanding Achievement of pupils: Outstanding Quality of teaching: Outstanding Behaviour and safety of pupils: Outstanding Leadership and management: Outstanding Overall effectiveness: Outstanding
We want our students to be confident, independent, co-operative and sophisticated learners who develop wider skills such as creativity, resilience and resourcefulness – qualities which are essential for the twenty-first century. Highworth offers exciting challenges and we look forward to meeting you and welcoming you to our vibrant, innovative and successful school.
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Sixth Form Study is an exciting prospect – a time to build on GCSE successes and maximise opportunities for the next stage in life – and Highworth is the ideal place to fulfil your ambitions. Our REACH values summarise what education at Highworth embodies and reflect our positive learning environment where all students are encouraged to work hard and feel valued.
Paul Danielsen, Headteacher
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Sixth Form
“The curriculum is innovative and offers creative opportunities for students’ development.” OFSTED
High Life Our mixed Sixth Form sees students studying subjects of their choice from over 30 A Levels on offer. Structured Study periods enable students to further their learning and make the transition from GCSE to A Level study. Use of the latest technology is encouraged to aid research and communication and to make learning more personalised and enjoyable. Close monitoring of progress, academic reviews and consultation evenings encourage students to realise their personalised targets which are challenging but realistic. Focus Day are organised to broaden students’ education and understanding and help prepare them for real life issues and the world beyond school. The Careers Library and Library allow students to work quietly while the Common Rooms and The Hub are areas for chat, relaxation and refreshment.
Maths Star Ashly finds A Level Maths rewarding and enjoys the challenge that it offers.
“ I am applying to go into the field of medicine at university and so Maths is a fundamental subject for me to do.” Ashly
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“Highworth is constantly striving to achieve the best and students are encouraged to aim high and achieve great things.” Year 13 Student
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“Teachers ask probing questions that allow students to think independently and reflect intensely upon demanding concepts.” OFSTED
Asp
irations “Being Head Girl has given me the opportunity to lead and participate in a range of groups from Student Voice to the Governing Body, encouraging a closer link between staff and students.” Head Girl
Sixth Form life is, of course, more than just study! We want our students to develop their potential and talents in all ways and that is why we offer so much beyond the classroom. There is an excellent range of extra-curricular activities, events and visits. Our Music Specialism provides plenty of exciting musical opportunities to take part in local, national and international events and forge rewarding links with other schools and businesses.
Music Maestro Ed plays a range of musical instruments including the clarinet, piano and cello and wants to study Music at university.
“The many ensembles at Highworth have helped me develop my musical ambitions and I hope to continue to perform with more inspiring musicians in the future.” Ed
Students are able to develop their leadership and coaching skills by becoming a member of the Student Management Team helping to run the school, a prefect, a peer mentor or a Student Governor. The popular Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme also allows students to set themselves personal goals and targets.
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“I am pleased I have chosen Highworth for my Sixth Form because I know I will be given the best opportunities possible and I know how much the teachers care.” Year 12 Student
Working
together Within our vertical mentoring system, we have six Learning Communities named after famous female musicians. All Sixth Form students are expected to play an active part not only in the daily mentor period, but also in the running and organisation of Learning Community events and activities thus enabling them to develop their leadership skills. The mixed-age groups help students to form close bonds based on trust, tolerance, care and fun and see them making a worthwhile contribution to the school and wider community. Throughout their Sixth Form studies, students are given on-going support from their subject and Community staff and the Sixth Form Team. Consequently, personal welfare is monitored as well as academic progress allowing positive relationships to be developed. We celebrate achievement and we expect our Sixth Formers to be role models in their attitude, appearance and conduct.
“There is an inclusive atmosphere where all students feel valued and are treated equally.” OFSTED
Role Model Amber has enjoyed developing her communication skills through being a peer mentor to younger students.
“ It has been very rewarding drawing on my own personal experiences to help younger students deal with situations. I know my confidence has grown as a result.” Amber
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Looking to the
“Highworth set me up perfectly for university and now I have my degree, I am thoroughly enjoying the world of work. I loved Highworth!” Member of Highworth Alumni
future
Students are given guidance on how to complete their UCAS applications and are able to make use of the extensive range of resources in the open access Careers Library. Individual interviews are organised to help students find the best career path for them. Indeed, students are given bespoke advice and guidance regardless of their career plans for life after Highworth. The majority go on to Higher Education courses, with many studying at Russell Group universities. Oxbridge candidates are given personal tutors with supplementary classes timetabled to enhance subject knowledge and understanding and develop interview skills and confidence. Our ever-increasing number of Alumni members is testament to the success and achievement of our students and they willingly return to school to give talks on their career experiences.
“Both my daughter and son, now at Oxbridge, thoroughly enjoyed every moment at Highworth. The school gave them guidance, support, academic challenge and, most importantly, confidence to achieve their personal best.” Parent
University Bound Ellie has enjoyed her A Level studies in Chemistry, Biology and History in preparation for her course at university.
“ Highworth has supported me so much throughout the UCAS process. I feel fully prepared for and excited about my future – wherever it takes me!” Ellie Highworth Grammar School • Page 8
And finally… Sixth Form is potentially the most rewarding two years of your schooling and at Highworth you have the choice to study across a broad curriculum where our outstanding academic results are testament to our students’ abilities, hard work and their teachers’ expertise. Studying the Extended Project Qualification alongside your A Level subjects is a way of demonstrating a love of learning which underpins our approach to post-16 education, encouraging you to take responsibility for your own learning. Students new to the school quickly settle into the supportive, friendly atmosphere and there is a strong emphasis on career guidance for life after Highworth, with the vast majority going on to Higher Education in the UK, Europe and beyond. We look forward to welcoming you to our Sixth Form where your individual talents and strengths will flourish in an exciting, challenging and supportive environment. Sixth Form students play a vital role in Highworth life; let Highworth play a vital role in your Sixth Form life.
Susan Welch, Head of Sixth Form
9 9
Quantock Drive, Ashford, Kent TN24 8UD T: 01233 624910 F: 01233 612028 office@highworth.kent.sch.uk
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www.highworth.kent.sch.uk