Sixth Form
“ I don’t think I would get the same level of support anywhere else.” Student
Welcome. When I was asked to set up the Sixth Form at the Royal Alexandra and Albert School, I knew it would be an immediate success. The school already had excellent results, and demand for places was high. The addition of the Sixth Form completes the picture and gives pupils the opportunity to study at the School beyond the age of 16. The reason it works comes down to the emphasis placed not only on academic excellence, but on enrichment and community activities. We know each student personally and focus on developing the ‘whole’ individual. Whatever career path is chosen after the Sixth Form, the student’s time at the Royal Alexandra and Albert School will give them the confidence to face the challenges that lie ahead.
Mr Matthew Pawson, Head of Sixth Form
“ The Royal Alexandra and Albert School is committed to providing an environment in which all will achieve their full academic, social and spiritual potential in order to become valued members of society.”
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Academic Laying the foundations for academic success starts even before a student joins the Sixth Form. Every student is advised on subject choices by an experienced tutor before their first day. They can choose from Sciences, Languages, Humanities and Arts as well as more practical subjects such as Horse Care. The School has an ethos which nurtures, encourages and supports a culture of high academic achievement. An appetite for learning is developed by participation in discussion, debate and discovery. Whatever route students choose to follow, dedicated and committed teaching supports and encourages students to take responsibility for their own learning and achievement. High quality facilities provide opportunities for practical research and investigation.
“ The atmosphere is just right and the education is of the highest standard.� Student
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“ A place filled with inspiration and opportunities.� Student
Community One important and enjoyable part of life in the Sixth Form involves giving back to the community. This is a fundamental part of our ethos and there is an expectation that students will be fully involved in all aspects of the community programme. Sixth form students will be very much part of the whole school and will be expected to take on additional responsibilities in the school community, for example mentoring younger pupils, helping to run clubs and activities or leading school projects e.g. fundraising. Students will participate in the Community Action programme which involves supporting identified projects in the local community. There is also the opportunity to embark on an optional Global Project – Wototo. This project in Uganda cares for orphan children by building homes for them in villages. Our students will fundraise for the project as well as visiting and helping with their work – even helping to build the homes. Many students find this a life changing experience.
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“I know that the RAAS will give me a range of options that I’ll be able to do in my spare time.” Student
Enrichment We know that getting into university or accessing job opportunities is becoming increasingly competitive. It is no longer enough to simply do well academically. It is important that students do activities that make them stand out from the crowd and which will make university admissions tutors and workplace recruitment officers take notice. Students will be encouraged to acquire a range of skills in different areas so that they can present themselves as wellrounded individuals. They will be able to demonstrate that they can cope with the demands of studying whilst being involved in other activities. They can participate in a wide range of activities including; • Duke of Edinburgh Award • Charity days • Community Sports Leaders Awards • Work experience • Trips and visits • Being a member of a Sixth Form Committee • Sports and societies
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“ The staff at RAAS know me very well and help me to achieve my potential.” Student
Student Support Friendly and experienced staff will always be available to support students through their sixth form experience. We help students to manage their free time and independent study effectively. We also work with them on study skills to ensure they are fully equipped to meet the demands of post-16 study. Each student is allocated a personal tutor who will act as a point of contact on a regular basis. This allows tutors to get to know their tutees and provide high quality pastoral insight and care. All tutors are experienced teachers making them well qualified to give advice and guidance on academic matters. Progress is monitored carefully to ensure each student is on track to achieve their goals.
“ I feel really comfortable here.� Student
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Sixth Form Centre The focal point for all sixth formers will be the Sixth Form Centre. This includes an IT suite with a range of software applications and internet access, and a supervised ‘quiet’ study area. There is a ‘break out’ room where students can work in small groups and a ‘Destinations’ room with the very latest information on applying to university, gap years and career pathways. We expect students to take advantage of the extensive resources available to help them with their studies, however we also realise that they need ‘chill out’ time. We have created a modern ‘internet café’ style common room; the perfect place to relax and socialise.
Sixth Form Boarding Many of our Sixth Formers choose to board and there are 42 brand new study bedrooms with en suite shower rooms providing university standard accommodation. The study bedrooms are linked to senior boarding houses so Sixth Formers become role models for the younger pupils. They will develop their leadership skills as part of their role as senior members in the house. Boarding is ideal for students who are planning to go to university away from home, as it teaches independence whilst still having the support from pastoral staff.
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“ RAAS have given me the best head start to my adult life that I could have ever hoped for.� Student
Preparation for life after school We are passionate about preparing students for life after school. Whether it be university, employment or taking a gap year, we aim to equip students with the skills and knowledge to face the future with confidence.
CONTACT us Gatton Park Reigate Surrey RH2 0TD 01737 649000 admissions@gatton-park.org.uk Registered Charity No: 311945
www.raa-school.co.uk
Founded: 1758 Patron: Her Majesty The Queen President: Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester July 2010