3 minute read
Welcome from the principal
I am delighted that you are considering Bede Sixth Form College. We have made great strides in recent years and have achieved superb outcomes for our students who have just completed their courses for 2020-21. I was particularly pleased with the resilience and determination of our students in an especially challenging time for education. The characteristics they displayed are key to a student’s development at Bede, ensuring that when you leave us you are fully prepared for your next step. Over 98% of students who started with us in academic year 2019-20 achieved a positive destination into higher education, employment or apprenticeships. These figures are well beyond the national benchmark for sixth form colleges, and with our culture of continuous improvement, we can guarantee you a fulfilling and enriching post-16 education.
So, what do our students say about us? Recent surveys have strongly agreed that we are providing an outstanding student experience. I truly believe in the value of listening to what our students say, and in response to feedback we have continued to invest significantly in student learning areas, sports facilities, collaborative learning spaces, and private study areas. This, combined with our increasing portfolio of employability programmes and employer interactions, will help shape and develop your wider skills and career aspirations. We were recently shortlisted as a finalist for a Sixth Form Colleges Association (SFCA) national award, for enhancing the social mobility and opportunities for students.
In addition, we are launching a refreshed enrichment programme and continue to expand our range of sports academies as part of our Institute of Sport and Education (ISE). We are recognised for providing outstanding support for talented sports performers, helping them to excel both in competition and academically, and we are a Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS) Accredited College. Add to that our Aspiring Young Engineers Programme, enhanced study skills development, High Achievers Programme, NHS and Tees Active workforce skill development partnerships, Student Ambassador Leadership Programme, and so much more - it really is an exciting time to be a student here at Bede Sixth Form College.
Here at Bede, we believe in high aspirations and a growth mindset approach to study. The target grades that we will set you are designed to challenge you, and we will do everything we can to ensure that you meet your desired progression and career goals. A significant development for us in 2020-21 was a new timetable, which was redesigned to provide you with what we feel is the best opportunity for success. Our 10am start time has been well thought out and the impact this has had on the achievement of all students is clear to see. They absolutely love it! Pastoral support is of particular importance within this process, and you will be supported by a talented team of Personal Progression Coordinators and careers guidance professionals. The move from school to sixth form is challenging in many ways and I am certain that we can ease this transition and provide you with the platform to not only excel in your studies, but to give you full confidence in moving towards your own career goals.
So, with all that in mind I am certain that we can make your time with us an exceptional, enjoyable and rewarding experience. Making the right choice of college is very important, as is getting you enrolled on the right study programme based on your individual learning needs. Take time to visit us, you won’t be disappointed. I wish you every success in your GCSEs and look forward to seeing you this academic year.
