Introduction LIFE IN THE SIXTH FORM AT HABS Life in the Sixth Form at Habs is fast-paced, dynamic and exciting. There are huge opportunities for academic, social and personal development, and so there is also a need for Sixth Form students to have genuine commitment to independent study, self-discipline and a readiness to take advantage of the many opportunities that we offer.
CO-TEACHING From September 2022, all Sixth Form students will have joint lessons in at least one of their A Level subjects. These lessons will be taught either at the Boys’ School or at the Girls’ School. This is a unique and exciting opportunity, which will enable us to maximise our resources and ensure that all Habs Elstree students leave fully prepared for the modern world.
THE SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM The Sixth Form Curriculum from September 2022 will comprise the following: • 3 or 4 A Levels • An independent study project • Subject enhancement • Elective courses • A visiting speaker programme • An element of Community Service
CHOOSING YOUR A LEVEL SUBJECTS In the Sixth Form, we strongly encourage students to opt for subjects for which they have a passion. We know that if students have a genuine interest in their subjects, they work harder, they do better and, most importantly, they are happier. The extent to which students enjoy their subjects must be the first priority when deciding which A Level options to take. Higher education and career aspirations may be relevant factors, but we know that success depends on intrinsic motivation. Students and parents should not allow vocational goals to outweigh genuine enjoyment of a particular discipline. For the vast majority of career paths, what is most important is a great degree from a top institution; students should therefore opt at A Level, and indeed beyond, to study subjects that they enjoy. You need to choose three academic subjects to study as linear A Levels. Students may wish to opt for four subjects, unless you opt for Further Maths, in which case you will be taking four in total. This is a considerable undertaking but is suitable for students who are highly motivated and determined to work very hard, and who have four subjects that they are highly passionate about.
GCSE SUBJECT REQUIREMENTS All students should show sufficient attainment to meet a programme of study in at least three subjects in order to secure a place in the Sixth Form. First and foremost, students should opt to study subjects that they enjoy and that they are good at. For most A Level options, you should have studied the subject to GCSE. In addition, each subject in the Sixth Form has recommended GCSE grade requirements: For most subjects, the minimum GCSE grade required to continue to study the subject at A Level is a Grade 7. Please refer to Heads of Department for further guidance.
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