Why Choose Simon Balle Sixth Form? We offer: • • • • • • • • •
A track record of high attainment and achievement High expectations for every student High quality teaching and learning A unique ethos valuing honesty, openness, social responsibility, hard work and commitment Excellent pastoral and academic support An all-round education (extracurricular opportunities) A dedicated and experienced sixth form team Employability skills and excellent preparation for the next steps A sixth form experience that students really enjoy – talk to our students, they are our best ambassadors
What subjects should students choose? Students can therefore choose: The key to success in the Sixth Form is studying the right courses. Each student needs to consider their interests and aspirations and find out as much as possible about potential courses. • We have a wide range of A Level subjects – some which are familiar to students as they build on knowledge from GCSE subjects, and some which will be new to students. • From 2016 a new suite of qualifications will be offered as Level 3 Technicals which can be studied at Extended Certificate Level (equivalent to one A Level) and/or at Foundation Diploma (equivalent to one and a half A Level). • They are aimed at people who enjoy learning in a practical, work-related way and have been designed to provide high quality, industry recognised qualifications that acknowledge skills, knowledge and understanding of the sector, together with the settings, job roles, principles and values involved.
Level 3 Technical Qualifications
• • •
A Level Pathway (3 or 4 subjects) Mixed Pathway - A Level and Technical (3 or 4 subjects) Technical Pathway (2, 3 or 4 subjects)
Each pathway gives students the opportunity to move forward with confidence into Higher Education, Higher Level Apprenticeships or Employment. •
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) – This is an opportunity for students to embark on a largely selfdirected and self-motivated project. Students must choose a topic, plan, research and develop their idea and decide on their finished product. It is worth half an A Level and is highly regarded by many universities. Further subjects are often available as part of our Consortium arrangements working closely with other local schools
All qualifications carry UCAS points. These subjects can be studied as the equivalent to one or one and a half A Levels
Entry Requirement
Business Studies Cambridge Technical
Encourages the development of a wide range of business knowledge and skills in a vocational and practical context.
C in Maths and English
Health and Social Care Technical
Aimed at students seeking a career in the health and safety sector, social work, nursing, caring or probation service and provides access to higher education/university. There will be opportunities for work placements at local primary schools, nurseries and residential care homes.
Details of entrance requirements on application
ICT Cambridge Technical
Encourages the development of a wide range of ICT knowledge and skills in a vocational and practical context.
B or pass in ICT
Science Technical
Aimed at students with an interest in careers with a scientific element and builds upon the practical skills and knowledge developed at GCSE level.
CC in Core & Additional Science, CCC Triple Science, C Maths