2 POST-16 EDUCATION TUESDAY MARCH 4 2014 WESTERN DAILY PRESS
CONTENTS
Abbeywood Community School ................ 4 Ashton Park School ..................................... 6
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With so many options you need to choose carefully
Badminton School ....................................... 9 Bradley Stoke School .................................. 4 Bristol Grammar School ............................. 8 Brislington Enterprise College ................. 10 Clifton College ............................................ 3 Clifton High School .................................... 7 Colston’s Girls’ School ............................. 11 Pupils must decide whether they want to stay on at school in a familiar environment or go to a college which may prepare them better for university life
Colston’s School ......................................... 5 Royal High School, Bath ............................ 8
It seems to be getting harder for school leavers every year. Just when 16-year-olds think they have a grasp of the qualifications and institutions open to them when they finish secondary school, the goal posts are moved. And this year is no different. Marc Rath reports
St Bede’s Catholic Sixth Form College ... 10 South Gloucestershire and Stroud College ..................................................................... 12 Warminster School ...................................... 6 CONTACTS Advertising
Marc England 0117 934 3428 marc.england@b-nm.co.uk Ellie Pipe 0117 934 3769 eleanor.pipe@b-nm.co.uk Editorial
Marc Rath 0117 934 3637 marc.rath@b-nm.co.uk Kate Edser 0117 934 3207 kate.edser@b-nm.co.uk EDUCATION ONLINE WITH THE DAILY PRESS westerndailypress.co.uk
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Students taking their GCSEs in the summer will have more options than their predecessors. With a difficult decision to make, many will focus their minds by concentrating on where they want further education to take them. Are they targeting a place at a particular university? Do they want the next couple of years of study to leave them well placed to secure a job in their preferred field? Are they unsure about a vocation and hoping to keep their options open? In the Bristol area, there are a growing number of sixth forms opening which are attached to secondary schools. Students are faced with deciding whether they want to stay on at school in a familiar environment surrounded by their friends or go to a college which may prepare them better for university life and give them the chance to meet new people. Students taking their GCSEs can now also consider a new type of school which has opened in Bristol – a University Technical College. The college, called the Bristol Technology & Engineering Academy, opened in Stoke Gifford last September and caters for students aged 14 to 19 with an interest in a career in engineering. To prepare them for life as an engineer, students work a much longer day than most of their peers, with lessons taking place between 8.30am and 5pm. Another type of institution
coming to Bristol is studio schools, which are academies designed to equip pupils aged 14 to 19 with the knowledge, skills and experience needed to succeed in life and work. The model has been developed with employers, education agencies, government and other partners. The schools offer academic qualifications, with students spending time each week in work placements. There are plans to create a studio school on the site of The Grange School & Sports College in Warmley and at Wellsway School in Keynsham. As well as institutions, qualifications are also changing. Education Secretary Michael Gove wants to alter the A-level to make it more academically rigorous with fewer modules and more riding on a final exam. at the end of the two year course. The International Baccalaureate (IB) is becoming increasingly popular and can be studied at more and more colleges and sixth forms. Students are opting to take the IB for numerous reasons. For some, the qualification allows them to continue to study a broad range of subjects and introduces an international perspective to their learning. Others are choosing it as they believe universities are beginning to favour it over Alevels. Careers advisors will be on hand to guide students but they have to grapple with a few key decisions themselves. Cliff Shaw, deputy principal
at City of Bristol College, believes taking a course with a view to a preferred career can prove to be a sound move. But in this fast-moving digital age it can be hard to predict which industries will have longevity. Mr Shaw, who has vast experience in post-16 education, recommends researching employment sectors which are expanding. He said: “Bristol is a city which seems to be booming and there are all sorts of industries associated with that – leisure and tourism, retail, engineering, digital technology and visual arts. It has a great cultural history, with music and performance. I would say to students ‘Have a look at apprenticeships’ when there is growing employment. “Think about the opportunities locally and regionally. There’s Hinkley Point (nuclear power station) – there’s more investment going into that than the Olympic site in London. There will be a whole manner of skills needed for that – from civil engineering to catering and security.
‘The best way of making choices is experiential – going into the workplace or college to sample it. There is a greater choice and more to choose from – there are open evenings and taster days’ Cliff Shaw, City of Bristol College
“It’s worth being aware of local opportunities and what’s happening in the city. Bristol is creating jobs in a diverse range of areas – its food culture and restaurants is out of proportion to the scale of other cities.” Apprenticeships are a growing area for the college, which now has 2,346 in 150 placements. The college also offers 28 different A-level subjects. Health and social care is also a booming sector for the college. Mr Shaw said: “There’s much improved awareness of the care industry, which is growing because of the aging population. There is lots of interest in childcare as well, which is popular and a growing area.” Mr Shaw, who was appointed by the college in April, recommends school leavers visit the colleges or sixth forms they are considering attending. Mr Shaw said: “The best way of making choices is experiential – going into the workplace or college to sample it. There is a greater choice and more to choose from – there are open evenings and taster days. “A website or prospectus is one thing but talking it through helps form the decision.” And he says there is a safety net at the college for students who find themselves on a course they are unhappy with. Mr Shaw said: “We have something called a six-week swap not drop. If young people are on a course and they suddenly think the course isn’t what they want, they have sixweek window to transfer across to another course. We can give students advice and guidance and move them across to the right programme.”
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For students taking two revision subjects on Clifton College’s revision courses, an option to board for the week is provided, offering students home-cooked and nutritious meals, and a variety of bedroom options
Summer ‘top ups’ to prepare for exams Clifton College To help prepare students for examinations in the summer, Clifton College will be holding revision courses from Monday to Friday, April 7-11. The courses target students keen to top up their subject knowledge in order to maximise their chance of examination success. Courses focus on three specific areas: ■ Subject revision: covering common areas, topics of difficulty, and areas to focus on and revise. Students will be able to feel considerably more confident in their knowledge and abilities. ■ Exam technique: understanding that knowledge alone is not enough, the courses focus heavily on how to interpret questions and write high-grade answers. ■ Exam practice: students will be encouraged to apply their knowledge by answering past exam papers, improving essay writing techniques and enabling students to experience timed exam conditions. These papers will be checked by the course tutor, identifying strengths and weaknesses. The courses are made up of small, intimate class sizes of just 10-12 students, with tutors delivering personal and inter-
Revision courses at Clifton College target students keen to top up their subject knowledge in order to maximise their chance of examination success
active teaching methods and students enjoying one-on-one attention. With small class sizes comes the worry that each student will be required to learn the same topic, regardless of their capabilities in that area. The courses aim to eradicate that problem by encouraging parents and students to inform staff beforehand about specific educational needs and demands. Classes are taken by highly qualified, experienced and motivating tutors, who are not only committed to delivering results, but are also experienced examiners. Students can choose to take one or two subjects over the course of the week, with each subject comprising 15 hours of intense revision. For those students taking two subjects, an option to board for the week is provided. Following dinner, students will participate in evening study time, where they may indulge in independent revision in the library or consult with the course tutors. If you would like to book a place on the Clifton College Easter revision course, visit www.ccsl-cliftoncolle ge.com, or contact the course manager, Brad Clark, on 0117 3157 143, or bclark@cliftoncolle ge.com.
Easter Revision Courses 2014
Prepare to achieve Monday 7th - Friday 11th April 2014 • A full range of GCSE,AS and A2 Level subjects available • Tutors with experience as examiners leading study sessions • Individual assessments and coaching on exam techniques • Advice in final preparations • End of course report for parents • Superb recreational facilities • Residential stay available
For further information:
0117 315 7143 bclark@cliftoncollege.com
www.ccsl-cliftoncollege.com
4 POST-16 EDUCATION TUESDAY MARCH 4 2014 WESTERN DAILY PRESS
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Sharing helps school be one of best in area
Strength is in community and ‘can-do’ mood
Abbeywood Community School
Bradley Stoke School
Abbeywood Community School made further progress to consolidate last year’s status as one of the top two post-16 centres in South Gloucestershire last summer. Abbeywood is a member of the Concorde Partnership, along with Bradley Stoke Community School, Patchway Community College and South Gloucestershire and Stroud College, with whom the schools share a timetable. Transport is provided for students to travel to other centres for half-day timetable blocks. This has led to a significant increase in the range of courses available to students in all centres and gives opportunities for shared planning and training for staff as well. Head boy at Abbeywood Community School, Scott Cousins “I am studying two of my Alevel subjects at the Abbeywood post-16 centre and through the highly successful Concorde Partnership I study sport at SGS College. Last year I surpassed my AS targets, gaining an A in maths in addition to three B grades. “Abbeywood’s fantastic A2 results, a great ‘work hard,
Abbeywood Community School has consolidated last year’s status as one of the top two post-16 centres in South Gloucestershire last summer play hard’ attitude and a vast range of opportunities have enabled Abbeywood post-16 centre to become one of the best in the area. Please visit and judge for yourself.” Head girl at Abbeywood Post-16 Centre, Fiona Morris “I have attained excellent AS level results and have chosen to continue studying in this happy and friendly environment, where I feel so comfortable learning. “I took part in amazing en-
richment programmes last year and have even started running my own film club this year for the whole school. Envision was a major charity project for the school last year where a small group of post-16 students ran events to raise a substantial amount of money for a local mental illness charity. The post-16 centre has provided me with valuable life lessons and skills that I will undoubtedly need when I venture into the world of university and I will be forever grateful.”
YOUR JOURNEY TO SUCCESS BEGINS AT
ABBEYWOOD COMMUNITY SCHOOL POST 16 CENTRE
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT US AT: WWW.ABBEYWOODSCHOOL.COM OR CALL… 0117 3075660 FOR INFORMATION Abbeywood
Community School
�e� �oad, Stoke Gi�ord, Bristol, South Gloucestershire, BS3� �SF
Since opening in September 2010, the post-16 centre has gone from strength to strength. Students learn in a new building with state-of-theart learning spaces and excellent pastoral care, which ensures each individual uses their time as a springboard into the future. Working within the Concorde Partnership, the school offers students the opportunity to study a wide range of courses in a way which suits them. With specialist facilities, including dance and TV studios, pioneering music technology equipment and a strong IT provision, the school is as committed to traditional academic subjects as it is to innovative courses, which reflect the modern era. Last year, more than 70 per cent per cent of the 2013 cohort successfully applied for university or higher education places. Again, this year, more than 78 per cent have applied for higher education. As part of a wide-ranging support system, each student benefits from the assistance of a dedicated post-16 learning mentor. Although it is vitally important to prepare students for formal examinations, the school also equips them with a
With specialist facilities, including dance and TV studios, pioneering music technology equipment and a strong IT provision, the school is as committed to traditional academic subjects as it is to innovative courses range of essential life skills, from strong employability in a dynamic job market, to the self-motivation and practicalities of planning a life-changing gap year. Alex Shoferpoor, head boy, said: “I believe that one of the main strengths here at Brad-
ley Stoke is the cohesive, community attitude with which students conduct themselves and the subsequent positive ‘can-do’ thinking, something I believe is reflected in the high levels of student achievement and the friendly atmosphere within the school.”
DISCOVER YOUR FUTURE AT BRADLEY STOKE COMMUNITY SCHOOL POST 16 CENTRE
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT US AT: WWW.BRADLEYSTOKECS.ORG.UK OR CALL… 01454 867940 FOR INFORMATION Bradley Stoke Community School
Fiddlers Wood Lane, Bradley Stoke, South Gloucestershire, BS32 9BS
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Good results and a family atmosphere Colston’s School As they neared the end of Year 11, Polly Woodbridge and Jess Graham thought hard about their choice of sixth form. Polly, who lives in Stoke Bishop, Bristol, faced her decision in 2012 when she elected to transfer from single sex education to the co-educational environment of Colston’s School where she is now in the upper sixth. “I’d known for some time that I wanted to change schools for A-levels,” said Polly. “After five years of all girls I felt I needed to get back to a mixed school. “Apart from the reassurance of its academic record I knew that Colston’s had a strong family atmosphere.” Polly is studying Biology, History and Psychology at Aevel, and plans an Early Years course at Birmingham City University in order to teach children aged 3-7 years. “Colston’s have already enabled me to gain work experience at Henleaze Junior and
‘I was settled at my previous school with many good friends, but was worried about class sizes and the fact that in the sixth we would have to travel to another school for some of the work’ Jess Graham
‘Apart from the reassurance of its academic record I knew that Colston’s had a strong family atmosphere’ Polly Woodbridge
Glenfrome Primary Schools,” she explained, “and one of the great bonuses here is that I can gain classroom experience at our own lower school whenever I have free time.” Jess, from Chipping Sodbury, left her secondary school last summer to join Colston’s, following in the footsteps of her brother Jacob. He had joined Colston’s lower sixth two years earlier and is now studying electrical engineering at Loughborough University. “I was settled at my previous school with many good friends, but was worried about class sizes and the fact that in the sixth we would have to travel to another school for some of the work,” she said. In Year 12 Jess is studying English Language, Drama, Photography and Psychology. The school is currently helping her select from a range of media courses at university, coupled with careers advice. Polly added: “I have found that having a full time careers adviser at Colston’s is incredibly valuable. It makes such a difference to know that you can talk one-to-one to an expert in the school as often as you need – it’s very much part of the sixth form experience.” The school’s sixth form has doubled in size over the last decade to its current total of 150 students. It says the increase in interest is due to many factors, including its continuing academic success, its modern curriculum and the ever-improving provision of facilities for music, sport and drama.
Jess Graham, left, and Polly Woodbridge at Colston’s School. Both are full of praise for Colston’s, which they joined in the sixth form
Sixth Form First class learning Encouraging independence of thought and capacity for self-motivated study Bridging the gap between school, university and work International Baccalaureate students at St Brendan’s Sixth Form College: Maliek Curtis, Joe Pusey, Adam Hinchliff Walz, Abi Miles and Phoebe Thomas
Programme followed worldwide They could be considered indecisive. But for a group of students at St Brendan’s Sixth Form College, a desire to keep all their options open was the major draw of the International Baccalaureate. The teenagers chose the IB as it allowed them to continue studying a broad range of subjects, unlike A-levels, which call on students to specialise in three or four areas. The IB is an increasingly popular option for school leavers and has become a qualification looked upon favourably by universities. Internationally recognised, it is a challenging and wellrounded programme followed by students around the world. Until recently it was only taught in a minority of in-
dependent schools, but is now an option in some state schools. St Brendan’s is the only state school or college to offer the IB in the West of England. First year IB student Joe Pusey, 17, from Keynsham, chose to study the IB after earning seven A*s in his GCSEs. His six IB subjects are maths, English, biology, chemistry, Spanish and psychology. He said: “I wanted to carry on doing a range of things. I liked the variety of subjects with the IB. It’s hard work but I like it.” The IB is aimed at encouraging students to think independently, and to explore their creativity. At the University of the West of England (UWE) there has
been an increase in applicants studying the IB over the last few years. Keith Hicks, of UWE, said: “UWE was one of the first universities to recognise a wide range of qualifications other than A-levels including the International Baccalaureate but the university also recognises the achievements of those who have other equivalent qualifications from local colleges.” Roseanna Cross, head of undergraduate admissions at Bristol University, said: “The university accepts a wide range of qualifications for entry and the IB is now a wellestablished route to higher education. In the last two years, we’ve accepted 200 undergraduate students each year who took the IB.”
Producing confident and responsible young adults Fostering imagination through performing arts Tradition of excellence in drama and music Strong sporting tradition – team sports and individual pursuits For further information contact Denise Sollis (Tel 0117 965 5207) denisesollis@colstons.bristol.sch.uk Colston’s School, Stapleton, Bristol BS16 1BJ www.colstons.bristol.sch.uk
Scholarships and bursaries available Registered Charity No 1079552
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Warminster is an ambitious and forward-thinking school, yet proud of its heritage and ethos
Caring school where Quality teaching and each child matters enriching activities Warminster School Warminster is a first-rate school with impressive pupils and an excellent staff, writes headmaster Mark Mortimer. The ISI inspectors who visited recently confirmed this in emphatic style. Since my very first visit I have felt the warmth of community spirit, the dynamic atmosphere and the strong sense of loyalty and purpose. It is an ambitious and forward-thinking school, yet proud of its heritage and ethos. It is this mix that attracted me in the first place, because it resonates with my own beliefs. My educational philosophy places the individual child at the heart of a school, with an emphasis on character, values and a rounded education. Outstanding pastoral care is the keystone of any successful school: a happy and secure child is far more likely to do well, be that inside or outside the classroom. All children enjoy, and are good at, something, and a school’s job is to help them find and nurture it; a wide range of co-curricular activities and opportunities is therefore essential. Warminster is, and must
Mark Mortimer: ‘My educational philosophy places the individual child at the heart of a school’
‘All children enjoy, and are good at, something, and a school’s job is to help them find and nurture it’ Headmaster Mark Mortimer
continue to be, an academic school. Results are important because they are the ticket in the pocket, but they are not the only measure of academic success. An understanding of how children learn best and a focus on nurturing academic aspiration, a love of learning and intellectual curiosity are equally important. As headmaster of Warminster School I would like parents, both current and prospective, to consider what sort of person they want their son or daughter to be when they walk out of the school gates for the final time. What I would like for the pupils, as for my own children, is that they are well-rounded, well-mannered, self-confident, articulate and fundamentally decent people with a sense of duty, integrity and moral courage. I also want them to possess important life skills such as emotional intelligence, persistence, optimism and resilience. It is a great privilege to serve as headmaster and I am honoured to have the opportunity to enhance its strong reputation.
Ashton Park Choosing the right environment and courses is a vital decision for young people. Here at Ashton Park Sixth Form we are with you every step of the way. So what makes Ashton Park stand out from the crowd? The impressive and diverse range of courses available enables students to choose, specialise and excel in the subjects that will help them in their future. 2012 A-level results were among the best in the country (top 25 per cent nationally, ALPs analysis). Students are engaged in super-curricular activities that build their confidence and make the difference in a competitive world. All take part in work shadowing. for example media students are involved in the Talent Ticket boot camp, business students are involved in the Shares for Schools competition and photography students work alongside local artists at Spike Island. This shows universities and employers that students are willing to go that extra mile. Head teacher Tessa Thomas believes that the successful track record in terms of supporting students to get into university, including
Student life at Ashton Park is an uplifting experience Oxbridge and the Russell Group, is the result of high quality teaching and learning. However, university is not for everyone, so her team invest a great deal of time and energy preparing students for training and employment. Students are encouraged to get involved in a range of extra-curricular activities locally and further afield. Students regularly visit our link school in Kenya, tour the southern hemisphere to play sport, and Duke of Edinburgh groups are regularly out in the mountains honing their skills.
Coupled with this is a thriving leadership and volunteering programme, with many of our students developing confidence and enhanced skills whilst on placements out in the local community. Director of Sixth Form Sue Cutts realises that it can be a tough world for young people today. She adds: “It’s our job to make sure that we provide the best education, delivered by skilled staff with great enrichment opportunities for all.” This is what makes the Ashton Park Sixth Form experience so unique.
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Bringing out the brilliant in each individual Clifton High School A distinctive group of students leave Clifton High every year with clear ambitions and goals. Many look outside the box for their futures in our ever-changing and unpredictable world. Career plans range from mine clearance diving to couture fashion; from music journalism and music therapy to the tough world of UK politics. And with some of the best reputed science and mathematics departments in the South West, these careers always feature highly in CHS students’ sights; from neuroscience and pharmacology to veterinary science and software development. Some take gap years to gain experience through volunteering or internships, others move straight into university courses or careers. Whatever their choices, all are well supported and they go armed with all the life skills, extra-curricular experiences and academic successes they need to allow them to open doors along the way. The diversity is welcomed and appreciated by Dr Alison M Neill, head of school, who says: “There are no rules dictating what is right for everyone. Most important is that each individual identifies their passions and chooses a path that will be driven by these. “One beauty of the scale and personality of Clifton High School is that we are able to help every individual student discover what drives them, make their life-shaping decisions and bring their ambitions to reality, be it via a direct route into their chosen career, an immediate move into higher education or using a gap year to increase their experience and consider careful decisions. “Yes, of course examination results matter, but they do not define all that young people are or all that they will
‘We are able to help every individual student discover what drives them, make their life-shaping decisions and bring their ambitions to reality’ Head of school Dr Alison M Neill
become. The road of life twists and turns and our real learning and education come along the journey.” Making informed choices about education in the uncertainties of the current climate is a challenge for students and their parents. Small class sizes, dedicated pastoral care, excellent results, attention and encouragement for the individual along with a myriad of extra-curricular opportunities make Clifton High School an excellent option for A-level study; a sixth form that realises that there is something brilliant in every individual.
Right from meeting staff at the
open day
at Clifton High School, and ever since, our son and daughter have developed in confidence and become
motivated & inspired in their learning.
Find out for yourself: Open Morning: Thursday 12th June
realising individual brilliance...
0117 933 9087 The Dish of the Day art installation unveiled at Clifton High School by former pupil Catherine Gray back in 2011, an example of the creative approach to education that the school adopts; top, a science experiment in progress
www.cliftonhigh.bristol.sch.uk
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A launch pad for life for our high-achievers Royal High School, Bath The Royal High Sixth Form College is a launch pad for life for young women. A-level: Our results improved yet again last year with almost 60 per cent of students achieving A*/ A grades; 42 per cent of students achieved at least one A* and 13 students achieved at least two A*. These results meant that just under 90 per cent of leavers won places at their chosen universities. International Baccalaureate: Last year’s outstanding International Baccalaureate results included five students achieving more than 40 points from a maximum of 45. The IB point average was 36, way above the global average of 30 points. This is the only sixth form college in Bath to offer the two-year International Baccalaureate diploma, which is a vital and integral part of our broad sixth form offer, as an alternative study pathway for Years 12 and 13. The IB is an internationally recognised qualification which develops subject breadth and depth, a distinctive portfolio of personal attributes, an inter-cultural insight, key cognitive strategies, problem solving and independent research and writing skills that academic institutions and businesses demand. But it’s not all about academic success, as director of college Andrew Melton explains: “If you leave school, any school, with a string of
impressive exam results and not much else, then something is wrong. Here, among likeminded young women, it’s your chance to shine, to excel at the things you love doing and to use these two years as a launch pad for your future success. “As new technologies unfold in the global workplace, it’s vital that young women are empowered, not only to play their part in today’s trends, but to lead new ones. “We encourage, motivate and support girls to see the bigger picture, to become adventurers and to value selfreliance and independence of mind; self-discipline and the determination to outstrip expectations and the imagination and courage to take risks and seize all the opportunities ahead of them.”
‘As new technologies unfold in the global workplace, it’s vital that young women are empowered, not only to play their part in today’s trends, but to lead new ones’ Director of college Andrew Melton
Royal High School, Bath, is the only sixth form college in Bath to offer the two-year International Baccalaureate diploma, which is a vital and integral part of our broad sixth form offer, as an alternative study pathway for Years 12 and 13
South Gloucestershire and Stroud College is a new college formed by the merger between Stroud College and Filton College, which give students more choice and a wider range of facilities – Page 12
www.bristolgrammarschool.co.uk
Whole School
Open Mornings Wednesday 19 March 2014 9.45am–12.30pm
CLICK. CONNECT. SHARE. LIKE. Get social and join us at our next Sixth Form College Open Day. Thursday 24th April 1pm – 4pm
Friday 9 May 2014 9.45am–12.30pm
To book your place or to request a prospectus, please call ture ven Ad Hollie Skerritt on 0117 933 9885. s hip ds ien r F
@royalhighbath www.facebook.com/TheRoyalHighSchoolBath Learning
Nursery • Junior School • Senior School • Sixth Form College
Life changing
Lansdown Road, Bath BA1 5SZ Tel: 01225 313877 Email: royalhigh@rhsb.gdst.net www.royalhighbath.gdst.net
Community where pupils feel valued Bristol Grammar School Recently judged by the Independent Schools Inspectorate as a “confident school which makes outstanding provision for pupils’ education,” Bristol Grammar School is attracting more and more students to its sixth form. Director of sixth form, Justin Harford, explains: “Strong friendships and relationships between students, their peers and their teachers underpin our thriving community. Students feel valued and develop confidence, motivation and aspiration.” At A-level, nearly 83 per cent of grades over the past four years were either A*, A or B, results which enable BGS students to go on the university and courses of their choosing. Twelve members of the current upper sixth have received offers from Oxford or Cambridge, plus one student from the class of 2013. Six are holding offers to study at Oxford,
ranked the world’s sixth best university in the QS World University Rankings, and seven offers from Cambridge, placed third. Fourteen offers from UCL and Imperial College mean the current total of offers from top six universities for BGS students is an impressive 27. BGS is also represented at the two institutions placed first and second in the rankings, Harvard and MIT, with two Old Bristolians currently studying at Harvard and one at MIT.
A-levels remain central to the sixth form’s strong academic curriculum, encompassing 28 subjects. The Extended Project Qualification is popular with students, offering them opportunity to showcase independent learning skills. The qualification is coveted by leading universities. and complements the depth of study they achieve at A2 level. Getting involved in co-curricular activities is a key part of life at BGS. One afternoon each week is devoted to an activities programme when students can choose to tackle a Duke of Edinburgh Award or gain a new skill such as photography. The school offers an extensive sporting programme, with another afternoon dedicated to individual and team competition or recreational health and fitness. Prospective students can request a prospectus, book an individual tour or arrange a personalised taster session by contacting the recruitment office.
A-levels remain central to the sixth form’s strong academic curriculum
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Badminton students celebrate A-level results, though head of sixth form Kate Dodd says there is far more to the school than academic studies, and information events such as careers seminars help the girls choose their future path
Holistic approach to education is central Badminton School Badminton sixth form’s proactive and independent approach to learning, together with small class sizes and the passion and enthusiasm of its teachers, ensures that the vast majority of girls are able to study at their first-choice university, many of which are among the most elite and competitive in the world. Central to the philosophy at Badminton is its holistic approach to education, as headmistress Rebecca Tea explains: “Our girls often say that, despite having to juggle university applications, coursework and preparation for exams, the sixth form is worth the wait. “They get satisfaction from pursuing their own specific academic interests. At Badminton, applying their knowledge happens as much beyond the classroom as within it. “The sixth formers are always busy with their research projects (last year saw one of the science research team publish an iBook on molecular gastronomy and this year one of our girls was a winner in the National Council of Women Great Britain’s National Competition) and engaging with nationwide debates and essay competitions.
The sixth form girls at Badminton enjoy more freedom and, consequently, more responsibility, which helps to prepare them for the transition towards leaving “It is these aspects of their sixth form life, along with their enjoyment of sporting moments or House competitions they are planning, that they enjoy chatting about when I catch up with them over a supper or breakfast. Encouraging and supporting
our girls to develop as individuals and to expand and explore their ambitions, both in their academic work and cocurricular activities, is right at the heart of Badminton’s ethos.” Head of sixth form Kate Dodd expands on this by saying: “Badminton not only offers a wide range of A-level subjects, but we also organise important information events, including careers seminars, an ‘opportunities’ fair and a ‘skills for professional life’ afternoon to help the girls choose their path and explore the opportunities open to them.” The sixth form girls enjoy more freedom and, consequently, more responsibility, which helps to prepare them for the transition towards leaving school and succeeding with their university course or gap year challenge. Girls leave Badminton ready to face the changing and challenging wider world and, when they do, they take with them a strong network of lifelong friends developed through a wealth of shared experiences. An open morning is being held on Monday, May 5. For more information, call 0117 905 5271, or email admissions@ badmintonschool.co.uk.
A world-class education in the heart of Bristol.
Open Morning Monday 5th May 2014 Badminton nurtures intellectual curiosity and challenges enquiring minds in a supportive community. Our girls’ enthusiasm for the arts, sport and their many activities keeps the School vibrant – come and see for yourself! T: 0117 905 5271 • E: admissions@badmintonschool.co.uk • www.badmintonschool.co.uk
@AcorntoOakBris
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Environment that values young people St Bede’s Catholic Sixth Form College Staff at St Bede’s will do whatever it takes to help bring about success and enable young people to walk tall, with confidence. St Bede’s is an outstanding Catholic College where students are encouraged and supported to achieve their full potential. There is a calm and industrious environment where young people are valued, stimulated and challenged to develop all their talents. High standards are expected from, and for, all within our community. Students are encouraged to strive for excellence in a culture where achievement and effort are valued and celebrated. The climate for learning within the college is vibrant, optimistic and confident. Education is student centred so that those who study here can become active, enquiring, critical and openminded thinkers and, ulti-
mately, responsible citizens who will live lives of integrity and service. The learning environment nurtures academic achievement, preparing students with the necessary skills for future study. They are expected to conduct themselves in a mature and studious manner, enabling personal growth and community enrichment. The staff see it as their duty to nurture students’ spiritual, moral, social and cultural development so that they will grow in the knowledge that, in God’s eyes, each one is unique and of infinite worth. St Bede’s offers a range of cocurricular opportunities to enrich and broaden horizons, developing skills and talents, equipping the young people with the resilience to meet new challenges with confidence. Students have open access to outstanding and extensive sporting facilities and take part in a variety of sports both onsite and beyond.
High standards are expected from, and for, all within the community at St Bede’s. Students are encouraged to strive for excellence in a culture where achievement and effort are valued and celebrated. The climate for learning within the college is vibrant, optimistic and confident
Helping students to achieve their goals Brislington Enterprise College Brislington Enterprise College post-16 centre is a small, friendly environment where staff know their students personally and focus on building strong relationships with them. Courses are carefully chosen based on the specialist and high quality teaching, learning and facilities in those areas. There is a range of different courses that fit into the areas of work that are vital to the economy today. While the college recognises academic
achievement is imperative, it appreciates there are many other ways to achieve personal goals and successes, and support students in achieving this. The careers adviser is part of the post-16 team and helps students explore all the options available once they finish their qualifications. As well as organising work experience, voluntary work and university visits, students receive help with job applications, CVs and interview skills. The post-16 area is a separate community within BEC,
designed to stimulate and motivate students. There are state-of-the-art facilities for the subjects on offer, and a large common room and lockers for all the young people. Students in post-16 education relish the close knit community and feel content and happy with their surroundings, each other and their teachers. To receive a post-16 brochure, for an informal chat, or to arrange a visit, contact director of post-16 Sara Hayes on 0117 377 2055 (ext 2030), or email shayes@because.org.uk.
There is a range of different courses that fit into the areas of work that are vital to the economy today
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WESTERN DAILY PRESS TUESDAY MARCH 4 2014 POST-16 EDUCATION 11
Girls gain confidence to pursue ambitions Colston’s Girls’ School The sixth form at Colston’s Girls’ School combines a traditional academic approach with a strong pastoral system to create confident, independent and resilient students who are ready to move on to higher education and into fulfilling careers. Students from Colston’s Girls win places at universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Exeter and Sheffield, on courses such as mechanical engineering, medicine, modern languages, mathematics and law. Science and mathematics are two of our most popular subject areas with excellent provision and results and, as one of the students stated: “The science facilities are great here and single sex is a real positive as it is easier to focus.” Colston’s Girls’ School has a languages specialism, which opens up additional opportunities. The school offers both a be-
A language lab at the school
‘The science facilities are great here and single sex is a real positive as it is easier to focus’ Colston’s Girls’ School student
spoke Oxbridge and a medicine preparation programme and provides mentoring and careers advice, encouraging girls to pursue their ambitions. Specialist teachers have a passion for their subjects, a love of learning and a great desire for their students to achieve well. Another student commented: “The teachers are much more helpful and supportive here.” The sixth form is a small community, with its own base in a refurbished Georgian building with university-style seminar rooms. The Year 12 and 13 students play an active role in the main school and are involved in a wealth of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, including Young Enterprise, Green Team, Envision volunteering, robotics, public speaking, Duke of Edinburgh Award, music, drama, charity events, and sports such as karate, dance and fitness classes.
The traditional entrance to Colston’s Girls’ School on Cheltenham Road, Bristol
l s e Y can Students from Colston’s Girls win places at universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Exeter and Sheffield
Star chef has some ‘great’ memories needs doing at the event and will help clean up afterwards. It’s a very hands-on role!
Many former students of City of Bristol College have gone on to enjoy successful careers. Among them is Michelin-star award winner Josh Eggleton, who owns The Pony & Trap restaurant in Chew Magna.
What did you like about your time at the college? We were able to cook a different dinner every day for the college restaurant, which was good fun, and it was great to get the practical experience, too. I liked the interaction with the other chefs and meeting new people. Describe your role at the Pony &Trap As the owner, I’ve got a number of roles. I direct all parts of the
What is the best piece of advice you’ve been given? Work hard and work smart. If you’ve got a good work ethic you’ll be fine.
City of Bristol College old boy Josh
restaurant so I decide the direction we’re going in and how to move the pub forward. I manage all the restaurant staff, including recruitment, and I’m in the kitchen all the time. When we do weddings I do the menu, meet the couple, do whatever
What advice would you give anyone wanting a career in your industry? I’d say be prepared for putting in a lot of hours and hard work. If you can do that you’ll be fine. Don’t think it’s going to be a walk in the park because it’s not. The amount of work and the hours you have to put in isn’t for everyone. You either love it or you don’t.
Colston’s Girls’ School Sixth Form
Yes l can... study my chosen subjects at the best universities T. 0117 942 4328 E. admissions@colstonsgirls.bristol.sch.uk
www.colstonsgirls.bristol.sch.uk
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Traineeships provision in active leisure sector In November 2013, grade 1 ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted training provider Icon Training were awarded with ‘Training Provider of the Year’ at the Active IQ Active Leisure Awards. Following on from Icon Training’s success with apprenticeships, the logical next step was to join forces with the Government to provide traineeships in the active leisure sector. Therefore Icon Training are pleased to announce the launch of the ‘future proof your life’ and ‘future proof your workforce’ traineeships initiatives. The traineeship programme was introduced by the Government in August 2013 to tackle youth unemployment and help young people take
19+
Young people aged 19+ will be able to enrol on a traineeship and retain their Jobseekers Allowance their first steps into the world of work. Icon Training recognise the difficulties young people face in gaining any sort of employment without relevant work experience and qualifications and that is exactly what a traineeship provides. Skills Minister Matthew Hancock said: “We have responded to this demand by providing additional investment, and in time traineeships will become the clear route for young people looking to get the crucial grounding they need in the world of work.” The Department for Work and Pensions recently provided further good news for the flagship scheme an-
nouncing that traineeship learners will now be exempt from the ‘16 hour rule’ which means that young people aged 19+ will be able to enrol on a traineeship and retain their Jobseekers Allowance. The fully funded training can take around 14 weeks to complete and includes specific pathway qualifications, functional skills (Maths and English), high quality work experience and preparation for employment including CV writing and interview preparation. Leading training provider Icon Training believe that the flagship scheme is a huge opportunity for young people in the UK and an ideal way to gain the skills and qualifications they need to become ‘work-ready’. Mac Cleves, managing director of Icon Training, said: “We believe that young people need a platform to help ‘future proof ’ their lives; the traineeship programme is an ideal way to do this as once the trainee has completed their learning and work experience they are guaranteed an interview with the employer and have a high chance of continuing onto an apprenticeship or employment, even if they are not successful they will have a reference for future employment and it will look fantastic on their CV. Without experience it is difficult to get a job and without a job it is difficult to get experience. Traineeships are therefore the perfect solution.” Traineeships in lifeguarding, fitness and customer service are currently being piloted by Icon Training in Bristol, Hampshire and other locations in England. For more information, visit: icontraining.com/traineeships
Keep an eye out in www.bristolpost.co.uk/education
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Advertising Features Education Correspondent Marc Rath 0117 934 3637 marc.rath@b-nm.co.uk
Advertising and Features 0117 934 3428 Marc England marc.england@b-nm.co.uk 0117 934 3769 Ellie Pipe eleanor.pipe@b-nm.co.uk
Lifelong Learning
South Gloucestershire and Stroud College offers a vast range of courses with an even wider choice of subjects
Merger sees students given greater choice South Gloucestershire and Stroud College South Gloucestershire and Stroud College (SGS) is a new college formed by the merger between Stroud College and Filton College. These two successful colleges merged in February 2012, to give students more choice, greater opportunities and a wider range of facilities from a single, larger college. At SGS, we have three main campuses – Stroud, Filton and WISE – as well as many local community venues. And we welcome around 15,500 full-time and part-time students of all ages every year. We also have sites in the centre of Bristol, at the West of England Academy of Art and at the Bristol Zoo & Gardens. Our campuses are based in state-of-the-art buildings in
South Gloucestershire and Stroud College is a new college formed by the merger between Stroud College and Filton College
great locations – Filton and WISE are within easy reach of the centre of Bristol, while our Stroud campus is based in the beautiful five valleys, in the county of Gloucestershire. As a merged college we now offer a vast range of courses with an even wider choice of subjects – from business to sport, engineering to performing arts – we probably have a vocational or academic qualification for you. What is more, SGS has an excellent reputation for delivering work-based programmes such as apprenticeships, higher apprenticeships and professional training; so if you are after a practical course that will teach you the skills you need for your chosen career, you’ve come to the right place. Our experienced and passionate staff work hard to help our students overcome any personal challenges and achieve their career goals. We are proud of SGS, and committed to making the new college the best it can be for our students. A strong partnership with the University of Gloucestershire also means excellent opportunities for students who choose to progress on to higher education.