Prospectus 2022

contents

what’s inside?

principal’s welcome 02 our RESULTS 2021 03-04 rsfc excel in 2020/21 05-06 why RSFC is an experience like no other? 07-08 our partners in success 09-10 Success at RSFC 11-18 programme of study 19-20 what will i study? 21 subjects 22-26 case study: ethan jones-stephens 27-28 case study: hamad iqbal 29-30 the scholars’ programme 31 case study: nicholas alexander dodd 32 Destinations of leavers 33-34 bespoke enrichment programme 35-36

Supporting You: Student Performance and Development Leaders 37 the students’ union 38 employability and careers 39-40 case study: alexander dodman 41-42 the speaker programme 43-44 trips and activities 45-46 top-class facilities 47 individualised support 48 working with parents 49 questions? 50

financial support: our pass 51-52 key dates 53 the year ahead 53-54

Principal’s welcome

Dear prospective student

I am delighted that you are looking to apply to Rochdale Sixth Form College (RSFC). We are an excellent choice.

RSFC is one of the best sixth form colleges in the country for student progress and students who come to us consistently perform exceptionally well. Indeed, in recognition of the fantastic achievements of our students and staff RSFC was named Sixth-form college of the year 2021 in the recent Times Educational Supplement Awards. So, if you want to be a part of our exciting, vibrant and highly successful college, please read on.

RSFC are specialists within the sixth form sector; our mission is to support and enable you to shape your future. Our track record shows that RSFC is very successful in helping students reach their potential. RSFC, along with our local community, is very proud that Ofsted rates us as a grade 1, an ‘Outstanding’ college.

RSFC has a reputation for nurturing and developing the potential that exists within every student and member of staff. Our students are hard-working, tenacious and exhibit exemplary behaviour; RSFC staff are highly skilled and dedicated professionals. Consequently, RSFC has a national reputation for excellence, and the college is regularly cited as an example of the very best practice in the sixth form sector.

Richard Ronksley Principal

Reflecting on the successes of RSFC is recognition of past endeavours, of which we are very proud, but to be outstanding and ensure that RSFC provides the best sixth form experience to every student means that RSFC is constantly adapting and evolving. Our commitment to be at the forefront of sixth form education and ensure that you benefit from a second-to-none education is uncompromising. Through the ongoing uncertainties of the pandemic, one promise I can make is that your experience at RSFC will be supportive, rewarding and memorable.

I trust you will find this prospectus informative and useful in helping you make your choices. The next year will be an exciting, and sometimes nervous, time for you. Please be assured, you are never alone at RSFC; there will always be someone to support and guide you before, during and after your studies.

With very best wishes for your forthcoming examinations.

Richard Ronksley Principal

Our Results

We are immensely proud of every single one of our students. They approached the challenges of the pandemic with fortitude and have been rewarded with an excellent set of results and qualifications that reflect their commitment and determination.

RSFC’s pass rate was an outstanding 99.2%, with 58% of students achieving the highest grades (A*B). Consequently, around 80% of RSFC students are progressing to higher education institutions, including some of the most prestigious universities in the UK. One of our alumni is attending Stanford University in the USA, one of the best universities in the world!

2021Students who completed science and mathematics

A levels are progressing to a wide range of courses and employment within this sector, including medicine, dentistry, engineering and computer science.

Many of our students not progressing to university secured highquality apprenticeships or employment in a wide range of fields. These include finance, legal, engineering, the pharmaceutical sector, and working with firms such as Kennedy’s Law, Ernst and Young, the Royal Air Force, Northern Rail and Jaguar Land Rover.

These achievements are something to be celebrated, and a clear testament to the unceasing hard work and commitment of our students and staff.

around 80% of students are progressing to higher education institutions

RSFC Excel in 2020/21

This academic year has seen RSFC excel despite the challenges of the pandemic. We have remained committed to providing not only an outstanding learning environment but first and foremost a community in which we can come together to support each other to achieve our goals.

RSFC continues to be at the forefront of sixth form education, as these highlights show:

In May 2021 RSFC won Sixth-form college of the year at the Tes FE Awards 2021. Lead judge Bill Watkin said: “Rochdale Sixth Form College has demonstrated, this year, the power of collaboration and the effect of a relentless focus on standards...It has worked with schools and colleges across the Rochdale community to raise standards, and support young people and their families, showing true system leadership and system partnership.”

Online learning: RSFC was highlighted as a beacon of success by the Secretary of State for Education, Gavin Williamson, for its online provision: initially switching all students to a normal timetable online; then a ‘hybrid’ model to ensure students were in college as much as possible within a safe environment before a full return for students in a safe and supportive environment.

Following a validation of our Ofsted selfassessment report, which involved external stakeholders, RSFC was rated Outstanding for overall effectiveness, and in all four key judgements. This was a fitting testimony to the outstanding work and commitment of everyone connected with the college – the staff, students, parents, carers, employers and the local authority.

The ‘Rochdale offer’: RSFC continues to work collaboratively with Hopwood Hall College to guarantee a place at one of the colleges for all year 11 leavers.

In May 2021, RSFC was awarded the Sixth Form College Association ‘Covid Above and Beyond’ award for our response to the pandemic.

In March 2021, we received the Investors in People we invest in people, silver accreditation. Paul Devoy, CEO of Investors in People, said: “Silver accreditation on we invest in people is a remarkable effort for any organisation, and places Rochdale Sixth Form College in fine company with a host of organisations that understand the value of people.”

Why RSFC is an experience like no other

We provide specialised, dedicated and personalised academic and pastoral support

most prestigious universities and

our partners in success

RSFC has a network of secondary schools with whom we work in partnership.

Working with our colleagues we offer outstanding programmes to support students when considering their next steps and help make them aware of future opportunities. As you can see we have a large number of partner schools spread across the local area:

NOOR SHARIF results

ROBERT

LOEB

results

LUCY GREEN results

Programme of Study

We offer a wide variety of subjects, ranging from the traditional subjects to those that aren’t normally available in secondary schools. We have 29 courses on offer, and you have the flexibility to combine almost any of them.

In year 12, you will study three or four subjects alongside at least one hour of enrichment and a group tutorial. You will also participate in the RSFC social development programme to give something back to your community and to develop essential life and employability skills. You will also be required to attend one-to-one sessions with your Student Performance and Development Leader (SPDL), as well as any other sessions as necessary.

In year 13 you will continue to study the same three or four subjects from year 12 alongside a group tutorial. There is also the opportunity for students on our Scholars’ Programme to complete the extended project qualification (EPQ).

When applying to study with us, you will select four subjects to discuss at interview. You will be offered a place on three or four of these courses, dependent upon your predicted grades and your progression plans. We will make sure that you are placed on the best programme to ensure your success.

Entry requirements

A minimum of five GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade 4 or above, across four separate subjects, including GCSE mathematics and/ or English language. If you have studied a subject at GCSE and wish to continue studying this subject at A level, you must achieve at least a grade 4, unless otherwise specified. A good school reference, attendance and behaviour record are also required, as is a positive college interview. A few courses have specific entry requirements; relevant details can be found on the individual subject information pages on our website.

Which subjects should I choose?

Choosing subjects to study at sixth form college is both exciting and demanding. RSFC has a firm commitment to ensuring that you start and finish on the course that is right for you. We place great emphasis on pre-course guidance to ensure that your subject choices are appropriate and match your aspirations. Here are some hints and tips on choosing the right subjects for you:

• Think about any future progression plans you are considering. This could be a particular higher education course or career that you are really interested in – check the entry requirements and any specific subjects that you need to achieve your goals

•

Choose subjects that you are good at – this will give you the best chance of achieving your potential

• Choose subjects that you enjoy! You are much more likely to achieve your potential in subjects that you enjoy studying

• Discuss your future plans with us at your interview so we can offer advice and guidance on the most appropriate programme of study

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

A LEVEL SUBJECTS

With 29 different A level subjects to choose from, there is something for everyone! An A level is a two-year programme, with the completion of formal examinations at the end of the two years. Some courses include an element of coursework and/or controlled assessment.

BTEC COURSES

A BTEC course is a vocational qualification that involves applying learning to ‘real-life’ scenarios, allowing you to develop essential skills and knowledge for employment within a particular industry. BTECs are assessed through the completion of coursework and exams with ‘real-world’ application. Please see the individual subject pages on our website for further information.

or four A

an A level.

or

subjects

A BTEC in applied science provides a practical scientific qualification. The course aims to provide students with the relevant skills and knowledge that employers value, as well as the confidence to progress into a fulfilling, exciting career.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 4 or above is required in core and additional science or a grade 4-4 in combined science.

Art and design

Business (BTEC) is one of the most dynamic subjects you can choose! Business (BTEC) includes real-life case studies where you will explore and critically review live departments.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 4 or above is required in GCSE mathematics.

Art & design will inspire you to problem solve and communicate in a creative and innovative way. You will explore and create a visual language, which says something about the way you understand and perceive the world around you.

College entry requirements apply. You must achieve a grade 4 or above in GCSE art.

Biology is the study of living organisms, from the molecular biology of virus replication to the study of animals and plants in their natural habitats. Biology is a fascinating subject and includes all the traditional areas of biology as well as the advances in areas such as epigenetics and recombinant DNA technology.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 6 or above is required in biology or a grade 6-6 in combined science. You must also achieve a grade 5 or above in mathematics and a grade 4 or above in English language.

Business will enable you to uncover the truth behind the decisions made by businesses and the impact that these decisions have in the four key areas of marketing, production, human resources and finance.

College entry requirements apply.

Chemistry is the study of matter, its properties, and how and why substances combine or separate to form other substances. It also involves the study of how these substances interact with energy.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 6 or above is required in chemistry or a grade 6-6 in combined science. You must also achieve a grade 5 or above in mathematics and a grade 4 or above in English language.

experience like no other

All of our subject guides can be found on our website and will be available at our open events.

Scan the QR Code to access them.

Business

Biology chemistry

Applied science (BTEC)

Business (BTEC)

computer science

drama and theatre

The most important aspect of computer science is problem solving and the study of computers and computational systems; this includes their theory, design, development and application in solving problems.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 5 or above in mathematics or a grade 5 in computer science with a grade 4 in mathematics is required.

English language

Drama and theatre combines the study of practical performance with the history and social context of theatre. It is the study of a range of practitioners and acting styles, as well as reading and analysing plays. It also includes learning about stage craft and stage management skills in set design, lighting and sound.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 4/pass or above in GCSE/BTEC drama or performing arts. A grade 4 or above in English language is also required.

English literature

English language is the study of English in its widest sense, from the first words a baby speaks to the most subtle and manipulative advertisements or political speeches.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 5 or above is required in English language.

English literature is the study of the ways in which some of our greatest writers explore the issues that make the world what it is and us who we are.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 5 or above is required in English language or literature.

Economics focuses on macroeconomics, considering the big issues that we typically see mentioned in the news, and microeconomics, which looks at incentives. Why do individuals, groups and businesses do what they do? What problems arise? How can these problems be addressed?

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 5 or above is required in mathematics and a grade 4 or above in English language.

Economics Film studies

Film studies is the study of film as an art form, learning to appreciate the medium not only through its technical production, but also by understanding the wider meanings and messages.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 4 in English language is required.

French is one of the most widely spoken languages in Europe. You will develop the skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing; you will refresh and extend your knowledge of the basic rules of grammar; and develop your language skills.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 5 or above is required in GCSE French.

Further mathematics

Government and politics

Further mathematics both broadens and deepens the material covered in A level mathematics, including mathematics with real-life applications in the growing world of artificial intelligence and logistics.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 7 or above is required in GCSE mathematics. You must also study A level mathematics.

Government and politics is the study of current affairs, involving discussions around a variety of political issues and debates.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 4 or above is required in English language.

Health and social care (BTEC)

Health and social care is a term that relates to services that are available from health and social care providers. This subject focuses on understanding the human body, psychological theories on human development, promoting public health and meeting individual care and support needs.

College entry requirements apply.

Geography involves the study of people, places and the interactions that take place between them in a range of environments and at a range of scales. By studying geography you will develop a genuine in-depth understanding of the world we live in today and the key global, national and local issues affecting our society.

College entry requirements apply.

Geography History

History is the study of a range of periods of British and international history. Debating and discussing historical issues is central to the study of this course.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 4 or above is required in English language.

French

Information technology (BTEC)

Information technology (BTEC) is the study of how technology can be used to process, present and analyse data. You will develop an understanding of how different hardware and software can be used to provide solutions to everyday issues.

College entry requirements apply.

Media studies

Law governs what we can and can’t do. This course includes some of the main aspects of law which govern England and Wales and provides an insight into how the legal system has an impact on all of us.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 4 or above is required in English language.

law music Mathematics Physical education

Mathematics explores areas of pure mathematics such as geometry, algebra and trigonometry. It also deepens your knowledge of statistics and probability. Mechanics is a new topic to most students; this is the study of how things move and interact with each other.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 6 or above is required in GCSE mathematics.

Media studies is a vast and diverse subject, which includes studying media processes ranging from historical sectors to the ultracontemporary sub-sectors. It will introduce you to many different media outlets and encourages theoretical considerations across all platforms studied.

College entry requirements apply.

A level music develops both your theoretical and practical music skills. You will gain the opportunity to improve your understanding of music theory, as well as getting the chance to use industry standard software to create your own compositions.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 5 or above in GCSE music or grade 5 in music theory is required, along with proficiency (grade 5 or above) on a musical instrument.

A level PE aims to provide you with an understanding of a range of topics that impact on peak athletic performance. You will use different learning theories to explain how performers learn skills, looking at how anxiety and arousal affect novice and elite performers, through to an in-depth review of how the body and mind work before, during and after performance.

College entry requirements apply.

Physics is about questioning how the world around us works and looking for answers through a combination of experiments and theoretical work.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 6 or above is required in physics or a grade 6-6 in combined science. You must also achieve a grade 6 or above in mathematics and a grade 4 or above in English language. Physics students must also study A level mathematics.

Psychology is the study of the human mind and behaviour, providing a fascinating insight into the reasoning behind our actions. Psychology aims to answer the most interesting questions in life: why do people develop mental illness? What are the risk factors involved in addiction?

College entry requirements apply.

Sociology is the study of everything! It explores society and human behaviour. This subject allows you to become more open-minded to controversial issues and sensitive topics such as racism, gender inequalities, class differences, crime and domestic violence.

College entry requirements apply.

Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world. Studying a foreign language teaches you all the skills that employers want in their employees: an analytical mind, good thought processes, cultural and intercultural awareness, good communication and the ability to be a good team player.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 5 or above is required in GCSE Spanish.

TPE at RSFC is the study of religion from a philosophical and ethical perspective. It considers ancient and contemporary ideas surrounding morality.

College entry requirements apply as detailed. In addition, a grade 4 or above is required in English language.

Psychology

Theology, philosophy & ethics (TPE)

SociologyPhysics Spanish

“The advice and support really helped my A level studies and gave me extra confidence in my future studies at university.”

case study:

Ethan Jones-Stephens, Manchester Access Programme.

Throughout my A level studies RSFC have provided support and advice to help me gain an understanding of university life and my potential course. RSFC work closely with many universities to ensure students can participate in a wide range of courses to gain an insight into what university is like.

I wanted to understand what the University of Manchester could offer me, and now as I have just completed my A levels and secured a place at the University of Manchester to read psychology, the Manchester Access Programme (MAP) has been invaluable.

I applied to MAP because the benefits of undertaking the course made me feel like I would be very unwise not to partake in it. The three main benefits for me were: lower entry requirements for undergraduate courses, the undergraduate access scholarship (worth £1,000) and support with your university applications.

Whilst the benefits for me were huge, as the University of Manchester was my first-choice university, the programme is a challenge. As part of the programme you undertake an academic assignment on a topic of your choice. I was assigned a tutor, who supported me and gave me invaluable advice on how to

strengthen my writing and essays. The hardest aspect of the assignment was finding the right sources as the internet is very limited in terms of free academic resources. Luckily, through partaking in MAP, I was given access to the university’s online library, which was key to completing the assignment. The immense amount of support I received made completing the programme manageable while balancing my studies at RSFC. In fact, the advice and support really helped my A level studies and gave me extra confidence in my future studies at university as I have received an insight into the standard of work that they expect.

The programme has relieved so many personal pressures, including the pressure to achieve my grades as the university requirement was lowered due to my participation in the course. This has made my A levels ultimately much less stressful. The course has also given me an insight into university life and how it differs from college. This programme has undoubtedly exceeded my expectations as I was only expecting to receive a reduced offer. I have also gained a vast amount of experience and valuable knowledge which will help me in my future studies.

To anyone considering participating in the programme, or another one from another university I couldn’t recommend it more.

case study

The A levels I chose reflected my interest in developing a career in the robotics industry. During my studies I wanted to take advantage of gaining experience within an industry that I find so interesting and challenging.

The opportunity to participate in the Nuffield research placement at the University of Manchester meant I had the opportunity to work alongside a professor at the university. During my placement I worked with the professor to complete a robotic vision programme, ultimately developing a programme in Python that recognised musical notation and output the corresponding sound in an audio file.

Through the four-week placement I developed my programming skills (which are becoming increasingly important for engineers) and developed a greater understanding of the robotics industry (an industry that I hope to have a career in) by working alongside an expert in the field. It has been very useful in my studies and provided an insight into the programming aspects of my computer science coursework.

The placement relies on skills and information that are beyond the A level syllabus so it is challenging, but the opportunity to learn directly from an expert in a field that I am interested in was fantastic. It has consolidated my ambition to pursue a career in the robotics industry.

Hamad has just secured a place at Stanford University, USA to read Computer Science.

Hamad Iqbal, Nuffield Foundation’s research placement scheme for college students.

The Scholars’ Programme

The Scholars’ Programme is a supplement to your academic provision and aims to help equip you with skills in wider academic research, debating and critical thinking. Ultimately, this is to help prepare you for the rigorous admissions processes that are used to gain entry to: Oxbridge; medicine, dentistry and veterinary science; and competitive courses at Russell Group universities. More so than ever before, Universities are expecting you to possess a repertoire of core skills that are not only vital to succeeding at undergraduate level but are essential to creating adaptability in the ever-evolving twenty-first century workplace; therefore, the programme is designed to increase your confidence and develop your abilities as an autonomous scholar.

As part of the Scholars’ Programme, you will:

• Study a range of modules, including science and nature, philosophy and popular culture, and participate in debates, presentations and seminars

• Have the opportunity to complete the EPQ

• Get individualised preparation and support when applying for challenging and competitive university courses, including Oxbridge, Russell Group, medicine, dentistry, and veterinary science

• Receive additional one-to-one ‘stretch and challenge’ work with your subject teachers

• Participate in various access programmes from prestigious universities such as Oxford, Cambridge and Manchester

• Be given the option to attend organised visits and conferences, including trips to the country’s leading universities

• Be able to attend specialised and bespoke talks by guest academic speakers

• Have access to academic resources and electronic texts in various university libraries

If you achieve five or more grade 8/9s at GCSE, you will be eligible to join the Scholars’ Programme when it commences in January of your first year. You can also be nominated by your subject teachers or SPDL at the end of the first term. In enrolling on the Scholars’ Programme, you will also hold the distinguished title for the two years you are with us.

Oxbridge

RSFC has established links with the Oxbridge universities, with staff from both visiting the college. If you are interested in applying to Oxford or Cambridge, not only will you enjoy specialist one-to-one advice on the application process, you will also have the opportunity to visit one, or possibly both, of the universities. In addition, RSFC participates in the HE+ programme, which allows students to attend taster sessions and visit the University of Cambridge in preparation for future study. NB: Trips and visits will be subject to COVID-19 safety guidelines.

case study

Nicholas Alexander Dodd, Oxford application process.

I applied to Oxford because I wanted the opportunity to study at a world-class university.

I felt I should apply because there was nothing to lose in trying! It was also worth it because the experience developed my analytical skills so even if my application failed, the skills I learned will still help me now and in approaching my work in the future.

Summer 2020 and the UCAS application process began; by January 2021 I had my offer.

I found the RSFC Oxbridge Masterclasses very helpful. College helped me gain an understanding of how to answer the test questions and the advice I was given was key. College arranged a mock interview which helped prepare me, most importantly helping me collect myself and try to think and vocalise exactly what I am thinking.

I think every stage can be considered rewarding as the process develops the skills relating to your subject. Passing the entrance exam is an achievement in itself and getting an interview is something to be proud of! The biggest challenge for me was finding the time for it. Managing each stage and keeping on top of everything at each stage helped me and ensured that the process was manageable. Even if one part of the application feels a bit hectic, it is worth remembering that it is only for a short time and may lead to an amazing opportunity.

I would recommend applying to Oxbridge even if you have doubts in yourself. You have nothing to lose and if you dedicate some time to it then it will be a worthwhile experience in itself.

nicholas has achieved a place at the University of Oxford to read History.

“Passing the entrance exam is an achievement in itself and getting an interview is something to be proud of!”

NORTHERN IRELAND

SCOTLAND

destinationS of leavers

WALES

NORTH WEST

SOUTH WEST

WEST MIDLANDS

SOUTH EAST

LONDON University of Cambridge

AND HUMBERSIDE

NORTH EAST Durham University Northumbria University

University of Edinburgh University of St Andrews Liverpool Hope University

of Bristol

College London

London University University of Bath

University

University De Montfort University University of Warwick

Institute University of Nottingham University of Northampton Sheffield Hallam University of Sheffield

Hill University University of Bolton University of Bradford

Lancaster University Leeds Beckett University University of York University of Leeds

University

Institute of Technology, USA University of Salford University of manchester Manchester Metropolitan University

of Liverpool University of Aberdeen University of Dundee

of Oxford

80% Over of students are progressing to higher education...

Destinations of leavers

RSFC prides itself on the quality of the guidance and support students are given when identifying the right university and course for them, and as such our students progress to a broad range of universities and courses from medicine and history to zoology and Spanish.

University of Aberdeen Aston University

BIMM Institute

Coventry University De Montfort University

Durham University

Edge Hill University

Imperial College London King’s College London University Lancaster University

Leeds Beckett University

Liverpool Hope University

London Metropolitan University Loughborough University

Manchester Metropolitan University Northumbria University Sheffield Hallam

The University of Sheffield

The University of Edinburgh University of Bath University of Bolton University of Bradford University of Bristol University of Cambridge University of Dundee University of Leeds University of Liverpool University of Manchester University of Northampton University of Nottingham University of Oxford University of Salford University of St Andrews University of York University of Warwick Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA

experience like no other

Bespoke Enrichment programme

All students engage in a bespoke enrichment programme, which focuses on developing the same essential skills to support your progression to higher education and employment.

• Presentation skills

• Lateral thinking

• Independent research

• Critical thinking and problem solving

• Resilience and resourcefulness

term 1

In your first term, you will choose either a 10-week pre-graduate or pre-professional pathway:

The pre-graduate pathway is based around specific subject areas and is designed to consolidate and develop your knowledge in preparation for university application. Some pre-graduate programmes link directly to existing

A level subjects, whereas others are intended to bridge the gap between sixth form and university courses.

The pre-professional pathway is based around a career, rather than an academic subject, and is designed to develop your understanding of a specific job role. You will learn about the skills and knowledge needed for a certain type of employment and have the opportunity to undertake a related work placement.

Below is a sample of some of the pre-graduate and pre-professional enrichment activities; a full list of all enrichment activities is available on the college website.

Pre-Graduate

• Politics

• Biochemistry

• Medical Society

• Law Society

• Criminology

• Astrophysics

Pre-Professional

• Pre-nursing

• Pre-teaching

• An introduction to accountancy

• Cyber security

• An introduction to marketing and advertising

• Photography term 2

In the second term, you will have a choice of selecting another ‘pre-graduate’ or ‘preprofessional’ enrichment programme or choosing a ‘wider skills’ enrichment activity. The wider skills enrichment activities are varied in nature and aim to give you the chance to develop new skills that go beyond traditional classroom study.

an experience like no other

wider skills

The following are examples of ‘wider skills’ enrichment activities that were available for students in the last academic year:

• Sign language

• Yoga

• First aid

• Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

• Football/netball

• The college musical

• Brass band

• Digital animation

NB: Enrichment activities will be subject to COVID-19 safety guidelines.

Supporting You

Student Performance and Development Leaders

We have a specialist team of Student Performance and Development Leaders (SPDLs) at RSFC, their passion to support you throughout your time at RSFC is resolute.

When you join RSFC we get to know you really well so that we can help you achieve your full potential. Your SPDL will be your critical and professional friend while you are studying with us. You will meet with them each week in a group tutorial and you will have regular one-to-one meetings to talk exclusively about you!

Your SPDL will help you settle quickly into college life, and they will work with you to ensure you achieve the best results possible. Your SPDL will help you to think about your goals, set targets to enable you to reach those goals and track your progress.

Being a sixth form student is about being an independent learner and being able to self-evaluate, which means recognising your strengths and areas for development, and taking responsibility for your own learning. Your SPDL will have a clear overview of your academic and personal development while at college, and they will support you on your journey to success.

They will be a central supportive figure in your transition from school to college, as well as supporting and guiding you in all aspects of your progression to higher education and employment. Your SPDL will be the point of contact for your teachers and your parents/carers to discuss any aspect of your progress and welfare.

The college counsellor

Time spent at college should be rewarding but it can also be a time when some students face difficulties either within college or in their personal lives.

If you find yourself experiencing problems, RSFC have a college counsellor who will give you the opportunity to talk privately and support your individual needs. The counselling room is a private, quiet place, which provides a comfortable and relaxed environment.

The Students’ Union

Rochdale Sixth Form College places a very strong emphasis on the involvement of its students in the running and organisation of the college. We are keen to ensure that students shape our future direction and we seek students’ views through focus groups, questionnaires and the Students’ Union.

The Students’ Union is involved at all levels of the college, acting as a link between the senior leadership team and the student body. They represent students in all matters concerning their education and help to promote the general welfare of students. They are also responsible for organising and implementing many of the major student events in the calendar each year.

For more information about joining our Students’ Union, contact Sarah Turner via email: s.turner@ rochdalesfc.ac.uk

Employability and careers

RSFC are committed to ensuring that all our students are supported to develop an appropriate career plan and encouraged to take part in a career placement during their time here. Impartial one-to-one careers advice and guidance is available for all students at RSFC.

In the first instance, your Student Performance and Development Leader will give you advice on education and work opportunities, as well as assisting you with your applications for universities or jobs. We offer one-to-one interviews, careers workshops and access to a range of careers resources and software.

Your Student Performance and Development Leader will work with you to plan your opportunities for progression and our Employability Co-ordinator will support you in finding relevant career placements. It is our aim to offer all students a career placement before they leave the college, to support applications for further study and employment. RSFC students have been successful in securing career placements with a range of organisations including the NHS, education establishments and businesses. A number of students who have attended these placements have also been offered employment once their studies were completed.

For some university courses, a career placement is an essential part of the entry requirements, including initial teacher training and all health-related courses. If you study for a BTEC qualification, you will be involved in a career placement as part of your course.

During the pandemic RSFC has worked hard with various partners to ensure that while face-to-face placements have not been possible, virtual work experience programmes have been established.

Y12 student Muneeb Al-Haseeb completed a virtual work experience placement with Crystal Doors, a Rochdale-based manufacturing company which is just one of two companies in the north-west to be awarded the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Sustainable Development in 2021.

“I have enjoyed interacting with new people to brainstorm ideas and then coming together to present potential solutions.”

Muneeb Al-Haseeb

NB: Career placements will be subject to COVID-19 safety guidelines.

experience

case study

Alexander Dodman, ‘Airbus Virtual Work Experience Programme’

I applied for the Airbus Virtual Work Experience Programme to gain a wider insight into this extensive industry, and to be able to consider different potential career pathways and opportunities.

The five-day course was run virtually trough webinars. Each day covered different sectors:

Day 1: Commercial Day 2: Space & defence

Day 3: Sustainability

Day 4: An ‘Academic aircraft lesson’ Day 5: Recruitment process

Each day a practical assignment had to be submitted for evaluation.

I am considering becoming a pilot; there are many pathways to this role but I applied for this work experience programme to gain a wider insight into this extensive industry, and to be able to consider different potential career pathways and opportunities.

I enjoyed the work experience as it gave me an insight into the different sectors of the company, allowing me to gain a wellinformed first impression of the type of work they conduct. I found the webinars engaging, as I could apply my combined knowledge gained from the webinars, and my subjects that I am currently studying/ previously studied to the practical assignments I was set. Overall, the work experience helped develop my knowledge.

To anyone considering this programme, apply for it, it’s a no-brainer! Before this programme, I knew a bare minimum about the practical applications of aerospace engineering since it wasn’t my greatest interest to pursue a practical engineering career path. In hindsight, I gained the knowledge I wanted surrounding the different sectors of this industry from Europe’s largest aircraft manufacturer.

an experience like no other / 2022 prospectus 42

“I gained the knowledge I wanted surrounding the different sectors of this industry from Europe’s largest Aircraft manufacturer.”

The Speaker Programme

RSFC is committed to ensuring that our students achieve academically, but as Albert Einstein observed: ‘Wisdom is not a product of schooling but of the lifelong attempt to acquire it.’

Our students succeed because they are equipped to overcome the ever-changing challenges they face. RSFC students have the skills and understanding to shape their future career and understand the importance of, and have the skills needed to ensure they achieve, a work life balance.

Through the RSFC Speaker Programme the experiences of a wide range of speakers have offered an insight into their professional lives but also provided personal context to the challenges they have faced, both personally and professionally, along the way. There is no perfect career plan and through the speaker programme students understand better the twists and turns they may face once they leave RSFC.

Over the last year our keynote speakers have included:

• Kate Bingham, former Chair of the UK Government’s Vaccine Taskforce.

• Alice Bromage, Ambassador for the Black Mambas, the world’s first all-female antipoaching group in South Africa.

• Perminder Mann, CEO of Bonnier Books (the sixth largest publisher in the UK, with sales of over £80m. She is recognised as one of the UK’s most powerful leaders and as a publishing innovator).

• Scott Simmons, Bank of England.

Trips and Activities

At Rochdale Sixth Form College, you will have the opportunity to take part in an exciting range of academic excursions and activities.

With every subject area committed to offering at least one trip during the two-year period of study, you will have a variety of opportunities to gain experience beyond the classroom.

• Ski trip to Austria

• Disneyland Paris

• CERN Institute, Geneva

• Sigmund Freud’s house, London

• Alton Towers

• Chester Zoo

• University visits, including Oxford, Cambridge, Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds.

NB: Trips and visits will be subject to COVID-19 safety guidelines.

The CERN trip to Geneva was a great success. The students were taken on a guided tour of some of the facilities surrounding the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and were able to apply their particle physics knowledge to the technical machinery that founded the discoveries. The students were also treated to a display of the hugely powerful magnets used to bend the particle beams inside the LHC. Students also enjoyed an interesting tour of the United Nations building in Geneva, a boat cruise on Lake Geneva and the Jet d’Eau.

Jen Coyle Subject leader of physics

london trip

ski trip

trip

The students thoroughly enjoyed their time at Disneyland, and they were able to apply some of the key concepts and ideas that they had learnt in their coursework to real life. The trip allowed them to experience first-hand the key issues that service users within health and social care experience. As well as having lectures and seminars from leading health professionals, the students are also able to spend time in the parks.

Asma Ali-Rashid Subject leader of social sciences

you will have a variety of opportunities to gain experience beyond the classroom

Top-Class Facilities

Technology-rich facilities that are as cutting edge as you will find in any sixth form college in the country

It is difficult to do justice to the positive vibe and culture that has been created, together with our outstanding facilities. Open events will take place in October and November. Please check our website for further details.

Here at RSFC, we believe that people make a college, and the relationships between students and staff are highly positive. However, we cannot deny that the tens of millions of pounds invested in RSFC have ensured that our students benefit from cutting-edge, technologyrich facilities.

Your learning environment will be second to none, and facilities include:

• 24-hour access to online learning materials

• Two relaxed student areas with the Forum and Faraday’s, including 80 computer terminals for independent study

• A theatre to seat 140, with professional standard sound and lighting

• Well-equipped IT suites

• Wi-Fi access throughout the college

• Professional standard art studio, incorporating a textiles studio, kiln room, CDT room, dark room and computer suites

• Study areas on each floor, adjacent to teacher resource bases for one-to-one support

• An extensive Achievement Centre, with internet access and multimedia resources

• State-of-the-art science labs, using cutting-edge equipment and technologies

•

A music recording studio, rehearsal rooms and an editing suite

•

A specialist performance studio

• Lifts for disabled access across the college

• Bright and light teaching classrooms, with outstanding learning resources

Individualised Support

Achievement Centre

Our Achievement Centre is a large study space that is open to all students to use in their study periods. It’s even open before and after lessons and is staffed at all times throughout the day. It is a quiet space that allows students to complete independent study from their lesson content as well as engaging in wider reading and research. The learning support team are always on hand to help students with study skills, organisation and time management, to name just a few key skills. The Achievement Centre has computer stations and tables to allow students to work on all aspects of their subjects.

Some students will be referred to the Achievement Centre by their SPDL for a short ‘placement’. When on placement, a student receives support from the Learning Support team to help them work towards targets set by teachers.

Additional Learning Needs Support

We have a dedicated team of Learning Support Officers who, in addition to their work in the Achievement Centre, work with students with a range of additional learning needs and use specialist knowledge and equipment to ensure they are on a level playing field with all other students. This might mean working one-to-one with the students in the classroom, but also includes meeting with them outside of the classroom to keep track of their progress and help them towards success at RSFC.

Working with Parents

Students need to be given independence and responsibility for their own learning to prepare them for their next steps to university or employment. We provide this freedom in a very supportive context, with close monitoring and guidance. We believe it is essential that, as parents and carers, you should be kept fully informed and up to date about your son or daughter’s progress while at Rochdale Sixth Form College. We will keep you involved through a variety of methods, including Parents’ and Carers’ Evenings to discuss academic progress with subject teachers; action plans; newsletters and access to attendance data and current targets via our online portal, Cedar.

We ask that you keep in contact with your son or daughter’s Student Performance and Development Leader, telephone Student Administration in the case of absences and do not go on holiday in term time. We ask too that you support us to help your son or daughter find the right balance between their social life, paid work and study.

Questions?

I AM WORRIED ABOUT THE INTERVIEW

- WHAT WILL IT BE LIKE?

The interview is very informal and enables you to ask any questions you may have. It provides an opportunity for the college to find out a little more about you and to ensure that your subject choices are right for you and your chosen future career. It isn’t anything to worry about!

WILL I GET HELP WITH THE UNIVERSITY APPLICATION PROCESS?

Yes. Your Student Performance and Development Leader will go over this with you during tutorial sessions, which you will have once a week.

CAN I ACCESS MY COLLEGE WORK FROM HOME?

Yes. You can log on remotely to the college network to gain 24-hour access to your documents and programmes.

WHAT IS THE DRESS CODE AT RSFC?

We recognise that self-expression is part of being an emerging adult; however, students are expected to dress in a manner appropriate to a purposeful and diverse sixth form college. Clothing bearing inappropriate language or images, or revealing items of clothing are not allowed.

WILL I GET SUPPORT FINDING A CAREER PLACEMENT?

Your Student Performance and Development Leader and the Employability Co-ordinator will work with you to plan your opportunities for progression and support you in finding relevant work experience. All students are able to request support with obtaining a career placement to assist with applications for further study and employment.

NB: Career placements will be subject to COVID-19 safety guidelines.

HOW DO I APPLY?

Pick up a prospectus from your school, local careers office or contact the college and ask for one to be sent to your home. You can download the prospectus from our website and all of our subject guides can also be found there as well as being available at our open events.

Read the prospectus, look at the subject guides and start thinking carefully about the subjects you might want to study – you might want to speak to your subject teachers or careers adviser at school.

Complete an online application form on our website www.rochdalesfc.ac.uk

Financial support

VULNERABLE BURSARY

Young people in the defined vulnerable groups are eligible for a bursary of up to £1,200 a year, which equates to approximately £30 per week during term time.

The defined vulnerable groups are students who are:

• In care

• Care leavers

• Receiving Income Support or Universal Credit (UC) because they are financially supporting themselves or financially supporting themselves and someone who is dependent on them and living with them, such as a child or partner.

• Receiving Disability Living Allowance or Personal Independence Payments in their own right as well as Employment and Support Allowance or UC in their own right.

DISCRETIONARY BURSARY

This fund is used to assist students who may benefit from financial assistance to complete their course. Any such contributions will only be made towards costs incurred for attending college. (The 16–19 bursary does not provide childcare funding – please refer to the Care to Learn website for under-20 childcare funding.) The bursary fund is limited and allocations will be based on financial need. Financial assistance will mainly be in the form of weekly credits on students’ ID cards for the purchase of meals and resources in college, with the possibility of some additional cash payments. Further assistance may be available for participation in trips and visits, the payment of exam re-sits or the purchases of other resources required for college activities. Allocations will not be made until a student is enrolled and achieves 100% attendance.

FREE COLLEGE MEALS

Eligibility for free meals is based on an assessment of household income. If you or your parents/carers are in receipt of one or more of the following benefits, you may be eligible for free meals:

• Income Support

• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance

• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)

• Support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999

• The guaranteed element of State Pension Credit

our pass

The bus pass that gives 16–18-year-olds the freedom to travel, work and learn. It has been designed to support young people at a crucial point in their lives.

Our Pass is a bus pass for 16–18-year-olds. For a one-off £10 administration fee, it unlocks free bus travel right across Greater Manchester – meaning that young people could make potential savings of over £500.

order your card now

Create an account to order your card online at https://ourpass.co.uk. You can apply from 1 September after your 16th birthday, until 31 August after your 18th birthday (or until your 18th birthday, if this is 31 August). You will need the following:

•

• Child Tax Credit (provided you are not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190, as assessed by Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs)

• Working Tax Credit run-on – paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit

• Universal Credit – if you apply on or after 1 April 2018 your household income must be less than £7,400 a year (after tax and not including any benefits you get)

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An email address

A passport-style photo to upload, which will be printed on your card

• Proof that you live in Greater Manchester

• Proof of your date of birth

•

A valid payment card (for the £10 administration charge)

Our Pass is a UK first, and is in a pilot phase that started in September 2019. The potential for making Our Pass permanent will be reviewed over the course of the pilot.

Depending on age and eligibility, members may be able to enjoy free bus travel or exclusive offers, or both, until the end of the pilot project in September 2022.

FAQs available at: www.ourpass.co.uk

an experience like no other / 2022 prospectus

Key dates The Year Ahead

applications open

Monday 13 September 2021 attend an open event

Open Day - Saturday 9 October

Open Evening - Thursday 18 November

application deadline

Thursday 9 December 2021, 12pm interviews

Interviews are held November 2021-February 2022 offers

All offers will be made by March 2022

new student welcome day

Wednesday 13 July 2022

gcse results day

Thursday 25 August 2022 enrolment day

Friday 26 August 2022

If you have decided that RSFC is the place for you, you can now begin completing the application form online at www.rochdalesfc.ac.uk

September 2021

You should read the prospectus and look at our website: think carefully about the subjects you might want to study at RSFC. Depending on COVID-19 safety guidelines we might visit your school to talk to you about the application process, so please have your questions ready. If we are unable to visit your school this year, you can contact the college with your questions in a number of ways including email, telephone and via our social media channels.

Attend one of our open events where you will be able to meet staff and find out what RSFC has to offer you. We hope to run these in college but, depending on COVID-19 safety guidance, we may have to hold them online.

December 2021

Have you completed your application form yet? Don’t worry, you still have some time left. You might need to get some more advice about your subject choices from your teachers, parents/ carers or the careers office. Alternatively, you can give us a call. Shortly after we have received your application, we will interview you for your place at RSFC. These interviews are informal and will give you further advice and support on your choices. The deadline for applications from students is 12pm on Thursday 9 December 2021.

January 2022

You will be invited for an interview with a member of staff.

February 2022

Interviews for places at the college continue.

March 2022

You should have received an update on the progress of your application. If you haven’t heard from the college, please contact us.

May 2022

Good luck with your GCSEs!

july 2022

We will be sending you some further information in the post about enrolment and what will be happening in your first few weeks of college. You will be invited to our New Student Welcome Day. Attendance is a compulsory part of the enrolment process.

August 2022

GCSE results arrive. It is now time to enrol at Rochdale Sixth Form College! Our enrolment day will be Friday 26 August 2022. Please ensure that you are available on this date as places cannot be guaranteed for those who do not attend

September 2022

Following your enrolment day, you will receive information and dates for the induction day and the first day of teaching.

NB: This timeline may change and is subject to COVID-19 safety guidelines.

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