the sixth form college Prospectus | September 2014 Entry
Contents Wirral’s Sixth Form College....................................................... 6 Why Choose Us.........................................................................11 Course Choices.........................................................................14 Level 3 Courses.........................................................................16 Level 2 Courses.........................................................................18 Progression...............................................................................20 Student Life...............................................................................23 Getting to College....................................................................26 Applying to College.................................................................27
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Our Values Having the highest standards and expectations in everything we do Delivering high quality teaching and learning Enabling all learners and staff to achieve their full potential Creating a challenging and supportive educational experience Fostering confidence, independence, personal growth and aspirations Promoting equality of opportunity and respect in a safe learning environment
Mission Statement
To be an outstanding Sixth Form College providing high quality education for all.
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The Sixth Form College - Birkenhead: Wirral’s sixth form college, specialising in A Level and BTEC courses for 16-19 year olds. 4
Welcome I am delighted that you are considering The Sixth Form College to continue your education. We are proud to be Wirral’s specialist sixth form college and a Centre of Academic Excellence for sixth form studies. We offer a positive choice for students who want to move on from school and study in a college environment that allows them to develop as young adults and provides a springboard to university, employment and a rewarding career. Many students go on to Oxbridge and other top performing universities including those in the Russell Group. Our college provides a mature and supportive atmosphere underpinned by a strong work ethic. This year we have opened new facilities to further complement the expert teaching by our highly committed, subject specialist staff. It means even more resources to help students make the transition from school to higher level study and to achieve their full potential. We have high expectations of our students and believe that all can aspire, achieve and succeed. Each year we attain outstanding results that exceed both local and national levels, placing the college in the top 22% of sixth form colleges nationwide. We look forward to welcoming you and encourage you to visit a college Open Evening where you can meet current students and staff to find out more about the exciting opportunities on offer with us.
Kathryn Podmore Principal
We have made every effort to ensure that the information contained in this prospectus is accurate at the time of printing. The College reserves the right to make changes and cannot accept liability arising out of, or in connection with any revision.
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expect more from your sixth form
You have high expectations, so have we. Here are some you can expect from us:
Expect outstanding results at a high achieving Academic Centre of Excellence Expect to be taught by experienced, highly qualified subject
specialists
Expect the widest range of A Levels and BTEC courses and combinations in the area
Expect exceptional levels of support Expect to benefit from ÂŁ3.5 million investment in new state-of-the-art facilities Expect respect and to study with like-minded young adults Expect easy travel options to and from college from across Wirral Expect to take the perfect pathway to University or employment Expect to feel welcomed into our Sixth Form College community
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High quality teaching and learning at Wirral’s Sixth Form College We are proud to be Wirral’s Sixth Form College - one of just 94 specialist colleges across England. As a Sixth Form College we are experts in educating 16-19 year olds from across Wirral and students join from all local schools and beyond. We offer the widest choice of A Level programmes in the area and the opportunity to study at a specialist sixth form provider with expert teachers and high-quality facilities. We believe in the potential in all individuals and foster a culture of high aspirations for all students who study with us. Our personalised approach, portfolio of courses and flexibility in timetabling allows us to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to study a programme that meets individual needs, to achieve the best results and support them for their next move.
“This is an inclusive college which successfully enables learners to raise their aspirations and progress to the next stage of their careers with confidence” OFSTED December 2012
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The College Advantage Research proves it. Sixth form college students are:
More likely to achieve top grades at A Level 7% more likely to achieve A*/A grades More likely to pass AS levels This is compared to students at non-selective, school-based sixth forms - taking into account similar subjects, GCSE results, catchment, family incomes, gender and ethnicity.
Source: 2012 study by Professor Daniel Muijs and Dr Natasha Rumyantseva, Education School, University of Southampton - as reported in The Times, August 16, 2012
Sixth For m Colleges perform most mebest on as of learneures achievem r ent*
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* National Audit Office, ‘Getting value for money from the education of 16 to 18 year olds’, Session 2010-11
As a Sixth Form College we offer young people the opportunity to move on from school and we act as a valuable stepping stone between the worlds of compulsory education, and higher education and employment. The mature environment and wide range of activities we offer allow students to flourish and develop into young adults with a portfolio of skills and fully prepared for their next step.
To be a student at a sixth form college is to be part of an elite but not elitist group. The evidence speaks for itself. Take a look at the conclusions of recent reports by Southampton University academics, as well as the National Audit Office. Sixth form college students have a greater likelihood of achieving top grades, more A*/A grades and AS passes thanks to: More choice of courses and combinations More specialist teachers - expert in teaching 16-19 year olds More opportunities to develop in a mature, young adult environment
‘The College has a strong focus on high aspirations and continuous improvement’ OFSTED December 2012
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What sets a sixth form college apart from school? Dedicated sixth form teachers and specialist support staff. Sixth form colleges statistically outperform all other providers of 16-18 education. An adult approach to student learning, providing a ‘stepping stone’ from school to the world of employment or university. Learning environments designed for sixth form study. More choice of courses, available in any subject combination, to suit each student’s ambitions and abilities.
specialist learning environment
99% A L pass ratevel higher the both the an irral and natiW on average al
support ambition
dedicated
choice
outperform stepping stone
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Why choose us? A great education is never down to just one factor but to many influences that combine to offer students the very best chance of success. At The Sixth Form College we are proud of the opportunities we offer students living in Wirral in terms of choice, achievement, progression, support and facilities.
“You’re encouraged to grow and develop into a responsible and conscientious adult - it has truly been the best decision of my life to continue my studies here” Jay Rourke
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Choice The widest choice of A Levels and BTECs in Wirral Expert guidance to help students match choices with career aspirations A timetable that can accommodate virtually all combinations of student choices
Achievement 99% pass rate at A Level in 2013 - higher than the Wirral and national average We outperform 78% of other providers nationally at AS Level Majority of students make better than expected progress Over 25 years experience of educating and supporting young people in Wirral
Progression
More students going on to university than from any other Wirral sixth form The perfect stepping stone to Higher Education, further training or a career Dedicated staff to offer guidance into employment and further training Experienced tutors to support UCAS applications Work experience opportunities
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Support
Outstanding help and encouragement every step of the way Caring teachers who are specialists in teaching 16-19 year olds Personal Tutors who offer individual guidance Support throughout the Higher Education application process including visits to Oxbridge and other top universities, dedicated Russell Group advice via a University of Liverpool pilot scheme, plus help with choices and personal statements Academic writing programme to enhance performance through improved writing Subject Plus sessions for students who would benefit from extra help in specific subjects
Facilities
Dedicated, single-site environment including The Hub - an exciting, university-style integrated learning space over two floors Brand new facilities include: - - - - -
8SQ student common room area New Humanities building New Art and Design building New Science laboratories New Learning Support area
“Learn develop ers go personal od social an , employa d bili skills� ty OF STED Decembe r 2012
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Course choices We offer all the help and advice you need to choose the best combination of courses for you. Use the results/choices table below to start moving in the right direction: Predicted / Actual results
Course Choices
5 GCSEs at A* - C (including Maths or English Language)
Level 3 courses A Levels, BTECs and CACHE qualifications
GCSEs at C - D
Level 2 courses BTECs and GCSEs
GCSEs at E - F
Please contact the Admissions Team for advice
All th guidanc e e need to b you u the right ild programm for you e
For detailed and up to date information on all subjects and courses visit www.bsfc.ac.uk
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“The College is a great stepping stone between school and university and really helps you discover who you are, what you’re good at and what you need to improve” Gemma Carolan
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Level 3 Courses Advanced Level A Levels, BTECs and CACHE qualifications This illustrates a basic Level 3 pathway. We interview all students and offer places on an individual basis - tailoring a programme that takes into account the individual’s potential and aspirations. We may take BTEC or other vocational qualifications into consideration if achieved at Merit to Distinction*.
University or employment or further education / other higher education course
Year 2: 3 or 4 A2 subjects / BTEC equivalent / CACHE qualifications Year 1: 4 or 5 AS subjects / BTEC equivalent / CACHE qualifications ENTRY: 5 separate GCSEs including Maths and/or English Language grades A* - C
“The tutors put time into ensuring you understand the course content and are always willing to give extra support” Sam Jones
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Choose from the following A Level subjects (AS and A2 including Applied subjects): Art & Design - Fine Art
Geography
Art & Design - Graphics
Government & Politics
Art & Design - Textiles
Health & Social Care
Biology
History
Business (Applied)
ICT (Applied)
Chemistry
Law
Computing
Mathematics
Dance
Mathematics - Further
Design Technology
Mathematics - Use of (AS Only)
Drama & Theatre Studies Economics
Media Studies Music
English Language
Physics
English Language and Literature
Psychology
English Literature
Religious Studies
Film Studies
Sociology
French
Spanish
General Studies
Sport & Physical Education Statistics
BTEC Level 3 Qualification Subsidiary Diploma
Diploma
Business
Business
Law
ICT
Applied Science
Forensic Science
Musical Theatre
Medical Science
Equivalent to: 2 A levels
Equivalent to: 1 A level
Extended Diploma
Equivalent to: 3 A levels
Health & Social Care
Sport
CACHE Level 3 Diploma – Child Care & Education Equivalent to 3 A Levels These are full-time programmes and include weekly work placements.
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Level 2 Courses BTECs and GCSE qualifications This illustrates a basic Level 2 pathway. We interview all students and offer places on an individual basis - tailoring a programme that takes into account the individual’s potential and aspirations. Year 2/3: Level 3 (Advanced Level) study see pages 16 and 17 for further information Year 1: BTEC Level 2 Diploma May include GCSE resits (or equivalent courses) in Maths and/or English ENTRY: GCSEs mostly at grade C or D
BTEC Level 2 Diploma Art & Design
ICT
Business
Media
Health & Social Care
Science
GCSE / Level 2 English
Maths
The College reserves the right to place students on an alternative Level 2 qualification in Maths or English. The qualification offered will be appropriate to the student’s level of ability and will be confirmed following a short assessment at the start of term.
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“New students should join The Sixth Form College because it is a great place to study, and really engages you into using your imagination as well as making some great friends� Jack Millington
For detailed and up to date information on all subjects and courses visit www.bsfc.ac.uk
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Stepping stone to university and a rewarding career The Sixth Form College is about far more than great teaching and excellent results. Our expert Personal Tutors and careers specialists are on hand to help students develop the skills and confidence they need to prepare for Higher Education and the world of work. Above all we equip students to make the most of their new freedom and independence – to manage learning and plan their time as productively as possible.
develop
your potential
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Full preparation for Higher Education Universities - and their courses - differ hugely.
Our Personal Tutors get to know students extremely well and are there to help at all stages of the UCAS application process. From information on Open Days and talks from former students, to organised trips to Oxford, Cambridge and other universities, we help students make the best choices to match their ability and ambition. Our pilot mentoring scheme with the University of Liverpool is aimed specifically at inspiring students to progress to a Russell Group university. This is a unique opportunity offered to our students who will benefit from talks and lectures by university staff and receive expert guidance.
Expert careers advice: one-to-one and online Students wishing to build careers straight after college also benefit from personalised support as part of their tutorial programme and our Careers Portal has software and online exercises covering all aspects of how to apply for jobs and gain experience in interview techniques.
Access to valuable work experience Work experience is a vital foundation for developing students’ confidence and experience. So we make it an integral component of many A Level and BTEC courses. We also encourage students to take up work shadowing opportunities and voluntary placements.
Over 3 students 00 p to univer rogress sity from Birkenhe a Form Col d Sixth l year - m ege each ore than from any othe r Wirral sixth form
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“A positive atmosphere of mutual respect among students is evident around the college� OFSTED December 2012
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Student life We’re The College for people who are going places Life at The Sixth Form College is busy, fun and productive. We work hard and play hard too - offering all the support, facilities, social life and CV-building activities you would expect at Wirral’s specialist Sixth Form College.
Tailored support to fulfil your potential
Personal tutors - who get to know you well, working with you to ensure you make the most of your strengths and your time with us Weekly tutorials - covering topics such as Higher Education choices, careers, finance, personal safety and current affairs, as well as talks from a range of diverse speakers Expert Higher Education support - including help with UCAS applications plus access to university talks and open days at Oxbridge and other top universities Subject enhancement sessions - additional preparation and support in the lead up to exams
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Exciting CV-building opportunities BE A STUDENT AMBASSADOR
Staff nominate students to represent the College and student body at internal and external events
SUPPORT FUN FUNDRAISING EVENTS
Including Children in Need, Comic Relief, Battle of the Bands, all organised by Student Ambassadors and Head Boy/Head Girl team
APPLY TO BE HEAD BOY OR HEAD GIRL Your chance to represent your fellow students
JOIN SUBJECT TRIPS
To stimulating, course-relevant destinations including Iceland, Germany, Spain as well as UK locations
EARN THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S GOLD AWARD
No previous experience necessary, includes two expeditions to Snowdonia
VOLUNTEER
Arrange your own or college can help you find an opportunity
LEARN A NEW SKILL
Anything from British Sign Language to First Aid
BE A SPORT
Play football, rugby, basketball, netball, badminton and the college multi-gym is free to use
TAKE A CHALLENGE
Anything from climbing the Three Peaks to completing an environmental project
JOIN A CLUB
Covering debating, film and more
LEARN A LANGUAGE
Including Mandarin Chinese and other world languages
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High quality IT & other resources The Hub - open access computers, text books, ebooks, journals, HE/Careers guidance, video wall. All operated by experienced staff Cutting-Edge technology - cross campus Wi-Fi that students can access on their own mobile devices, remote access to industry standard software packages and College files from home, access to a range of free Microsoft applications and Microsoft training as part of the College’s Microsoft IT Academy, personalised virtual learning environment plus PCs, iMacs, laptops and netbooks for students’ use.
Great social mix
8SQ - our student common room, THE place to meet up over coffee or lunch Students from across Wirral - the chance to make new friends
Flying High: Our tailored programme for high achievers We fully appreciate the importance of ‘stretch and challenge’ offering a comprehensive range of options for high performing students including: Liverpool University Scholar’s Scheme Oxbridge opportunities Extended Project Qualification
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Getting to College is easy
How to find The Sixth Form College The Sixth Form College is in Claughton Village next to Birkenhead Park. By bus… The college is accessible via an extensive bus
network and there are regular buses to and from the College from across Wirral. College bus services operate from Heswall/Pensby/Irby and Wallasey areas. A FREE shuttle bus service runs each morning from Hamilton Square and Birkenhead Park to the College.
By rail… The college is a ten-minute walk from Birkenhead Park station.
By car… The college is a five-minute drive from
Birkenhead town centre and is easily accessible from all parts of Wirral.
Information on the different travel options is available at:
www.bsfc.ac.uk
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Applying to the College Here’s how the application process works:
First things first Submit an application form online at www.bsfc.ac.uk or complete an application form which is available to download online or from the College reception.
Nice to meet you We hold interview evenings from December onwards. This is a chance to discuss your predicted/actual GCSE results, course choices and recent school reports.
Offer timescale Following your interview, we will get in touch with news of your offer.
Getting to know us To help you settle in quickly after the summer, we invite you to attend our New Student Induction for all new students in June/July.
Start at College Time for new friends, teachers - and success!
Open Evenings Find out more at our Open Evenings Open Evenings are a great opportunity to visit the College, meet current students and talk to subject tutors about courses. Do join us on any of the following dates:
2013
Wednesday 4th December - 6-8pm
2014
Wednesday 22nd January - 6-8pm Wednesday 19th March - 6-8pm
Competi for placetion high - so s is early to s apply the coursecure your cho e of ice!
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Park Road West, Claughton Village Prenton, Wirral CH43 8SQ Tel: 0151 652 5575 | www.bsfc.ac.uk