Do you have to have achieved a certain set of GCSE grades to study at St Alban's Sixth Form?

Yes. For each subject there is a specific entry criteria which can be found on our prospectus. Additionally, in order to study A-Levels students should have achieved at least a 4 in English and Maths.

Do you have to be Catholic to study at St Alban's Sixth Form?

No, our community accepts and values students from all faiths and none. We pride ourselves on the rich diversity of our community which includes staff and students from a range of backgrounds. Our inclusive Catholic Ethos binds us together and encourages us to learn from each other every day.

What does a typical day look like?

Students start the day with tutor time, which could involve anything from collective worship to student presentations. When students don't have lessons, they can be found either studying in our Independent Study Area or Sixth Form Library or relaxing in the Common Room. At break and lunch time, students may choose to leave site, and students with no lessons after lunch have the option to go home.

Is it just about curriculum?

No. In our Sixth Form we aim to enrich our curriculum through trips to universities, places of work and subject-specific venues. We have a big focus on future pathways. We also have a big focus on personal wellbeing, and all students in the Sixth Form have a weekly period assigned to wellbeing, where they might choose to participate in sport, reading, games or other group or individual activities. We have a Wellbeing Team and House Captains that also help organise event such as RAG Week, Sport Competitions and Prom.

How are students supported in transitioning to Key Stage 5?

For starters, we have an induction programme which focuses on organisation and use of independent study time. Our forms are vertical, which means that Year 12s learn from Year 13s in their form. We also have a specialist Sixth Form tutor team, comprised of experienced A-Level teachers who are also skilled in writing references, academic intervention and helping students navigate the challenges of early adulthood.

Once I finish at Sixth Form, what happens next?

In many ways, Sixth Form represents the bridge to the world of adulthood. As well as academically preparing you for the demands of further study, we oversee a comprehensive UCAS support programme, also aimed at supporting parents and carers, and have a focus on the world of work in each term. Our PYF programme also delivers a comprehensive PSHE curriculum at Sixth Form designed to help young people make informed choice and signpost adequate support.

What if I'm struggling with it all?

As mentioned, we have excellent tutors, but our central Sixth Form team is primarily responsible for making sure students are looked after. You will have a termly 121 meeting with your tutor to identify problems and challenges, but you can make an appointment to see your Head of Sixth, Deputy Head of Sixth or Pastoral Support if ever you need support. We ensure that our doors and our minds are open!