Life and Learning

Personal Development

Our students are encouraged to develop the knowledge, skills, confidence and experience they need to succeed beyond Sixth Form, whether they progress to university, an apprenticeship, employment or another pathway.

Personal Development allows students to discover new interests, develop their strengths, contribute to the school and wider community, and prepare for life beyond education. We expect every student to take an active role in their own personal development and to make the most of the opportunities available to them.

Through our dedicated Personal Development website, students can explore and select opportunities that genuinely interest them. Whether they want to develop leadership skills, support younger students, take part in enrichment activities, explore careers or contribute to the wider school community, there are opportunities to suit a wide range of interests, strengths and ambitions.

Students are encouraged to take ownership of their personal development by choosing activities that will challenge them, develop new skills and help them grow in confidence.

Independent Learning

Independent learning is an essential part of Sixth Form and represents an important step from GCSE to A Level study. Students are expected to take increasing responsibility for their learning, developing the skills to research, question, read beyond the specification and explore their subjects in greater depth. We recognise that this transition can be challenging, so we provide students with the guidance and resources they need to become confident, successful independent learners.

Our dedicated Independent Learning website gives students access to a wide range of resources, including wider reading, online journals, articles, videos, podcasts, subject activities and extension tasks. Students can explore topics that interest them, deepen their understanding and discover new ideas beyond what is covered in lessons.

Students are encouraged to make purposeful use of these resources during their dedicated study hall sessions, helping them to develop effective study habits and make the most of their independent study time. The aim is not simply to give students more work, but to help them become curious, confident and independent learners who are prepared for the demands of A Level study and life beyond Sixth Form.