We aim to ensure that the academic curriculum in our Sixth Form is stretching, well-rounded and enriching.
Most students will take three A-level subjects, allowing time and space to develop other important academic and employability skills. Alongside their three A-levels, many pupils choose to study for the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) (which is worth half an A-level) and offers a really exciting chance to research an area of personal interest independently. Others will instead opt to study for a fourth A-Level (in Further Maths or a native language), a Sports Leadership Award or higher qualifications in Dance or Drama. Please see the 'Further Options' drop-down for more details on what's on offer!
In addition, all Sixth Form students also participate in our Academic Enrichment Programme, University Application Support process, Employability & Careers Programme and undertake weekly Volunteering and Work Experience, as well as lessons in PE and PHSE every week. Pupils also have a number of private study periods during the week when they are expected to prepare for classes, show a wider interest in what they are learning and be academically curious - vital skills for higher education.
Our small class sizes mean that pupils receive exceptional individualised attention and enjoy seminar-style lessons in our modern and well-equipped Sixth Form Centre.
A-Levels
Queen’s offers A-levels in a wide range of subjects. Most of our pupils take three A-levels (with the exception of those studying Further Maths or a native language).
Academic Enrichment Programme
All Year 12 students undertake a joint programme of Academic Enrichment. This programme includes a regular series of lectures and seminars with prominent speakers who cover a wide range of topics.
University Application Support
Extensive support and advice are given during the UCAS application process. We also support students in applying to international universities (the US is a popular choice), we have a successful Oxbridge programme, and we have also helped students secure places on highly competitive degree apprenticeship courses as well as Art Foundation courses.
Careers
All Year 12s take part in work experience and community service every Wednesday afternoon arranged by the College. Careers talks with external speakers from a range of professions, employability workshops, frequent one-to-one careers interviews help support students as they think about their future paths.
Physical Education
A weekly afternoon of PE in core sports such as netball, as well as options for exercise classes such as Zumba and HIIT, plus the opportunity to try activities such as sailing
PSHE
PSHE is a core part of the curriculum focusing on physical and mental wellbeing, current affairs issues and preparing for life after Queen’s.
Further Options
In addition to the core Sixth Form Programme detailed above, our pupils also take one of the following:
- A fourth A-level, usually in Further Maths or a native language
- An Extended Project Qualification
- A Sports Leadership Award
- An ISTD Dance Qualification
- A LAMDA Drama Qualification
- An HSK Mandarin qualification
- Young Enterprise
- Gold Duke of Edinburgh
- Model United Nations
Additional Opportunities
There are also plenty of opportunities for pupil leadership including our peer mentoring scheme or becoming a prefect. Pupils can also take lead roles in the sporting, drama and musical life of the College, as well as societies and clubs.