Sixth Form is about much more than gaining academic qualifications. We want our students to leave us as confident, independent and well-rounded young adults, ready to take their next steps with the skills, experience and self-belief to thrive.

We are proud of our inclusive and supportive community, where equality, diversity and individuality are valued. Alongside their studies, students have a wealth of opportunities to explore their interests, take on new challenges, develop their skills and make a positive contribution to the college and wider community.

Personal development

Our personal development programme is designed to help students become confident, resilient and independent, while giving them the knowledge and skills they need for life beyond Sixth Form.

Every student is part of a tutor group, with regular tutorial sessions forming an important part of our wider personal development offer. The programme covers three key areas: Personal, Social and Health Education, Study Skills, and Next Steps.

Students explore a wide range of relevant topics, including mental health and wellbeing, sleep and nutrition, relationships, finances, drugs and alcohol, safer driving and independent living. Regular guest speakers bring additional expertise and different perspectives into the college.

Study Skills sessions help students develop the habits they need to succeed on demanding Sixth Form courses, including effective revision strategies, time management and developing a healthy and productive approach to independent study. Tutorials also provide dedicated time to think about future plans, ask questions and explore the opportunities available after Sixth Form.

Enrichment beyond the classroom

We believe that some of the most valuable learning happens beyond the classroom. Our enrichment programme gives students the opportunity to develop new skills, discover interests and gain experiences that complement their academic studies. Students are encouraged to take on new challenges, deepen their knowledge through super-curricular activities and explore potential career paths.

Students commit to one or two enrichment activities each week, with opportunities including:

• Volunteering with local charities and organisations
• Mental Health Ambassadors
• Young Enterprise
• Supporting younger students through paired reading and maths
• Helping in lower school lessons
• Mentoring younger students
• MOOCs and other online learning opportunities
• Royal Institution masterclasses
• Sports enrichment
• Extended Project Qualification
• Creative and academic projects
• Work experience

We also encourage students to be ambitious about creating their own opportunities. If there is something they are passionate about that is not currently available, we will support them to explore what might be possible.

Student leadership and getting involved

Sixth Form is an opportunity to have your voice heard and make a difference. Students can take on leadership roles, become Mental Health Ambassadors, volunteer in the local community, support younger students and contribute to college life through our student-led House system.

There are also opportunities to get involved in college productions, sports, trips and visits, charity initiatives and a wide range of other activities.

Our students have also established their own societies, based around shared interests and passions. Previous student-led societies have included D&D, coding, book club, skating, film, drama, politics, journalism and sport. Have an idea for a society? We will support you to make it happen.

Work experience

Real-world experience is an important part of preparing for life after Sixth Form. All year 12 students complete at least a week of work experience, with additional opportunities available throughout the two years. During Challenge Week, students are encouraged and supported to arrange a week-long placement, while many choose to build on this through regular volunteering or ongoing work experience.

Work experience can be particularly valuable for students considering competitive or vocational pathways, including medicine, law, physiotherapy, nursing, veterinary science, teaching and other caring professions.

We want students to leave us with a strong understanding of the world beyond Sixth Form, as well as the confidence to take their next steps.

Next Steps and careers

From the beginning of Sixth Form, we encourage students to think broadly about their future and explore the many different routes available to them. Our comprehensive and bespoke Next Steps programme supports students to research and consider:

• Universities in the UK, Europe and the USA
• Apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships
• School-leaver programmes
• Employment and other direct routes into careers

Students receive expert guidance to help them understand their options and make decisions that are right for them. Our aim is not simply to help students choose their next step, but to give them the confidence, knowledge and independence to make informed choices about their future.

Your Sixth Form experience

We want students to enjoy their time here and have the independence to make Sixth Form their own. Students have access to Café 6, a dedicated space where Sixth Formers can relax, socialise and eat during the college day. Every student joining the Sixth Form is also provided with a laptop to support their learning and independent study.

Students have greater independence than in lower school, including the freedom to leave the college site during unallocated study periods, subject to the relevant expectations and arrangements.

There are three compulsory registration sessions each week, alongside the wider tutorial and enrichment programme, helping students stay connected to their tutor, keep on top of their progress and access the support they need.

Throughout Sixth Form, students are encouraged to take increasing responsibility for themselves, their learning and their wider contribution to college life.

Make the most of your time with us

We want every student to leave Kingsbridge feeling proud of what they have achieved and optimistic about what lies ahead.

Whether that means leading a student initiative, volunteering in the community, performing on stage, representing the college in sport, completing work experience, exploring a new subject through a super-curricular course or simply discovering a new interest, there are opportunities to make your Sixth Form experience your own.

Sixth Form is your opportunity to go beyond the classroom, discover what you are capable of and open doors to your future.