Learning
The curriculum on offer at Queen Elizabeth’s is based around a traditional, yet evolving, A Level programme. Students are taught in classes (average size 18) in well-resourced subject areas by specialist, experienced teachers.
"Achievement in the sixth form is outstanding. Inspired and well supported by knowledgeable and committed teachers, students make excellent progress and achieve high levels of attainment. As a result of teaching that encourages students to work independently and with each other, they are also exceptionally well prepared for the next stages of their education."
A particular area of focus has been developing aspiration, encouraging Queen Elizabeth’s students to apply for the most competitive courses in the country, whilst also offering support and guidance to those students who decide that university is not for them.
"About one fifth of students have joined the sixth form from other schools and they settle quickly. Over 90% of students stay for two years and complete their courses. Students receive very good impartial careers advice and all students progress on to university, employment or training. Most students proceed to university and the proportion gaining entry to a top performing university has risen to one third."
Sixth Form Support
Developing independence is a key feature of education at post-16 level, however students still need to feel supported and valued within a caring and encouraging environment to maximise learning and achievement and to reach their potential.
Sixth Form students have a form tutor that they meet on a daily basis. The role of the tutor is invaluable in guiding and supporting students as well as looking after their personal development during this important and demanding phase of their education. Students have informal access to the Sixth Form Team who are there to help and support. The team can give advice on non-university routes as well as help with university applications and general academic or personal issues.
"Progress in academic qualifications is significantly higher than national levels, leading to a 99% pass rate at A level and an increase in the percentage of A* and A grades to 33% in 2014. This is well above national levels."
Beyond the Classroom
Sixth Form students play a vital role in the daily life of our community and are encouraged and supported to seek out additional responsibilities within and beyond school.
All students have the opportunity to become involved with the wider school community as Form Reps throughout Year 12 and as Senior Students or as a member of the Student Board. These roles include Charity Prefects; Marketing and Events Prefects; Senior Subject Prefects; Heads of House and many more. Any student who has taken an active role in the school community is eligible to apply for the Head Boy and Girl team in February of Year 12, taking up their posts in Term 4. Through these additional opportunities we have seen many of our students develop outstanding leadership skills.
"The behaviour and safety of students are outstanding. Sixth form students make a significant contribution to school life by setting a very good example and acting as mentors to younger students."
Ofsted 2015
Students have a dedicated enrichment period each week and increasing numbers of students use this time to support others in a volunteering capacity. We also encourage students to undertake specific work experience placements, which has proved invaluable, particularly for students applying for vocational degree pathways such as medicine.
Clubs and societies range from all sorts of sports, though to debating, gardening, learning Japanese and many more. In 2016 and 2017 students from Queen Elizabeth’s reached the national ‘Debating Matters’ final in London.
In addition to regular visits to all corners of Europe, recent trips have seen Sixth Form students visit Cuba, India, Morocco and the USA.
“It’s not just about creating academics, it’s about creating people – equipping tomorrow’s generation to be the best they possibly can.” Sixth Form Leaver.
The Year 12 Work Shadowing Days in early February provide an opportunity to work alongside (and to gain experience of) the role of another individual and to acquire an insight into a particular work area. Students will be briefed about this in October.
