Educational Approach

Reflecting Sidcot’s aim of providing a stimulating and creative curriculum, we offer students the opportunity to follow either the International Baccalaureate Diploma or A Levels in the Sixth Form.  We believe the ethos of the International Baccalaureate, with its broad curriculum and emphasis on study skills, community service and internationalism fits perfectly with our Quaker values. 

The inculcation of good study habits is the primary aim of Sidcot’s Sixth Form.   Students are given advice and guidance on developing their study skills at key times during their course.  There is a modern Sixth Form Study centre, where Sixth Form students can work during the day and after school.  Several teaching departments have specialist facilities for Sixth Form students; all have access to other specialist areas, which are accessible on a wider basis.  Teaching often takes place in small classes (under ten for some subjects), and all Sixth Form students are allocated to a personal tutor for pastoral and academic guidance.  Advice is given in the good management of private study time and academic progress is closely monitored to ensure that maximum benefit is gained from the wide-ranging facilities and expertise available. 

The increasing maturity of those joining the Sixth Form is recognised by their being granted a greater say in their lifestyle within the school community.  In addition, students are expected to assume certain supervisory duties in respect of the whole school.   Boarding students are often asked to assume positions of responsibility within their respective boarding houses and some members are entrusted with particular leadership roles, such as Heads of House.  Head Boy, Head Girl, their deputies, and International Head Representative are selected from Year 13 students, and there are also positions of responsibility within the Students’ Union.

Sixth Form students have their own dedicated facilities at Sidcot, including a study centre, revision rooms, computer suite and common room. Students are supported at all stages in their Sixth Form study, particularly through the University application process and with careers advice.