Ahead of our Sixth Form Options Evening, three Lower Sixth students have shared their journey of how they came to select their options for Sixth Form. This decision was not taken lightly and was given much thought and support by all. We asked them, ‘Did you always know you wanted to do the subjects and course you are doing now?’:
Matthew
"No. You find strengths and weaknesses throughout Years 10 and 11, you find what you enjoy the most and achieve the best in, under the pressure of GCSE's. I found I enjoyed the subjects that I got the best grades in and I used that enjoyment and sense of achievement as a compass to align myself with. It was really useful to talk to Mrs Pike (Head of Careers and Higher Education); she confirmed what I thought already but it was nice to be reassured. That led me to a BTEC in Business Studies and A level Geography, both of which, after two weeks, I’m really enjoying."
Holly
"Yes, I knew right off the bat. I went to look around some universities in Year 10 and asked them the best route to get into Equine Physiotherapy, something which I had always wanted to do. I used this information to help select subjects which would help me reach my goal. At one point I was torn between two different subjects so I opted for the one which would give me better security in my grades and hopefully better achievement. I chose to do the International Baccalaureate diploma or IB for short, as it allowed me to study six subjects rather than three which helps me keep my options open if I change my mind about my career path in the future. I am also aware the IB is very attractive to universities. So far, I'm really enjoying the wide variation and international focus of my course."
Hudson
"No. At the start of Year 11 I really didn't know what to do. After a while it became apparent that I could choose a career in music or a career in a design-based industry. Design is a real strength of mine and there were key aspects that interested me in the creative subjects, so it made sense for me to select Art and Design Technology as two of my A levels. I also chose Physics as a science subject which compliments Design Technology well. This was a process over time, not a quick thing. I came to my decision with the input and support from my family, who know me very well. We talked a lot about the pros and cons of my choices. I'm enjoying the different atmosphere and level of freedom in the Sixth Form; I get to choose when, where and how I study, as long as I get it all done."
To support our Upper Fifth and Pathway students and their families with the transition into Sixth Form, we have organised a Sixth Form Options Evening. This will be on Monday 25th September 2023 in the Large Meeting House, with arrivals from 6:45pm for a prompt 7:00pm start. There will be a short address from Iain Kilpatrick (Head of Sidcot School) and Thomas Ruddle (Head of Sixth Form), followed by an opportunity to talk to subject staff located in the Sixth Form Centre and Library.