Visitors to Carr Hill Sixth Form Centre’s Open Evening were greeted by staff and students ready to showcase what the school can offer to pupils looking to continue their studies in a range of academic, vocational and technical courses.
The evening kicked off with speeches from the Acting Headteacher, Deputy Headteacher, the Head Boy and the Head Girl. Following this guests were given the opportunity to look around the Sixth Form Centre, the classrooms and speak to students studying subjects of interest to them.
With the best results in the school’s history achieved this year the Sixth Form remains in the top 25% of all sixth forms and colleges nationally, making it a popular and attractive choice amongst current Year 11 students.
The speeches delivered by the Head Boy and Head Girl, who are both part of the school’s award winning Public Speaking Team, gave guests an insight to what it is like to be a Sixth Former at Carr Hill. Head Boy Kieran talked about how the Sixth Form differs from the main school and the many new opportunities it has to offer. Head Girl Miranda told of the support staff provide students, especially when it comes to UCAS applications, crediting her teachers for giving her the confidence to apply for a range of universities, all of which she has been accepted to.
Once the speeches had finished guests were invited to take a look around the classrooms. There was the opportunity to speak to subject teachers whilst many Year 12 and 13 students volunteered their time to talk about their favourite subjects.
Year 13 students Shannon and Grace are studying Psychology and spent the evening chatting to students considering selecting the subject as part of their A Level studies. Shannon said: “We are planning to study Psychology at university. It’s a challenging subject and so different to anything we have studied before but that is what makes it so interesting.”
Grace said: “The teachers offer a lot of support and they help us if there are any elements of the course we are struggling with. We all know that we can get extra help at any time and that the teachers want to see us do really well.”
Ayse is in Year 13 and one of her A Level subjects is English Literature. She said: “I’ve enjoyed covering the genre of comedy throughout this course, particularly the plays. I find the feedback I get from my teachers is very useful. It is always constructive and helpful so I know how to improve and get better.”
Director of Learning for the Logic Cluster Mrs Taylor was on hand to speak to students who were interested in studying Maths or Further Maths. Mrs Taylor said: “Both subjects offer a good gateway into careers in the sciences, engineering, computer science or business. Last year we had a student who achieved an A in Maths and has gone on to study at Oxford University. Another student achieved A* grades in both Maths and Further Maths earning him a competitive apprenticeship at top accountancy firm KPMG.”
At the Sixth Form it isn’t all about gaining an education in the classroom and there were representatives from all four Sports Academies on hand to discuss the benefits of joining a sporting elite team. Netball Captain and Year 13 student Zoe said: “Being a member of one of the academies gives you the chance to meet new people and learn new things. The Academies Sports Tour to South Africa in July was amazing and an example of what you can be a part of if you join an academy. All four of the school teams also compete at a high level meaning that there is the chance to improve in your sport and challenge yourself on a regular basis.”
Jess is in Year 11 and was one of the students taking a look around the Sixth Form with her parents. Jess said: “I want to study Health and Social Care, RS and Sociology at Carr Hill Sixth Form. I like the fact that the teachers know what I am capable of. I’m looking forward to being a Sixth Former at Carr Hill because I will have more independence and the chance to go on more extra-curricular trips.”
Jess’ father Mr Manton said: “Everywhere we have been tonight staff have known Jess’ name and that counts for a lot. Jess has grown up with the school and feels part of the community here. I’m pleased she will be staying on next year.”
Mrs Thompson attended the evening with her daughter Year 11 student Elise. She said: “When I listened to the Head Boy speech I felt like Elise could have written it. The words echoed everything she has told me about life as a student at the Sixth Form Centre. Elise feels comfortable here and that is when she excels.”
Director of Learning for Carr Hill Sixth Form Miss Clancy said: “I’m pleased to have seen so many of our Year 11 students at the Open Evening. I think there are many benefits to our students continuing their education here. Teachers and staff already know each student and are invested in their development and keen to support and help them reach their goals.”
There is also a real sense of community, every student has a voice and an opportunity to make their mark. Then there are the obvious benefits to smaller class sizes, dedicated mentors, who have often known your child for a number of years, and an additional needs support team. With a dedicated programme of UCAS support, a successful alternative pathways programme for apprenticeships and careers guidance, staff can help students progress to the next stage of their lives, whatever their chosen path may be.
“Couple this with our best exam results to date including a 99% pass rate at A Level and an average BTEC qualification at Distinction level and I believe that Carr Hill Sixth Form is an ideal place for our students to continue their education.”
Sixth Form Applications are available to download from the Home page of the Sixth Form website now and can also be collected from the school Sixth Form. The deadline for applications is Tuesday 6th January 2015. If students require any further information please contact Miss Clancy on 01772 682008.
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Carr Hill Sixth Form host Open Evening
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