St Chris Sixth Form: Nurturing Growth, Fostering Leadership

Sixth Form students at St Chris

Sixth Form

Years 12 to 13

Sixth Form pupils in science class at St Chris

St Chris Sixth Form is an inspiring and challenging place to learn. During the two years of Sixth Form pupils grow and develop both academically and socially, making the most of the unique environment and many opportunities available at St Chris.

As well as following a rigorous academic programme, we encourage pupils to play an active part in wider aspects of school life – whether that be through a position of responsibility on the School Council or by taking part in the wide range of extracurricular activities on offer.

The Sixth Form Centre.

Nestled in its own dedicated space, the Sixth Form Centre at St Chris, an independent school for students aged 3-18, is the hub of Sixth Form life. With common rooms for Year 12 and Year 13, study areas, a serene garden, a communal kitchen, and specialised classrooms for A-level courses, the Centre provides a dynamic setting for academic pursuits, social interactions, and essential support structures.

The Centre is the hub of Sixth Form life with registration and tutorials held there, and it’s the place where students can study, socialise, and seek support.

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Sixth Form pupils at St Chris
Sixth Form pupil at St Chris
Sixth Form pupil in class at St Chris

 

Support Throughout Sixth Form

Joining the Sixth Form is an exciting time, however the academic step-up from GCSE to A-level, and the increased focus on independent learning can lead to it being a time when some students feel uncertain and a little daunted.

To combat this, St Chris offers a personalised and detailed support package for each pupil, to ensure that they thrive within the Sixth Form environment.

 

Tutorial Programme

When students join the Sixth Form, they are allocated a Personal Tutor, and the partnership between tutor and student forms a central part of the support package.

Personal Tutors guide, advise, and are a critical friend and supporter. Students meet with their Personal Tutors each day alongside their tutor group, made up of a mix of Year 12 and Year 13 students to allow the two year groups to mix socially and share experiences.

Year 13 students can help to mentor Year 12 pupils and provide informal advice and support.

 

Sixth Form Induction Programme

After GCSE exams, our new Sixth Form community, including those from external schools are invited in to complete a day of taster lessons in their chosen A Level subjects. This enables them to meet the rest of their new year group, meet their teachers and begin their preparations for A Level study. The day involves an opportunity to mingle over lunch in our Sixth Form area and for Parents to come in to a tea in the Sixth Form garden at the end of the day to begin their involvement in their child’s Sixth Form journey.

At the beginning of Year 12, pupils take part in our Sixth Form Conference, where they meet with their personal tutor, confirm their timetable and are introduced to studying in the Sixth Form.

Pupils then take part in a two-week induction which contains events, both academic and social, to enable them to make a positive start to Sixth Form. The programme culminates with an overnight residential trip, where pupils can spend time socialising with their year group and taking part in team building activities.

The St Chris Advantage

Sixth Form pupil in art class at St Chris
Choosing the St Chris Sixth Form for your child's achievement.

Here's why our school stands out:

One-to-one Personal Tutors

St Chris is a private school that values giving students the time and space to grow. Students meet with their Personal Tutor on a one-to-one basis every week to discuss academic progress, any problems that have arisen, successes and future plans.

All Personal Tutors keep a close eye on the well-being of the students in their care. They help students settle into Sixth Form, encourage them to become responsible independent learners and to participate in the wide range of opportunities available outside of the classroom.

Children do not all progress at the same time or at the same speed. The skill of the teacher is to create a space in which progress can and will happen. Our children produce phenomenal results because we help them to, not force them to.

Progress and Tracking

The dedicated Sixth Form team at St Chris are there to support pupils every step of the way to ensure that their transition is a successful one.

Throughout their time Sixth Form, pupils receive regular feedback and guidance about their progress from subject teachers. Each pupil is also involved regularly in reviewing their progress with their personal tutor.

Personal Tutors, the Heads of Year and overall Head of Sixth Form are all available to support students who may be experiencing problems, alongside school counsellors if appropriate. Any issues or concerns are sensitively and thoroughly discussed with students and parents. Student support is on-going and comprehensive.

Each year parents receive two interim reports and two full reports. There are also two Parents’ Consultations when subject teachers and personal tutors are available for one-to-one meetings. Pupils are encouraged to attend these meetings along with their parents or guardians.

All departments and subjects offer opportunities to support and extend pupil’s learning beyond the classroom. These are often at lunchtime or after school, and in some cases, such as for A-level 3D Design, at weekends.

Beyond The Classroom

Each year parents receive two interim reports and two full reports.

There are also two Parents’ Consultations when subject teachers and personal tutors are available for one-to-one meetings. Pupils are encouraged to attend these meetings along with their parents or guardians.

All departments and subjects offer opportunities to support and extend pupil’s learning beyond the classroom. These are often at lunchtime or after school, and in some cases, such as for A-level 3D Design, at weekends.

Trips take advantage of our School's ideal location; being near London and local to Cambridge offers excellent access to cultural and educational visits.

Next Steps: Higher Education and Careers

Throughout a student's time in the Sixth Form at St Chris they are fully supported in making their next steps towards their career and higher education choices following school.

We foster a culture where students actively engage in the broader aspects of school life. Whether assuming positions of responsibility on the School Council, becoming Major Officials or immersing themselves in a diverse range of co-curricular activities, our students develop into well-rounded individuals ready for the challenges that lie ahead.

Discover Sixth Form Destinations

See us in action

Visit us on an Open Day 

TUESDAY 15 OCTOBER 2024

Friday 2 May 2025

 

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“There is a child centered approach. St Chris focuses on building well rounded individuals with good values who grow up to be caring and responsible adults. Academic success is important but it's not the only milestone / focus.”

Parents’ Survey, 2024

 

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Explore more...

While this process can be exciting as you explore different options and avenues for your child, we also know that some parents find it challenging, particularly for key entry year groups.

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