Life in 6th Form
Bilton School Sixth Form focuses on creating well rounded young adults through a rigorous curriculum that offers both academics and a supportive, caring and enriching environment. There is a strong sense of community within the Sixth Form and within the wider school and students are supported both their academic and personal growth. The students build strong professional relationships with the staff, who encourage each individual student to reach their full potential. Staff and students foster a culture of respect and encouragement which motivates all students to achieve well.
The curriculum is designed to push students to be successful within their chosen academic fields, the teaching staff are committed to challenging each individual and supporting them to achieve. Students are supported to become independent learners and develop the skills required to succeed in the world of work, apprenticeships and higher education. We support all students with each of the pathways options post 18 and provide them with the information needed to make an informed decision regarding their next steps when they leave us at the end of year 13.
Alongside our academic achievements, Bilton School Sixth Form places a high value on the personal development of our students through our character and culture and enrichment curriculum. Students have many opportunities to pursue their interests, build new skills and form lasting memories. Students can participate in sports, debating, cooking or student-led clubs during enrichment and our tutor time programme enables students to develop skills and knowledge around relationships, keeping themselves safe and living independently.
Attendance
Students are expected to be in school from 8.45am to 3.05pm. Timetabled lessons, supervised study periods, tutor time and assemblies are all compulsory and non-negotiable.
While in school, students have access to a range of working environments to suit the needs of everyone: large spaces such as the large study areas or the library, as well as smaller rooms and classrooms. Some spaces are designed for silent working, whereas others encourage group work. Therefore, all students should be able to find appropriate working spaces that best suit their working styles.
Parents should inform school on the day of a child’s absence via the My child at school app (MCAS app)
For any planned leave of absence, students must complete a leave of absence form, available from the school website.
Where possible, students are encouraged to arrange driving lessons, dentists and doctors’ appointments etc. so as they do not impact lesson attendance. Students are not authorised to take holidays during term time.
It is the responsibility of the student to keep up to date with their work and catch up on any work they may miss. Attendance has a direct impact on the achievement of students within Sixth Form. In cases where a student has a poor attendance record parents will be contacted and support offered in order for students to complete their full course of study.
Student Monitoring
We track students' progress carefully through their time in sixth form. Where students are not performing to their full potential, we will intervene and support them to improve. We also have the support of our Sixth Form Learning Mentor, who works closely with students whom we feel need just a little extra support to ensure a successful sixth form experience.
Study Habits
All students will receive independent study tasks from their teachers. In addition to set homework, students are also expected to use their study periods to complete the following:
- Re-read notes
- Review and revise previous work on a regular basis
- Use textbooks and library resources to aid understanding
- Complete past paper questions under timed conditions
- Complete wider reading and tasks to deepen their subject knowledge
Students take responsibility for their own learning in Sixth Form. However, students who require additional support, either academically or with softer skills, will be given the support they need.
Dress Code
At Bilton School Sixth Form we aim to be role models for our younger students. As a result, we do have a smart office wear dress code and suggest that students wear clothing they would wear to a job interview. The following guidelines must be followed.
- No trainers or sportwear to be worn, unless taking art in an authorised sporting activity.
- No UGG boots to be worn
- Tailored trousers, dress or skirt with any combination of a shirt and tie, blouse, smart knitwear and/or blazer
- Tailored skirts and dresses must be of reasonable length, as you would wear to an office. No skirts or dresses in stretchy or clingy material.
- Smart, footwear that would be acceptable in a
- formal office environment. They should be comfortable and practical for the normal school day
- Jewellery needs to be appropriate for a professional working environment
The 16-19 Bursary Fund
The 16-19 Bursary Fund supports students to stay in full-time education if they are a young carer, disabled or are they/their families are in receipt of financial aid. Please find the application form and additional information about this scheme on the website.
Leadership
We encourage all students in Sixth Form to engage in leadership opportunities. This could be by volunteering to support younger students, or by applying to become part of the Leadership Team. Currently we have the following appointments within the team. Head Students, Wellbeing Ambassadors
