The most notable aspect of education in the Sixth Form, and The Abbey as a whole, is the focus on self-motivation, curiosity and genuine enthusiasm for learning. Students read widely, engage in class discussions, and pursue activities beyond the syllabus in their own time. The level of interest and passion is really special. Students take joy in their learning, and that’s evident every day in the way they go about their work.
Throughout the school, we offer remarkable Learning experiences, enhanced by the most stretching and fulfilling Extension activity. In Sixth Form the whole curriculum is built around these two strands: Learning in the Sixth Form Core, and Extension in Sixth Form Plus: a whole additional set of courses providing extraordinary breadth of experience.
Above all the combination provides personalisation and freedom of choice, which has always been the hallmark of the Abbey Sixth Form experience: each student will follow the pathway that suits them.
The Sixth Form Core
Three or Four A Levels
A Level students typically embark on three subjects at the beginning of the Lower VI year. Three subjects is the standard combination of A Levels on which universities base their offers and allows students to complete the required independent study (five hours per subject per week) outside of lessons, to achieve creditable grades. The goal of A Level study is to achieve three excellent grades for entry to university.
Fourth A Level
If a student is clearly on track to achieve highly, and has the capacity to do so, they may take a fourth A Level. This is particularly recommended, but not required, for students who have their sights set on highly competitive courses at university.
Alternatively, some students choose a fourth A Level to keep their options open and they may intend to drop it at some point during Lower VI (or at the end of Lower VI). This is a good option for those who are unsure about their subject choices and want some flexibility.
Further Maths A Level
All students who wish to study Maths and Further Maths at A Level must take two other A Level subjects.
Extended Project Programme (EPQ)
Everyone will have the opportunity to study our new EPQ Programme, and it’s up to you whether you go on to complete the whole project. So you could try out a fourth A Level or AS Level alongside the EPQ should you wish, and keep whichever one you prefer once you’ve had a chance to try them all out.
Students completing an EPQ project may find that they receive lower university offers from some universities, if they achieve an A grade in the EPQ. Many students therefore find taking an EPQ more valuable than taking a fourth A Level or AS Level.
Subjects on offer
Making the right choices
Choice of subjects at Sixth Form level is important, but what matters is that you choose the right courses for you. Subject teachers, parents and tutors will support you in these choices but ultimately it is your decision which subjects you would like to pursue.
The high level of in-depth study required at A Level will ensure that you are more than adequately prepared for university. We would recommend the following guiding principles when choosing your subjects:
- Choose subjects that you enjoy
- Choose subjects that you will want to spend time on
- Choose subjects that will facilitate your move to higher education
The Sixth Form team are always more than happy to speak with students to advise on possible subject combinations to help achieve success at A Level, and ultimately entrance to higher education. What is most important is that each individual feels happy with the courses that they choose and enjoys their time in Sixth Form.
