Sixth Form Bulletin

MESSAGE FROM DIRECTOR OF SIXTH FORM

It has been an incredibly productive and vibrant half-term. We started following an action packed February break, with students embarking on unforgettable trips to New York and our annual Ski Trip. Our students were exemplary ambassadors for the school, and we are delighted they had such enriching experiences. 

We were honored to host students from Numata High School in Japan. It was a wonderful cultural exchange; please see highlights of their visit here.  A huge congratulations to our Year 12 and 13 students who participated in the Dance Platform and the Spring Music Concert. They were truly fabulous. We particularly recognise their commitment to the school and the leadership they showed in supporting our younger pupils. Our Year 12 students enjoyed an insightful visit to the University of Oxford, alongside several successful curriculum-based trips. 

As we approach the Easter break, both year groups have reached critical milestones: Year 13 students have now completed their final set of formal mock examinations. They should use the detailed feedback from these exams, combined with the advice from our guest speaker, Peter Radford, to guide their revision over the coming weeks.  For Year 12, the Easter period is an essential time to prepare for the End of Year 12 exams. These results are important, as they form the basis for university predicted grades and apprenticeship references. Revision Support: Strategies and guidance are available within this bulletin and on their respective Google Classrooms. While hard work is essential, we also urge students to prioritise their wellbeing by planning in social time and rest.  We recommend the University of Yorks' 8-8-8 rule in breaking up hours for sleep, study, and personal time. 

Year 13 should now be making their final UCAS firm/insurance choices and starting their Student Finance applications.  They have resources for both in their Google Classroom.  For parents and carers, there is further advice:

Parent Guide for Final Choices

Parent Guide for Student Finance

Save the Student is an excellent resource for financial planning.

If students are still navigating the apprenticeship application process, Mrs Reynard is available for advice every Thursday during Lesson 1. If any student has concerns regarding their next steps, please remind them to reach out to their Tutor, Head of Year, or Mrs Reynard.

We wish all of our students and their families a very restful and happy Easter break.

Mrs Reynard

Director of Sixth Form 

STEM opportunity for Year 12 students

We are delighted to confirm that we (STEMPOINT) have partnered with some fantastic organisations in Hertfordshire for 2026. We are able to offer Year 12 students exciting 2 week research opportunities at local organisations including the University of Hertfordshire, Tesco and Airbus to name a few. Undertaking a placement will inspire and motivate students and help give them the skills and confidence they need to get a place at a top university or secure a career boosting apprenticeship. Students in their first year of post-16 science, technology, engineering and maths (including social and data sciences) courses should apply.

Please note: This scheme is aimed at students who come from low income families, or don’t have a family history of going to university.  We want more students from these backgrounds to apply, therefore travel expenses will be reimbursed.

To be eligible for a place on the programme, students must meet both of the below criteria:

• 5 GSCEs at level 5 or above

• Must be in Year 12 of studies and studying at least one STEM subject

They must also meet at least one of the below criteria

•  Household income of £40,000 or Less

• Eligible for free school meals, at anytime in the last 6 years

• First in their family to attend Higher Education. This means neither of their parents/guardians have attended university

• Have lived or living in authority care

• Provide regular care or support for a family member due to illness, disability, age or with additional needs

Please find two flyers attached of the type of placements that are on offer. However, please do encourage students with all STEM interests to apply as we have a number of other projects on available.  

Working towards a career in Business Finance, Economics and or Law

Working towards a career in aerospace engineering

More information on the scheme and how to apply can be found at: https://www.stempoint.org.uk/research-stem

Sixth Form Trips/Activities 

WELLBEING

The Mix - the UK's leading digital charity for young people under 25, offering free, confidential support on mental health

Sandbox - free, NHS-funded digital mental health service for children and young people aged 10–25 in Hertfordshire. It provides rapid access to online resources, games, live chat, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT) to support mental health, including anxiety, low self-esteem, and stress.

Togetherall -  Offers self-guided courses, creative tools, and resources for managing mental health, including anxiety, stress, depression, and sleep.

Key Dates

30th March - 10th April - EASTER HOLIDAYS

13th April - Return to school

16th April - A Level Drama practical

20th - 22nd April - A Level Art Exams

5th - 8th May - Year 12 End of Year exams

6th May - Year 13 MFL orals

6th May - Year 13 Music Techniques paper

18th - 20th May - Year 12 Career Days

5th - 29th May - HALF TERM