Post 16 Open Evening

Author:

Ms Dickinson - Assistant Head of Attenborough College

Sir Geoffrey Leigh Academy recently held an extremely successful and high-energy Post-16 Open Evening, and the academy was truly buzzing! We were thrilled to welcome a fantastic mix of our current Year 11 students alongside numerous prospective applicants eager to explore their options for Sixth Form. The event showcased how our advanced study programs are meticulously designed not just to deliver great grades, but to genuinely set students up for future success, whether they choose university, competitive apprenticeships, or direct employment.

The core of the evening centred around our four pathways on offer for students including the exciting introduction of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, which are highly respected by universities worldwide. The were outlined to all attendees, truly proving that we have something for everyone.

The evening's structure was dynamic and highly engaging. The Principal and the Head of Post-16 gave the lowdown on the expectations for life after GCSEs, covering the increased workload but crucially emphasizing the strong, supportive network we have in place. Teachers were chatting non-stop at their subject stalls, providing the perfect opportunity for students to do a deep dive and figure out if a course genuinely fits their future ambitions.

Perhaps the most impactful element was the presence of our current Sixth Formers, who were absolute stars. They shared the real truth about balancing studies, the social life, and the benefits of the smaller, focused class environment—nothing beats hearing it directly from students who are thriving in the program. Finally, we walked everyone through the essential steps for applying, including the minimum entry grades and the online application platform.

The energy and high ambition were palpable in the room. The Open Evening was a huge success, leaving our potential future leaders feeling informed, excited, and ready to take their next big step with confidence.