Q) Why St Phil's?
A) We know that for some there is a temptation to move at Sixth Form and we also recognise that for some we may not offer the course that you may want to pursue however here's our top 5 reasons to stay with us;
We are a Catholic Community: We have a unique character and provide an inclusive and caring environment where students are encouraged to discover their God given talents. We provide opportunities to consider the whole person; body, mind and soul. We also welcome non-Catholic students at Year 12 to increase diversity and give others the option of a quality education for those who may be from another faith or none.
Our Results: On average students made more than average progress since their GCSEs compared to other schools.
Extra-curricular Opportunity: There is a vast array of extra-curricular opportunities for Sixth Form including plenty of opportunities to lead a society, apply for House Captain or even become the next Head Girl! We are also open to starting new clubs that you may like to start.
Transition and Continuity: Time in Sixth Form goes quickly! It is essentially a one and a half year programme. Having been at St Phils already, teachers and students are able to settle quickly and adapt to their new demands of their courses. The Sixth Form pastoral team works closely with Safeguarding and Heads of Year 11 to ensure that we know and understand any additional needs and support you may need. Any external student receives a buddy and is welcomed and settled quickly into our way of life.
Careers and Future Pathways: Finally, we have a proven track record of preparing students for their next steps. An increasing number of students are gaining apprenticeships and large numbers continue to proceed to the top universities. Each year, we run an Oxbridge Programme for students who would like to apply to Oxford or Cambridge. Whatever your future path may be, we are growing the former St Phil's students to mentor and help our current students to gain places in their chosen pathway. The Careers Officer also provides outstanding careers guidance throughout. Finally, UCAS applications are personally checked and corrected by tutors and a member of the Sixth Form Team giving you the best chance of securing your offers.
Overall, we believe that although no Sixth Form is perfect we are committed to giving you the best experience and opportunities to build the future you want and would love you to stay.
Q) Am I able to change my courses after making a decision?
A) Yes, absolutely. We know that sometimes your interest in a certain subject can grow and develop at different times so a change is okay. Some students have waited until Results Day to make their final decision and this is fine. Moving into Sixth Form is a process and can take time. The main thing to check is that your choices fit into the option blocks.
Q) Once Year 12 starts can I change my course?
A) Some students start with four subjects because they cannot decide which three to take. After a couple of weeks, they have a better idea of what they want to do and drop one. Other students may change their mind in the first couple of weeks to another course. There is a deadline for changing course (which means you won't have missed too much of the course) and you would still have to have met the entry criteria.
Q) What happens if I do not pass Year 12?
A) Some students worry about not passing the End-of-Year exams in Year 12. Due to the fact that we have the entry criteria to get onto the course in the first place, we limit the amount of students who do not succeed in their subject. However, in the worst case scenario, we have options to ensure that you would still leave the Sixth Form with 3 A Level equivalents.