The transition from Year 11 to Sixth Form is a pivotal stage in a pupil’s educational journey. At Plymouth College, we provide comprehensive support to ensure this step is a confident one. Our approach prepares pupils academically and personally for the increased independence and specialised study that A-Levels and Sixth Form life bring, guiding them towards informed future pathways.
Transition to Sixth Form
Future Pathway Guidance
As Year 11 unfolds, we witness our pupils mature into confident, considerate and compassionate young adults. A key part of this development involves thorough preparation for their future academic and career paths. Throughout the year, we utilise the insights gained from the Morrisby profiling system, which pupils and tutors engage with.
This valuable tool helps pupils identify their unique aptitudes, inherent strengths and potential areas for growth. Based on this understanding, they are better equipped to make well-informed decisions regarding their A-Level subjects and subsequent ambitions. Our dedicated Head of Year 11 and Head of Sixth Form collaboratively oversee this bespoke guidance process. They work in close partnership with the entire Year 11 cohort, offering personalised support and advice to ensure each pupil feels secure and knowledgeable about their choices.
Assuming Greater Responsibility
By the end of Year 11, our pupils demonstrate a clear readiness to embrace increased responsibility and the challenges of advanced study. The transition to Sixth Form is not just an academic step but also an opportunity for significant personal growth and leadership development.
Many pupils will take on important roles such as Senior Prefect or other key leadership positions within the school community, contributing positively to school life and developing valuable skills. Through their GCSE years and particularly in Year 11, we focus on cultivating the habits of independent learning essential for A-Level success. This ensures that upon entering Sixth Form, our pupils are fully prepared to manage their studies more autonomously, engage deeply with their chosen subjects and wholeheartedly embrace the opportunities Sixth Form life presents.
Tailoring Academic Focus
Upon entering the Sixth Form, pupils typically select three A-Level subjects to study in depth. In certain cases and following discussion with the Deputy Head Academic, particularly ambitious pupils may undertake four subjects if appropriate for their abilities and aspirations.
We pride ourselves on the bespoke nature of our A-Level programme at Plymouth College. This tailored approach allows for considerable flexibility in subject combinations, enabling pupils to construct a study plan that truly reflects their individual strengths, interests and specific university or career goals.
This freedom of choice, supported by ongoing guidance, ensures that pupils are not only engaged by their studies but are also strategically preparing for their desired next steps. Our aim is to create a stimulating environment where every student can thrive.
Come and See Us
We warmly invite you to visit Plymouth College Senior School to experience our environment firsthand. To arrange a visit, please contact our admissions team using the email address or phone number below. Alternatively, you can click the “Arrange a Visit” button to fill out your details and a member of our team will get in touch as soon as possible to arrange a visit.
Email: admissions@plymouthcollege.com
Telephone: 01752 505120
We look forward to welcoming you and your child to our community.
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