Sheffield High School

Sixth Form

Sixth Form FAQs

  • Why should I join Sheffield High School?

Sheffield High School offers a unique Sixth Form experience that combines academic excellence with a wide curriculum choice for students, strong pastoral support from an experienced tutor team and a varied enrichment programme. As a member of the Sixth form at SHS you will enjoy the freedom and independence that goes hand-in–hand with your new status as a student. The newly refurbished Sixth Form Centre is in a separate building, housing common rooms, teaching rooms and tutorial bases, allowing you to enjoy a Sixth Form experience that bridges the gap between school and university. Moreover, as part of a larger school community you will also enjoy a wide range of opportunities for leadership, from acting as a prefect to undertaking a role as a House Captain, Sports Captain or classroom assistant in our Junior School.

  • What sort of grades will I need?

- usually 7 GCSE passes at A*-C, including Mathematics and English – if you wish to study a subject at A-level, ideally you should have achieved at least a B at GCSE level (please note, some A level subjects are not studied at GCSE level).

  • As a new student, will I feel left out?

Moving to a new school is an exciting and daunting prospect and the Sixth form tutor team at SHS are here to help make the transition smooth and enjoyable. Every year there is a significant new intake of students into Year 12 and you will join a form with a mixture of existing and other new students. You will quickly find you are able to settle into the rhythm of school life with the support of your form tutor and fellow students. There are numerous opportunities for developing new interest and maintaining existing ones through the Sixth Form Enrichment programme and the vibrant extra-curricular programmes on offer in SHS.

  • What will the classes be like?

You will notice a significant change from your experience at GCSE, as you focus in on a smaller number of subjects in greater depth. The subjects will continue to be demanding and require dedication, determination and commitment, but you will also notice a new relationship with your teachers. The Sixth Form requires a new partnership between you and your teacher and although styles will vary between subjects and teachers you will be encouraged to pursue independent research, ask questions and take responsibility for your learning.

  • What can I study?

Sheffield High School offers a wide range of subject choices at A-level and further details of the courses on offer can be found on this site. Most students study 4 AS subjects in Y12, followed by 3 A2 subjects in Y13. There is also the opportunity to study 5 subjects at AS and this should be discussed with the Deputy Head or Director of Studies. Advice about subject combinations is always available from the Sixth Form tutorial team. All Y12 students take part in the enrichment programme which offers a wide range of choice, from Young Enterprise to Mandarin lessons, recreational sport, voluntary service and many more. During Year 13 students follow a general course which may involve Critical Thinking and/or General Studies.

  • Can I come and look around the school?

Yes! The best way to get a feel for life in the Sixth Form is to come and visit us, and take the opportunity to come to talk to staff and students about life in the Sixth Form at SHS. We are always keen to welcome you and answer questions!

Please join us for our Sixth Form Welcome Morning on 14 November 2009.

  • I’d like to come, but I can’t afford it

Sixth Form students are eligible for financial assistance, including –

  • Trust Bursaries – leaflets explaining these are available from the School and the Headmistress, Mrs. Dunsford is happy to talk to parents about the scheme
  • Scholarships – scholarships, open to all Y11 students and new students joining the Sixth Form, are awarded on the basis of a test taken in January and performance in mock GCSE examinations and an interview with the Headmistress
  • Centenary Awards – these are available for students whose parents are faced with unexpected financial hardship during the course of the Sixth Form
  • Educational Maintenance Allowance – a means tested government allowance to support students during their Sixth Form studies. Further information from Dr Raymond, Head of Sixth Form or at www.ema.dfes.gov.uk

School fees cover all necessary books and the public examination fees (excluding re-sits).

  • Where do people move on to?

All the students who choose to do so go on to Higher Education and every year approximately 15% choose to apply for Oxford or Cambridge. Some students like to take a gap year between school and university and our careers staff can advise on this.