The Billericay School

Sixth Form Prospectus

2020-21 Welcome to the Sixth Form

Dear Student , A warm welcome to the Billericay School Sixth Form! As a student in our community you will find: A wide choice of A level and vocational level 3

courses Proven success in examinations. Opportunities to take an active part in the life of

the school and the community and to exercise leadership.

Outstanding support for those going on to higher

education or leaving to pursue a career.

A sixth form centre that provides excellent resources and well-equipped study facilities.

A dedicated and highly qualified specialist teaching staff that are there to support you on your journey to the next step in your career.

An outstanding provision of Maths, science, computing and engineering courses.

It is important to be realistic and to choose your courses wisely. This prospectus is full of information and should lead to a dialogue with our careers staff, personal tutors and senior staff.

Ahson Mohammed B.Ed. (Hons.) Headteacher

Welcome to the Sixth Form A message from

Ahson Mohammed, Headteacher

A note from the Chair of the Sixth Form

Committee

Dear Student, Welcome! Having only made the leap from GCSE to A Level myself a year ago, I can safely say that it is a difficult one to make at first. However, the Billericay School Sixth Form is an ideal place to make this transition. There are many benefits to studying at our Sixth Form:

There is a focus on independent study and time management, preparing you for university and success in the workplace.

A dedicated group of Sixth Form staff will help you with your studies and support you in any other way needed.

Our own private Sixth Form Study Areas offer great work environments away from the bustle of the lower school; you can study in our designated silent area or work in group study areas, the choice really is yours.

Sixth Form-only social spaces make for easy interaction between people in your year group.

Having the opportunity to voice an opinion through the Sixth Form Committee allows you to shape the way the Sixth Form is run to benefit you.

I hope that you will find the Billericay School a place that can cater to your A Level and vocational needs and choices as well as helping you best prepare for your future.

Shej Alam , Chair of Sixth Form Committee

Who can apply to the sixth form?

We operate an ‘open’ sixth form which means that we offer courses to suit a range of interests and abilities, and each year there are typically 20 to 30 students who would join the sixth form from other schools. Places on specific programmes of study are dependent upon availability.

You will need to reach a certain level of achievement in your GCSE’s and other qualifications (see the “Which course is best for me?” page) in order to follow certain courses.

The governing body reserves the right to refuse admission if these criteria are not met.

Year 13 students Q&A with John Baron MP

Some good reasons why you should choose Billericay School Sixth Form: A proven track record of academic excellence -

our results for year 13 in the summer of 2019 of 48% A*-B grades and 72% of all grades gaining A*-C placing the sixth form in the top 25% of all school nationally.

The size of our sixth form gives us greater

resources than smaller institutions and this means we are more able to offer a wider range of subject and course combinations at A level & vocational level 3.

A highly qualified and experienced staff that have

a proven track record of working successfully at A level and vocational level 3.

Excellent study facilities and subject resources

(including state of the art media, drama and music facilities)

Personalised care and support through a

personal tutor and the sixth form pastoral team, supporting and monitoring your progress and acting as a contact point with home.

An exceptional curriculum enrichment

programme. Access to the school’s sport and gym facilities. Outstanding guidance and support for university,

employment or training.

Supporting your next step: In our sixth form you will find students: Applying for entrance to Russell Group, Oxford

and Cambridge Universities or for courses in medicine and veterinary sciences.

Taking ‘A’ level or level 3 vocational courses and going on to degree courses at university.

Leaving at 18 to enter employment with the 'A' level, or other qualifications that they have gained during their one or two years of study.

Leaving at 18 to gain level 3 or degree level apprenticeships.

The Billericay School and You

Don’t forget! Visit our Open Evening on Wednesday 6th November

from 5pm—8.15pm …

Students at an International women's day conference

What our current Year 13 say about their first year of study…….

Just so you know ….. There will be student representatives to talk

about every subject on our Open Evening on Wednesday 6th November

from 5.00pm-8.15pm Don’t miss it!

Engineering Pathway: Adriel Deciding on a Double

Cambridge Technical

Engineering Award, combined

with Maths A level, Adriel has

been considering university

courses linked to these

subjects. ‘I have really

enjoyed my 6th form courses, having the opportunity to

specialise and study in depth the subjects I really enjoy.

My favourite subjects have helped confirm my choice of

future career.’

Social Sciences Pathway: Oliver Joining the sixth form from another local school, and

choosing to study A levels in Psychology, History, English

Combined and Film Studies and an

EPQ in Experimental Psychology, I

am now applying to London

universities including UCL and LSE

to study for a Psychology degree.

Teaching and learning has proved

very fulfilling in the 6th form and

the promotion of independent

learning also prepares us well for

university and our future careers’.

Creative Pathway: Morgan Choosing to study Drama, English

Combined and History at A level,

Morgan’s goal is to study Drama

at the renowned LIPA – the

Liverpool Institute of Performing

Arts. ‘I have thoroughly enjoyed

the open and welcoming nature

of our 6th form, the inspired

teaching and the many

opportunities that have enhanced my learning, including

participation in theatre trips and school productions.’

Business and Finance Pathway : Max ‘I have thoroughly enjoyed my

Economics, Biology and Chemistry

A levels, along with the LIBF

Finance qualification. I hope to

pursue a degree apprenticeship in

the city, with the opportunity to

combine serious study with hands

on application of learning that

this pathway provides. I have

appreciated all the advice and guidance about

apprenticeships offered in the 6th form, and intend

making applications to Ernst and Young, JP Morgan

and PWC.’

Science Pathway: Ayla Choosing Chemistry, Biology and English Literature A levels, Ayla is now focusing on her ambition to secure a place on a Biomedical Sciences degree course, with Warwick and Southampton universities her current favourites. ‘I have been grateful for all the support and advice given regularly in years 12 and 13. I was also fortunate to be able to undertake summer work experience in a PhD lab at King’s College, London.’

International Pathway: Ewan Staying on from year 11 to

study A levels in French,

German, English Literature and

Drama, Ewan now aims to study

Medieval and Modern

languages at the University of

Cambridge, with an aspiration

to work in German theatre.

‘Recent work experience in Rouen, France has further

underlined my ambition to continue my study of

foreign languages at university. ‘Sixth form learning is

very rewarding at our school, with the emphasis on

conducting your own research, a very positive

classroom atmosphere and inspirational teachers.’

Going Places Higher Education….

Higher education destinations of the students who left Billericay sixth form in

July 2019

Noel , Newcastle university

Biomedical sciences

Gaining B grades in Biology,

Chemistry and French and an

A grade in the EPQ meant

Noel was able to take up his

first choice course and

institution.

Owen, university of Exeter,

Mathematics.

A grades in Maths and Further

Maths alongside a B grade in

Computer Science means that

Owen is now Studying Mathematics

at his first choice of institution.

Akwasi, university of

Portsmouth, Quantity

surveying

Joining the sixth form from

another local school, Akwasi

gained D grades in Geography,

Business and Psychology and has

gained a place on a course with

excellent career and employment

progression

Phoebe, Bournemouth

university, Midwifery

Completing a Double CTECH

Health and Social Care Award,

combined with Sociology A level ,

Phoebe gained double distinction

and a D grade to allow her to

access her chosen career of

midwifery.

Over 40 students gained places to ‘Russell group’ or other ‘selector’ universities.

90% of students gained a place at their first choice institution.

We are proud to see so many of our students embarking on higher education having completed their advanced level studies in the sixth form, and moving on to a range of employment and university opportunities, including students gaining places at Cambridge, Bristol, York, Brunel, Bath, Nottingham, Warwick, Sussex, Exeter, Loughborough, UEA, Surrey, Queen Mary, Reading, Kent and Southampton universities. Students rate the support and guidance they receive in making their application to university as excellent.

Ellie , Oxford University,

French.

Gaining grades A*, A, A in

Sociology, French and English

Literature alongside an A* in

the EPQ has allowed Ellie to

realise her ambition of

studying French at Oxford

university.

Amirah, UEA Norwich, Law.

An A* in both Sociology and

the EPQ along with B grades in

History and English Literature

have allowed Amirah to gain a

place at the University of East

Anglia to read Law and follow

her career ambition to become

a qualified solicitor.

Daniel, Cambridge Univeristy, Natural Sciences A* grades in Chemistry and Mathematics, A grades in Further Maths and Physics have allowed Daniel to take up a place at the University of Cambridge to read Natural Sciences.

Going Places Employment , Training and

Gap Years….

Whilst we hope that many students will consider university after their time in the sixth form, we also know that many students will be seeking to begin their careers and we are equally committed to supporting students in achieving their ambitions. We are proud to see our students embarking on careers or higher apprenticeships.

We congratulate all of our students who have found employment and training this year.

Lewis , Sky TV Apprenticeship.

Lewis thoroughly enjoyed his

Computer Science, Mathematics

and Further Mathematics A levels,

and his A*, A, A grades have

secured his place on the degree

apprenticeship scheme with Sky TV.

Yasmin , Rothschild Wealth Management Apprenticeship Yasmin Gained grades B, C and D in

Sociology, History and Economics,

alongside an EPQ and an A grade in

the LIBF Financial studies course.

This allowed Yasmin to gain a place

on this highly competitive degree

apprenticeship .

Lewis, Tayside Aviation scholarship,

Dundee Airport

Lewis gained grades B, B, B and D in

French, Film Studies, Physics and

the EPQ and is pursuing his dream

of working in the aviation industry

through this higher apprenticeship.

The right facilities for you Two dedicated study areas reserved exclusively for sixth form use only A quiet study room equipped with IT facilities including internet access A section of the RBLC reserved specifically for silent, private study for year 12 and 13 students

Supporting your success with sessions such as the ‘Discover Risk’ insurance/finance careers event or ‘Boardbreaking’ self confidence session seen below

Here are some of the employment and training positions secured by some of our year 13 students who left Billericay

Sixth Form in July 2019

The best support for your success

Sixth Form Studies

Opportunities for students beyond your chosen subjects, developing your awareness of the world including:

An Induction Programme at local universities. This is a good opportunity to make new friends, as well as to see what life at university can offer. Weekly talks on issues of topical interest where citizenship, health and current affairs issues are explored. A business placement, which may have a direct relevance to your proposed eventual vocation or may help develop broader skills for use in the future. Advice on UCAS and applying to university or on alternative pathways. The careers service and school staff are on hand to provide further guidance.

Leading your community An elected sixth form committee who organise the social and cultural life of the sixth form. You will have a chance to lead the decision making about behaviour and responsibility within the sixth form area. Opportunities to contribute to the life of the school and the community through the school house system, as peer mentors, or as form buddies.

Volunteering All sixth formers are encouraged to get involved in charity work and community links.

Dressing for success There is no uniform for sixth form students, but dress is expected to be smart. Extremes of fashion are not accepted. Students should dress as if for a place of work. Students should see the dress code section of the student handbook and planner for more information.

Developing your wider skills Opportunities to participate in dramatic and musical events, as well as in public speaking events with other schools both locally and nationally.

Preparing you for the future

Student volunteers organise an activity for The Chernobyl Children's Charity.

Year 13 students raising money for charity through a series of cake sales.

Students taking cookery classes to prepare for uni-versity life

Physical Education

Choose from badminton, volleyball, basketball, table-tennis, multi-gym, soccer, netball, hockey, tennis and cricket. One period in the week is set aside for sixth form use of the sports facilities There are also two hours a week when the gym/weights facility is available to the sixth form.

Helping others through community service

As role models and leaders of the school community every student in year 12 is expected to commit at least one hour per month. Learning Support For those wishing to develop experience in teaching or care services you will have the opportunity to give valuable assistance to the learning support department whilst at the same time gaining valuable relevant experience.

Buddies and Peer Supporters Become a ''buddy”' to a year 7 tutor group, assisting them with their settling in. Students may also wish to become peer counsellors for lower school students. Support and training are given to students wishing to participate in this.

Opportunities for you

The Sixth Form Prom Organised by the sixth form committee it takes

place immediately after the year 13 examinations. It is a formal occasion with a meal and dancing and was held last year at Stock Brook Manor. Not to be missed on any account!

World challenge expedition

Peer Support Group

Marine Corps boot camp

Welcome to the Sixth Form Team of staff

Mrs Lesley Pike Sixth Form Administrator / Student Support My role is to maintain the smooth and happy running of the sixth form. I am a good first point of contact if you want some help and information. I support students (and indeed their parents!) with the challenge of transition from Year 11 into sixth form through to their career path decisions into University or the workplace.

We understand that your academic success is a team effort , with you, your parents and the school working together and communicating clearly. Our intention is that you always have someone to call upon whenever you need guidance, advice or support and key staff are on hand to help:

Ms Lisa Pollard , Deputy Head of Sixth

Form, Head of Year 13

We aim to instil high aspirations in our students and support growth in self-confidence arising from personal achievement. One of my roles is to monitor your progress. Following each key assessment point in the year, your form tutor will help you pinpoint strengths and targets for improvement, allowing us to ensure the optimum academic outcome for all. I will also help with informed guidance on university choices, UCAS applications and personal statements, as well as supporting you in finding a relevant business placement, helping ensure every student is a success story beyond their time here at school.

A personal tutor In addition to these staff each student is allocated a personal tutor (where possible, a member of staff who teaches or knows you). They are a close point of contact through regular meetings - you can discuss any problems relating to your work.

Study tutoring An additional level of support is offered to students with weekly meetings with a dedicated study tutor to plan work, discuss time management, and work on specific course assignments in order to achieve the best possible grades.

Guidance advice and support. In student satisfaction surveys this is rated as excellent!

Mrs Fiona Smith, Head of Sixth form

The Billericay School 6th form staff is dedicated to the achievement of academic excellence, the fulfilment of students’ potential and the expansion of their horizons. We aim to create young men and women who are willing to embrace the challenges and demands of a diverse and changing society. Our ‘open

door’ policy providing guidance and support reflects our daily commitment to the 6th form community in

Mrs Steph Barnes, Head of Year 12 My role in the sixth form is to support all students to achieve their potential and prepare them for further study and work pathways. I will offer guidance with careers, apprenticeships and the Extended Project Qualification. Our 6th Formers will be encouraged to take part in a range of internal and external enrichment activities that will enhance and inform their post 18 choices, including taking up opportunities to explore business and industry. I look forward to supporting all students as they find their own