Careers advice and University guidance is given in both group and individual basis to ensure that students are well prepared for their life after Abbey Gate. The majority of Sixth Formers go on to Higher Education including study at Oxford & Cambridge, in a wide range of disciplines as diverse as Medicine, Law, Vetinerary Science, Engineering, Art or English.

The majority of Sixth Formers move onto Higher Education and they are well supported in this process. Students are given 1 to 1 help with the personal statement which is reviewed by at least 2 members of staff. Interview preparation and mock interviews are given where necessary/appropriate and whenever requested by the students; this includes support from the Rotary Club in the summer term of the Lower Sixth. UCAS references are compiled in detail by experienced staff, with each reference reviewed fully by the Head before submission.

Typical Calendar of Events

• October - Year 11. University visit and talk by undergraduates
• February/March - LVIth. Choosing a university and course – talk by University Student Liaison Officer
• HE Fair – GMEX – Manchester
• March/April L6th. - Completion of Morrisby Coursefinder Report
• June – LVIth. University Open Day Visit
• June - LVIth. Choosing a university/Writing the Personal Statement – Day workshop
• June - LVIth. Rotary Club practice interviews
• June - LVIth. Talk by University Admissions Tutor – to parents/students
• June - LVIth. Talk by University Admissions Tutor – The Personal Statement
• September - Oxbridge/Vets/Dentistry/Medics – 23rd deadline
• October - UVIth – given half term deadline.

Sixth Formers use the Careers Library, Study Centre and IT Suites to research their options and they are well supported throughout the process. We are committed to recognising each and every student as an individual with distinct aspirations and strengths.

We see our Sixth Formers as leaders of the future; we recognise that position and give them the opportunity to extend their personal responsibilities and to explore their leadership skills. Relationships between sixth formers and younger pupils in the school are friendly, bound by warmth and respect. They have ample opportunity to enhance their inter-personal skills and learn about working with and leading others.

We encourage and support students to improve their capacity for independent learning and develop their intellectual curiosity. In the first term of the Lower Sixth all students enjoy the challenge of a residential in the Lake District at the fantastic Glaramara Centre, honing their study skills for the demands of the two years ahead and beyond.