Overview
Students studying at Braintree Sixth Form choose from a wide range of subjects and courses. Our aim is to offer an academic curriculum which students can personalise to their own interests, strengths and aspirations. Most students will study three courses, with a number taking four, as the core of their curriculum. A Levels and Level 3 vocational courses are offered, and students are able to combine the two in their programmes of study.
Advanced (A) Level qualifications
The General Certificate of Education ‘Advanced’ Level, or more commonly, the A Level, is a school leaving qualification offered by educational bodies in the United Kingdom. Courses focus on academic subjects. Students choose the courses which best suit their interests and abilities and which offer them the appropriate opportunities for progression. Initial course choices are made via the online application form and all applicants will have the opportunity to book a guidance meeting to discuss their applications and selected options.
Vocational Level 3 qualifications
These courses offer an alternative to A Level education at sixth form level and the ‘level 3’ in the qualification means that they are seen as equivalent to A levels and can offer a route on to higher education and university. The BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate and OCR National programmes offer a different mode of delivery and assessment and involve more emphasis on continuous assessment.
Enrichment
In addition to their A level studies, all students will follow a programme of enrichment which takes place weekly on a Wednesday afternoon and includes opportunities for a wide range of extracurricular activities including volunteering and sports.
EPQ
Students have the opportunity to complete the Extended Project Qualification alongside their studies. Regarded as equivalent to half an A level, this independent project focuses on research and planning skills, and leads to the production of an artefact or substantial essay, accompanied by a reflective logbook.
Personal Development
Each student has a personal tutor with whom they will meet regularly on a one-to-one basis for support and guidance. In addition, a programme of personal development runs throughout the sixth form, focusing on aspects of careers preparation, the development of entrepreneurial skills and important skills for learning and the workplace.
