individual in approach exceptional in outcome
TRANSCRIPT
Mrs Helen Dixon
Head of Sixth Form
Miss Sophie Collins Head of Year 12
Miss Helen Buttery Head of Year 13
Mr Dan Tivenan Assistant Head of Year [email protected]
Mrs Amy Midson Sixth Form Student Advisor
Mrs Emma Launchbury
Sixth Form Administrator
CONTACT US...
Find us at:
www.ridgewayschool.com
The Ridgeway Sixth
Form College
General Enquiries:
01793 846100
Sixth Form Office:
01793 846135
CONTENTS...
R6 Welcome 5
R6 Achievement 6
R6 Progression 7
R6 Choices 8
R6 Pathways 9
R6 Inspirational Students 10
R6 Admission 12
R6 Aspire 14
R6 Environment 16
R6 Social 17
R6 Discovery 18
R6 Courses & Contacts 19
Please visit our website or phone
for any forth-coming open days or
events. Visitors are welcome
all year.
Please contact the school
for an appointment.
Welcome... Welcome to R6, The Ridgeway Sixth Form College. Please take a moment to look
through this booklet and our wide variety of subjects we offer and to get a better
understanding of what life at R6 is all about! More importantly, do come and
visit us.
Talk to our teachers who are highly passionate about their subjects, learn more
about what you will be doing at A level, look at our facilities and see for yourself
why so many of our students achieve excellent results and successfully go on to
university and apprenticeships.
The dynamic Ridgeway Sixth Form College offers an exciting all-round Sixth Form
experience. Students are encouraged to embrace all opportunities and to aspire
to be the best they can be. Come and discover more at our open evening on
Thursday 11th October beginning at 6pm! We also invite you to visit us during
school time to see us in action and to experience Sixth Form lessons.
Mrs Helen Dixon
Head of Sixth Form
ACHIEVEMENT... We are very proud of the achievements of all of our students whether they continue their studies at university or go on to secure apprenticeships or jobs. Particular successes this year include:
James Leigh achieve A* A* AA
and is studying Maths at
Warwick.
Joseph Marsh achieved AAA is
studying Chemical Engineering
at Nottingham.
Alex Bush achieved A* AA and is
studying Maths & Economics at
LSE.
Sam Wood with AAAA will study
Theoretical Physics at
Birmingham.
Emily McBurnie is now working
as an apprentice in Digital
Marketing.
Greg Mannion has secured an
apprenticeship with Zurich.
Achievement is the keystone of The Ridgeway Sixth Form College. In 2018…
24% of Year 13 students achieved A* and A grades
The number of students achieving AAB grades in 2 or more facilitating subjects rose by 8% to 13%
45% A*-B
PROGRESSION...
Support, encouragement and success…
We are very proud that in 2018 all our Year 13 students who applied to university received offers. In fact 87%
received at least one unconditional offer.
In 2018, 62% of our Year 13 students went on to university, with 32% of our students going to Russell Group
CHOICES...
Of course, you can contact any one of the Sixth Form team at any
time. Just pop into the Sixth Form office or give us a call.
How to choose your ‘A’ levels…
There are 6 things to consider when choosing which subjects to study in R6…
1. Some degree subjects ask for specific ‘A’ levels. This is because they cover the basic knowledge and skills you will need later on.
2. Certain A levels can keep your options open for the future. These are known as facilitating subjects and include Maths, Further Maths, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English Literature, Modern Languages, Geography and History. If you have absolutely no idea what you might like to study at university in the future, or what career you might wish to pursue, it might be worth having 1 or 2 of these A levels.
3. Subjects are a lot tougher at A level than at GCSE so you need to be sure what you are taking on! If you are only ‘ok’ at a subject at GCSE, you need to ask yourself if you will be able to keep it up at A level.
4. Some universities prefer certain A levels over others so you need to check this out. This is because they feel that certain A levels prepare you better than others for certain degree subjects.
5. You need to get your facts straight. If in doubt, always check with a university or apprenticeship provider. Call them or check on their websites.
6. Choose subjects that you will enjoy. Business, Law, Politics and Psychology are just a few of the subjects at university that do not require you to study particular A levels.
PATHWAYS...
Engineering Whether mechanical, chemical, civil or electronic, you will
need to study A levels in Maths plus 2 more from Physics,
Further Maths, Chemistry or Product Design
Fancy a care
er in
...
Lawyer
There are no specific A levels you need to study to pursue
a Law degree but A levels in History, English Literature
and Modern Foreign Languages are very well regarded.
In fact, any facilitating subjects will help you onto a Law
Doctor
You will need at least 5 GCSEs at grades 8 or 9 including
English, Maths and Science. You will also need 3 A levels
grades AAA in Chemistry plus Biology, Physics or Maths
and then another subject.
Vet You will need 3 A levels grades AAA in Biology plus
Chemistry or Physics or Maths. Sometimes, universities
will accept other facilitating subjects.
Dentists You will need 3 A levels at AAA in Biology, Chemistry plus
another academic A level.
Oxbridge
Candidates
You will need to be right at the top of your game, as entry
to Oxford and Cambridge universities is exceptionally
competitive! You will need 3 A levels at A* and A grades
in 3 facilitating subjects. For Oxbridge entrants,
competence is no substitute for excellence!
If you’re looking for INSPIRATION, here’s what some of our students have done before
Catriona
Rogers
A level Maths, Physics, Product Design
Studying BSc. In Product Design and Manufacture
including an Industrial Year at The University of
Nottingham
Alice
Dixon
A level English Literature, French, Drama & Theatre
Studies
Studied BA Combined Honours in French and Spanish
at The University of Manchester
Now working in International Digital Marketing
Matthew
Raymond
A level Maths, Further Maths, French, Physics
Studied BSc in Maths with French at Warwick
University
Now working as an Actuary in The City
Joshua
Rogers
A level English Literature, Drama & Theatre Studies,
French
Studying BA Hons in Professional Acting at LAMDA
Jamie
Bowden
A level Biology, Chemistry, Maths
Studied Optometry at Cardiff University
Now working as an Optician in SpecSavers
s what some of our students have done before…
A level Biology, Chemistry, Maths
Studied Medicine at Birmingham University
Now a Junior Doctor
Callum
Blunt
A level Biology, Chemistry, Maths
Studying Veterinary Science at The University of
Nottingham
Ellie
Gowshall
A level English Literature, History, German
Studied English at Oxford University
Emma
Woodcock
A level Maths, Further Maths, Physics, French
Studied Maths at Oxford University, now completing a
PhD at Oxford
Sebastian
Pease
A level Maths, Further Maths, Economics, Chemistry
Studying Economics and Management at Oxford
University.
Callum
Bampton
OCTOBER
Applications are
open from the
11th October
as soon as our
Open Evening has
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER
Applications for Ridgeway students
close on 9th November. All
other applications welcomed by 14th
December
DECEMBER
You will be
invited to a
Sixth Form
Interview
JANUARY/
FEBRUARY
R6 drop ins and
subject specific
sessions.
MAY/JUNE
You will be
taking your
GCSE exams
now
JUNE
‘R6 Ready’
25th June
First day of Sixth
Form for new
students
AUGUST
22nd August
GCSE Results day
AUGUST
22nd August
Sixth Form
enrolment day
ADMISSION...
Please apply to the Sixth Form by filling in the application form included in your information pack or on our website at www.ridgewayschool.com. (http://www.ridgewayschool.com/about-us/prospectus-sixth-form/). The form can be posted or emailed directly to Mrs H Dixon - [email protected].
After you apply, you will be invited to an informal interview to talk about your subject choices and why you want to join The Ridgeway Sixth Form College.
Students are required to have at least grade 5 in 4 or more subjects. Students should additionally achieve the required entry grade for each subject they wish to study. All entries to courses are at the discretion of the R6 leaders.
The table below explains how many grades you need in order to take varying amounts of subjects. We recommend students choose 3 ‘A’ Levels or equivalent (or 4 if including Further Maths). This course of study may then be enhanced by either the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) or Core Maths Qualification.
Requirements To Study This can lead to
6 + Grades 5-9 at GCSE 3 A levels/BTEC equivalent at
the end of Year 13 and EPQ
University (including
Oxbridge & Russell Group) or
employment
5 + Grades 5-9 at GCSE (or
equivalent
3 A levels/BTEC and EPQ or
Core Maths
University (including
Oxbridge & Russell Group) or
employment
4 + Grades 5-9 at GCSE (or
equivalent) in at least 5
different subjects
3 subjects, all of which
will be taken as A levels/BTEC
equivalent at the end
of Year 13
University or employment
All students in our Sixth Form receive individual advice and guidance as they prepare to apply to university or for a job.
R6 Aspire focusses on those who wish to gain a place at a top university, or pursue a career in medicine, dentistry or veterinary medicine, or simply to have the best chance of getting a good job. R6 Aspire will support you throughout your time in Sixth Form so that you will develop all the skills you need to make a successful application. You will hone your study skills; become an efficient independent learner, learn how to reflect on what you do and discover ways to improve. You will build a portfolio that evidences your personal qualities and interests. You will be entering a highly competitive world. Universities and employers look for people who stand out from the crowd and so you will learn how best to exhibit your skills, your energy, your ability to work as part of a team and how you lead. You will be fully supported and guided through the university application process. You will know and understand what it is the top universities are looking for and which courses are relevant for you. You will also be supported through any entrance exams
required for medicine and related degrees as well as being informed about the particular admissions process for Oxbridge. To get ahead you need to stay ahead – R6 Aspire will help you do just that! At R6 aspirations become reality.
ASPIRE...
ENVIRONMENT... A friendly, supportive and productive environment enables our Sixth Formers to thrive.
Our dedicated Sixth Form common room was decorated by our students and designed with them in mind.
There are comfy chairs and plenty of space for working and relaxing. We are also proud of our very own R6 Café which sells pizzas, deli style sandwiches, paninis and more. Freshly ground coffee, hot chocolate and cold drinks are available too.
Our Sixth Form facilities support your learning, with a modern and interactive approach to teaching and working. We have both silent and quiet Sixth Form study areas with computers and working space, as well as a Sixth Form resource area to encourage independent study.
We also provide…
a dedicated mentoring programme with weekly group meetings and individual tutorials to check progress and offer support.
our R6 Student Advisor who is available for help, support and guidance on a range of issues.
SOCIAL... Sixth Form life is about more than just studying. We encourage our students to take up opportunities and take on responsibilities that will develop them into well-rounded and accomplished individuals.
Get involved! Give something back and feel proud of who you are and what you do. Opportunities include:
Academic enrichment qualifications such as the AQA Extended Project
Involvement with the lower school; helping with lessons, organising events, mentoring etc.
Volunteering in your community: a volunteering noticeboard makes finding opportunities easier
Join a wide range of extra-curricular activities to build up your experiences and have some fun!
Comic Relief and sporting events
Sixth Form Committees and Leadership roles
International Work Experience
Camps International
Sixth Formers get highly discounted access to The Ridgeway Leisure Centre, including the fitness suite and swimming pool.
With active sporting teams, inter-school matches and a dynamic Sports Committee, there is plenty for the energetic to get involved with at The Ridgeway Sixth Form College:
Charity relay marathon along The Ridgeway
Year 12 v Year 13 team matches in rugby, football and netball
Sport and Comic Relief events
A wide variety of competitive and non-competitive teams
Higher Sports Leadership Award
Our friendly Sixth Form Social Committee plan and run events such as:
Winter Ball
BBQ mixer
Fashion show
Dress-up days
Live music events
Year 13 Leavers’ Ball
Also look out for:
Gym and Dance Display
School Musical Productions
Bring your subjects to life with a variety of fun and informative trips and events for all Sixth Formers, including:
Design and Technology trip to Florence
Biology residential field trip to Swanage and Studland Bay
Italian, Swedish, French and German exchanges
University visits
UCAS convention
National debating competitions
Geography field trips
Art exhibition
Gym and Dance Display
Skiing trip
Philosophy and Ethics trip
History trip to Dublin
DISCOVERY...
COURSES... COURSE SUBJECT LEADER
COURSE SUBJECT LEADER
Art (Fine Art) Mrs H Watts History Mr J Bister
Art/Textile Design Mrs P Lane IT Extended Certificate Mr G Mitchell
BTEC Performing Arts Mrs S Hodge Languages for Business Mr J Robertson
Biology Mrs L McMeeking Law Mr A Northcott
Business Studies Mrs R Lamb Philosophy & Ethics Mrs B Lee
Applied General Business
Level 3 Mrs R Lamb Photography Mr D Tivernan
Children’s Learning
& Development Miss L Hodge Physical Education Mr M McMeeking
Chemistry Mrs C Hockin Physics Mr P Kench
Computer Science Mr G Mitchell Politics Miss H Buttery
Drama Mrs S Hodge Product Design Miss L Hodge
Duke of Edinburgh Mr E Sims Psychology Mrs R Harper
Economics Mrs R Lamb Public Services Mrs H Stubbs
English Literature Mr M Webber Maths Mrs N Wicks
English Lang & Lit Mr M Webber Music Mrs R Jankinson
Extended Project Mr J Bister BTEC L3 Applied Science Miss M Tuck
French Mr J Robertson BTEC L3 National Diploma
in Applied Science Miss M Tuck
Food, Science & Nutrition Mrs K Stamp Sociology Mr M Webber
Geography Miss A Curtis-Slater Spanish Miss I Munoz
German Mr J Robertson Sport (Diploma) Mr M McMeeking
Graphic Communication Mrs P Lane L3 Applied Diploma in
Tourism Miss A Curtis-Slater
www.ridgewayschool.com The Ridgeway School & Sixth Form College Inverary Road, Wroughton, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN4 9DJ, Tel: 01793 846100
Principal: James Povoas
Proud to be part of The White Horse Federation Multi-Academy Trust
10 reasons to join R6!
1. Great results at 24% A*-A grades.
45% A*-B grades
2. Personalised pastoral support
3. High quality teaching and academic
support
4. Highly experienced in university
applications – on average 68% of our
students go on to higher education
(Swindon 37%, nationally 51%))
5. A variety of study areas suitable for all
6. Our very own R6 Café
7. Small class sizes
8. Many employment and work
experience opportunities
9. A strong community feel with a
dedicated 6th Form social space