Sixth Form

Sixth Form

“At Leicester High School you are someone special – not just one of a crowd.”

The two years spent in the Sixth Form at Leicester High provide the opportunity for intellectual and social development. We offer a choice of 22 subjects at AS Level and students are expected to choose four and then take three through to A2 Level.

Entry to the Sixth Form depends on six GCSE passes at Grade B or above in academically rigorous and relevant subjects. It is expected that these will include English and Mathematics. A satisfactory report from your current school will also be required.

The timetable is tailored to meet individual requirements as far as availability of staff, particular choices and demands allow.

Most of our Sixth Formers apply for admission to universities and colleges of Higher Education and full support is given for this process. The school successfully prepares candidates for Oxbridge entry every year. Education in the true sense means more than simple cramming for examinations, and we hope to be able to provide this experience in our Sixth Form.

Students are given the opportunity to travel widely and take part in expeditions abroad, attend conferences, the theatre and participate in study days, field courses and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, as well as develop their sporting interests. We pride ourselves on the confidence, poise and intellectual ability of our students.

Prospective students may visit school at any time and are welcome at the annual Open Day held in early October and the Information Evening in November. Details of these dates, and of our courses, are available from the Head of Sixth Form.

Bursaries are available for those wishing to join our Sixth Form. They are open both to current pupils and girls from other schools. For further information, visit the How to Join page, or contact the school’s Bursar.

Careers

A great deal of assistance and advice are given to all our students concerning their applications for Higher Education places. Competition is now very keen, so every effort is made to help students make the right decision. Students are encouraged to go to Open Days at universities and to attend taster courses during the Year 12. A biennial careers convention is held in-house. All students are enrolled as members of ISCO and, therefore, take advantage of work experience courses, psychometric testing and the Course Finder Computer Aided Scheme which help in course selection at 18+. In addition, students follow the Centigrade programme to assist course and university choice. Suitable students are prepared for Oxford and Cambridge entrance procedures. A programme of Careers talks takes place throughout the year and the internet is used as a valuable database. Training is also given in interview techniques, with individual interviews for Oxbridge candidates and potential medics. In addition, opportunities for leadership abound.

Work Experience

A week’s work experience or work-shadowing takes place for each student at the end of Year 12. This is invaluable in helping her make the right career choice. Students are encouraged to select a placement and make the necessary application. On completion, a report is compiled of their experience.  A wide range of placements has been offered over the years covering hospital work, banking, firms of accountancy, law, engineering, advertising and design consultancy and many more.

Physical Activity

All students in the Sixth Form are expected to participate in some form of physical activity and the options may include netball, self-defence, badminton, tennis, aerobics, volleyball and swimming. At present, we are also able to offer students opportunities to attend a Fitness Gym off-site and have golf and rock climbing lessons.  Many Sixth Formers continue to represent the school in teams.

Voluntary Service

Students in Year 12 are encouraged to become involved in some form of voluntary service in the community outside school.  Many have participated in the scheme and found it an invaluable experience working with the elderly, the young or the handicapped.

Duke of Edinburgh Award

Sixth Form students are able to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme.  It is well supported here at bronze, silver and gold level.

Assisting with the Junior Students

For short periods each week a few students may help with the younger children in the Junior Department, in particular with the After-School Care Scheme. This is encouraged for those who are considering a career in teaching or in working with children generally. There are also opportunities for girls to mentor younger pupils during the lunch hour, supporting their learning in subjects such as English and Mathematics.

Extra Curricular Activities

During the two years spent in the Sixth Form, students are given the opportunity to travel abroad, to attend Sixth Form conferences, and to participate in study days and field courses around the country. Recent excursions have included an expedition to Tanzania, skiing in France, trips to Greece and Spain, visits to the Battlefields and to ‘Your Future in Europe’ Conference in Paris. There are also plenty of opportunities for those students who enjoy music and drama to join the school’s Senior choir, Chamber choir, Senior orchestra, Ensemble groups, as well as participate in the annual school productions. 

Dress Code

The Sixth Form students are not required to wear school uniform, but we do ask that they dress smartly, neatly and in a business-like manner. It is of the utmost importance that the students leave school able to present themselves to the outside world with confidence, poise and expertise in their chosen career or field of further study.