Cotswold School Sixth Form die cut cover and inside pages for web

Welcome to
The Sixth Form
I am delighted to introduce you to The Sixth Form at The Cotswold School – a vibrant and successful
learning environment with over 250 students who join us from within The Cotswold School and from
schools across the country and abroad.
Our students enjoy excellent teaching across a broad curriculum of 30 subject areas. Every year,
examination results achieved by our students are outstanding, placing The Cotswold School amongst
the top state comprehensive schools in the country. Whatever their starting point on their Sixth Form
journey, from straight A*s to Bs and Cs at GCSE, students make exceptional progress over their two
years here.
The Cotswold School is known for highly successful preparation for higher education and careers. Our
students regularly set their sights on and win places at the UK’s most prestigious universities, on highly
sought-after apprenticeship programmes and in a range of exciting careers.
Cotswold Sixth Formers benefit from many new facilities that have been built in recent years: the Sports
Hall, the new Languages, Mathematics and Geography blocks, and refurbished Science labs. Our
current Sixth Form Centre provides a dedicated study room with 45 networked PCs and a popular
common room. Plans are at an advanced stage to build an enhanced Sixth Form Centre, which will
almost double the study and social space. We are very excited that this new facility is projected to open
in Autumn 2017.
While our Sixth Formers are closely monitored and provided with valuable individual support, they are
encouraged to grow in maturity, and to develop independence, ambition and resilience. The Sixth Form
has its own distinctive atmosphere. As one student put it: ‘There is a sense of freedom in The Sixth Form
.... Here, you are given the tools and all the help and support you need, then given the independence to get
on with your work.’
A wide range of extra-curricular opportunities provide excellent personal development and make The
Sixth Form experience enormously enjoyable. From Duke of Edinburgh Awards to school productions;
from team sports and sport leadership to peer counselling; from fashion shows to social events; and
travel opportunities around the country and the globe, life in The Sixth Form at The Cotswold School
is never dull!
Mr Phil White
Head of Sixth Form and Deputy Principal

Mr Phil White
Deputy Principal, Head of Sixth Form,
Teacher of Geography
Miss Angela Rodrigues
Deputy Head of Sixth Form,
Head of Year 13, Teacher of English
Mr White joined The Cotswold School in 2012,
having spent five successful years as a Head
of Sixth Form in south London.
A great believer in the amazing potential
of all students at The Cotswold School, Mr
White has led a number of developments to
the Sixth Form curriculum, the provision of
wider educational opportunities and student
support in recent years. He is currently taking
a lead role in planning our move to a brand
new Sixth Form building, which will provide
our students with exceptional facilities and
resources.
Mr White is delighted that the quality of
teaching, learning and pastoral support in
the Sixth Form continues to go from strength
to strength. This has enabled our students to
achieve impressive examination results and
be ready to embark upon an exciting range of
university courses and careers.
A teacher and leader at The Cotswold School
since 1999, Miss Rodrigues says that one of
her greatest pleasures is being a member
of the school’s exceptional Sixth Form
community.
With a wealth of experience in all aspects
of Sixth Form leadership, Miss Rodrigues
currently takes a leading role in our Higher
Education and Careers programme and
oversees the Extended Project Qualification.
She supports students in the crucial final
year of their Sixth Form studies and has
been instrumental in ensuring that all
students achieve excellent examination
results and graduate from the school having
developed a broad range of personal and
academic skills.
Mr Mike Sweetlove
Deputy Head of Sixth Form, Head of
Year 12, Teacher of Economics
Mrs Jane Tanner
Sixth Form Administrator
Mr Sweetlove has been at The Cotswold
School for a number of years as a teacher
of Mathematics and Economics. Now in
his fourth year as Head of Year 12, Mr
Sweetlove plays a key role in ensuring that
all students have a smooth induction to
their Sixth Form life and make excellent
progress in the first year of their post-16
courses.
Students are appreciative of Mr
Sweetlove’s approachable leadership
style. As Mr Sweetlove says: ‘the
relationships between students and staff
are central to the success of our Sixth
Form. These relationships are built on
foundations of communication: listening
to and advising students, providing
encouragement and support and sharing
Jane is every Sixth Former’s (and parent’s)
first port of call.
Providing timely support to the whole Sixth
Form community, Jane is a mine of information
on a wide range of matters, from post-16
transport to attendance, from school trips to
financial support, to health and personal wellbeing.
As the hub of Sixth Form communication,
Jane is an integral part of what makes The
Cotswold School Sixth Form so successful.
email:
sixthform@thecotswoldschool.co.uk
their individual successes.’ 1

Post-16 Curriculum
1. The Core Curriculum:
Major changes to the A Level examination system were phased in nationally over 2015 and 2016. As these changes have become
increasingly embedded, the options system is now more straightforward for students starting their Sixth Form studies in September
2017. All AS/A Levels will be linear qualifications. This means that the AS examination results will not count towards the final A Level
qualifications, and the retaking of individual modules is not permitted. A Level examinations will test students on the knowledge,
understanding and skills they will have gained over their two years of study.
The majority of students at The Cotswold School will take four AS Level (Advanced Subsidiary) subjects in Year 12 and then concentrate
on three A Level subjects in Year 13. We also offer Level 3 vocational courses in Health & Social Care and ICT. These qualifications
are at the same standard as A Levels and include both examinations and coursework assessments. For Health & Social Care we are
offering the Diploma (the equivalent of taking two A Levels over two years) and for ICT we are offering the Introductory Diploma (the
equivalent of taking one A Level over two years). The table below lists the subjects that we plan to offer for September 2017. All of
these qualifications are at AS/A Level, unless otherwise stated.
Art & Design: Fine Art
Art & Design: Textiles
Biology
Business
Chemistry
Computer Science
Design & Technology: Product Design
Drama and Theatre
Economics
English Language
English Literature
French
Geography
German
Health & Social Care (Level 3 Diploma)
History
ICT (Level 3 Introductory Diploma)
Mathematics
Further Mathematics
Music
Physical Education
Physics
Psychology
Religious Studies
Sociology
Spanish
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If there is sufficient demand and we have appropriate staffing, we may add other options to our curriculum. Although unlikely, we
may withdraw an option if the number of students opting for a subject is very low.
All Year 12 students will have internal mock examinations in the Spring Term, and will take their real AS Level examinations in May/
June. Year 12 students will be required to achieve a minimum of a grade D at AS Level in order to continue that subject at A Level
in Year 13.
Students with lower than a grade 4 in GCSE Mathematics and English Language and at least three other GCSEs at grade C may take
a one-year Level 2 course in Business. This qualification is equivalent to two GCSEs at Grade C (Pass), Grade B (Merit) or Grade A
(Distinction). In addition, students on this course will undertake regular work experience.
Students who have yet to obtain a grade 4 or above in GCSE Mathematics and/or English Language must attend lessons in these
subjects to enable them to improve their grades in these GCSEs, as these are essential qualifications for many careers and Further
Education courses.
Choosing core post-16 courses is an important decision which needs very careful thought. All Year 11 students will have a meeting
with a senior teacher who will provide support and guidance. Plans can also be discussed with our independent Careers Advisor,
Year 11 form tutors and the Sixth Form leadership team. However, as a general guide we recommend that you consider the following:
Enjoyment – Are you genuinely interested in the subject? Does your interest already extend beyond the classroom? Do you enjoy
lessons in the subject at the moment?

Post-16 Curriculum
Ability – Are you good at the subject? Have you discussed your ability to cope with the subject at Level 3 (A Level or equivalent) with
your teacher? Are you prepared to work hard to ensure your success?
Suitability – Is a Level 3 in this subject going to provide you with the necessary qualifications to follow your chosen course in higher
education or pursue your chosen career?
It is usual to select those subjects which combine well together, such as Sciences or Arts, although there is now more scope for mixed
courses (e.g. two Humanities subjects, a Social Science and a Language)
2. Enrichment Curriculum:
Students may also supplement their core curriculum by taking up one or more options from our Enrichment Curriculum. For September
2017 this is likely to include:
Extended Project: This is the equivalent to half an A Level, at A Level (not AS Level) standard. Students plan, research for and
produce a project of their own choice, under the guidance and support of a project supervisor.
MOOCs and Future Learn courses: These are free online courses designed and delivered by universities.
Photography: For pure enjoyment and development of skills.
Modern Foreign Languages: There are various language options, according to demand:
Italian GCSE – this is a two year course taught twice a week after school. It leads to a full GCSE.
Russian GCSE – also a two year course taught twice a week after school. It leads to a full GCSE.
Individual Study – We can set students up to undertake independent study learning the basics of any language of their choice
through online courses available.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme: The Scheme is open to all Sixth Form students. Participants can enter at any level according
to their age. It offers the opportunity to work towards Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards. Participants are required to complete an
activity in each of 4 sections: Skill, Service, Physical Recreation and Expedition. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award encourages students
to become self-reliant whilst working co-operatively with a group.
Community Service: this can include volunteering for local charitable organisations, assisting in care facilities and local primary
schools.
3. Compulsory Curriculum:
All Sixth Form students participate in Physical Education (in which we have a range of sports options) and in our PSHE and Careers
Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) programmes. We have three PSHE days during the year while our CEIAG is
delivered during our ‘Futures Week’ (in the Summer term of Year 12), during daily morning tutorial sessions and at various special
events throughout the year. In addition, all Year 12 students are expected to source and undertake a week of professional work
shadowing in a workplace which relates to a career they are considering.
4. Extra-curricular Opportunities:
Sixth Form students are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the wide range of extra curricular opportunities available. Trips
and visits (e.g. New York; Berlin; Iceland; Modern Languages work experience/exchanges), clubs and societies, competitions and
lectures are all on offer. These vary slightly from year to year and are too numerous to list!
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Beth O’Brien
(Head Girl 2015-16)
A Level results: Biology A*, Mathematics A*,
Chemistry A, AS Level French A
Destination: Beth is studying Dentistry at The
University of Sheffield
“I had a great time in the Sixth Form at
The Cotswold School. It was an honour to
represent The Sunday Times’ ‘Comprehensive
School of the Year’ as Head Girl. When I’m a
dentist, pulling teeth, I will remember being
knee-deep in mud on the infamous Sixth Form
Mud Run or trekking up Mount Kinabalu while
on the school’s expedition in Borneo!”
Adam Ellison
A Levels: History A*, English Literature A*,
Religious Studies A*, General Studies A*,
Extended Project A
Destination: Adam is reading History and
Politics at The University of Oxford
“I simply wouldn’t have been able to achieve
the results I did without the support from the
teachers, the school’s facilities and excellent
resources. I had two brilliant years in the
Sixth Form, and especially enjoyed being
part of the winning team in the regional
inter-schools debating competition! Now I’m
at Oxford I’m really grateful for the superb
interview preparation programme at The
Cotswold School.”
Joe Salf
(Head Boy 2016-17)
Rachel Davies
(Head Girl 2016-17)
AS Level results: Biology A, Chemistry A,
French A, Italian A, Mathematics A
Destination: Joe has applied to read
Medicine at a top Russell Group university
Joe recommends The Cotswold School
Sixth Form: “From the moment I walked
into The Cotswold School I knew it was
where I wanted to be. The atmosphere is
happy and supportive and the teachers
have a real passion for their subjects,
which is infectious. The support I have
been given towards my ambition to
become a doctor has been amazing.”
AS Level results: Spanish B, English Literature
B, History B, Geography B
Destination: Rachel is planning to take a gap
year working in Spain and then embark upon
a History degree before entering the legal
profession.
“The Cotswold Sixth Form has provided me with
an incredible range of opportunities – I have
travelled with the school to Madrid, Iceland
and Borneo, played in many competitive
sports teams and spoken at a mock United
Nations Climate Change Conference … and
much, much more! These have enabled me
to become a more self-confident and fully
rounded individual, giving me an excellent and
secure foundation for life after school.”
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Jossy Munro
A Level results: English Literature A*, French
A*, Spanish A*, Extended Project A*, AS Level
Chemistry A, AS Level Critical Thinking A
Destination: Jossy is reading French and
Spanish at The University of Oxford
“For me, The Cotswold School Sixth Form
came out as the best overall in terms of
friendliness, atmosphere and the excellent
teaching. Students put in the work and the
teachers are always there, willing to go over
topics and questions as often as you need,
always keen to extend your learning beyond
the syllabus too.”
Henry Yates
(Deputy Head Boy 2015-16)
A Level results: Mathematics A*, Biology A*,
Chemistry A*, Extended Project A*, Physics
A, AS Level Critical Thinking A, AS Level
Economics B
Destination: Henry is currently taking a gap
year working as a microbiology technician
at the Biotechnology Research Institute.
Following this, he aims to study for a degree
in Natural Sciences at The University of
Cambridge or Imperial College London.
“When I look back, I can’t believe how much
I managed to fit in to my school career –
leading the school’s 15-piece jazz band,
singing in the senior choir, completing silver
DofE, co-running the school council, taking
part in the Sixth Form’s Science Journal
Club ... and doing a bit of work too! I have
good memories of all these things and am
grateful for the opportunities the school
gave me.”
Finn Pett
Kyla Bentinck-Hinton
AS Level results: English Literature A,
Music C, Religious Studies C
Destination: Finn intends to read English
Literature at university
“I would recommend the Sixth Form here
to anyone. You can just be yourself and
enjoy your subjects and all the other
activities on offer. I’ve been involved with
many different music ensembles, from
choir to the jazz band to several school
productions, and I’ve had great support
from my tutor and teachers.”
AS Level results: Biology A, Chemistry A,
French A, Mathematics A, Spanish A
Destination: Kyla aims to study Biochemistry
at Oxford, Birmingham, Bristol, Southampton
or University College London.
Kyla chose The Cotswold School because “the
teaching is so good and the school’s record of
results clearly shows you can gain the highest
possible grades and go to a top university
from here. We are getting excellent university
preparation and guidance on personal
statements. It’s a friendly place with a great
atmosphere.”
5

Life in the
Sixth Form
Life in the Sixth Form at The Cotswold School provides you with the means
to develop as an individual. While you will be challenged and supported
academically, extra-curricular activities, Extended Project Qualifications,
taking on school leadership responsibilities and work experience will
broaden your perspective and enhance your personal statement for
universities and applications for apprenticeships or careers.
Being in the Sixth Form is a position of privilege from which you can
make a positive contribution to the life of the whole school. Positions
of responsibility available to Sixth Formers include coordinating roles
on various committees, house captaincies, student council, assistant
librarians, subject ambassadors, and the roles of Head Boy and Head
Girl and their deputies.
The extra-curricular opportunities on offer at The Cotswold School are
extraordinarily broad and everyone is encouraged to take part. Just
some of the options are: debating society, science journal club, history
and politics society, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme, theatre
productions, choir, music ensembles, fashion show, charitable events,
and any of the many sporting opportunities available.
Your performance in the Sixth Form will very much depend on your
physical wellbeing. Our commitment to your health begins with the
excellent range of fresh food produced daily on our school premises as
well as a session of compulsory PE each week. Sports teams and clubs
in school and locally are readily accessible, as are the fitness suite and
swimming pool, situated on our site.
Alongside University Open Days and Taster Courses, there is an extensive
array of national and international trips available: History trips to the
Somme, Berlin and Krakow; sports tours around the UK and abroad;
skiing in the Alps; Geography excursions in Wales and Iceland; cultural
tours to various European countries, China and the United States;
work experience abroad; and month long team expeditions to far-flung
destinations such as Zambia, Nicaragua and Borneo.
All these elements help to create a lively, stimulating Sixth Form in which
you can flourish academically and develop your individual talents and
potential.
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Preparation
for the Future
Post-16 subject choices play a vital part in making informed decisions
about post-18 study and careers.
With around 270 students, our Sixth Form is both small enough so that
we are able to get to know each student personally and large enough to
enable us to provide a broad-based curriculum that can be tailored to
each student’s strengths and aspirations.
Sound, impartial careers advice and university guidance are given in
both group and on a one-to-one basis to ensure that students are well
prepared for their life after The Cotswold School.
Careers days, and guest speakers – from universities, apprenticeship
programmes and inspirational employers – help our students make the
right choices.
We give guidance on how to get the most out of University Open Days
as well as giving support in completing university and apprenticeship
applications. Valuable mock interview sessions are provided with the
generous support of our local Rotary Club and a network of professional
contacts we have built up over the years.
We begin the UCAS process in Year 12, first with an information evening
for students and their parents/guardians. All Year 12 students are
encouraged to do something different, valuable and unique outside of
school and during their long holidays, which they can usefully refer to
when it comes to writing their Personal Statements.
In the second half of the summer term in Year 12, students are guided
through the UCAS system. The Sixth Form leadership team and the Sixth
Form tutors produce each student’s higher education or employment
reference.
Our programme for preparing our students has proven highly effective
over the years, with our students consistently setting their sights on, and
winning prestigious places in, higher education.
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How to Apply
Prospective students and parents are welcome to make an
appointment to visit the Sixth Form at The Cotswold School and
see it in action.
Although applications are accepted at any time of year, ideally they
should be submitted by early December, to minimise the chance
of option clashes.
All applicants to the school will be interviewed by a member of
the Sixth Form leadership team. The focus of this conversation
will be guidance on subject choices and finding out about the
applicant’s learning styles and wider interests. This will also be
a good opportunity for applicants and their parents/guardians to
ask any questions that they might have about the Sixth Form.
Application forms and further information can be obtained
from the Sixth Form Administrator, Mrs Jane Tanner via:
sixthform@thecotswoldschool.co.uk or from the Sixth Form
website: www.sixthform.cotswold.gloucs.sch.uk
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The Avenue | Bourton-on-the-Water | Cheltenham | Gloucestershire | GL54 2BD
Tel: 01451 820554 | Email: sixthform@thecotswoldschool.co.uk | www.sixthform.cotswold.gloucs.sch.uk