Sixth Form Prospectus - September 2013 entry - Poynton High School

LIfE IN POYNTON HIGH SCHOOL SIXTH fOrM
Students find that life in the Sixth Form is different from what they have experienced before. They have
chosen to join the Sixth Form because they want to gain further qualifications. They are anxious to
benefit from the experience of their teachers. This positive attitude creates a much more adult relationship
between students and teachers. It is a shared partnership which can be a very stimulating and
beneficial experience. As a school, we have high expectations of our Sixth Form students, requiring
them to act as role models within the school to younger students and also to approach their studies in
a professional and committed manner.
Sixth Form students at Poynton are given more adult responsibilities and privileges. They are expected
to take responsibility for their work and progress, with their teachers providing support and guidance.
In Year 12, about 20% of a student’s timetable will be allocated to Private Study time. These times are
to be used for self-directed private study, completing any homework tasks set but also using time to
review lesson notes and read or research around the topics being taught to broaden knowledge and
understanding. Proper use of this time will reduce the amount of home study required and the ability
to organise free time effectively is one of the most valuable skills that can be learned in the Sixth Form,
particularly for those students who intend to go into Higher Education. Extensive use of private study
time and home study time is essential for examination success at A Level.
Students are given freedom of dress within reasonable constraints which are negotiated between the
Sixth Form and Mr Dean.
Students who are given a place in the Sixth Form make a contract with the school which sets out all of
these responsibilities and also details what they can expect the Sixth Form to provide for them.
It is true to say that the Sixth Form at Poynton provides our students with an excellent preparation for
future study and employment and we are very proud of the contribution our Sixth Form students make
to the life of our school.
ENrICHMENT AND EXTrA CUrrICULAr OPPOrTUNITIES
We recognise that prospective employers and admissions tutors are increasingly looking at the whole
individual, not just their academic record. With this in mind, we offer a wide range of extra-curricular
activities for students to involve themselves in which will help with their own personal development,
gain them experience that will enhance a UCAS form or a CV and also contribute to the wider school
community in a positive way.
Poynton’s Sixth Form, although large enough to give an excellent range of curricular options, is small
enough for everyone to know everyone else and for friendships to be extensive. Students in our Sixth
Form mix well socially and involvement in extra-curricular activities helps to broaden a student’s social
range.
Some may choose to involve themselves in activities which involve working with younger students by
supporting lessons or through the 1-2-1 Counselling programme. Each year entrepreneurs come to-
gether to form a Young Enterprise Company, entering regional competitions and gaining recognition
from the Young Enterprise scheme for outstanding involvement. Students may choose to explore a
personal interest by involving themselves in the Eco Group, editing a Student Newspaper or running a
Debating Society.
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