Life at Castle Sixth Form
A place to study and belong
Sixth Form gives you more independence, but you will remain part of a supportive school community. Our Post-16 Centre has spaces for focused individual work, quiet study, working with others and spending time with friends. Students who join us from another school are welcomed as full members of that community from the start.
Your week includes subject lessons, daily tutor time, personal development, independent study and enrichment. Each part matters. Tutors help you stay organised, reflect on your progress and prepare for your next steps. Subject teachers guide you through the greater depth and challenge of Level 3 study.
Learning independently
Periods without a taught lesson are an important part of your full-time study programme. You will use them to complete homework, practise what you have learned, read more widely, prepare for assessments and act on feedback. If you find the transition from GCSE difficult, your tutor, teachers and the Post-16 team can help you build effective study habits.
We are proud of the support in place for independent study, as we know that it can make the difference to the grades that students achieve. We have a full program across all subjects that supports and guides students in planning their study periods.
Enrichment and leadership
Our Wednesday enrichment programme offers opportunities beyond your main subjects. Activities may include volunteering, sport, creative work, academic development, wellbeing and leadership. The available choices are shared with students each year.
Sixth Form students also contribute to the wider life of Castle, including supporting younger students and taking on positions of responsibility. These experiences help students develop confidence and skills they can carry into university, apprenticeships and employment.
We have a Post 16 Leadership team of students who contribute to and support the running of the Sixth Form, led by the head students. Their work has involved representing the Sixth Form, organising fun activities, prom committee and providing important student voice, shaping the direction of the Sixth Form.
