The Sixth Form

The vast majority of pupils proceed into the Sixth Form and thence to Higher Education. 'A' Level work introduces a greater degree of intellectual rigour and formal knowledge as well as the necessity for more private study and investigation. They are joined at this stage by girls and boys who transfer from other schools post-GCSE.

All students study four AS levels in the Lower Sixth, chosen from a range of over 20 subjects. In the Upper Sixth, students go on to take A2 courses in either three or four subjects. When choices are made, the School endeavours to accommodate all sensible combinations and thus there is no preconceived blocking system. Combinations across the Arts-Science divide are also encouraged.

From the Headmaster...

It is always gratifying as the A Level results are published not only to see many outstanding individual performances but also to note that the vast majority of our Sixth Form students achieve the grades they require for their first choice university. First-rate teaching in small groups combines with excellent facilities, to provide the right environment for success. At the same time, students learn to benefit from the independence which the Sixth Form offers and in the end the success is theirs.

As well as being the gateway to Higher Education, however, the Sixth Form at Birkenhead School is about providing opportunities for individual development in the widest sense. Leadership, teamwork, and personal initiative are actively encouraged as students assume their role as senior members of the School, with a responsibility for other members of the community and for the ethos of the School as a whole.

Outside the curriculum there are many opportunities for Sixth Formers to broaden their experience and prepare for life beyond: maybe through organising a House drama production or running a Young Enterprise company; by becoming a Prefect, being an NCO in the CCF, or taking a role on the Student Council; maybe through participation in team sport, music, the Senior Science Research group or the weekly Seminar Group. Entry into the Sixth Form is an exciting and stimulating stage in a young person’s life.

I hope in reading our Sixth Form Prospectus you will see just how many opportunities are available. The size of the Sixth Form means that each individual is nurtured and esteemed within our open and friendly community.