Welcome to Sixth Form

At Caroline Chisholm School Sixth Form, we provide a dynamic and supportive environment where students can flourish academically and personally as they prepare for life beyond school. Our Sixth Form experience offers a carefully balanced programme of timetabled lessons, independent study, enrichment opportunities and wider experiences, alongside dedicated time for reflection and wellbeing.

Students benefit from exceptional facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories and specialist teaching spaces such as drama and music studios, technology workshops and visual arts rooms. Our Sixth Form centre also provides a silent study area, collaborative break-out spaces and a café area, complete with a Costa machine for students to enjoy throughout the school day. Each student also has access to a personal locker with charging facilities, supporting the use of digital devices in school.

Curriculum Overview

Our curriculum is designed to develop independent, reflective and forward-thinking learners. Guided by our values of Kindness, Curiosity and Integrity, and our ethos of “Globally Minded • Future Ready”, we ensure that students are equipped with the knowledge, skills and experiences needed to succeed in their chosen pathways.

Whether progressing to higher education, apprenticeships or employment, students are supported to make informed decisions about their future. In Year 12, all students attend a University and Apprenticeship Fair, and our experienced Sixth Form team provides comprehensive guidance through the UCAS application process and beyond.

Throughout their time in Sixth Form, students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning, think critically and engage deeply with their subjects. Our curriculum is further enriched through a range of educational visits and international opportunities, with previous trips including destinations such as Paris, Germany, Poland and Uganda, helping students to broaden their perspectives and deepen their understanding beyond the classroom.

Enrichment and Personal Development

As part of our commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals who are ready to thrive in the real world, starting in September 2026, our Sixth Form students will benefit from a weekly Enrichment Afternoon, which is dedicated to developing the skills and knowledge students need for adult life.

During this time, students participate in “Meet the Expert” sessions, where professionals from a wide range of industries share valuable insights into career pathways. In addition, students can take part in focused programmes designed to build essential life skills, including:

• Financial literacy (e.g. managing money)
• Independent living (e.g. cooking on a budget)
• Understanding key life concepts (e.g. mortgages and personal finance)

These experiences support students in becoming thoughtful, informed individuals who are well prepared for the responsibilities and opportunities of the future.

Student Leadership

Student leadership is a proud and integral part of Sixth Form life at Caroline Chisholm School. Our Head Students play a vital role in shaping the student experience and driving positive change across the school community.

The selection process is designed to identify students who demonstrate vision, initiative and a strong commitment to our values. Applicants present their ideas to their peers, sharing how they would enhance the Sixth Form experience and strengthen the school community. Shortlisted candidates then take part in a formal interview process, allowing them to further demonstrate their leadership qualities.

Head Students begin their role in the spring term of Year 12 and continue until the Easter term of Year 13, contributing meaningfully to school life before focusing on their final examinations.

Preparing for the Future

Our aim is to ensure that every student leaves our Sixth Form as a well-rounded young adult, ready to take their next steps with purpose and direction. Through a curriculum that combines academic rigour with personal development, we empower students to embrace opportunities, think independently and act with integrity.

By the time they leave us, our students are not only well prepared for their chosen pathways, but also ready to make a positive contribution to their communities and the wider world.