In ND6, we understand the importance of committing time to post-18 options throughout the Sixth Form stage, ensuring the journey is successful for each and every student.
Help is always on hand
The Sixth Form benefits from having its own Head of Sixth Form and Higher Education advisor, Mrs Sian Marker, whom the girls can contact directly whenever they have a query or need help. The Head of Sixth Form, Head of Year (ND6), Head of Careers and the tutor team all support the girls to fulfil their higher education aspirations.
Sessions on how to complete applications happen throughout Year 12 in PILLARS, in addition to a two day Higher Education Event for students and an evening for parents to attend in the summer of Year 12. The Sixth Form also benefit from our Head of Careers, who supports the students with work experience, interview preparation and upcoming opportunities. Our bi-annual careers fair allows for great networking and the ability to speak to a number of people from a range of professions on a one to one basis.
Specialist Advice,
One-to-one assistance
Throughout the year, Sixth Form students have regular one-to-one interviews with the Head of Careers, Head of Sixth Form and their tutors to discuss possible careers and courses. Girls have the opportunity to complete career profiling assessments to support a personalised action plan for suitable careers and higher education choices.
In addition to our excellent internal support, we offer a range of visits to local universities such as attending the University Convention, currently held at Surrey University, at which over one hundred universities are represented.
In keeping with our commitment to provide students with outstanding careers guidance and tailored support when choosing their next step after school, we also use Unifrog; an award-winning, online careers platform.
Supporting students
every step of the way
The Unifrog platform is designed to support learners in making the most informed decisions about their futures and has a range of tools that are suitable for all year groups. Each student has their own personal account that provides a wide range of information related to their interests and aspirations. Students are given time to explore the platform independently, in addition to during general studies sessions. Key features of the platform include:
- Exploring Pathways – personality quizzes, career and subject profiles, MOOCs and webinars
- Recording – self-reflection about extracurricular activities and key employability skills
- Opportunities – search tools showing live vacancies/courses/placements for apprenticeships, universities (in the UK and abroad), FE, virtual work experience and much more
- Applications – tools to help students build applications for a range of pathways (e.g., CVs, Personal Statements, Common App Essays)
Apprenticeships
We also provide support for students looking at other further education routes such as apprenticeships. Students can apply for Higher Apprenticeships and Degree Apprenticeships; both can be equivalent to an undergraduate degree.
There are currently many apprenticeships for a variety of job roles from engineering to working in HR at the Treasury and we can provide support every step of the way. Both UCAS and the government provide a wealth of helpful information including testimonials from A Level students who have gone on to complete an apprenticeship rather than go to university. Students also have the opportunity to attend the National Apprenticeship Show, allowing an excellent opportunity to speak to employers and learn more about the application process.
We will support girls throughout the process and help them chose an appropriate apprenticeship option. As each application is different, we will guide them through from CV writing to the interview stage.
Oxbridge candidates, Medics & Vets
are well-supported too
For those girls who show an aptitude for and interest in applying for Oxford or Cambridge Universities or for studying medicine or veterinary science, we provide specialised personalised support.
We have a bespoke programme that encourages students to not only engage in the supra-curriculum, but highlights the importance of critical thinking to fully prepare students for both interviews and admission tests.
Guest speakers and work experience guidance are embedded within the programme together with 1:1 specialist subject support. Furthermore, time is spent with the students exploring the different colleges and course options, to ensure students are fully prepared for the vigorous selection process.
The UniFrog Platform which we subscribe to in ND6, has a specialised Oxbridge tool which can help both students and parents familiarise themselves with the process and preparation.
