16+ Entry
The 16+ admissions process comprises of the following:
- Confidential school reference to include predicted GCSE grades
- Personal statement
- Interview (if invited following evaluation of the two elements above)
There are no entrance exams involved in our Sixth Form process. Our aim is to significantly reduce the stress traditionally associated with this application period, particularly when students are already busy preparing for their GCSE exams.
1. Confidential reference including predicted GCSE grades
Once a candidate has registered we will request a copy of the candidate’s most recent school report and a reference (from their current school) to include predicted GCSE grades.
In order to cope with the demands of an academically rigorous Sixth Form programme, students must have a sound base across all their GCSE or IGCSE subjects, and excel in those they wish to study at A Level.
As a minimum, students must achieve at least grade 7 (equivalent to A grade) in four separate subjects. In addition, all students must achieve a minimum grade 6 (equivalent to a high B grade) in Mathematics and English GCSE or IGCSE. Please also note that a minimum of grade 7 is required in those subjects, or closely related subjects, that students wish to study for A Level with the exception of Mathematics where students will require a minimum grade 8 at GCSE and Further Mathematics where students will require a minimum grade 9 at GCSE.
For subjects not taken at GCSE please see the table below:
| Ancient History & Civilisation, Religious Studies, Government & Politics | Grade 7 in an essay-based subject, preferably English Literature or History |
| Drama & Theatre Studies | Grade 7 in English Literature |
| Economics | Grade 7 in Mathematics |
| Physical Education | Grade 7 in Biology |
| History, Geography (if not taken at GCSE) | Grade 7 in an essay-based subject, preferably English Literature |
| Psychology | Grade 7 in English Literature and a science-based subject (or Mathematics) |
For candidate's wishing to study any of the following subjects at A Level there will be an additional submission required, details below:
| Art & Design | A digital folder of GCSE art work that demonstrates technical skill in various media and a clear indication of how the applicant researches and develops ideas. Sketchbook work and finished pieces should be included. Personal work, not related to GCSE, is also interesting for us to see. |
| Drama & Theatre | A 2-minute recording of a monologue of the candidate's choice (Shakespeare or Contemporary) |
| Music | A recording of the candidate performing (audio or video) or a recording of their GCSE composition coursework. |
2. Personal Statement
Candidates will then be asked to complete the personal statement, further instructions on this will be sent to candidates once registered.
The submission of a personal statement allows applicants to present a holistic view of themselves, highlighting their personal qualities, aspirations, and achievements beyond their academic performance. This approach not only provides a more comprehensive evaluation of a candidate’s potential but also emphasises the importance of character, motivation, and personal development in our selection process.
3. Interview
Those candidates that are successful in the first stage will be invited for an interview with a member of the Sixth Form team. By focusing the interview on applicants' future capabilities and aptitude rather than solely on their existing subject knowledge, we are able to gain deeper insights into their intellectual curiosity, critical thinking skills, and overall potential for growth.
Successful candidates will be offered a place conditional on specified grades at I/GCSE.
Key dates for 2024 entry
Frequently asked questions
For 16+ it is approximately 150 to 175 candidates for up to 50 places.
To apply, simply complete the online Registration Form and pay the £135 fee. The deadline to apply for Sixth Form 2024 is 9th October 2023. If you are applying for fee assistance and/or scholarships, you must also submit these separate applications by 9th October 2023. Personal statements must be submitted by 16th October 2023.
As a minimum, students must achieve at least grade 7 (equivalent to A grade) in four separate subjects. In addition, all students must achieve a minimum grade 6 (equivalent to a high B grade) in Mathematics and English GCSE or IGCSE. Please also note that a minimum of grade 7 is required in those subjects, or closely related subjects (please see table below), that students wish to study for A Level or Pre-U with the exception of Mathematics where students will require a minimum grade 8 at GCSE and Further Mathematics where students will require a minimum grade 9 at GCSE.
For subjects not taken at GCSE please see the table below:
| Subject at A Level | Related subject requirement |
| Ancient History & Civilisation, Religious Studies, Government & Politics | Grade 7 in an essay-based subject, preferably English Literature or History |
| Drama & Theatre Studies | Grade 7 in English Literature |
| Economics | Grade 7 in Mathematics |
| Physical Education | Grade 7 in Biology |
| History, Geography (if not taken at GCSE) | Grade 7 in an essay-based subject, preferably English Literature |
| Psychology | Grade 7 in English Literature and a science-based subject (or Mathematics) |
Candidates that are successful at the first stage (predicted GCSE grades, reference and personal statement) will be invited for interview.
On the 1st December 2023. Offers will be conditional on GCSEs and candidates will be required to call the admissions office on GCSE results day to confirm that they have met the minimum requirements set out in their offer letter.
You can find a copy of our Admissions Policy here.
Please email [email protected] should you require any further information.
