Why Sixth Form at St Mary’s

Our SMS Ignite programme is completely unique to St Mary’s. The approach to Sixth Form splits this important two years into 6 pillars which give students the flexibility to make their Sixth Form their own, shaping their experience and making choices to ensure their journey supports their future aspirations. Our experienced and passionate Sixth Form Team is on hand to offer advice, guidance and support every step of the way.

Achieve

Choose from over 27 A level subjects and enjoy small class sizes and specialised teachers who are dedicated to challenging, stretching, and igniting inspiration. In the Sixth Form students will have the opportunity to delve deeply into the subjects they are passionate about and explore new areas of interest, fostering a sense of personal growth and discovery. We foster an environment that encourages students to step beyond their comfort zones promoting spirited debates and inquiries. Our tutor groups are small, usually 14 students, with the same tutor throughout both years, and average class size is 6 students.

Lead

Develop leadership skills ready to embrace life beyond St Mary’s. Every Sixth Former is given the opportunity to take on a leadership role within the school community and will have the chance to put themselves forward as a candidate for a range of Head Girl team roles and to take part in hustings, competing for the votes of pupils and staff. The nominated team take on roles such as speaking at events and leading assemblies, garnering pupil feedback, instigating initiatives and organising fundraising and networking event. Students could also apply for a position as a House Captain, play a major role in rallying their house for a range of fun, competitive events. Opportunities are also available to lead an aspect of school life through a role as a prefect. There are also plenty of further leadership opportunities from leading and organising weekly clubs for the younger pupils (including the Prep School), coaching in a particular sport and mentoring in a subject area.

Explore

St Mary’s Sixth Formers benefit from bespoke one–to–one support our dedicated Higher Education Advisor. We understand that every student is unique, with individual interests, strengths, and goals. Whether considering traditional university, art school, degree apprenticeship schemes, or other specialised further education, we have the expertise to offer tailored advice. Those considering applications to Oxbridge or applying to competitive courses such Dentistry, Medicine and Veterinary Science follow a unique and specialised pathway including interview coaching with subject specialists. Comprehensive support is given in crafting a compelling and unique personal statement including identifying what to include to ensure their application stands out against others.

Enhance

Embrace Opportunities beyond the Curriculum, including Model United Nations, Duke of Edinburgh, Senior Choir and Senior Chamber Choir. Take up the opportunity to lead a club or society for the younger pupils at St Mary’s such as Current Affairs club, the Art History Society or Film club. Coach a junior sports team or our young swimmers, or mentor a younger pupil in the academic subject in which you excel – the opportunities are endless. Our Sixth Formers are also able to make lifelong memories, whilst enhancing their A level learning by taking up a place on one of our many international trips and visits. Recent tours include the History trip to Washington DC and the History of Art trip to Florence and Rome.

Engage

Hear from a series of distinguished speakers across a range of disciplines in our Luminary Programme. Students will have the opportunity to listen to an expert in their field to raise their awareness on important aspects of the world around us such as sustainability, politics, world economies, gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights to name a few. Some speakers have inspired us with their unique career paths and experiences, whilst others have enlightened us on how manage our finances responsibly. This exciting programme leads to incredible moments where inspiration strikes unexpectedly, presenting students with new ideas that may lead girls somewhere that they never expected!

Extend

Challenge yourself by undertaking the Extended Project Qualification or a fourth A level in Further Mathematics to study competitive STEM courses at top-ranking universities. Fully supported in their academic ambitions to allow them reach beyond their goals, students extend their learning to new heights.