Sixth Form
Study options
The Sixth Form comprises the lower sixth and upper sixth, with approximately 100 pupils in each. Sixth Form pupils generally study four subjects in their first year (AS level) and drop to three subjects in their second year (A2 level). The majority of Sixth Form pupils are approaching their seventeenth year when they join in the Autumn term - the main point of entry. A few places are reserved for pupils at schools outside of the UK, whose qualifying exams take place in November and who join the school in the Lent Term (January) if their academic record meets the school’s requirements.
A level subjects (AS/A2) offered:
Art & Design, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Design Technology, Economics, English Literature, French, Further Maths, German, Geography, Greek, History, Information Technology, Latin, Maths, Music, Music Technology, Physical Education, Physics, Psychology, Spanish, Theatre Studies, Theology.
Sixth Form life
Life in the Sixth Form is busy, with the added independence and freedom befitting individuals on the cusp of adulthood.
Important issues first: Sixth Formers have a flexible dress code! They can make individual choices about their attire rather than feel restricted by school uniform. Secondly, Sixth Formers take on greater responsibility, both in their own House and in the School, working alongside teachers and fellow pupils to ensure the smooth running of the school day.
Thirdly and most importantly, The Leys is an excellent springboard for sampling the independence of future university life - under their Tutors' watchful eye, Sixth Formers manage their own study and timetable as well as live on what is in essence, a ‘miniature’ university campus, with faculties and Houses evenly distributed.
After the first year and AS exams, the Sixth Form focus falls upon university applications. Several talks are arranged with careers advisors, admissions tutors and professionals and there are also opportunities for work placements in relevant organisations and residential visits (where applicable) to help Sixth Formers develop the qualities essential for successful Oxbridge applications.
Sixth Formers have their very own Sixth Form Centre on campus where they can relax and meet with people from other Houses before lock-up at 10:15pm. They organise a mixed programme of events, including movies, quiz and theme nights, and manage and run their own refreshments.
Overall, Sixth Formers at The Leys have greater freedom. They can visit Cambridge on agreed Saturday afternoons or evenings, perhaps to go punting, shopping or to see a show, as long as they sign out and in at preset times. The Leys is a good introduction to their adulthood - they have the freedom to develop at their own pace yet the peace of mind to know they are in a safe and secure environment.