1

I’m not sure which subjects to study – should I apply now, or can I wait until I have my exam results?

It is best to apply before the priority deadline, even if you are not sure of the courses you wish to take.  A big part of the interview process is discussing which courses will be best for you, so we can give you more information to help you make this decision.

2

How many subjects do I have to take?

Year 12 students usually study three 2-year courses in the sixth form, with the addition of a 1-year course in Year 12 (often an EPQ or Core Maths). We will discuss your individual programme of study with you at your interview.

3

I want to study a subject which I didn’t study at GCSE but the entry requirements say I need a grade 5 in the subject at GCSE – can I still take this subject?

If you did not take a subject at GCSE we will look at your overall GCSE grade profile and if you have gained grade 5 or above in similar subjects, we will take this into consideration.  For example, if you have not studied History at GCSE, but have gained grade 5 or above in your GCSE essay-based subjects we will consider this a good indicator that you will be able to succeed on the A level History course.

4

I don’t know if I will get the entry requirements – what should I do?

It might be a good idea to speak to your Head of Year 11 or Careers Adviser in the first instance as they will be able to advise you.

5

What do I do if I change my mind about which subjects to study?

If you would like to change your subject choices after your interview please email us: sixth@bingleygrammar.org

7

How many students are there in the Sixth Form?

There are currently 356 students in the Sixth Form

8

What help is available to make sure you’ve chosen the right course?

We discuss course choices at interview, and again at enrolment which takes place following exam results in August.

9

Is there any help when you apply to University through UCAS?

Yes!  We pride ourselves in supporting students through the whole process of making a university application.  This support begins early in Year 12 and includes help with researching options, writing an excellent Personal Statement, and making a first-class application.

10

If I need to attend an interview for a university place, will I be able to have a mock interview at school?

Yes!  We have a lot of experience with providing interview practice and encourage students to let us know as soon as they receive an interview date so that we can book them an individual session with the most appropriate staff.

11

Are there Parents’ Evenings and Reports for Sixth Form Students?

Parents/carers receive an assessment report twice a year, and Parents’ Evenings take place once a year – usually in December or January.

12

How much private study or homework will I need to do?

Most courses require at least 4 hours of private study in addition to lesson attendance.

13

How do I record an absence if I am not able to attend school?

If students are unable to attend due to illness this must be reported by a parent or carer, ideally using ClassCharts.  Students should strive to achieve 100% attendance, and holidays must not be taken during term time.

14

What is I have an appointment during the day?

Students should arrange routine appointments outside of the school day, and where this is not possible every effort should be made to ensure that lesson time is not missed.  Parents/carers should use ClassCharts to record any absence during the school day.

15

Will I need to do assessments?

Yes – assessments are designed to consolidate student learning and to prepare students for external examinations.  Assessments take place in November and February.  Most external examinations take place in May/June, and Year 12 students who do not take an external exam in the summer will take a third assessment in June.

16

Do parents still use ParentPay or can students use cash in the Sixth Form Bistro?

Students are unable to use cash in the Sixth Form Bistro, so parents will need to upload funds onto a ParentPay account.  There is an automatic maximum spending limit of £6.00 per day – please email alison.evans@bingleygrammar.org if you have any queries about ParentPay or would like to increase the daily spending limit.

17

Can I get a replacement lanyard?

Replacement lanyards and ID cards should be purchased via the school shop here.

18

Where can I find my ClassCharts Code?

Please email the relevant Year Group team and we will send you your code by email –

Year 12 - pastoral12@bingleygrammar.org

Year 13 - pastoral13@bingleygrammar.org

19

Is there a Sixth Form Dress Code?

Students should dress in a manner that is suitable for a working day at school, being sensitive to our 11-18 school community and setting a good example to younger students.  Appropriateness of clothing will be at the discretion of the Sixth Form Team. 

Students must wear their lanyard when on the school site; this is an essential safeguarding requirement.

20

Do Sixth Form Students do Work Experience?

Students are encouraged to undertake work experience either during the school holidays or during our designated work experience week which is in July of Year 12.

21

Do Sixth Form students still get Free School Meals or any help with equipment?

Students still receive FSM if they are eligible.  In addition, students can apply for the 16-19 Bursary to help with expenses related to attending school if their household income is less than £27,000.