KS5
KS5: Y12 and Y13
In Manor College (the Academy’s Sixth form provision) the offer of subjects is still broad and balanced, to meet the varied needs of the students, but students’ options will be more specialised. There is a mixture of A Level and BTEC vocational subjects for students to choose from. Extensive guidance and support is offered to support students being able to access the routes they choose for their futures. The overall aim of the Sixth Form curriculum is to create informed, well-rounded citizens who can achieve high ambitions.
Manor College, like the rest of the Academy, is part of the Two Counties, Multi-Academy Trust, which supports the teaching and learning and gives students access to a wider choice of courses and combinations of subjects.
Students are guided towards choosing 3 A Level or BTEC subjects, which support their ambitions for either Higher Education or apprenticeships/employment. In exceptional circumstances, students may choose to do 4 subjects. The subjects currently offered are:
Manor College courses:
The following courses are available subject to student option numbers.
Art and Design
Biology
Business Studies
Chemistry
Drama and Theatre Studies
English Literature
English Language
French
Geography
History
ICT
Mathematics
Further Mathematics
Physical Education
Physics
Psychology
Sociology
Spanish
L3 BTEC Vocational Qualifications
Engineering
Health and Social Care
Forensic Investigation
Performing Arts
Sport
Other qualifications offered
As well as A Levels and BTEC subjects, students also have the opportunity to do the EPQ. This qualification supports independent study. It is highly valued by universities and it is taught to all students in Year 12. Students can also complete the Sports Leaders’ Award and do the Tes Tomorrow’s Teachers award, both guided by staff.
Support with Higher Education, Apprenticeships and Employment
Manor College students are supported throughout Years 12 and 13 with regard to their next steps and future ambitions. This support will come from the Head of Sixth Form, tutors, a Careers Officer who is in the Manor College base for three days per week, and a number of outside providers. Whether they are aiming for an apprenticeship or gaining a place at a Russell Group University, they are fully supported in their ambitions.
Students who wish to proceed to Higher Education are guided through the UCAS procedure. There are presentations from UCAS, and universities themselves, on the benefits of Higher Education, how to make the most of open days and how to write a good personal statement. There is a trip to a local university, with a full programme of presentations, tours and opportunities to meet staff and students, and the opportunity to attend a UCAS fair. In Year 13 there are presentations for students and parents on student finance and interview techniques for competitive universities and courses such as courses at Oxbridge and medicine. The process of completing the UCAS application form is fully supported by tutors and the Head of Sixth Form.
For students who wish to move on to employment after Sixth Form, there is an equal level of support. All students have a careers interview with the Careers Officer and take part in a meaningful work-experience placement in Year 12. There is a presentation titled “not going to university” which outlines other options available such as Degree Level Apprenticeships. Workshops and support packs are provided, as well as opportunities to attend National Careers Week and National Apprenticeship Week events. There are also several visits from local employers including prestigious companies such as Rolls Royce.
Enrichment opportunities
Manor College provides a diverse range of educational and social opportunities as well as opportunities to take on positions of responsibility.
There are numerous subject-based trips as well as the residential trips to Hagg Farm outdoor pursuits centre, an enterprise trip to Slovakia and the opportunity for an exchange with a partner school in Spain. Students have the opportunity to volunteer support in lessons, with reading sessions at primary feeder schools and with sporting activities, such as the Dodgeball Club. All Sixth Form students receive free membership of the MSRC gym and are encouraged to use this to promote a healthy body and healthy mind ethos. There are workshops on healthy living, positive mental health, employability skills and surviving on a student budget, delivered through PSHE and drop down days. Students can put their names forward for the positions of Head/Deputy-Head Boy and Girl, who, among other responsibilities, organise social events for the whole Sixth Form.
