With around 400 students, Backwell Sixth Form is a consistently popular choice for both new and former Backwell students. A major reason for this is the attraction of a wide, varied curriculum set in the context of consistent academic rigour.
In 2019, over 25% of exam entries were graded at ‘A* or ‘A’, and 74% of results at grade C or above, with an overall pass rate of 97%. As well as academic excellence, we are proud to offer a Sixth Form experience above and beyond examination results as we support our sixth formers to develop skills for life. See here for our prospectus for 2023-2025.
Backwell Sixth Form offers many opportunities outside the classroom. We expect all sixth form students to take part in these activities as they complement the work undertaken in lessons, as well as being a great way of developing the skills and experience needed in the workplace and at university.
There are six main types of enrichment opportunity:
Volunteering: This could be helping out in the school library, mentoring in the lower school or peer-to-peer, or charity fundraising through the ‘Za Foundation’ or other charity group. Many of our students also volunteer in the community via the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme (Silver and Gold both offered), or in their own time.
Sport: This could be as ‘House Captain’ for our Sixth Form house matches or taking part in our Under 18 school sports teams. Students also help out in lower school sports clubs and PE lessons. As well as annual staff versus student matches, we also stage the famous Backwell Sixth Form Paarlauf relay race.
Media and Culture: As well as the bi-annual whole school production, the Sixth Form stage their own show every December. From actors to stage management, props to front-of-house this is entirely managed by the students. As well as this students also take part in the ‘Live Lounge’ and other musical concerts throughout the year. Those keen on media and journalism can join the production team of the school newsletter ‘The Croak’ or get involved in School Radio.
Competitions: From Geography to Politics, Business to Maths there are many national competitions our students enter with considerable success!
Conferences and Academic Enrichment: Throughout the year there are many opportunities for students to attend local and national conferences on academic and career-based themes. As well as these we also have student-led clubs such MedSoc and the Debating Society.
Student Leadership: Students are actively encouraged to take on positions of responsibility with the school. As well as Head Student and Deputy Head Student roles, there are also roles for Senior Students and opportunities to represent their peers via the Sixth Form Committee.
Careers Programme:
Backwell Sixth Form places a high value on the information, support and guidance we offer our students. We dedicate much of the sessions in our tutor and assembly programme to future planning as well as a Sixth Form Adviser to guide individual students.
Most importantly, the Sixth Form Tutors and the Sixth Form Team are always available to students – and parents/carers – to discuss the issues facing students.