Our Sixth Form curriculum combines academic rigour with flexibility and choice, offering over 20 subjects alongside enrichment and professional development. With small classes and personalised pathways, students build the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed for university and future careers.
CHOICE AND FLEXIBILITY
A curriculum built around you
At Barnard Castle School, the Sixth Form curriculum is designed to reflect individual ambition. With over 20 subjects available, students can create a programme that suits their strengths, interests, and future goals.
We offer a broad mix of A Levels alongside BTEC and Cambridge Technical courses, ensuring both academic and vocational pathways are supported. Importantly, we listen to our students. If there is demand for a subject, we will always explore ways to make it available, even running classes for very small groups.
This flexible approach means that no talent or interest is overlooked, allowing every student to shape a curriculum that feels relevant and purposeful.
PERSONALISED TEACHING
Small classes, big impact
Sixth Form teaching at Barney is defined by small class sizes and expert subject specialists. Lessons often feel more like university seminars, where active discussion and independent thinking take centre stage.
With classes sometimes as small as one or two students, teachers can provide truly individual support. This allows for tailored feedback, deeper subject exploration, and strong academic progress.
Students benefit from close relationships with staff, who understand their goals and guide them throughout their studies. This level of personal attention helps build confidence, academic independence, and a genuine love of learning.
SKILLS AND ENRICHMENT
Preparing for real life
Our curriculum extends well beyond academic subjects. A structured skills programme supports students in developing the attributes needed for life after school.
This includes professional development opportunities, visiting speakers, and enrichment activities such as Lectern Club, where students engage with ideas beyond their courses. Topics range widely, encouraging curiosity and broader awareness.
We are also introducing a personal finance course, equipping students with essential life skills such as budgeting, financial planning, and understanding the modern economy.
Together, these experiences ensure students leave Barney not only well-qualified, but well-prepared for the challenges of adult life.
EPQ AND FUTURE READINESS
Encouraging independent thinking
Many students choose to complement their studies with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), a highly regarded, research-based qualification. Typically taken alongside three A Levels, the EPQ allows students to explore a topic of personal interest in depth.
The process develops key skills such as independent research, critical thinking, and academic writing, all of which are highly valued by universities. It also provides a strong foundation for personal statements and interviews.
At Barney, a large proportion of students achieve top grades in the EPQ, reflecting both their commitment and the support they receive. It is a powerful example of how our curriculum encourages intellectual curiosity and academic ambition.
The curriculum here at Barney is certainly a broad one. Studying Maths, Chemistry, Theatre Studies and Spanish, there cannot be a better example of balancing Science and Humanities. Furthermore, I have some one-to-one Spanish conversational lessons, and my other class sizes range from 3 to 12 students, allowing for a unique teacher-pupil relationship. Here at Barney, no matter what subject you study, all the teachers around you go out of their way to ensure you achieve the best you can.
– Year 13 student
Find your path at Barney
The best way to understand our Sixth Form curriculum is to experience it in person. Meet our staff, explore subject options, and see how we support every student to succeed.
Book your visit