Head of Sixth Form’s Welcome

Something profound changes within a young person as they approach Sixth Form age: they yearn for autonomy, are ready to learn and develop good judgement, and they start to look more seriously to their future. In short, a student’s time at Sixth Form can be, therefore, the most formative period of their life.

The Sixth Form at Barnard Castle School provides a comprehensive framework and outstanding facilities that allow our senior students to capitalise on their natural predisposition for development. Students join us from across the ability spectrum, each full of potential; once here, they are encouraged to take advantage of the many opportunities and experiences we make available to them. We create an environment and carefully designed support structure that allows them to explore this potential, to play their part and contribute to the Sixth Form community and wider School, and to develop in ways they not have previously considered.

With the care and support of their teachers and tutors, Sixth Formers are encouraged to develop a professional approach towards their learning. Our system of guided independence provides a personalised programme that recognises that each young person’s journey towards independence is different, while the shared experience of the Sixth Form has a positive effect on study habits, time-management and self-discipline. Located at the heart of the school, our outstanding Sixth Form Centre provides an inspirational hub for students’ study and social lives.

Across our range of academically robust A Level and Cambridge Pre-U courses, Sixth Formers are taught in small groups, receiving individual attention from experienced subject specialists. Through our lecture and tutorial programme they gain vital study and research skills and are exposed to speakers who both widen their horizons and initiate self-reflection. Our ethos of academic diligence, combined with opportunities to develop genuine leadership skills and experience, ensure students leave us prepared in the best possible way for their future lives.

I invite you to visit and meet our students and staff, to see at first-hand what we offer and to get a sense of what makes Barnard Castle School Sixth Form unique.

Christopher Butler
Head of Sixth Form