Sixth Form Prospectus 2025
Supporting Growth, Enriching Futures: Your journey to success starts here with us.
www.gshs.org.uk
Ambition, Respect, Community.
Thank you for your interest in George Stephenson Sixth Form. You are in the process of making exciting decisions about your future options. Entry into Higher Education or the world of work will be strongly influenced by the decisions you make now; decisions about what to study and where to study. Welcome to George Stephenson Sixth Form We understand that students need a lot of support and guidance throughout the whole process. As a Post 16 student you will need to take even greater responsibility for your learning. We have strong systems in place to support the development of independent skills, and we have a commitment to support the academic, personal and social needs of every individual. At George Stephenson Sixth Form, we have an impressive record of examination success with vocational results being the highest in North Tyneside in 2024. This is just one of the reasons that you should consider joining us. However, Sixth Form is about more than results and we want: • students to foster a love of learning and enjoy their whole Sixth Form experience. • students to take part in the wide and diverse range of extracurricular activities on offer. • students to fulfill or exceed their potential • to help students develop confidence, resilience, and self-esteem. • to help students to become future leaders by making a rich contribution to school life. If you would like to find out more about the courses we offer and talk to teachers and current students, please come to our Sixth Form Courses Evening on Thursday 24th October from 5-7pm. Talks will be held in the library at 5pm and repeated at 6pm. If you are currently at a different school and would like to receive all future information about applying and enrolling in the Sixth Form, please contact us on 0191 216 1115 or email enquiries@gshs.org.uk
Keeley Robson Assistant Headteacher Post 16
Rebecca Ronan Head of Sixth Form
Lauren Bell Assistant Head of Sixth Form & Careers Lead
We look forward to welcoming you in our school.
2 | Sixth Form Prospectus
Contents Why George Stephenson?
4
Parent and Student Voice
6
The right course for you….
7
Entry Criteria
8
Individual care and support
9
Making the Transition from GCSE to A-Level
10
The next step
11
12
Opportunities to grow...
Excellent facilities...
14
Alumni
15-17
Ambition, Respect, Community | 3
Why George Stephenson? Choose academic excellence
Students are taught by dedicated members of staff who have the knowledge and expertise to ensure that students receive the support guidance to maximize their full potential. A* grades were secured by students in a range of subjects including Biology, Maths, Sociology and Politics in 2024.
Pursue your career dream We recently achieved Stage 1 of the “Inspiring IAG” Award which recognises excellence in Careers Education Information and Guidance. Our enrichment programme meets all Gatsby benchmarks and is regularly updated to reflect labour market changes and to meet individual students’ needs. We are very proud of our Destinations data: In 2024, 96% of them secured their first-choice university with 44% of those going to a Russell Group University. Student have secured scholarships in America and some amazing apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships with companies such as Virgin Money, Accenture and Newcastle Building Society.
Ofsted ”Students in
the sixth form are proud to be part of George Stephenson High School”.
Access a wide range of diverse courses
We firmly believe that our Sixth Form has a course to suit different pathways. Students can pursue courses from a wide range of A-Levels or Vocational courses or if they prefer, can study a mixture of both. George Stephenson is dedicated to helping individuals reach their goals and achieve their full potential.
Ofsted “Students in the sixth form are well served. They get appropriate advice and guidance. As a result, they choose subjects that suit their strengths and interests.”
4 | Sixth Form Prospectus
Make those leading connections As part of the enrichment programme students volunteer in a range of external settings to ensure that they have experience of the wider world of work. All students in Year 12 are given the opportunity to undertake a week of Work Experience in business or industry giving them great career connections and prospects for future employment Previous successful placements have been with organisations such as Ford, John Lewis, Lloyds Bank as well as local university departments and our feeder primary and middle schools allowing students to gain real-world, relevant experience in their chosen sector. Students looking for careers advice can connect directly with our independent and impartial careers advisor who has relevant experience to deliver one-to- one support in helping them plan their future.
Year 12 student “From already going to GSHS for high school, the transition between Year 11 and 12 was seamless.”
Get the right tools to succeed Our facilities include two study rooms, equipped with brand new computers to assist independent study. Students can also access a new common room to ensure that they balance their time management skills in preparation for the next steps. A well-led and organised transition programme from Year 11 to Year 12 supports the move towards a more independent learning style. 100% of year 12 parents indicated that the school had provided sufficient advice and guidance regarding their choices. Tutorial and assembly programme which focuses on employability and personal development skills. Students are supported by experienced tutors.
Get involved in our fantastic enrichment opportunities Whilst academic excellence is of great importance to us, at GSHS we want all our Sixth Form students to become well-rounded, confident and articulate individuals ready to take the world of work by storm. To support them do this, students are able to involve themselves in activities from in-class support to a range of super- curricular activities such as HE+, school production, Music lessons and charity work.
Ambition, Respect, Community | 5
Parent and Student Satisfaction: Our Sixth Form students are overwhelmingly positive about their experience here at George Stephenson. Parent and Student Voice
100% of parents surveyed felt their child is happy in Year 12
In our most recent Year 12 Parent Survey:
100% of parents surveyed felt their child does well at this school
Year 12 student “I couldn’t recommend a better place than this sixth form”.
100% of parents surveyed the school has high expectations
Student “I can tell how passionate the teachers are about their subjects. They are always considerate of what we would enjoy and find interesting, and their lessons reflect this. I can also tell that our Heads of Sixth Form care about all of the students, they are compassionate and empathetic, and they want to help both with academics and personal challenges.”
6 | Sixth Form Prospectus
The right course for you….
At GSHS, we have an extensive curriculum offering a variety of academic and vocational qualification to meet the needs of students with a wide range of abilities and interests. It is important to point out that the courses we offer are in some cases very different to the same subject you may have taken at GCSE Level. You will need to look at subject content information provided by departments at our Post 16 Courses Evening and on our website to check that the course is what you expect.
A-Level Subjects Media Art and Design /Photography /Textiles Biology Business Studies Chemistry
*All schools are awaiting further guidance from the government regarding courses and combinations of A-level
Computer Science English Language English Literature French Geography History Mathematics Further Mathematics Philosophy and Ethics
and Vocational subjects available to study from September 2025.
Physics Politics Sociology Spanish
Vocational Subjects Applied Science Business Studies ICT Health and Social Care Sports Studies
Ambition, Respect, Community | 7
Entry Criteria We are committed to encouraging learning and progression, so we try to ensure that students joining us at Post 16 are considered on their individual merits, abilities, and potential. At the same time, we want to encourage success and ask students to be realistic in the choices they make. In our discussion with them, all relevant factors relating to their previous and likely attainment are taken into account and advice will be given to each individual about his/her suitability to follow a particular course of study. To begin an A-Level course in Year 12, you must achieve at least five 9-4 grades at GCSE level. A minimum of grade 4 is required for all Advanced subjects where they are a continuation from GCSE. In some subjects it may be advised that a higher grade than 4 is needed. In this case an alternative subject choice will have to be made when the grade requirement is not met. We strongly recommend that students select three courses. However, if students have achieved a suite of 8 and 9 grades at GCSE, we may consider allowing them to choose four. Some students may wish to change a subject after starting on an A-Level course; some students may be advised to make a change. It is expected that the majority of subject changes are completed during the first four weeks of Year 12. Changes are then dependent on the availability of a place on the course. In Year 12 and Year 13 we must also reserve the right to review our course and teaching provision when few students are opting to take or to continue with a subject.
8 | Sixth Form Prospectus
Individual care and support We are extremely fortunate to have two non-teaching members of staff on the Sixth Form team who support students with both pastoral and academic matters. We pride ourselves on being an extremely caring and approachable team who always work in the best interests of the students. We work closely with our tutor team and teaching staff to ensure an effective support network. We offer a variety of methods of support, including: Study support – advice on managing and making the most of independent study time. Study lessons are staffed by Miss Bell and study planning is offered to all students. If students are struggling and need additional support we work with them to achieve their full potential. Health and Wellbeing – Several members of staff, including the Head and Assistant Head of Sixth Form are Mental Health First Aid trained. Promoting positive mental health is embedded into the culture of our Sixth Form and support is always available for our students. We understand this can be a challenging time for students, so we have access to support from the Mental Health Support Team, as well our school Student Support Worker and a trainee Psychotherapist. Personal Development - We are passionate about ensuring students receive relevant and current information on a range of topics outside of their curriculum. Our tutor time and tutorial programmes cover important topics such as Relationships, RE, Career and Life Skills. We pride ourselves on equipping students with the knowledge and experiences to flourish beyond Sixth Form.
Student “I have loved the start of sixth form. Everyone has been so welcoming, and the support I’ve experienced already is incomparable to what my friends at college have experienced. I’ve settled into all of my lessons quickly.”
Financial Support – 16-19 Bursary
Students who are entering Post 16 education in any institution may be eligible for the Post 16 Bursary which is funded by the government. Its purpose is to help students who need financial support in meeting the cost of Post 16 education. More information including eligibility criteria and how to apply can be found on the school website and North Tyneside Council website. The Sixth Form team can support students with their applications, managing their finances and completing the paperwork.
Ambition, Respect, Community | 9
Making the transition from GCSE to A-Level
We understand that the leap from GCSE to A-Level can be challenging for students, so we start the transition support in the Autumn term of Year 11. Our Open Evening gives students and parents a chance to meet the subject teachers and explore the courses on offer here. We also have our pastoral team and alumni students in attendance to provide information about enrichment opportunities within the Sixth Form and share their experiences. We have a fantastic relationship with our Connexions team and local universities, who also attend to provide further information, advice and guidance. Following the Open Evening, all Year 11 students receive a 1:1 meeting with a member of the Sixth Form or Senior Leadership Team to discuss their post 16 plans. Here staff will support students with making subject choices that both play to their academic strengths and their personal or career interests. We continue to support students with their decisions through offering subject taster days and workshops with current Sixth Form students throughout the year. Initial subject choices are made through the application form in March. Students are invited into school following their GCSE exams for a Transition Day, where they take part in a range of workshops aimed at preparing them for the September start. Here students will be given information on accessing ‘Bridging Work’ - small modules that will begin to bridge the gap between GCSEE and A-Level study. Students wishing to transfer to George Stephenson Sixth Form are most welcome to attend our Open Evening and are invited to make an application during January and February. For all students, the general post-16 entry requirements apply.
10 | Sixth Form Prospectus
We are extremely proud of our destination data showing all students are thoroughly supported with their next steps, whatever this may be. Of those who applied to university in 2024 we had a wide range of degree courses in a variety of locations, including: Newcastle University (Medicine & Surgery, Electrical Engineering), Durham University (Natural Sciences), University of Southampton (Aeronautics and Astronautics/ Spacecraft Engineering), York St John (Paramedic Science), The next step
Student “The pastoral staff dedicate themselves to making each student’s application stand out in order to achieve the courses or apprenticeships that they want at the end of Y13.”
HIGHER EDUCATION: We offer a structured programme of support for students applying to university from guidance through the UCAS application process and student finance to university talks, visits and residential Summer Schools. This support is given weekly throughout Year 12 and 13. We have excellent links with local universities such as Newcastle, Northumbria, Sunderland and Durham and our Sixth Form works with students on a range of supported progression and reduced offer schemes including HE+, PARTNERS, NU Entry and Supported Progression. We also offer dedicated advice and support for students considering Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science and Oxbridge applications.
EMPLOYMENT: As seen in our destinations data each year, increasing numbers of students are choosing the apprenticeship or employment route after Sixth Form. We ensure that our enrichment programme includes information, support and opportunities for this. We ensure our programme meets all Gatsby benchmarks including frequent visits from employers who provide key advice and support on recruitment and application processes. We also have a dedicated Careers Advisor who can give advice on apprenticeships and employment opportunities as well as providing help with writing CVs, letters of application and preparation for interviews. Many of our students go on to secure apprenticeships with firms such as Virgin Money, Muckle LLP, Accenture, Barbour and Robson Laidler Accountants Ltd.
Northumbria University (Law, Primary Education) and University of Leeds (Pharmacology).
Student “The trip has opened my eyes to courses and career opportunities I didn’t think existed. It also gave me a chance to meet with professionals in the industry.”
Ambition, Respect, Community | 11
Opportunities to grow...
At George Stephenson, we are extremely proud of the work we do to offer students access to trips and opportunities for memorable moments. We believe these opportunities allow students to gain new skills and ignite sparks of interest that support career decisions. In addition to academic success, we strongly believe in providing our students with personal development opportunities beyond the classroom. We expect our Sixth Form students to act as role models to students in the lower school and all students are encouraged to sign up to activities that involve Our Sixth Form has its own Senior Team to ensure that all students have their voices heard during their time here. Our Student Ambassadors represent the school at Open/Parents Evenings, assemblies and external events.
Individual departments also offer many enrichment opportunities including residential trips at home and abroad, visits to local businesses and fieldwork opportunities. We welcome new ideas from students and always aim to provide students with fresh, current and stimulating learning experiences. Our current activities include: • STEM Gold Project • Think Law and Think Engineering • Villiers Park STEM • Work experience or volunteering in the community • Year 7 and 11 Mentoring • Running an after-school club • School production • Lessons from Auschwitz Visit • Academic Mentoring • In-class support • Geography and Biology fieldwork trips • Paris trip with Business Studies • School Ski Trip • University Open Days
12 | Sixth Form Prospectus
Student “I really enjoyed the Business trip to Paris. The school planned everything so well – we visited a perfume factory, a chocolate factory and even went to Disneyland Paris!”
Ambition, Respect, Community | 13
Excellent facilities... Our main dedicated sixth form areas comprise:
In all areas of the school where Sixth Formers are working, there is a purposeful and vibrant atmosphere
• Sixth Form Study Room: A main Sixth Form Study Area is situated on the top floor of G block. This room is stocked with resources by the subject teachers to ensure students are guided and supported in their independent study time. This area has a screen that students can use to carry out group projects or research tasks. Students are also able to access members of the Sixth Form team whose offices are within close proximity to this area. • Sixth Form IT Room: Sixth Form students can conduct research and carry out independent study in our dedicated post-16 ICT suite with brand new computers. Students spend their timetabled study in this room, therefore having the best facilities ensures they are able to be productive with their time.
• Sixth Form Common Room: Students have their own social space to use during social times and free lessons. This is newly refurbished and has a vending machine, TV, a pool table, fridge, hot water facilities and comfortable seating. • A dedicated Sixth Form entrance, fob access, student lockers and Sixth Form only toilets. • In all areas of the school where
Sixth Formers are working, there is a purposeful and vibrant atmosphere
14 | Sixth Form Prospectus
Alumni James
I studied Physics at A-Level, which set me on the path of doing a STEM degree. Physics (particularly the mathematical element) was never something that came naturally to me and I found this really challenging, but thanks to the diligent and dedicated teaching from Mr Tyson and the late Mr Williams I was able to overcome this and was inspired to continue down this path. Geography was another subject I studied at A-Level, a passion and interest I’d held for many years taught by Miss Bailey and Mrs Walby. George Stephenson provided me with a wealth of extracurricular opportunities! I had exceptional support from the Sixth Form Guidance Team and my form tutor, particularly through the University application process, honing my personal statement to a T, which was vital in getting me where I am today. I studied Geospatial Engineering at Newcastle University, a competitive course that I would have been unable to do had it not been for the teaching at George Stephenson High School. I now have the privilege of working at CBRE - the largest real estate firm in the world, with nearly 500 offices worldwide and over 100,000 employees and a net worth in excess of $22 billion. I’m currently working towards the goal of becoming one of the youngest directors in the company!
“I can say for certain that George Stephenson has been instrumental in my success!”
Ambition, Respect, Community | 15
Alumni Liz
Hi, I’m Liz and I stayed at George Stephenson Sixth Form to study A-Levels before I went on to study Law at The University of Oxford. I am really glad that I stayed on at Sixth Form rather than going to college. I still got the independence I needed, and it gave me time to research what I wanted to do next, volunteer and take part in extra-curricular activities but I still had a really good support network. I had my friends who had stayed on at Sixth Form as well as lovely teachers and support staff. If I was ever feeling stressed or if I wasn’t comfortable with my work or wasn’t confident going forward with university applications, I would just pop my head in someone’s door and talk about it and I really think I came out better for it.
“I think it is that kind of support network that I got at Sixth Form that gave me the confidence to go forward and apply for Law at Oxford!”
16 | Sixth Form Prospectus
Alumni David
“Sixth Form helped me develop the professional skills for the workplace and prepared me for managing my workload while doing my degree apprenticeship. “
I chose to stay in Sixth Form because it allowed me to gain the A-Levels I needed in a learning environment I was already familiar with, to give me the best chance of achieving a degree apprenticeship. The subjects I chose were Business, History and Sociology. I had a great relationship with my tutor, who was a fantastic support to me. The advice I offer to upcoming Sixth Form students is utilise the study time given and make sure you are always doing something productive! After Sixth Form, I went on to study a degree apprenticeship in Digital Innovation with Virgin Money.
Ambition, Respect, Community | 17
Joining Us… We welcome applications from both internal and external students. If you think George Stephenson Sixth Form might be the place for you, please come along to our Open Evening, where our students and staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have. If you are unable to attend, please contact the school to request any further information or to arrange a visit.
www.gshs.org.uk
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker