Academic

Your time in the Sixth Form will be academically challenging, but extremely rewarding, and an opportunity to study the subjects you most enjoy. Within an environment of like-minded peers, and inspiring teachers, you will be challenged to develop and research your own ideas. You will take part in stimulating lessons – which in many cases will mirror the tutorial style of learning you will experience at university.

All pupils start the Lower Sixth year studying at least four A Levels, alongside their Waynflete Studies Project (our bespoke Extended Project), Community Service Placement and Games sessions.

In the Upper Sixth, pupils continue with between three and five subjects alongside a stimulating Lecture Programme. Whilst universities typically make offers for three A Levels, taking four allows our best students the opportunity to flex their academic potential when applying to the most competitive courses and universities in the UK and abroad.

A Level subjects are typically delivered by two or three teachers, and the timetable is structured across five blocks of eight 40 minute lessons.

A-LEVEL SUBJECTS STUDY PREPARATION

Independent Learning

Independent working and time management are key skills that need to be developed prior to university level study; our Sixth Form structure supports and promotes the successful development of these skills.

Pupils have a small number of study periods in the Lower Sixth, before a reduction in timetabled commitments and sometimes the dropping of an A Level provides a good deal more time for independent study in the Upper Sixth.

Sixth Formers spend their study periods in the purpose-built common room or in one of our Sixth Form only study suites, choosing between social, quiet or silent study environments.

Support and extensions sessions for all subjects happen at various points throughout the week, but the dedication of our staff and the high quality of teaching relationships see pupils regularly and informally seeking additional help at all times of the working day.

Lecture Programme

Visiting speakers give fortnightly lectures to the Upper Sixth and there is a wealth of other opportunities for academic enrichment in the Sixth Form at MCS. Many pupils choose to lead or attend reading groups and societies, and there are dedicated sessions to help with university preparation. These include sessions to help pupils develop their approach to admissions tests and practice interviews.

Learning Support

Our experienced Learning Support Department offers tailored support to help pupils achieve their full potential – from help to manage a diagnosed medical need, through to more routine interventions and classroom support to manage issues such as focus and attention, study skills or time management. We also offer support to pupils with English as an Additional Language. Underpinning our learning support is close communication between home and school; and within school, between the Learning Support Department, tutors and teachers.