Enabling plans
and aspirations
for students
aged 16 to 19

With the guided study of GCSEs behind them, students must assume the self-discipline necessary to succeed at higher levels. They are supported in this by their tutors and subject teachers.

Students are also encouraged to consider undertaking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). This research-based one-year project involves the preparation of a mini-thesis and an academic presentation on any chosen topic. We believe the EPQ provides both a good introduction to university-style research and academic work and the opportunity to stand out on UCAS and job applications.

The minimum academic standard required for entry into the Sixth Form at St Joseph’s is four grade 6 GCSEs for A-level study or five grade 4s for BTEC/CTEC study, including both English and Maths. Our Sixth Form Options booklet describes each subject in detail. A hybrid path of A-levels and vocational qualifications may also be followed.

Sport is intrinsic to the St Joseph’s College experience for all ages and the school boasts first-class facilities. At Sixth Form, as throughout, we believe in the value of sport for all, for pleasure and for good health.

The majority of our Sixth Formers enjoy competitive sports, with many of our students progressing to county, regional or even national representations in their chosen sports. For a sizable number, this is a period of serious preparation for professional sports careers. This is particularly evident in our four performance sports of rugby, netball, football and cricket and among those students following vocational qualifications in Sport Coaching and Development.

We are partnered with Ipswich Town FC, Ealing Trailfinders, Northampton Saints, and BUCS University Sports, and are one of the two Independent Schools in the country accredited with TASS Dual Career Status.

In Creative and Performing Arts students explore art and design, textiles, dance, drama and music. Together with opportunities to study for A-levels and/or vocational qualifications, our Sixth Formers can further their interests on a less formal basis at our wide range of clubs.

Concerts and our annual school musical showcase the talent within our student body. We hire a professional theatre and students also cover the backstage and technical roles. Less formal showcases, such as our Summer Arts Festival, allow even the shyest of performers to ‘have a go.’

Students develop their talents alongside professional artists – including our partners at Arts International – and at workshops and masterclasses delivered by visiting speakers. Some of our leavers go on to art colleges, drama and musical theatre schools and university courses, including Music. We aim for them all to take away an appreciation of the creative sphere.

Before they know it, our Sixth Formers are likely to find themselves at freshers’ fairs deciding whether to join the charity committee, the University Players or the Tolkien Society. Many will have had a flying start thanks to having pursued some of the broad programme of extra-curricular available here.

Our Sixth Formers are busy people but we encourage them to take on more and try something new rather than slog away at their books without respite. Some of the activities are offered to extend academic learning, others develop cultural and sporting interests. There is a chance to volunteer within the College and beyond its gates, to further sporting or cultural interests, and to travel. 

The vibrant Birkfield Speaker programme runs weekly, where professionals from varying industries including Property, NHS, Law, Armed Forces, and Accountancy, are invited to speak about their journey into their chosen careers, stimulate discussion and engage students on different issues and opportunities.