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Welcome to Holyhead School

Welcome to Holyhead Sixth FormHolyhead Sixth Form is a well established and very successful school Sixth Form, with a keen focus on pastoral care. We welcome students new and old to join us in Year 12, providing high quality teaching as well as plenty of opportunities beyond the classroom. We offer a range of A Level and Level 3 vocational qualifications (as well as GCSE Maths/English retakes), in which we have a track record of success. Our most recently updated DfE Performance Measure information from 2024 includes the following highlights that demonstrate the difference we make at Holyhead - we are a Sixth Form that adds value!A Level Value Added progress is at +0.37 which places the school in the category of 'Above Average' in comparison to all other providers nationally (Top 5-20% nationally)Applied General Value Added progress is at +0.7 which places the school in the category of 'Well Above Average' in comparison to all other Sixth Form/College providers nationally (Top 1-5% nationally)Applied General Average Grade is Distinction and is above the national average of Merit+ Our most recent set of results from the summer 2025 are not yet validated by the Department for Education, but they are even better than those in 2024! The average grade for a student studying our A Level qualifications is now a C+ grade, with 43% of students gaining A*-B grades in 2025, along with 77% of students achieving an A*-C grade. Our average grade for our vocational subjects is a Distinction, with 70% of students studying our vocational qualifications gaining Distinction*-Distinction, whilst the Value Added scores suggest students in 2025 made even more progress than 2024!As a Sixth Form, our aim is to help students develop skills which will ultimately aid them to become successful professionals in the future. Students are expected to attend school full time and they are given supported times to work when not in a timetabled lesson. The Sixth Form is equipped with study room facilities, so students have effective working spaces. Each student has a form tutor who they see daily. This member of staff supports them with their transition into Sixth Form, their personal development and they also provide careers guidance. We follow a comprehensive programme during daily tutor sessions. Each year group is also overseen by a Head of Year, who will offer further support and guidance to each student.As 90% of our students will go onto study further education at university (our sustained destination figures have been significantly above national average for a number of years), we have a strong team of staff who support students in completing successful UCAS applications. We also work closely with the Director of Careers to offer alternative guidance into opportunities such as apprenticeships and employment. We have a proven track record of helping our students to move on to the course of career of their choice, with a number of our alumni moving into medical degrees and regularly 20%+ of our students begin a degree course at a Russell Group university.We support students in gaining further skills and knowledge by offering an enrichment programme. We work closely with local universities and employers to promote their programmes and regularly update students with any new opportunities being offered. We strongly support social mobility, providing all students with lots of opportunities to explore the option of university or competitive courses. All Year 12 students also undertake a week of work experience, where we encourage students to source their own placement in order to support their own ambitions for the future.I hope this has given you a good overview of our successful Sixth Form and I welcome any prospective students to apply when our applications are open.Mr F KhanDirector of Sixth Form

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Boarding Type

No Boarder

School Type

Suitable Ages

11 to 18

Gender

Mixed

No. of Students

1,271 Total

No. of Boys

677 (53.3%)

No. of Girls

594 (46.7%)


Academic Excellence

GCSE Results

Latest Examination

10.7%

Students achieving A*/A grades (9/8/7)

A-Level Results

Sixth Form Performance

A* grades

4.03%

A*/A grades

14.77%


Leavers' Destinations

Destinations after GCSEs

Staying in education

90%

School

79%

England

Apprenticeships

N/A

School

3%

England

Further education

School:47%
England:51%

School sixth form

School:41%
England:19%

Sixth form college

School:2%
England:7%

Other education destinations

School:N/A
England:2%

Destinations after A-Levels

UK higher education

69%

School

1%

England

Apprenticeships

3%

School

19%

England

Higher education or training

School:84%
England:63%

Further education

School:1%
England:4%

Employment

School:8%
England:35%

Not sustained in education/employment

School:11%
England:26%


Exciting Events Ahead!

A detailed admissions process on ApplicaaOne is coming soon.

Please see our website for more information on our admissions process.


Admissions Process

Quick Apply
Oct 2025Nov 2025Dec 2025Jan 2026

Application Deadline

Key Dates & Deadlines

Jun 29, 2026

Sixth Form Induction Week

Aug 20, 2026

Enrolment Day and GCSE Results Day


Term Dates & Half-Term Holidays

Updates Coming Soon!

A detailed admissions process on ApplicaaOne is coming soon.

Please see our website for more information on our admissions process.


Alumni Stories

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Updates Coming Soon!

We’ll be sharing information about the destinations of our alumni here soon.


Enrichment Activities

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At Holyhead we believe that learning should extend beyond the classroom and we feel it is important that our students have opportunities that will enable them to have a well-rounded experience of Sixth Form life and to develop their character through practical experience. Employers and universities are not only interested in high grades, they want people who are willing to embrace new challenges, work well with others and have leadership skills. All Year 12 students choose at least one enrichment activity alongside their subjects, some of which carry additional qualifications. Other experiences allow students to develop characteristics which will enhance their employability skills. Students’ commitment to the enrichment programme and their achievements will be referred to in employer and/or university references and provide useful evidence in personal statements/applications.

Student Council
The Student Council gives sixth form students the opportunity to have a genuine voice in school life. Members work closely with staff and fellow students to share ideas, represent their peers, and help shape decisions that enhance the school community. It is an excellent opportunity to develop leadership, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills while making a positive and lasting impact on the school.
Sport
Our sporting enrichment programme offers students the opportunity to stay active, develop new skills, and represent the sixth form throughout the year. Students can take part in a range of sports, including Football, Cricket, Tennis, and Badminton. Whether competing against other schools or enjoying recreational sport with friends, students build teamwork, resilience, confidence, and school pride while maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.
Student Mentoring
Student Mentoring provides sixth form students with the opportunity to support and inspire younger pupils as they progress through school. Acting as positive role models, mentors help build confidence, offer guidance, and encourage others to achieve their potential. This rewarding experience develops valuable leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills while making a meaningful contribution to the wider school community.
Law
Students interested in law can take part in a range of enrichment opportunities, including university masterclasses and taster days, work experience with local law firms, guest speakers, visits to local courts, and debate days at the University of Law. These experiences provide valuable insight into legal careers and university study.
Writing for the Pulse Magazine
Community Contribution Scheme - Holyhead in Handsworth
Work Experience
Science
Science students benefit from exciting enrichment opportunities, including the 'Spectroscopy in a Suitcase' programme, where they use university-level equipment to investigate crime scenes using advanced analytical techniques. Students can also attend subject masterclasses at the University of Birmingham in Chemistry, Biology, and Physics, providing valuable insight into university study and scientific careers.
Art & Design
Art and Design students can support younger pupils, assist with technical activities, and develop their leadership skills within the department. Enrichment also includes visits to museums, galleries, and local degree shows, giving students the opportunity to gain inspiration and experience a wide range of artistic styles and creative practices.
Business
Business students benefit from visits to leading organisations such as JLR and Coca-Cola, alongside masterclasses and taster days at local universities. Students can also take part in the national Eureka Challenge at the University of Birmingham and work with DivInc to develop entrepreneurial skills and gain real-world business experience.
Criminology
Criminology students have the opportunity to visit universities and institutions linked to the criminal justice system, including courtrooms, to gain a deeper understanding of the subject. These experiences provide valuable insight into criminology and related career pathways.
English Literature & Language
English students benefit from a range of enrichment opportunities, including theatre visits, university masterclasses, and access to online articles and revision resources. Students are also encouraged to read widely using the Sixth Form collection in the library, helping to broaden their knowledge and develop their analytical skills.
Geography
Geography students have the opportunity to take part in visits to locations such as Snowdonia, Manchester, Birmingham city centre, and the University of Birmingham. A range of lectures, seminars, and masterclasses throughout the year further enrich students' understanding of geographical issues and support their studies.
Health & Social Care
Health and Social Care students benefit from university masterclasses, including sessions such as Introduction to Nursing, as well as a range of work placement opportunities. Placements in settings including medical centres, care homes, pharmacies, early years settings, and special educational schools provide valuable hands-on experience and insight into careers in the sector.
History
History students can take part in A-level study days and university masterclasses to deepen their understanding of the subject. Enrichment also includes opportunities to engage with resources and events from organisations such as the National Army Museum and the Imperial War Museum.
Mathematics
Mathematics students benefit from visits to local universities, mentoring from University of Birmingham students, and the annual Maths in Action event at the University of Warwick. Students can also take part in AMSP problem-solving clubs to further develop their mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills.
French
French students can enjoy a range of enrichment opportunities, including cinema and theatre visits, University French Days, a trip to France, and conferences at local universities. Grammar booster sessions are also available to help students strengthen their language skills and confidence.
Spanish
Spanish students benefit from a range of enrichment opportunities, including a trip to Spain, visits to the cinema, theatre, and art exhibitions, as well as university visits. These experiences help develop language skills while providing valuable insight into Spanish culture and higher education.
Psychology
Psychology students benefit from a range of enrichment opportunities designed to enhance their learning beyond the classroom. These include Tutor2U grade booster sessions, which develop exam and application skills through interactive activities, visits to local courts to observe the justice system in action, and talks from professionals working across different areas of psychology. Together, these experiences provide valuable insight into real-world applications of psychology and support students in exploring future university and career pathways.
Religious Studies (Philosophy, Ethics & Islam)
Religious Studies students can attend the renowned Candle Conferences, featuring leading scholars in Philosophy and Ethics, as well as the annual Sixth Form conference at Newman University. Students are also encouraged to support younger pupils in lessons, helping to develop their leadership, communication, and mentoring skills.
Music
Music students enjoy a wide range of enrichment opportunities, including performances at prestigious venues such as the ICC, Symphony Hall, Town Hall, Birmingham REP, and The MAC. Students can also take part in a variety of extracurricular ensembles and clubs, developing their musical skills, confidence, and performance experience.
Sociology
Sociology students benefit from mentoring by university students, masterclasses at local universities, and a range of engaging educational visits. Recent enrichment has included talks from ex-convicts and prison officers, relevant cinema screenings, visits to the Galleries of Justice, and conferences featuring leading sociologists. These experiences help students connect sociological theory to real-world issues and explore future study and career opportunities.
Sport Studies
Sport Studies students benefit from a range of enrichment opportunities, including university seminars, practical workshops, and subject-specific events. Students also receive careers guidance, support with the university application process, and valuable insight into university life, helping them prepare for further study and careers in the sport and leisure industry.
STEM Society
STEM Society offers students the opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics beyond the classroom. Through engaging activities, guest speakers, challenges, and practical projects, students develop problem-solving, teamwork, and innovation skills while discovering exciting university and career opportunities in STEM fields.

About School

RegionWest Midlands
Local AuthorityBirmingham
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeMixed

FAQs

What percentages of students go to university?

Around 90% of our students move on to degree courses at university - the remaining students either begin apprenticeships, enter employment or take a gap year. On average 30% of students attend Russell Group universities.

What is the dress code?

Smart/Business wear - to include smart trousers/skirt, shirt/blouse, jumper/blazer, tie and smart shoes.

Is there a bursary available?

Yes, students can apply for the Discretionary Bursary in September and applications will be considered for students on free school meals or on low income. Any students in care are entitled to a £1200 bursary.

How many subjects do you offer?

25 in total including: A Level, L3 BTEC/Vocational, and GCSE Maths / English Language resit courses.

How successful are you?

A Level results Aug 2025: A*-B–43%, A*-E–99%, BTEC– 70% Distinction*

How do we prepare students for university?

University visits, mentoring, UCAS tutor sessions, preparation for student finance during the tutor programme, assemblies, Unifrog (online tool for students to choose the best Universities and Apprenticeships for them, and for teachers to track their progress).

What additional support is in place?

Support clinics in subjects are available during lunch times and before and after school, whilst there is literacy support, workshops on study skills, revision techniques and additional mentoring for those students who wish for this. Our Sixth Form Achievement Assistant works 1:1 or in small groups to support students with mentoring. Any students with an EHCP are supported by the KS5 HLTA.

Are students allowed off site?

In the Autumn Term, students are required to attend school from 8.40am until 3.15pm. The Head of Year will then offer the opportunity of Home Study, if students have good attendance and punctuality and they are working at the expected level in lessons. Home Study applies to afternoon lessons, when students do not have a timetabled lesson. Parental consent is required first. Students are not allowed to leave the school site for lunch and return.

How many subjects do most students study?

Depending on grades achieved at GCSE, students will either study 3 or 4 subjects in Sixth Form.

Do you have a programme for students applying for competitive courses such as medicine?

Yes, all students who want to study pharmacy, law, medicine or other professionally accredited courses are given information on competitive courses programmes and receive mentoring and specific university support.

Do students gain any work experience?

All Year 12 students have a 1 week compulsory work experience to support future career ambitions, whilst other students are encouraged to complete additional placements outside of school hours.

Are Level 3 BTEC qualifications the same as A Levels?

Yes, same standard, just more coursework elements. New vocational qualifications contain external examined units, unlike 100% coursework previously. Universities agree they are a suitable equivalent.

What is the average class size?

At A Level most groups have between 15-20 students, whilst in BTEC/Vocational Level 3 qualifications groups tend to be between 15-25 students.

Can students change subjects ?

Students have 4 weeks at the start of Year 12 to change subjects due to the amount of work potentially needed to be caught up having changed subjects.

What enrichment opportunities are there?

Sport, student mentoring, volunteering in school including lesson support, working with local charities, master classes at local universities, Sixth Form student council, Sixth Form Prefects, voluntary work at Hamilton School and social action campaigns amongst many other opportunities. Academic and wider enrichment is expected of all students.