Welcome to Retford Oaks Academy

Welcome to Retford Oaks sixth form – a welcoming and aspirational learning community where we are committed to helping every student reach their full potential.Our aim is to nurture mature, questioning, thoughtful, and caring individuals who are equipped not only with strong academic foundations, but with the life-enhancing skills they need to thrive beyond school. Guided by our academy motto, dedicated to excellence, our students are encouraged to aim high, embrace challenges, and achieve to the very best of their abilities.We are proud to offer a wide range of academic and vocational courses that reflect the needs and ambitions of our learners. At Retford Oaks, education goes beyond the classroom. We place great value on the development of extra-curricular interests, enrichment experiences, and student leadership — creating opportunities for personal growth alongside academic success.As a sixth form student, you will be an integral part of academy life. You’ll have the chance to lead, to participate, and to contribute meaningfully to our wider community. This experience will complement your studies and prepare you for your next steps — whether that’s university, an apprenticeship, or the world of work.Our dedicated sixth form team works hard to provide exciting and engaging opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. From volunteering and work experience to enrichment programmes and leadership roles, you’ll develop the skills and qualities that are highly valued by universities and employers alike.Retford Oaks sixth form is a place where you can grow with confidence, supported every step of the way.We look forward to welcoming you.Mr Luke DickinsonPrincipal

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Boarding Type

No Boarder

School Type

Academy sponsor led

Suitable Ages

11 to 18

Gender

Mixed

No. of Students

1,118 Total

No. of Boys

566 (50.6%)

No. of Girls

552 (49.4%)


Academic Excellence

GCSE Results

Latest Examination

2.0%

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

A-Level Results

Sixth Form Performance

A* grades

0.0%

A*/A grades

2.47%


Leavers' Destinations

Destinations after GCSEs

Staying in education

83%

School

79%

England

Apprenticeships

3%

School

3%

England

Further education

School:37%
England:51%

School sixth form

School:29%
England:19%

Sixth form college

School:13%
England:7%

Other education destinations

School:3%
England:2%

Destinations after A-Levels

UK higher education

40%

School

1%

England

Apprenticeships

2%

School

19%

England

Higher education or training

School:86%
England:63%

Further education

School:5%
England:4%

Employment

School:36%
England:35%

Not sustained in education/employment

School:12%
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.


Term Dates & Half-Term Holidays

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Planning ahead for school holidays? Below are the term dates and half-term dates for the 2026/2027 academic year.

Autumn

2 terms

Half Term 1

Sep 1 - Oct 17

Half Term 2

Nov 3 - Dec 19

Spring

2 terms

Half Term 1

Jan 5 - Feb 13

Half Term 2

Feb 23 - Mar 27

Summer

2 terms

Half Term 1

Apr 13 - May 22

Half Term 2

Jun 1 - Jul 27

Half-Term & Holiday Dates

Autumn Half Term

Oct 20 - Oct 31

Spring Half Term

Feb 16 - Feb 20

Summer Half Term

May 25 - May 29


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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We encourage our students to leave us as well-rounded adults, equipped with a range of life skills. Growth mindset is an ethos running through our pastoral system and is core to our individualised programme, offering both challenge and personal development. Not only do employers and universities seek to recruit students with a wide range of interests and experiences, they are also looking for CVs and personal statements built with sophistication and confidence. We work to develop these skills by allocating specific time to personal development.

Extended Project Qualification
Sports Leaders
Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme
Work Experience
University visits

About School

RegionEast Midlands
Local AuthorityNottinghamshire
Ofsted RatingGood
Gender TypeMixed