Gordon's School

A world class education that creates world class students.

We view each individual as unique, and encourage and support every student to become the best version of themselves. Our philosophy is to deliver a wide range of options such as BTEC and A Level qualifications in order to meet the needs of each student.  Our intent is to prepare young persons for the next steps after Sixth Form and to provide opportunities for their personal and professional development in every way. This is reflected in our layered curriculum model of 3+1, with further strands targetting students' cultural capital and personal development within their Sixth Form experience and programme.  

All students receive PSHE education in line with statutory guidance for Key Stage 5. This programme is enhanced by speakers and workshops where applicable.  Our full approach  to the Academic programme is outlined on the next page.

In addition to an exceedingly strong academic programme, Gordon's Sixth Form also offers students a wide range of co-curricular opportunities  in academic, leadership, sport and outdoor pursuits. For example Sixth Form students are offered a TEFL qualification in addition to opportunities to extend their presentation skills by choosing to undertake LAMDA. For our budding entrepreneurs Young Enterprise is a great option and for any students interested in law, politics or international affairs, being a part of Model United Nations is a must! Finally, the EPQ qualification is a research project which allows students to independently research a topic or question which interests them and which might add value to their post-18 plans such as a degree or apprenticeship/employment. 

Our tutor programme further enhances students' personal developments. The mindset programme guides students on reflecting on their own personal goals, their strengths and  weaknesses. It teaches them organisation skills how to cope with workload as well as sharpening their academic skills with sessions on referencing and research. 

All Year 12 students also undertake work experience. This is a part of Gordon's careers programme and is designed to develop students' employability skills to prepare them for their next steps. 

Gordon’s Sixth Form students each belong to a House. This provides a strong pastoral supporting structure and helps them feel a strong sense of belonging and form life-long friendships. Sixth Form students have private study rooms within their Houses, and are provided with a tablet upon commencing Sixth Form. They have access to free hot drinks at break times, and open access to the Sixth Form team for advice and guidance on subject choices, careers and opportunities. This is intended to remove barriers to learning and educate students about options and pathways available to them.

We pride ourselves on our high expectations; we expect our students to take every opportunity to ensure that they fulfil their academic potential and develop into confident, well-rounded young people, ready to take their place in the world. With this in mind we expect our Sixth Form students to provide a service and volunteer within their community in order to give back.