The Senior Student Team offers an opportunity for Year 12 and 13 students to apply to further develop their leadership skills in a structure that closely mirrors the staff senior leadership team within our school. There are two Head Students, several Assistant Head students and a group of senior students who support them. Head and Assistant Head students take a more strategic lead on all initiatives offered, as well as representing the sixth form at external events such as Awards Evening and Open Evening. The wider senior team lead small groups of students across year groups on areas they are passionate about e.g. communities, wellbeing, careers, charity and fundraising etc. These areas are reviewed annually during the application and interview stages.

There are a variety of teams available to get involved with as part of the Sixth Form. Some of our students also help coordinate teams for students in younger years groups across the wider school. We use sport as an additional alternative to traditional mentoring, to help build relationships and develop confidence in our younger students, whilst developing the leadership skills of our sixth form students. We welcome the prospect of students setting up new teams and leading on new sports.

The charity and fundraising team at North Chadderton Sixth Form College plays a vital role in supporting both local and national causes through a variety of events, such as Macmillan Coffee Mornings, Wear Pink Wednesday for Breast Cancer Awareness, annual Christmas and Easter Markets, Culture Day, and wellbeing events for mental health charities. These activities not only raise funds but also foster a strong sense of community and giving back. Students involved develop valuable skills in project management, budgeting, event planning, and teamwork, all while making a meaningful impact. We are incredibly proud of their dedication and efforts.

As well as the opportunity to support the students across the wider school, we recognise the need to support our sixth form peers. Year 13 students offer support and mentoring to Year 12 students specifically within their chosen subjects. This support is invaluable as they understand the challenges faced in Year 12, particularly in the early stages and can offer reassurance and help build confidence and resilience. In turn, they develop their own communication and leadership skills and can refer to this mentoring experience as part of their university or job application.

At North Chadderton Sixth Form College, students have the opportunity to become Reading Mentors, supporting younger students with their literacy and reading skills. This enriching experience allows sixth formers to develop leadership, communication, and empathy, while making a meaningful impact on the academic progress of others. Mentors help foster a love of reading and encourage younger students to build their confidence, all while enhancing their own skills for future careers and personal development.

All Year 12 students participate in a dedicated week of work experience, offering them a valuable glimpse into the world of work. This opportunity helps students explore potential career paths, gain practical skills, and make professional connections. Whether shadowing professionals or taking on real responsibilities, work experience is an excellent way for students to develop independence, time management, and problem-solving abilities, preparing them for life beyond sixth form.

Led by sixth form students and supported by the history department, the Debate Club offers a platform for students to engage in stimulating discussions on current affairs, social issues, and historical topics. This club encourages critical thinking, persuasive communication, and teamwork. Participants sharpen their public speaking skills and learn to articulate and defend their views effectively. It's a fantastic way to enhance confidence and develop a deeper understanding of global and national issues.

For students with a keen interest in biology and medicine, the Dissection Club, run in partnership with the science department, provides a hands-on learning experience. Led by sixth formers, the club offers students the chance to explore anatomy in detail and develop practical lab skills. This enrichment activity is ideal for those considering careers in healthcare or science, providing a unique opportunity to deepen their scientific understanding and curiosity in a collaborative setting.

At our sixth form, students have the exciting opportunity to participate in an unforgettable trip to New York City. This enriching experience offers a chance to explore one of the world’s most dynamic cities, visiting landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and the Empire State Building. The trip includes cultural highlights such as a visit to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, as well as free time to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Manhattan. It’s a unique opportunity to broaden horizons, gain a deeper understanding of global history and culture, and create lasting memories with fellow students.

Young Enterprise is a fantastic charity that helps young people pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions and develop vital business skills. Their flagship programme, the Company Programme, involves students setting up their own business, designing and marketing a product, and competing against other schools and colleges across the country for the sought-after title of “Company of the Year.” North Chadderton students have a strong track record of success in the Young Enterprise Company Programme. Previous teams have impressed judges with their unique and innovative products: Sweet Course Candle created a range of dessert-scented candles, advancing to the North West Final, where MD Chloe Booth won the North West Young Entrepreneur Award. Diverge developed a line of mobile phone accessories that earned a place in the Greater Manchester Final. Later, Flow introduced an anti-drink-spiking product, with MD Nicola Webb receiving the North West Journey Award. Our team Refresh designed personalised, eco-friendly water bottles that won Best Presentation at the Oldham Finals, while last year’s team triumphed at the Greater Manchester Finals with Night-Lite, a safety light designed for walking and cycling in low-light conditions, winning both the Best Presentation and Best Promotional Video awards in the North West Finals. Young Enterprise is highly valued by universities and employers, providing students with essential skills in leadership, innovation, communication, and presentation. Plus, any profits made are shared among team members—so the more successful your company, the greater the rewards!

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is an exciting journey of personal development, adventure, and accomplishment. Available at three levels—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—each award offers students the chance to take on new challenges and create a tailored programme that builds resilience, confidence, and valuable life skills. To achieve a DofE Award, students complete activities in four main sections (five for Gold): Volunteering, Physical, Skills, Expedition, and, for Gold, a Residential component. This well-rounded experience encourages students to contribute to their communities, improve their fitness, learn new skills, and take on memorable outdoor expeditions, all while choosing activities that suit their own interests and aspirations. Best of all, DofE allows students to personalise their experience, empowering them to explore their passions and develop talents that will serve them well in the future.

At North Chadderton Sixth Form College, we are proud to offer the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), an enriching opportunity for students to dive deeper into a subject of their choice and develop essential research and critical thinking skills. The EPQ encourages independent learning, allowing students to explore topics they are passionate about beyond the standard curriculum, culminating in a project that can take the form of a dissertation, a presentation, or even a creative piece. This qualification not only enhances university applications by demonstrating commitment and initiative but also equips students with invaluable skills in time management, project planning, and effective communication. With the support of our dedicated staff, the EPQ is a fantastic way for students to challenge themselves, pursue their interests, and stand out in their future academic and career endeavours.