Ponteland High School

Ponteland High School has a large, vibrant and highly successful Post-16 provision with excellent opportunities for all, including both academic and extracurricular activities. 

Our Sixth Form curriculum offer enables progression from GCSE in nearly all subject area and is predominantly A levels with 4-5 vocational courses. The standard route is for students to study 3 advanced level/vocational courses alongside a Level 3 Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). It is possible for a student to study 4 advanced level/vocational courses, with or without an EPQ, following discussion with senior leaders. 

Each Sixth Form course has specific entry requirements that are made clear to students and parents prior to sitting GCSE exams. In addition to the taught curriculum we offer a wide and varied enrichment programme including work experience and community service within and outside of our school. 

Students who take our Post-16 courses, enjoy a proven record of success in further and higher education, and in the world of work. Our academic record is above the regional average and each year 100% of our students are supported on to their next destination of choice; approximately 80% of our sixth form students progress onto Higher Education, including several to Oxford, Cambridge, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine and other High tariff courses. 

Each student’s progress and development are carefully monitored by their tutors and the Post-16 team with high quality pastoral care continuing throughout Y12 and 13. 

We offer a very wide range of A level and CTEC courses and an increasingly diverse range of extracurricular opportunities. We also offer the prestigious Extended Project qualification. 

The Post-16 provision includes a large study area and learning resource centre with computer facilities. There are large seating areas for more relaxed working and socialising. Also available for teaching and extra – curricular presentations is a large lecture theatre. 

We have high expectations of our oldest students, with regard to work and behaviour. We trust them to respect the increased freedom they will experience throughout their Post-16 studies and to demonstrate high levels of self-reliance and maturity. Students organise themselves in groups such as the Charity Committee and the Environment group, and there are opportunities to take part in national initiatives such as the European Youth Parliament and the Bar National Mock Trial competition. 

Any prospective sixth form students are more than welcome to visit school to have a look round and meet with some of our staff and students – please contact the sixth form office for more information about enrolment.