Sixth Form
Enrichment
Why do we have a Sixth Form Enrichment Programme?
It is no longer enough to simply do well in academic subjects in order to secure a place at University or a good job. University admissions tutors and workplace recruitment officers now increasingly look for more.
They want to see rounded individuals who have attempted to explore their potential. They want to see sixth formers gathering experience in different areas in order to develop a broad range of skills and attributes. Universities are also interested in whether a student has the ability to cope with a broad range of activities alongside their academic work, revealing their organizational skills and personal qualities.
Clare Sutherland
Clare gained A-levels in Chemistry, Maths, Further Maths and Physics as well as AS-level History. She is now studying Engineering at her namesake college – Clare College, Cambridge.
“All the teaching staff were very supportive and prepared to answer those awkward questions you have about their subject. In the Sixth Form there is a very friendly atmosphere which makes the lessons enjoyable. I have had a lot of satisfaction from playing recreational netball and enjoyed the challenge of participating in the UK Maths Challenge over the years.”
and Clare’s parents say ….
“We would like to thank all Clare’s teachers for their enthusiasm and encouragement and for all their sound advice and solid support during the whole UCAS process. Of course we are proud of Clare and her achievements, but few schools could compare with the warmth and professionalism of Sheffield High School. The quality of Clare’s teaching has been consistently excellent. Thank you all.”
It is precisely for these reasons that we offer the Enrichment Programme at Sheffield High School. We want our sixth formers to develop fully their talents and interests and to be able to demonstrate a broad range of interests and achievements in the increasingly competitive market for university places and job opportunities. In addition, we also want sixth formers to have time away from their academic work to relax and pursue their broader interests and hobbies.
Most girls take two enrichment courses each term and there is the option to change activities during the year to broaden your experience.
Current Enrichment Options
- CSLA – Community Sports Leader Award
This is a nationally recognized qualification awarded by the British Sports Trust.
- Volunteering
Ever wanted to make a real contribution and to help others? Ever wanted to make a difference? Our Volunteering option gives you the opportunity to do precisely this.
- Toe-by-Toe
One of the most popular Enrichment options in the Sixth Form is ‘Toe-by-Toe’. It provides an opportunity to help one of our younger infants or juniors with their reading.
- Critical Thinking
This is widely recognized as a skill which students benefit from developing. Critical Thinking helps you to excel in your academic subjects as well as in your chosen career.
- ICT
Universities and employers want to recruit students and employees with good ICT skills. At university you are required to use ICT to present your work and presentations and to undertake research. Employers will expect you to adapt to the computer systems that underpin their organizations. In government and industry reports, employers constantly remark on the need for greater ICT literacy amongst school and university leavers. If you feel your IT skills could do with improvement then this could be the option for you. ICT Key Skills allows you to develop your broader ICT skills and take a recognized qualification at the end of the course. This requires you to take an exam and submit an ICT-based project.
- Recreational Sport
Sixth Formers often want to continue with their sporting interests and the Recreational Sport option is just what they need. Sixth Formers choosing this enrichment option can participate in a wide range of sports, simply to keep fit or to develop their skills.
- School Magazine
Our annual school magazine is, to a considerable degree, written and edited by Sixth Formers who take part in this annual project.
- Mandarin
China has been one of the world’s fastest growing economies over the last decade and is forecast to become the world’s largest before 2050! This course covers the basic phrases needed to begin to converse in Mandarin.
- Peer Mentoring
This offers the chance to have a role with real responsibility, offering help and support to other girls in School.
- Junior Helping
This option contrasts with the ‘Toe-by-Toe’ option. Whereas ‘Toe-by-Toe’ involves helping one girl with their reading, ‘Junior Helping’ means offering help in a multitude of ways in the Junior School.
Every year, new options are evaluated for inclusion to ensure that the programme continues to meet Sixth Formers needs and requests.
Is that everything?
In addition to the enrichment options outlined above, there is an extensive range of extra-curricular options available to Sixth Formers, for example –
- Drama
School productions
Sixth Form productions
Backstage work
- Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme
Bronze, Silver and Gold
- Music
Chamber Orchestra
Concert Band
Chamber Choir
Chorus Line
Senior Strings
Swing Band
- Sport
Netball
Hockey
Badminton
Trampolining
Tennis
Football….the list goes on and on!
- Survival Cookery
Learn basic cookery skills to help you at university!