Life in St Helen’s Sixth Form is such an exciting time, academically and personally. It is the time when you take control of your learning, pursue the subjects you love and are fascinated by, expanding your knowledge and deepening your understanding. You are given the freedom and independence to manage your own experiences, as your studies prepare you for life beyond school.
In Sixth Form, you will be taught in small groups by highly experienced, professional and dedicated teachers who will come to know each of you as individuals and will be keen to impart their joy and expertise in their own subject disciplines. Relationships between students and teachers are relaxed, respectful and collaborative, having your learning and interests at heart.
Beyond academic study, Sixth Form provides a wealth of opportunities. You can participate in sport, drama, music, art, community and school service and join a wide range of clubs and societies, from History of Art to Senior Orchestra. As senior members of the school community there are wide-ranging leadership opportunities for Sixth Form students, and you will be a role model for younger students in the School.
We collaborate with nearby schools, as through our thriving OX14 Learning Partnership, offering a growing range of extracurricular and academic enrichment opportunities – such as peer mentoring schemes, Oxbridge preparation sessions and academic coaching.
Our new Sixth Form centre, the Benedict Building, which opened in 2023, offers you the best possible place to flourish and achieve your ambitions. The learning and social spaces are all designed to anticipate the feel of university, inspiring discussion and ideas, and encouraging you to aim high.
I look forward to meeting you and showing you our wonderful school.
Mrs Sophia Scott-Malden
Head of Sixth Form
The Benedict Building
St Helen’s new sixth form centre
Our new Sixth Form centre, the Benedict Building, opened in 2023. It is a physical articulation of our values and vision for Sixth Form, providing you with the space and opportunity to grow your academic and extracurricular interest in readiness for the future. Echoing the design of the best higher education campuses, the building will give you a taste of the freedoms and independence of university life.
Academic life
A level and St Katharine’s Study options
Academic life in St Helen’s Sixth Form is about individual choice and learning beyond the curriculum. Your experience will bring together all aspects of our Sixth Form, blending academic subjects and pursuits, as well as valuable skills development which will complement and enhance your studies, underpinned by the ethos which encompasses Sixth Form life. We want you to embrace your independence and curiosity, take up responsibilities, seize the diverse opportunities, and develop a lifelong understanding of the importance of your community – wherever you find it.
Beyond the curriculum
Your life at St Helen’s Sixth Form will be busy, fun and brimming with opportunities – many of which will be beyond the classroom. You will be part of a community of students who understand that extracurricular and leadership activities are not only both exciting and enriching but also a vital part of your Sixth Form experience and preparation for a successful future.
Well-being
A sense of community distinguishes St Helen’s Sixth Form – not simply the laughter and fun that fills the Sixth Form centre but a more deeply held set of attitudes and values. There is a sense of possibility – an energy and vitality that is palpable as students involve themselves in every aspect of school life, combining their studies with myriad opportunities to pursue their interests and passions.
Student leadership
An exceptional Sixth Form education shapes and facilitates its students’ ambitions. Our goal is to help you develop the confidence and conviction to grasp the opportunities of higher education and the world of work, and become leaders, both in school and beyond. Fostering leadership skills is a central principle of St Helen’s Sixth Form.
Higher education and careers
Futures at St Helen’s is rooted in our expertise in advising and guiding young women to achieve their goals. It’s about encouraging you to lift your gaze above A levels in order to inspire, challenge and prepare you for life after school. Higher education, careers and alumnae support blend seamlessly to elevate our students’ aspirations, giving you access to specialist university experts, career guidance consultants and alumnae who are making waves in every field imaginable, and who are keen to connect with you and encourage you to go for it – whatever ‘it’ may be.
