Life in SHSK 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 European Youth Parliament and Darwinian Society to Senior Orchestra and Cooking for University. 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, including through our thriving OX14 Learning Partnership, which offers a growing range of co-curricular and academic enrichment opportunities – such as peer mentoring, Oxbridge preparation and academic coaching. We work particularly closely with Radley College, and you can look forward to activities with their Sixth Form students, whether that is a social BBQ or a rigorous academic debate followed by a formal dinner.
Our 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.
Sophia Scott-Malden
Head of Sixth Form
The Benedict Building
St Helen’s new sixth form centre
Our state-of-the-art 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 co-curricular interests 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
The Sixth Form at St Helen and St Katharine will be the best, most exciting part of your school career, and at the heart of this will be your academic studies.
Academic life in SHSK Sixth Form is challenging – and all the more rewarding for it. It is based upon individual choice, growing your expertise and confidence in your chosen subjects and, importantly, encouraging learning that extends beyond the curriculum and becomes increasingly independent.
Beyond the curriculum
Your life at SHSK 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 co-curricular 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 SHSK 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 SHSK Sixth Form
Higher education and careers
Futures at SHSK Sixth Form 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.
