| some questions answered |
Q. Do I have free lessons?
A. Yes. There are periods in the day when you have no time-tabled
lessons. These are for private study and provide you with the
time to work independently, completing tasks set by your teachers.
You must study in school during these periods. |
Q. Is there a big
difference between GCSE and Advanced Level courses?
A. Yes. There are differences
in the teaching and learning styles. You will be expected to
organise your studies independently.
You will have to complete more individual reading and research.
You ought to be doing a minimum of 2 hours study at home
per night. The degree of difficulty of the work will be greater
in Year 12 but you will be given guidance and support on how
to make the transition from GCSE to Advanced Level work go smoothly. |
Q. How will I know if I am making good progress and that
I am on course for success?
A. You will have regular progress checks and receive
WAGs (Working at Grades) in Year 12. Grades
at AS and A2. Also
Sixth Form Record Cards
are completed by subject teachers. These are used for mentoring
and to draw up action plans. There are also formal reports. You will have feedback from your
teachers continually on the work
you do and there are also calendared parents evenings. You
or your parents can ask for an informal meeting with your teachers,
tutor or Head of Year at a mutually agreed time to discuss
your progress. |
Q. Is there financial
help for Sixth Formers?
A. Free school meals and child benefit continue for sixth formers. Oxfordshire
Education Authority also has a sum of money which students can apply for. This
is means tested using parental income.
The Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) is available nationally in England. This allowance of up to £30 per week is payable to all students in full time further education. Assessment is decided by examining parental income. Further details can be obtained from www.dfes.gov.uk. |
Q. What if I want
to do Advanced Level courses but just get 4 grade Cs at GCSE?
A. You will not have met the minimum criteria, but individuals will have
support and advice. Please note: most universities and employers expect GCSE
English
and
Maths
(A - C) as part of their entry requirements. |
Q. Can I resit
Maths and English Language GCSEs?
A. Yes, but we offer no other resit GCSEs. Priority
on the timetable goes to AS tuition though resit classes are
timetabled to fit one year students.
Please note most universities and employers expect GCSE English Language and
Maths (A - C)
as part of their entry requirements. |
