The Sixth Form

In the Sixth Form all students follow the International Baccalaureate programme which is ideal for developing intellectual curiosity. Although the course is suitable for all those who qualify for entry to the Sixth Form, the IB is globally renowned for making those who take the course think intelligently and critically. It is also much admired for maintaining an appropriate breadth of education in the Sixth Form where, in the global economy of the twenty first century, adaptability is going to be a most valuable personal asset.

A good sixth form education is much more than achieving the qualifications to secure a place on a respected course at a student’s preferred choice of university. It must prepare students for making a success of life at university, where they will suddenly have much greater independence and where it will be vital to be effectively self-motivated, for fulfillment in adult life. This objective is achieved by having an exciting and demanding extracurricular programme, which provides appropriate opportunities for students to develop essential life skills.

Part of preparing students for the their next phase of education and ultimate career is to have an effective system in place that provides appropriate support and advice on this matter. With a part-time Higher Education Advisor, the College puts considerable investment into this aspect of the Sixth Form education and so it helps students explore the various courses that are available at a large range of different universities and, ultimately, helps them prepare an application form which fits in with their long-term plans.

A Fresh Approach to Learning

Class structures at this stage are less formal. In small groups, students are supported by pastoral tutors who are always on hand throughout their time in the Sixth Form. The tutor will know each student in their group both academically and personally and is uniquely positioned to act as mentor and guide. The Head of Sixth Form is also available to students on an individual basis and the whole Sixth Form meets together each week for presentations, discussions and talks from outside speakers.

It is central to our philosophy that every student should have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of university degree courses and the introduction of the International Baccalaureate underlines this ethos. For this generation of young men and women who have grown up in a world of global economies and communications, the IB provides the ultimate international qualification that will enable them not simply to cope, but to succeed in it.

The curriculum recognises and incorporates the diversity of strengths and talents within the Sixth Form and provides flexibility of choice, allowing students to follow their interests in depth and discover new ones – often opening up possible career paths.

Learning how to learn and evaluate information critically are core values of the Diploma course. Every student undertakes an Extended Essay and studies the Theory of Knowledge alongside a breadth of disciplines, with three or four subjects pursued in depth. In addition, everyone completes a programme of Creativity, Action and Service. The IB programme ensures that every Scarborough College student starts life with the advantage of having studied a broad and balanced curriculum and, just as importantly, has acquired the essential skills that will equip them for university and beyond.