Student Feedback “When you have teachers who enjoy their subject and who like challenging students, it inspires you to work even harder” - Year 13 Student Director of Sixth Form Studies
At OPGS we strive to match the needs of our students to the rapidly changing economic and higher education environments. The number and variety of offers from Russell Group and other elite universities continues to grow. Our apprenticeship programme supports students to produce the many tailored applications that are required for this path. Every year we follow with excitement the careers of our students from years gone by. The fact that so many are keen to return to support current students with interview practice and application support is testament to the warm and lasting relationships our staff develop with our Sixth Form students. Whether students are new to OPGS or are moving into a new phase of their life at our school, the trajectory for their lives is set by the two years they spend with us. We get to know our students well and make sure that they leave with the foundation for a dynamic and rewarding future. I look forward to working with you next year. Ms A Hern Director of Sixth Form
Subjects Available To Study We offer a wide range of courses and subjects as part of the Sixth Form Curriculum. In addition to A Levels, all students have the opportunity to take an Extended Project Qualification in Year 12 or 13. Without the restrictions of an option block system, our students can combine subject combinations according to their ability and interests. Students can take either 3 or 4 courses and are advised individually as to whether they should take any AS levels at the end of Year 12.
Arts & Technology Design Technology Fine Art Graphics Music Theatre Studies English English Language English Literature Media Studies Humanities & Social Sciences Business Economics Geography Government and Politics History Physical Education Religious Studies Sociology Languages French Spanish Science & Mathematics Biology Chemistry Computing Mathematics Further Mathematics Physics Psychology Alumni Feedback “Before coming to OPGS, I had not considered that I could get into Oxford. I was encouraged to apply by the Sixth Form Team and supported with the entrance tests and interviews. Now I have an English degree from Oxford, an MA in Playwriting from York and a job in publicity at Penguin.”
Albert Politics, Geography & Economics OPGS Sixth Form has helped me find the path I would like to follow in the future. Studying Politics, Economics and Geography has made me want to study International Relations at university and follow a career in Politics. The weekly news lessons in Politics have helped me widen my knowledge and understanding, showing me how the political landscape of the globe can change so quickly. I have been encouraged to do extra-curricular activities such as standing for the Kent Youth County Council. As part of the council, I often talk about matters that affect myself and other young people across Kent, whilst getting knowledge in a field that I am interested in. The Sixth Form here at OPGS have been fully supportive of me. As a student with cerebral palsy, I didn’t know whether the Sixth Form would be any different to lower down the school. In fact, I cannot fault them for the support and help that I get. I am proud to be one of the Head Students here, as I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Oakwood Park Grammar School. Students’ Perspectives
Milly Sociology, Geography & English Lit I liken OPGS Park Sixth Form to an extended family, I have been welcomed in as an external student with high ambitions to become a lawyer. The Sixth Form Team have supported me unequivocally, constantly providing me with opportunities and support, such as: work experience at Whitehead Monckton, trips to the courts, running a Debating Club and being voted in as one of the Head Students. OPGS has exceeded my expectations of what studying A-Levels would be like. All of my teachers are passionate about their subjects, making it more engaging, but also the bond you create with your teachers is more professional as they prepare you for university and the world of work. My Form Tutor, also one of my subject teachers, has guided my transition from an all girls’ school into a boys’ school, supported me with university applications and my everyday school life. Moving to Oakwood Park Grammar has been the best decision I have made throughout my school life. Student subject-choice is our priority. Every year we base our timetable on the preferences of our prospective Sixth Formers, rather than on a pre-set subject blocking system. Our varied programme of independent study arrangements teaches our students how to organise their academic commitments and allows them to make new friends. Through the Faculty System students are in the care of a tutor who is a specialist in their academic field. This provides personalised academic support, inspiration and challenge.
Student Feedback “I like the discussions and being encouraged to take part in public speaking roles, for example debates and presentations. At the time, I may not have wanted to do them due to nerves, but they have certainly increased my confidence.” - Year 13 student Faculty System
Ofsted Report “Pupils develop an assured and positive sense of their own identity. Sixth-Form students act as role models within the school. This is strengthened by the leadership opportunities that give pupils a clear voice within the school. For example, sixth-form students enjoy a wideranging lecture programme. This enhances the confidence of those students who present and the knowledge of those in the audience” - May 2024 On joining OPGS Sixth Form, students will join either the STEM Faculty, with form tutors who specialise in science, technology or mathematics, or the HASS Faculty, with tutors whose academic background is the humanities, arts, and social sciences. The role of tutors is to provide a wider variety of educational input than the course content of A levels allows. As a result, OPGS Sixth Formers leave us with a wellrounded knowledge of their subject area and the confidence to express educated opinions on subjects connected to their own. Students will attend weekly lectures given by students or staff. Fortnightly Faculty Debates pit student against student, developing their oracy and critical thinking skills. Although initially daunting, this encourages confidence and resilience which they will take with them to university and the workplace. OPGS students are, therefore, not only experts in their own faculty, but are also well versed in current affairs. Students will remain with their tutor into Year 13. This enables tutors to give subject specific support with UCAS and employment applications and consistent pastoral support as students navigate their coursework and A level examinations.
Chelsy Economics, History & English Lit Within my time at OPGS, the engaging teaching made me realise my passion for Economics. This sparked my interest within the world of economics and finance and inspired me to apply to study Finance and Accounting at university. Whilst struggling to find valuable work experience, OPGS helped me by sending opportunities to the students consistently. Through this I attended various opportunities such as an in person event with Young Professionals and multiple online events with big finance firms such as KPMG. This further helped me realise my ambition to be in the finance sector. The teachers at OPGS make lessons enjoyable and interesting, going above and beyond to help me whenever I felt stuck on a topic or a certain grade. I’ve particularly enjoyed being surrounded by other highachieving students who push me to do better. OPGS Sixth Form hold many career events where they have brought in multiple people who are in a variety of different careers, fuelling my interest in finance. Furthermore, OPGS have made sure to help every student. By giving them the best opportunities, they are able to pursue their goals. Students’ Perspectives
Ifan Politics, Religious Studies & English Lit ‘Work hard, be nice’. This term that Headteacher Mrs Craig introduced to us at the start of the year embodies the very core ethos of Oakwood Park Grammar School. Within the phrase you can find our key principle of “Kindness, Tolerance and Respect”, fused with the “Firey Ambition” that is cultivated from Years 7 through to 13. To me, this is our school. OPGSenhanceseducation; whether it be through creativity or activity. Alongside my A-Level Studies I can do a Drama Extended Project Qualification to maintain my extracurricular pursuits. The EPQ is compatible with all hobbies or interests: ranging from baking to designing a car. Furthermore, just three weeks into Year 12 I was invited to participate in a National Debating competition at the Battle of Ideas Festival in Westminster, which my partner and I won representing Oakwood Park Grammar School. In our Sixth Form there is a focus on going beyond the classroom, an encouragement to think outside of the hour lesson. The subject specific debates, the Form Time presentations, the student-run clubs: these are the devices that are preparing us for our future, these are the tools that we will use in our working life. I could not see myself anywhere else but OPGS. The constant stream of opportunities, the unrelenting care of the staff, and the quality of education is so vigorous that our school is undoubtedly the most comfortable place to be as driven students.
In addition to A levels, Year 12 students choose three options from the Enrichment 6 menu which they follow for an hour a week. Options currently running for Year 12 include: • Japanese • Spanish • Practical Chemistry • Astrophysics • Podcasting • Cooking • Debating • EPQ booster • Programming • Online Courses from Harvard and Yale Enrichment & Extension Ofsted Report “The programme of enrichment days, clubs, trips and speakers broadens and extends pupils’ learning. As a result, pupils gain experiences and encounter perspectives that challenge them to think in new ways. Teachers seek out opportunities for their pupils to go beyond exam specifications. ” - May 2024
Central to our philosophy of learning is the notion that a student cannot truly appreciate the complexity of their chosen subjects by confining their experience to the classroom. Ms Hern, working with subject staff, provides opportunities for students to take part in subject specific visits and workshops with leading universities which allow students to experience and engage with undergraduate level material. In addition to working with universities, the school also creates opportunities for students to attend presentations or become involved with competitions run by major national and multinational companies and organisations. Universities place great value on students who can work independently and show an engagement with their subject beyond the confines of exam board specifications, and to this end our expectation is that staff and students explore and share other sources of knowledge which link to their course; these can range from the more traditional approach centred on wider reading to making podcasts and visiting exhibitions. Students can demonstrate their expertise beyond the confines of a course by taking an Extended Project Qualification, which allows them to research and present a paper or create an artefact of their choice. The school encourages students to boost their chance of gaining a place at a competitive university or standing out in an apprenticeship interview by highlighting their commitment and grasp of their chosen subject through an EPQ. Sixth Formers run clubs such as Medics Club, Politics Club, Japanese Club, History Society and Law Society. Trips and guest speakers form a regular part of these clubs and societies. There are also discreet Enrichment Days which are vehicles for courses run by experts such as safe driving, crime and fraud prevention, employment rights, living independently and issues of sexual consent. The Sixth Form Team seek to empower students to take ownership of their needs and request sessions that they think the cohort needs, beyond the statutory regime. We have a team of PSHE prefects who work with us on this.
Ed Biology, Chemistry, Maths & English Lit Perhaps my fondest memory from Sixth Form is taking part in the Costa Rica expedition. This was not only a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a wholly new culture and country, but as a biology student, I found it a terrific experience to see the amazing conservation work performed out there. I have wanted to be a vet for many years now, an interest that has only grown throughout school. Whilst studying sciences at OPGS, my teachers have encouraged this, offering me much-appreciated support in the application process. Whilst A Levels take a lot of hard work, the enthusiasm of each teacher for their subject ensures you stay passionate about your choices. Studying four A Levels has definitely enriched my Sixth Form experience. Taking English Literature not only provides a refreshing contrast to my STEM subjects but it has mademe amore well-rounded individual. There is a plethora of opportunities available to Sixth Formers, including the Wellbeing Ambassador and Senior Prefect roles I hold. A part of Sixth Form that I really enjoy is being treated as a young adult, with the greater independence setting you up for post-A level life. My Sixth Form experience has been a lot of work but thoroughly rewarding, and I greatly value the friends and memories I have made. Students’ Perspectives
Morgan Biology, Chemistry, Maths & English Lit In my time at OPGS, there has always been an attention to student wellbeing that the school offers. The supportive and inclusive environment is one of the reasons why I love this school and is why I continued to stay here for Sixth Form. Throughout my time at OPGS, I have been given many opportunities and becoming an ambassador for student wellbeing has been one of the most rewarding opportunities I have had. The mentoring programme that runs from Year 7-11 is a programme organised by wellbeing ambassadors and supports students in the lower school creating safe spaces for students to discuss their mental health. My ambition is to go into Medicine and the school has not only supported the academic demands of my application, but also enabled me to develop the holistic approach to mental and physical well being so needed by our NHS. OPGS is a school that is much more than an institution of academic success. The way that the school intentionally aims to connect with the students to grow them is a quality that not many other schools have, whether it is a short conversation with Mrs Craig in the hallway about your weekend plans, or talking to your form tutor in the morning about your worries. OPGS creates a positive learning environment and I believe this is a reflection of the hard work that the teachers here put into the school, and everything they stand for. So now I encourage you to take the opportunity to look around the school. Ask tons of questions and really get your feel for the school and make your own decision, but I assure you that you will love it here.
Student Support, Guidance & Leadership Ofsted Report “Pupils benefit from extensive learning beyond their academic studies. For example, they Careers information helps pupils to feel well informed about future choices. The school uses parental, alumni and local networks to help pupils learn more about the world of work. Students in the sixth form are supported to go on to a range of prestigious courses and destinations.” - May 2024
Our students recognise that the ethos of the Sixth Form is centred on the principle that, despite being at a selective school in a competitive marketplace, they are viewed as individuals and not just a set of grades. OPGS students will be supported in their transition to challenging A levels, and their newfound independence, by their Form Tutor, Year Head, our Sixth Form guidance councillor, and a Student Support Team who offer scheduling help and mindfulness sessions. Mrs Williams, the school’s Information, Advice and Guidance teacher and Head of Year 13, supports students in making decisions regarding their immediate future beyond A Levels, whether that be university or taking up a Degree Apprenticeship. We offer a focused UCAS programme, assisting students with the application process and their personal statements. There is also a comprehensive Oxbridge preparation programme run by the Director of Sixth Form, Ms Hern. We actively encourage our Sixth Form students to support their peers and pupils lower down the school, through our mentoring programme. Academic mentors are usually subject prefects who have a strength in a particular area and share this expertise with younger students. Learning support mentors work closely with students who may have additional learning needs or mental health challenges as they make the transition between primary and secondary school. Sixth Formers have the opportunity to become Subject Prefects in Year 12, and Senior Prefects in Year 13. They decide on their own charity fund-raising projects, support the school with events, lead assemblies and play a strong role in student voice.
Bailey Chemistry, French, Maths & Further Maths I knew that OPGS was the perfect fit for me for Sixth Form just after the first session on the Taster Days. We studied some new and interesting topic in Chemistry that I’d never seen prior. I felt so engaged that, unbeknownst to me at the time, this was the spark that would drive me to want to become a chemist in the future. Overall, Sixth Form has allowed me to thrive in so many areas: from stretching my academia in lessons and from homework to allowing me to express myself and understand who I would be as a young person. There never was a true limit on what I could do, and I was always provided with opportunity around every corner, from a STEM program with Cambridge University to an astrophysics lecture with Oxford – I have always felt catered to. Beyond the academics, I have been able to meet some of the most intriguing and incredible people, whether they be some of my closest friends now, or staff, who have constantly provided engaging teaching and immense guidance whenever I’ve needed it. Events, such as the Quiz Night, have only added to the great sense of community established by this school, something I will be proud to carry with me indefinitely. Students’ Perspectives
Shayla Sociology, Politics, Psychology & English Lit My interest in psychology has been rooted in me from the start. My passion expanded further into elements of Sociology. One of the dominating factors as to why this is, is undoubtedly OPGS Sixth Form. I have spoken in debates on freedom of speech and capital punishment, taking an EPQ during Year 12 and visited museums. OPGS has enabled me to create my own poetry club where we share our analytical interpretations of each other’s poetry and this also encouraged some members to enter the Oxford Tower Poetry competition with a poem based on the theme “Mirror.” Personally I have noticed my ambition has multiplied and I am constantly setting myself goals, just as Mrs Craig states, we should all be “Fiercely ambitious!” Realistically, the Sixth Form has it challenges but you are never alone in this school. When I have experienced a ‘fork in the road’ whether it be my friends, teachers, pastoral care - someone has been there to guide me with my best interests at heart. This combination of a challenging and supportive atmosphere has benefited my character development massively. I have enjoyed the supportive circle of friends I have surrounding me, alongside the belief my teachers have in my potential. OPGS Sixth Form not only offers knowledge but also an insight into yourself and the person you want to be, and it is this that makes OPGS so unique. Alumni Feedback “OPGS helped me feel confident and prepared for my university admissions, with personal statement reviews, mock interviews and enrichment day workshops “
Every student, whatever their strengths, can fulfil their academic potential if they are given the opportunity to develop as a person. It is our job at Oakwood Park Grammar School to help them achieve this. Our highly qualified staff combine fresh, innovative ideas with tried and tested academic practice to ensure consistently excellent results. Our curriculum offers personalised learning, with the diversity of the student population catered for by a large choice of subjects. Sixth Form Study Programme
In addition to a reputation for outstanding pastoral care, the school also prides itself on academically challenging teaching which stretches students to fulfil their potential. A Level courses are taught by highly qualified staff who combine innovation with the necessary rigour required to ensure that Sixth Form students consistently achieve excellent results. Students are encouraged to deepen their knowledge of their chosen subjects through structured wider reading tasks coupled with a subject specific enrichment programme. Sixth Formers develop their independent study skills through a textured support plan. Our Sixth Form have their own study and common room spaces. When not in taught lessons, students are timetabled for ‘Silent Study’, which is supervised by a member of staff, or ‘Collaborative Study’ working in groups on subject specific problem solving or ‘Independent Study’ where students can choose to base themselves in the library or their common room. A Sixth Form kitchen is available to students for use in these periods as well as a pop-up canteen open at break and lunch. Students are also allowed to use the local shops and facilities at break and lunch. Student Feedback “The pastoral care, general support and advice given is a high standard. It’s a fantastic Sixth Form which really does feel like a co-operation between staff and students” - Year 13 Student 2024
Thank you for reading Student Feedback “Adjusting to being here has been made really easy by the teachers and students - you should be very proud of the environment in this school.” - Year 12 Student 2024
Sixth Form provision in Maidstone and the surrounding areas is competitive and settings need to ensure they are offering something unique in order to attract prospective students. I believe the OPGS Sixth Form is unique in that we offer an extensive range of academic subjects and combine this with a high level of personalised care and bespoke IAG. Students in our Sixth Form are provided with a range of opportunities which extend their classroom based learning and go beyond the taught curriculum. Our goal is to ensure that we are supporting young people to realise their aspirations and take the next steps in their educational journey, whether this is in university or a degree apprenticeship. I am incredibly proud of the Sixth F orm in our school and all the students that attend it. We look forward to meeting you, Mrs S Craig Headteacher
Oakwood Park Grammar School Oakwood Road Maidstone Kent ME16 8AH 01622 726683 office@opgs.org www.opgs.org
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