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Join the UK
Sixth Form College
of the Year
In association with
fe awards
2018
Winner
Sixth form college
of the year award
In association with
fe awards
2018
Winner
Sixth form college
of the year award
Proud to be...
UK Sixth
Form
College of
In association with
the Year fe awards
2018
Winner
Sixth form college
of the year award
In association with
fe awards
2018
Winner
Sixth form college
2 of the year award 2
WELCOME
At Birkenhead Sixth Form College, you can improve’. The research tells us
we are driven by our knowledge this, and our own experience from many
that all students, including you, years of success confirms it.
have the capacity to excel but we
are also grounded in the reality that If you want a fresh experience in one of
achievement requires you to work hard, the country’s leading colleges; if you
make sacrifices and be committed. want to be the best version of you that
you can be, then we invite you to join
This conviction in what you can achieve our officially outstanding sixth form
is not the product of wishful thinking or college. We promise that whatever
some lame attempt to motivate: rather, you put into your studies, we will more Mike Kilbride
it is borne out of what we know and than match. Our multiple awards and
Principal
what we ourselves continue to achieve national reputation have been gained
with the large number of students because of what students like you have
that join us from across the region achieved in the past. Commit to your Be POSITIVE
every year. We know that the body of studies, work with us and enjoy the
independent research in education experience and you too will have the Be AMBITIOUS
is united behind the statements that success you need to take up the exciting
’educational success is a product of future opportunities that lie ahead. Be RESILIENT
purposeful hard work’ and ‘no matter
what your current level of performance, Be THOUGHTFUL
CONTENTS
Beyond Sixth Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Clubs & Societies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-31
What’s College like?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Welcome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Our Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Why Choose Us? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Our Trophy Cabinet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
How We Differ from a School . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Our Ofsted Report. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Choosing Your Subjects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Settling In. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Course Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-25 Getting to College. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Be Supported . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-27 How to apply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Living Our Values. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Visit us. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
3
WHY
CHOOSE
US
”
Whether you’re joining us from schools in the Wirral or elsewhere in Merseyside or Cheshire,
you’re coming to the top sixth form in the region. Here are just some of the things that prove that
Birkenhead Sixth Form College is the best choice for you after your GCSEs:
We are the UK Sixth Form
1
College of the Year
We wanted to say a big thank
2 We are the best for you for the last two years of
A Levels in Wirral quality education that our
son received from the College.
3 We are in the top 10% Joining the College gave him
nationally for A Levels a sense of being understood,
listened to and encouraged when
4 You have over 40 needed. Being treated as an
courses to choose from adult meant so much to him. For
”
this we thank you very much.
5 Teachers are specialists
in sixth form education Ceri, Class of 2018 parent
4
HOW WE
DIFFER FROM
A SCHOOL
”
Joining the College after your GCSEs is a stepping stone to university or employment. There are
several reasons why College life and the university-style campus is so different to school and helps
prepare you for your next step:
1 There is no uniform
You call teachers by their I absolutely loved my two years
2 at College. I made so many new
first names friends, got so much support
with exams and had teachers
You can leave College in that were amazing. It really
3
free periods was a great stepping stone for
university and provided me with
”
You have more the best experience.
4
independence
Emily, former student
5 Everyone is new when
they start
5
CHOOSING
YOUR SUBJECTS
From the moment you apply, right through to when you join us, we’ll work with you closely to
ensure we guide you onto the appropriate courses that suit your career aspirations and allow
you to reach your full potential.
WHAT ARE THE OPTIONS AT SIXTH FORM?
At the College, you study A Levels or BTECs or a combination of both. You choose three subject
options: one A Level makes up one subject option; BTECs can be equivalent to one, two or three
subject options. There are no timetable restrictions on what combination of subjects you can study.
A Levels BTECs
Short for Advanced Level. We offer 28 A Level options: some will be An alternative to A Levels, BTECs are more vocational and can be useful
subjects you’ve studied at GCSE and some will be new. if you know what career you’re working towards. Unlike A Levels, BTECs
A Levels are highly valued by universities and employers so they are continually assessed throughout the course with a combination
can open doors to further study and careers. All A Levels are of coursework, practical projects and exams. BTECs are awarded Pass,
assessed by exams at the end of the two year course and graded Merit, Distinction or Distinction *. They are accepted by universities
A* to E. and depending on which type you choose, a BTEC can be equivalent to
1, 2 or 3 A Levels.
When choosing what to study at
sixth form, it is worth considering:
• What you are likely to enjoy and • If you want to keep your future study
be good at. and career choices open, any subject you
study will give you transferable skills
• If you have a particular career or
degree in mind, you may need to • We offer a number of subjects that you may
choose specific subjects. not have studied before. Law, Psychology and
Sociology are particularly popular subjects at
the College.
6
COURSE
OPTIONS
Our wide choice of A Level and BTEC courses
can be studied in any combination.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
5 GCSEs (including Maths and English Language) at grade 4 or above are required,
plus any minimum entry requirements for individual subjects.
For full details of each course and specific entry requirements, please visit:
www.bsfc.ac.uk/courses
7
COURSE OPTIONS
CHOOSING YOUR COURSES:
Remember, at the College, you study A Levels or BTECs or a combination of both. You choose three
subject options: one A Level makes up one subject option; BTECs can be equivalent to one, two or three
subject options. There are no timetable restrictions on what combination of subjects you can study.
LEVEL 3
BTEC
Extended Extended Additonal entry
A Level Diploma
Certificate (equivalent to 2
Diploma requirements are a minimum
(equivalent (equivalent to of the following
Course to 1 A Level)
A Levels)
3 A Levels) GCSE grades:
Art - Fine Art P Grade 4 in Art
Art - Graphics P Grade 4 in Art
Art - Textiles P Grade 4 in Art
Applied Science P P Grade 4 in both a Science subject and Maths
Grade 5 in Maths and either Grade 6 in Biology
Biology P and two Grade 5s in Chemistry and Physics or
two Grade 6s in Combined Science
Business P P P
Grade 5 in Maths and either Grade 6 in
Chemistry P Chemistry and two Grade 5s in Biology and
Physics or two Grade 6s in Combined Science
Computer Science P Grade 6 in Maths
Dance P
Drama & Theatre Studies P
Economics P Grade 6 in Maths
English Language P
Two Grade 5s in English Literature and English
English Literature P Language
Film Studies P
French P Grade 6 in French
Geography P Grade 5 in Maths and Grade 5 in Geography
8
AT A GLANCE
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Five GCSEs (including Maths and English Language) at Grade 4 or above are required, plus
additional entry requirements for individual subjects.
Please note: Level 2 BTECs are not accepted as part of any entry criteria.
LEVEL 3
BTEC
Extended Extended Additonal entry
A Level Diploma
Certificate (equivalent to 2
Diploma requirements are a minimum
(equivalent (equivalent to of the following
Course to 1 A Level)
A Levels)
3 A Levels) GCSE grades:
Health & Social Care P P
History P
IT P P
Law P P
Grade 6 in Maths and at least one other Grade 6
Mathematics P and one Grade 5
Grade 7 in Maths and take Maths A Level
Further Mathematics P alongside Further Maths
Media Studies P
Music - Digital Production P
Grade 5 in Maths and either Grade 6 in Physics
Physics P and two Grade 5s in Biology and Chemistry or
two Grade 6s in Combined Science
Politics P
Psychology P
Religious Studies P
Sociology P
Spanish P Grade 6 in Spanish
Grade 4s in Sciences or PE Theory Paper for
Sport & Physical Education P P P PE A Level
Statistics P Grade 5 in Maths
9
Please check website for latest course details.PSYCHOLOGY
OPTIONS: Psychology lets you discover the reserarchers in the psychology field, the
complexities of human behaviour. You’ll department’s range of specialisms blend
A Level learn how to appreciate our actions and to give students the best possible teaching
• Psychology interactions in a scientific way, including from people who have applied their
analysing yourself and how you behave Psychology skills in real areas of work.
with other people. The transferable skills
learnt in Psychology marry perfectly with
so many other fields of work too, as you
can understand the processes of the brain Good to know:
and the intricacies and nuances of what it
Each year, the Psychology
is to be human.
department runs a ‘Creepy Crawly
The College’s expert Psychology staff are Day’, with special visitors bringing
passionate about what they do and each in weird and wonderful creatures in
come into teaching with their own area of order for students to learn about the
expertise within the subject. From former mental processes behind phobias.
mental health professionals to leading
10ENGLISH
OPTIONS: Studying English Language or Literature at a more ‘university-like’ discussion and
A Level goes far beyond just reading and seminar style of teaching than lessons you
A Level writing. The study of language inspires you may have experienced in school.
• English Language to engage with your world and yourself to
• English Literature understand the assumptions and attitudes
that underlie our way of communication
and create the building blocks of English. Good to know:
Literature, meanwhile, focuses on the most English students have the opportunity to
refined and insightful use of our language travel to London for a residential cultural
to convey meaning and context with both trip which involves watching a production
style and depth. at The Globe Theatre, visiting the National
Gallery and more. You’ll also stay in
English lessons at Birkenhead Sixth a converted former courthouse where
Form College encourage you to think Charles Dickens once worked.
independently and analytically through
11SCIENCES
OPTIONS: After taking your GCSEs, there is no doubt are guaranteed to be taught by a qualified
that you will be well aware of the kind of scientist in that specific area, rather than
A Level work that is involved in Biology, Chemistry general Science teachers that may teach
• Biology and Physics, and know whether you across multiple disciplines and ages.
• Physics have a passion and aptitude for Science.
While choosing these subjects at A Level
• Chemistry
presents another step up in terms of Good to know:
BTEC academic challenge, our team of specialist
subject teachers are here to equip you Last year, the College’s team of
• Applied Science Chemistry students won the Royal
with everything you need to be well
Extended Certificate prepared, ready and excited to meet the Society of Chemistry’s ‘Young
Equivalent to one course option
rigour of these intellectually stimulating Analyst’ regional competition,
• Applied Science qualifications. where they pitted their wits against
Diploma the best young scientists in the area
Our Science staff - the largest department at the University of Liverpool’s new
Equivalent to two course options
within the College - consists of specialist state-of-the-art laboratories.
teachers within their subject fields, so you
12LAW
OPTIONS: Law is everywhere; it’s part of everything in, all whilst being taught by legal experts
we do and is the backbone of society, so including former solicitors.
A Level a qualification in Law can open the door
• Law to a multitude of careers.
Good to know:
BTEC Along with Law A Level at the College, we
offer a Law BTEC, which means that the The College enters a team into the
• Law Extended Citizenship Foundation’s ‘Bar Mock
style of learning can be suited to everyone.
Certificate Trial’ every year to compete against
Equivalent to one course option Law is the perfect combination between a schools, acting as barristers in fictional
humanity and a science, with emphasis on trials but in real court rooms in front
writing but also logic and learning hard and of real judges. The team has won the
fast rules in a fun and vibrant department. regional final in Chester Crown Court
The College boasts unparalleled links and performed at the national final in
with law firms and universities across the London’s Old Bailey and Royal Courts of
region and beyond which allows countless Justice.
extracurricular opportunities to get involved
13BUSINESS
OPTIONS Both the A Level and BTEC Business solid and organised structure, itself much
courses give you a broad foundation of like a business plan. They have also fine-
A Level skills and offer the challenge of examining tuned the use of resources to adapt to the
• Business real businesses in action. You’ll learn different learning styles of students so you
the difficult art of interpreting business can reach your full potential.
BTEC operations and determining the best
• Business Extended concepts and strategies that could be
Certificate employed to make a successful business.
Good to know:
Equivalent to one course option You’ll hunt for solutions in project
• Business Diploma management, people management, Each year, Business students
Equivalent to two course options economics and marketing, and use plan, take part in and evaluate
your problem-solving to come up with a day of teambuilding exercises
theoretical and practical results. at a local outdoor adventure
centre, which includes activities
The Business staff make sure that they
such as abseiling, raft building
enable students to organise and plan for
and archery.
the demands of the curriculum with a
14MATHS
OPTIONS: Having studied Maths throughout your including Psychology, Biology, Law, and
school career, you’ll be fully aware of the many others that are reliant on
A Level challenges that it presents, but A Level quantitative analysis.
• Maths Maths and Statistics courses give you the
• Further Maths chance to leave the College with some of
the most highly respected qualifications in
• Statistics Good to know:
education. You’ll enjoy the challenge.
The Maths subjects offer
In A Level Maths, you should have an
extremely supportive teaching
aptitude for algebra and problem-solving,
packages including popular
with both clear-cut, logical thinking and
videos produced by our own
abstract thought. Conversely, in Statistics,
Maths teachers.
you’ll learn how to interpret real-life data
in an accessible way, which dovetails
perfectly with a number of other studies
and enhances your abilities in all of them,
15ART & DESIGN
OPTIONS: The creative industries are Britain’s Foundation Course:
biggest employer and with digital media
A Level growing exponentially, creative skills have Birkenhead Sixth Form College also offers a
• Fine Art never been more in demand in the world of post-A Level Foundation Diploma in Art, Design
work, so studying A Level Fine Art, Graphics and Media that is a highly successful pre-university
• Graphics course. The Foundation course extends your
or Textiles will stand you in good stead for
• Textiles artistic expertise even further and universities
your career.
often require that students take this qualification
The three Art & Design A Level courses at before studying at degree level.
FOUNDATION: the College offer very different ways to
develop your artistic flair, but also develop
• Foundation Diploma valuable life skills. You will learn how to
in Art & Design Good to know:
be driven and self-motivated, because
Post-A Level one year course Our specially-built School of Art & Design
working independently is a key component
of being successful in any Art-based opened in 2013 and houses all of our Art
A Level. Our expert staff will train and guide students in a separate creative environment
you as you take the step up from GCSE and overlooking the rest of the College and has
throughout your two year course. breathtaking views over to Liverpool.
16SOCIOLOGY
OPTIONS: Once you’ve studied Sociology, the skills It also means that every lesson, every
and the mind-set of how to look at the term and every year’s study are new
A Level world never leave you. The subject appeals and different.
• Sociology to students with an inquisitive mind who
are ready and open to look at all angles
within topical content. As former students
said last year, when you study Sociology, Good to know:
it feels like you know a secret that no one Last year, Sociology students took
else knows. part in a Q&A session with the visiting
Our passionate and experienced Sociology Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu,
teachers ensure that discussions and discussing topical current affairs and
subject matter are always about topical asking challenging questions about
current affairs. This keeps content fresh, religion’s place in today’s society.
relevant and relatable for students.
17IT & COMPUTER SCIENCE
OPTIONS: Sometimes in life, things don’t always go Our IT and Computer Science staff teach
right first time, but the crucial skills of you in a way that encourages building
A Level learning where you went wrong and being professionalism and being able to pitch
• Computer Science able to solve those problems are what our your ideas, along with supporting you with
IT and Computer Science courses equip all the academic and technical learning.
BTEC you with in abundance. You’ll discover an These exciting courses are the perfect
• IT Extended ability to actually think about how you’re preparation for a career in an ever-evolving
Certificate thinking, and then combine that with industry, including work in programming,
Equivalent to one course option the technical knowledge to match your cyber security and computer game
imagination, which ultimately helps you development.
• IT Diploma develop your ideas into satisfying, quality
Equivalent to two course options
end products.
18HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE
OPTIONS: Whatever profession you hope to enter placements. You are taught by teachers
into in later life, learning the skills of how who are experts in the care field and solely
BTEC to deal with people in an empathetic way teach Health & Social Care, as well as
• Health & Social Care will always be invaluable. Many of the having extensive experience in jobs within
Extended Certificate students who choose to study Health & the industry.
Equivalent to one course option Social Care often aim for careers in nursing,
occupational therapy, the paramedics,
• Health & Social Care and other care-related vocations. You’ll
Extended Diploma study a mix of psychology, sociology and Good to know:
Equivalent to three course options
human biology on the course which helps The College has a full-time
you learn how to support people with their placement officer in Health & Social
communication, their rights, their dignity, Care who will arrange your work
their choices and their empowerment. experience and liaise with you to
Studying BTEC Health & Social Care at tailor your placements to your
the College lets you put your theory into career aims and needs.
practice, with regular and varied hands-on
19PE &
SPORT GEOGRAPHY
While a small percentage of the course Geography A Level is the perfect choice
OPTIONS: OPTIONS: if you enjoy learning about people,
in Sport involves the ‘doing’ of sporting
A Level activities, the subject is much more about A Level societies, economies, cultures and the
the scientific study of sport, along with environment. The skill-set developed when
• Physical • Geography
its importance within society. Learning studying Geography is highly respected
Education by universities and employers alike, and
about specific health benefits always
proves popular with students looking the subject can lead to a multitude of
BTEC
to progress into a sporting profession, careers from business location systems
• Sport and uniquely, the subject helps develop to emergency management. As Michael
Extended qualities like leadership and organisation. Palin, President of the Royal Geographical
Certificate Sport’s place in society is also looked at Society, said: “Geography students hold
Equivalent to one in-depth, analysing its role in schooling the key to the world’s problems,” and this
course option diverse subject could help you shape your
throughout the ages along with the
differing trends of the times. future path.
• Sport
Diploma
Equivalent to two
course options
20RELIGIOUS
HISTORY STUDIES
If you want to understand the modern This subject is ideally suited for those
OPTIONS: world and formulate your own opinions
OPTIONS: with enquiring minds as you explore and
A Level and responses to it, then History A Level A Level analyse human understanding. Tackling
at Birkenhead Sixth Form College is for the biggest philosophical and ethical
• History • Religious
you. You’ll look at the past using several questions about how all facets of religion
different perspectives, including political, Studies affects us as individuals and as societies is
economic, cultural and social viewpoints. central to this A Level, and students should
Lessons balance expert guidance from have an interest in learning from sources
your teachers with interactive activities, in everyday life, not necessarily limiting
and you’ll develop invaluable skills to take themselves to textbooks.
with you to university or the workplace
such as researching, textual analysis and
expressing qualified opinions through clear
and concise written communication.
21MEDIA & FILM STUDIES
OPTIONS: Film Studies and Media Studies both Film at College has really helped them to
enable you to dig deeper into creative develop ideas about society and cultural
A Level productions than you will have done identity, allowing them to become more
• Media Studies before, and you can learn to enjoy new empathetic and raising their self-esteem
levels of understanding from technical, and emotional intelligence.
• Film Studies
philosophical and social points of view.
Media Studies, meanwhile, delves into the
Film Studies touches on many other
technicalities of working within the media,
subject areas, such as Psychology,
from using software to analysing and
Sociology, History, Art and Philosophy,
debating controversial issues. You’ll then
making it a really eclectic subject.
use what you’ve discovered to influence
Students study films from a diverse range
your own work, with storyboarding, image
of cultural perspectives, including British,
manipulation and editing.
American and the National Cinemas of
countries such as France, Brazil, South
Africa, and Mexico, to name but a few. This
can spark some very meaningful debates in
class, and students often say that studying
22POLITICS ECONOMICS
Politics A Level isn’t simply about learning This dynamic subject lends itself to
OPTIONS: to pass an exam; it’s a journey to change
OPTIONS: helping you understand the complexities
A Level the way in which you see things and A Level of the world and establish a firm grip on
develop the ability to think critically, current affairs. Economics surrounds us in
• Politics • Economics
understanding sources and appreciating everything we do, down to the simplest of
what people stand for. things like buying a cup of tea.
Our teachers are passionate about keeping Economics A Level helps you understand
abreast of current news and national how to link the simple, everyday factors
and global political issues, and lessons with huge concepts such as the financial
encourage stimulating and thought- crisis and poverty.
provoking discussion. As well as written
If you have an active interest in current
work, students will hone their public
affairs and keeping up to date in an ever
speaking skills and Politics is ideal for those
changing world, studying Economics can
who enjoy talking and debate, as well as
open doors for your future career.
people with an active curiosity about ethics,
philosophy and the cogs that make society
work.
23PERFORMING ARTS
OPTIONS: Both Performing Arts courses are ideal for
developing your confidence, along with
A Level learning to solve problems creatively and Good to know:
communicating clearly. All of these traits
• Dance are highly desirable and sought after when
Drama students from the College
• Drama & it comes to university and employment. worked with Merseyside Police to write,
produce and perform an award winning
Theatre Studies You’ll experiment with your creativity
and explore new techniques, working play which raised schoolchildren’s
independently or in groups and participate awareness of the consequences of
in thoughtful, stimulating and intelligent antisocial behaviour. The play was a
discussion. As well as studying pre-existing huge success and was performed at
works, you’ll have the opportunity to create New Brighton’s Floral Pavilion.
and perform your own original pieces.
24DIGITAL MUSIC FRENCH &
PRODUCTION SPANISH
OPTIONS: As the online media industry OPTIONS: Speaking multiple languages is a coveted
emerges, sound skills are ability by many employers and could
BTEC becoming increasingly A Level open up a world of opportunities for
important and in demand, • French you. Travelling abroad for work, and also
• Digital Music
and the skills you develop in leisure, is enhanced by being able to
Production Extended • Spanish
this subject will help you to speak the local language and having an
Certificate progress to employment in the understanding of the local culture. Whilst
Equivalent to one course option music industry and to higher studying French or Spanish, you’ll also learn
education. about political issues, culture and social
differences between places that speak that
Music Technology gives you
language as their mother tongue.
the basis of study for the music
production sector with a focus French and Spanish students at the
on music and sound for media College benefit from smaller class sizes to
and Digital Audio Workstation maximise interactions between student and
(DAW) production. teacher, and also student to student, which
enhances learning.
25BE SUPPORTED
At Birkenhead Sixth Form College, we pride ourselves on offering outstanding, specialist support
that is tailored to students’ individual needs.
CONTINUOUS SUPPORT:
After you enrol with us, you will meet your plan the next stage of your journey after and helping with personal and academic
personal tutor who will be with you until A Levels and/or BTECs. development.
you finish College. As part of our Student
You’ll meet new friends in your tutor The Student Development Base, where
Development team, your tutor’s job is to
group and you’ll have weekly timetabled the tutors are situated, operates an open
help you settle into College and support
tutor group sessions which will have a door policy for you to drop in and discuss
you with the step up from GCSEs to sixth
variety of focuses throughout the year, as anything that’s on your mind.
form study. Once you’ve found your feet,
well as regularly reviewing your progress
they will offer guidance and support as you
Some of the student support team
EXTRA SUPPORT:
The College is extremely proud of our assistance that you need to make your second language, our qualified specialists
dedicated Learning Support Team who time studying with us a success. will be there for you.
offer extra support to students who may
They can help you to develop studying The Learning Support staff are part of the
have additional needs.
skills and provide emotional support when College’s great success in raising your
The Learning Support Team liaises with needed. If you have a specific learning aspirations, giving you every chance to
you, your tutor, your teaching staff and need such as dyslexia or, if English is your fulfil your potential at sixth form.
parents/guardians to give you all the
26SUPPORT AT A GLANCE: STUDY MENTOR LEARNER SUPPORT Local university students run one-to-one and small group Our team of Learning Support Assistants are here to help sessions to give peer-to-peer support those with additional learning needs ASSIGNED TUTOR ACADEMIC WRITING PROGRAMME Your Tutor is with you throughout the two years to help Specialist tutors support you to develop your writing you navigate all aspects of College life skills to achieve the best grades possible LEARNING TO LEARN PROGRAMME BePART PROGRAMME Expert staff in the Psychology department help students Our unique wellbeing programme proven to help understand the best study techniques teenager’s mental health STUDY HALL LISTENING SERVICE A dedicated area for keeping up to date with work set by One-to-one appointments to speak to a professional your teachers youth worker SUBJECT PLUS Extra lesson time with teachers to ensure students are progressing well 27
OUR VALUES
We are committed to our core values of POSITIVITY, AMBITION, RESILIENCE and THOUGHTFULNESS, and
we have programmes in place at the College that help our students embrace these values on an everyday basis.
Learning to Learn Programme BePART Programme
Based on the latest educational research, BePART is a unique, six week life-skills
students benefit from a series of interactive programme for all first year students that
sessions to equip students with the skills uses scientific research and techniques
to not just work hard but study in the right to improve mental health and wellbeing.
way. The programme covers effective Sessions include concentrating on
time management, revision skills, exam using gratitude to affect positivity, the
techniques and study environments, importance of sleep and diet and relaxation
making it easier for students to fulfil their techniques to help you focus.
academic potential.
28CAREER
SUPPORT
With sixth form being such a pivotal stage in your
education, we dedicate a lot of time and effort into
helping you understand the options available to
you when you graduate. Over 400 students from the College go to university every year, and you’ll work
with your personal tutor to explore apprenticeships and employment opportunities as well. All students
are encouraged to apply to university as the preparation and application process gives you invaluable
experience for other types of applications.
In addition to your timetabled tutorials which help you focus on your future goals, you
will explore the exciting possibilities for your next step with a number of events where
you can find out more:
Careers Fair Work Experience
Each year, over 60 businesses, companies, Whether continuing in education or
organisations and universities come to the entering the working world after your
College to give a chance to see what each A Levels/BTECs, work or course placements
of them has to offer for your future career. and experience can really make you stand
out from the crowd. Your tutor will keep
Futures Day you informed of any opportunities to
At the end of your first year, Futures Day get that experience under your belt, and
is an action-packed event to help you because they will know you personally,
make informed decisions about your they will be able to highlight how certain
future. You’ll hear inspiring talks from placements can enhance your personal
visiting speakers that are tailored to your and educational development.
own personal ambitions, discover what’s
on offer at a thriving careers fair and enjoy
a wide range of festival-style street food
during lunch.
29CLUBS &
SOCIETIES
Alongside your academic studies, we offer an extensive range of clubs and societies for you to join,
have fun and make new friends. When you join in September, you’ll have the opportunity to participate
in taster sessions so you can get a feel for the different types of clubs and societies available.
• Learn new skills
• Make new friends
• Good for CV
• It’s free
• Have fun!
Jordyn Layfield is the College’s Student Engagement Officer and
coordinates all the clubs and societies on offer. If there is something
that you’re interested in but it’s not on the list of activities on the page
opposite, you can email Jordyn (jla@bsfc.ac.uk) with your suggestions
and she’ll try her best to arrange a new club when you start with us.
Student Engagement Officer
Jordyn Layfield
30Arabic Language Club Arts & Crafts
Badminton Basketball
Board & Card Games Club Boccia
British Sign Language Chess Club
Clubbercise Competitive Team Sports
Creative Writing Group Darts Debating
DJ Club First Aid Certificate Football
Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award
Guitar workshop Knitting Law Club
Lego Club LGBT+ and equality
Mandarin Chinese (for beginners)
Multigym Netball
Photoshop for Beginners
Pulse: Exploring the Christian Faith
Student Newspaper Table Tennis
TaekwonDo
Tag Rugby Voluntary Work 31WHAT’S
COLLEGE LIKE?
Second year student, Natalie Barlow, talks candidly about her first year at the College:
I’m not going to lie, it was quite a scary step because you’re just concentrating on the If you are nervous about moving or you’re
to take to leave my high school and come important stuff in a place where you can be unsure, then I’d say definitely go for it,
here. You’ve known your high school teachers comfortable. because if you really wanted to stay at your
for years, but for me, I knew I needed a fresh high school then there wouldn’t be any doubt
I love the fact that I feel like an adult here.
start. Everyone starting here is in the same in your mind. I remember the first day that
Not feeling pressured and hassled to work
boat too – we’re all somewhere new. I came here I wasn’t sure, but it’s just nerves
makes me want to work more. In high school
and before long you just love it. It might be
It’s a lot different to high school. In school, where you can’t leave in your frees, you don’t
nerve-racking at first, but stick with it and
you’ve still got the set friendship groups want to learn because you’re forced to be
you’ll love it!
and the ‘popular’ people, but here, no one there. Everyone here has that freedom and
really cares about that stuff. Everyone is that makes you want to get on with it and it
actually just really friendly to each other, makes you want to succeed and excel.
and that made it so easy to make friends.
You meet the people in your tutor groups and
lessons, and there are so many clubs to get
involved with that meeting people is never an
issue, especially in your first few weeks. It’s
genuinely good fun!
I still did call my teachers ‘sir’ or ‘miss’ for
a bit but then you just get used to calling
them by their first names. It makes it feel
like there’s mutual respect between you and
the teachers. They want to help you and
you build a nice connection with them. It’s a
nicer way to learn and you enjoy the lessons
a lot more.
Wearing a uniform in school was never
that big a deal to me, but I read before
I came that the College doesn’t believe
that a uniform makes you successful. I
thought that’s a really good attitude to have
32
Natalie, centre, with fellow studentsOUR RESULTS
The College’s Class of 2018 celebrated record results in their A Levels and BTECs. Their results put the College
in the top 10% nationally for student progress and the best for A Levels in Wirral, meaning that students
of all starting points achieve more here than any other school in the area.
Over 60% achieved the highest grades A* - B at A Level and Distinction*/Distinction in BTECs.
Lauren Leyland achieved three A* grades: Abdou Jouma is off to study medicine: Hannah Stuthridge is going to Oxford:
“The hard work has absolutely been worth it. I “I can’t thank the College enough for helping “It’s so much different to every other sixth form;
couldn’t be happier and it’s been incredible at me achieve what I have. Coming to the College my confidence has built so much. It’s a bit
the College. You do so much growing up here. I has been such a great step in between school scary at the start, leaving school and starting
feel like the experience of starting somewhere and university. I’ve always dreamed of a career somewhere new, but that disappears so quickly
new when I was 16 has given me what I need to in medicine - the teachers at the College have and you make friends straight away. My College
feel comfortable starting university.” given me that opportunity.” experience gave me determination to achieve.”
33OUR TROPHY
CABINET
We are very proud of the national and local awards that we have recently
received and feel they showcase what makes our students successful.
In association with
In association with
In association with
fe awards
2018 fe awards WINNER
fe awards
2018
Winner SOCIAL MOBILITY AWARD
2018
Winner
Winner
Sixth form college 2018
SixthSixth
form form
of college
thecollege
year award
of the year award Birkenhead Sixth Form College
of the year award
UK Sixth Form College of the Year 2018 Social Mobility Award Sixth Form of the Year
TES Sixth Form Colleges Association Educate North Awards
Known as the ‘Oscars of Education’, the The SFCA awarded the College this Educate North named the College the
College and its students won this prestigious accolade to celebrate strategies and best Sixth Form in the North of England
national award, recognising the College as a initiatives put into place to enhance in 2018.
champion of further education that plays a the opportunities afforded to those who
vital role in ensuring that students have the come from disadvantaged backgrounds
opportunity to fulfil their potential. or circumstances.
Curriculum Innovation Award Healthy Living ‘Class of the year’
Sixth Form Colleges Association Liverpool Echo School award Wirral Globe School award
Awarded for our ground-breaking The groundbreaking BePART programme The cast of the powerful play, ‘Bored’, which
Academic Mentor Programme that has been developed in-house dealt with the consequences of antisocial
which sees undergraduates based on proven scientific research was behaviour, was recognised for the impact
from the major local universities recognised for its commitment to helping they made by writing and performing the
coming to the College to mentor students’ mental health and wellbeing. play to schools across Wirral.
our students peer-to-peer.
34OUR OFSTED “Students
make rapid,
REPORT sustained
progress”
In January 2017, Ofsted published its report and rated the College as
Outstanding in all areas. Or to put it another way - the achievements, “Highly
progress and behaviour of our students is rated as Outstanding. effective
The full report is available online at bsfc.ac.uk/college-information/OFSTED teaching”
“Overall
achievement
rates are
high” “Students
“Staff develop into
are ambitious young adults
for their with a thirst
students” for learning”
35SETTLING IN
After visiting the College on Open Evenings, attending Taster Sessions and your Freshers’ Day, you’ll start your
exciting journey with us in September as a new student.
To make your transition from high school to College even easier, we have a programme of events called FIND
YOUR FEET for all of our new students in the first month.
• A huge range of taster sessions of clubs and
activities every lunchtime to help you have fun and
make new friends
• Vote for your Song of the Day to be played at the end
of lunch
• Chat with our friendly and helpful Student
Ambassadors who were in exactly the same boat as
you just a year ago
FUNDAY FRIDAYS
Giant inflatable and games in our Drama Studio every Friday in September with a different activity each week.
Take part or just have fun watching!
36GETTING
TO COLLEGE
We are situated in Claughton Village, By Bus: There are four public bus stops directly
next to Birkenhead Park and whether you The College offers subsidised bus services outside of the College which service a
are travelling from Wirral, Cheshire or serving the following routes: variety of Merseytravel routes.
the Liverpool area, the College is easily
• Heswall/Pensby/Irby By Train:
accessible by public transport or car.
Birkenhead Park Station is a 10 minute
• South Wirral - includes Eastham,
walk to College and there are frequent
Bromborough and Bebington
trains from West Kirby, New Brighton,
• Ellesmere Port / Neston Chester and Liverpool.
• Liverpool Area - with pick-up points By Car:
close to Litherland High School and The College is a 5 minute drive from
Hillside High School Birkenhead town centre and free parking
is available onsite.
37HOW TO APPLY
PLEASE NOTE
WE WERE OVER-
SUBSCRIBED
LAST YEAR SO
APPLY EARLY TO
GUARANTEE YOUR
Applications are now being accepted to join us in September 2019, and as we PLACE
were oversubscribed in September 2018, we advise you to apply early. To apply
to join the UK Sixth Form College of the Year, simply:
1. Complete an online application form at www.bsfc.ac.uk/application-form
2. Attend an interview
3. Accept your place
4. Come to Taster Sessions (Feb/Mar) and Freshers’ Day (Jul)
5. Enrol at the College (Aug for Sept start)
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
We are committed to ensuring that all students have access to the right
resources to be successful in their academic studies and remove any barriers to
participation. Bursary support is available to help cover the cost of things like
38 College meals, travel to and from College and trips.COME AND SEE
FOR YOURSELF
Our Open Evenings are a If you are interested in joining us, we Please check our website bsfc.ac.uk
look forward to meeting you at one of for further details and to register.
great opportunity to talk to
our Open Evenings: If you can’t make an Open Evening,
our expert staff, meet our please contact the College to arrange
Thursday 4th October 2018
students and have a look a tour of the campus.
Thursday 29th November 2018
around our modern campus.
Thursday 24th January 2019
COLLEGE
CAMPUS
We have made every effort to ensure that the information contained in this prospectus is accurate at the time of printing.
The College reserves the right to make changes and cannot accept liability arising out of, or in connection with, any revision.
39“Coming to the College was the
best decision I ever made.”
Hannah, second year student
Park Road West, Claughton, Wirral, CH43 8SQ
Tel: 0151 652 5575 | Email: enrol@bsfc.ac.uk | www.bsfc.ac.uk
/birkenheadsixthformcollege @BSFC bsfc_You can also read
