Curriculum

Ambitious, flexible and personalised pathways

At SACGS, our Sixth Form curriculum is designed to prepare young people for successful, meaningful adult lives. We offer flexible and highly personalised pathways which combine academic achievement, vocational development, independence, wellbeing and real-world experience.

We recognise that every student’s strengths, aspirations and needs are different. As a result, programmes may combine academic qualifications, vocational learning, employability experiences, life skills, enrichment and outdoor education within an individualised timetable.

Our approach combines high expectations with strong pastoral support, enabling students to develop confidence, resilience, independence and a clear sense of future direction.

Academic Pathway

Students following an academic route may study a range of A-Level and Level 3 qualifications within small teaching groups and a supportive learning environment.

Subjects may include:

• Mathematics and Further Mathematics
• English Language and Literature
• Biology and Physics
• Geography
• Italian
• Art & Design
• Graphic Communication

Teaching is characterised by:

• Small class sizes
• Individualised support and mentoring
• Scaffolded and differentiated teaching
• Independent study and critical thinking
• Preparation for university and higher education

Students are encouraged to become confident, independent learners capable of managing increasing academic challenge and responsibility.

Vocational & Employability Pathways

Students may also access a wide range of vocational, practical and employability-focused programmes designed to prepare them for future training, employment and independent adulthood.

Opportunities may include:

• Enterprise and employability qualifications
• Hair & Beauty
• Early Years & Childcare
• Horticulture & Agriculture
• Uniformed Protective Services
• Food Technology and Catering
• Drama, Art and Creative Arts
• Sport, Outdoor Education and Golf

Students may also work towards additional qualifications and awards including:

• Arts Award
• Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme
• Microsoft Office qualifications
• ASDAN, NCFE and work-skills qualifications
• Supported work experience and community placements

Programmes are flexible and may combine academic, vocational and experiential learning to suit individual goals and aspirations.

Personal Development & Preparation for Adulthood

Personal development is embedded throughout Sixth Form life and forms a central part of our preparation for adulthood approach.

Students are supported to:

• Develop independence and self-management
• Build confidence, resilience and communication skills
• Learn leadership and teamwork skills
• Prepare for university, apprenticeships and employment
• Make informed decisions about future pathways
• Develop emotional wellbeing and self-advocacy

All students receive personalised Careers Information, Advice and Guidance (CIAG), helping them explore future opportunities and progression routes with confidence.

Physical Wellbeing & Active Lifestyles

We believe that physical wellbeing plays an important role in emotional health, resilience and successful learning.

Students may access a range of opportunities to support healthy lifestyles and wellbeing, including:

• Gym and fitness sessions
• Outdoor and adventurous activities
• Sport and physical recreation
• Walking, water-based and environmental activities
• Structured wellbeing and regulation opportunities

These experiences help students develop confidence, balance, routine and positive wellbeing habits during an important stage of personal development.

Creative & Enrichment Opportunities

Students are encouraged to continue developing their interests, talents and creativity alongside their core studies.

Enrichment opportunities may include:

• Music tuition and performance opportunities
• Drama and creative arts
• Photography and media projects
• School productions and events
• Arts Award qualifications
• Leadership and community projects

Peripatetic music tuition may also be available for students wishing to develop instrumental or vocal skills further.

A Curriculum Built Around the Individual

At SACGS, we believe Sixth Form education should never follow a “one size fits all” model. Our curriculum is designed to provide challenge, support and meaningful progression for every young person.

Whether students are preparing for university, employment, vocational training or greater independence, our aim is to ensure they leave Sixth Form with the confidence, qualifications and life skills needed for their future.