6th Form: What Our Students Say

Ellie Reedy

I am currently studying History, English Literature, French and Psychology. When I had to choose my Sixth Form options I found the first three very easy but often the fourth choice is more difficult. I went for Psychology as it is a bit more scientific than my other subjects and was a subject I had not encountered before lower down the school. However if you are going to do something new, research it first! Talk to not only staff but also students as they may give you very different views of what the subject entails!

When deciding on your choices, also think about the workload that the subject may lead to. Although I do four essay subjects and there is a lot to deal with in terms of homework I found this suited me as it allowed me to work independently and at my own pace. History, my favourite subject, involves lots of extra individual reading however if you enjoy the subject this shouldn't be an issue.

Sixth Form is not all work and no play. I have been a member of the Sixth Form debating club as part of the PDP programme which offers a whole range of activities to suit everyone. There is also the Panto which I encourage everyone to be involved in and some great opportunities to go on some fantastic trips all over the world!

Lauren Redhead

I am currently studying Maths, History, Psychology and French, of which Psychology is the only subject new to me in Sixth Form. I found choosing my subjects relatively easy and chose Maths, History and French because I had always enjoyed them and I knew they would help me in most career paths; although it is important you choose subject that you enjoy, you do also need to look at which subjects will be necessary to get you into your desired undergraduate course.

In the transition from year 11 to Sixth Form an increase in work load is inevitable. Although this can feel primarily stressful, once adapted you appreciate the more in depth knowledge and better teacher-pupil relations. However, I would recommend considering how many of your subjects are essay based as four subjects which require regular essays will require a lot of time.

For me one of the best things this Sixth Form has to offer is the PDP course which offers a wide range of activities and is a great time to learn new skills as well as it being sociable and relaxed.

George Magrath

I chose to study Physics, Music, Sport and Media Studies because I felt they were an interesting and diverse selection that I would enjoy and that would keep my options open.

A year later and I do not regret my choices as I feel I have a good balance between active, creative, and essay-based subjects. This is important because you need to stay motivated and committed when times get a little rough near coursework deadlines and exams. So long as you keep on top of your work, your studies will be much easier.

The Sixth Form gives you a great opportunity to meet new people in the close knit community we have at Huntington. This is a very important aspect of your time here as your social is just as important as your studies - although it is crucial you get the right balance between these two aspects. The Sixth Form Panto and Show in a Week are experiences you can't miss out on, so I would recommend getting involved in whatever your interests lie in.

As a budding musician, I have had many unique opportunities to perform in school concerts every term as well as the school shows and for the PDP Entertainments Group, which have all helped to develop my performance skills.

I have now decided to pursue a career in music and will hopefully be going on to study at Drumtech College in London. Without the opportunities provided by this school I would not have developed into the musician I am today.

Caroline Leach

I study French, German, English Literature and Textiles. Initially, studying two languages was confusing but gradually I got used to switching between the two. One thing which particularly helped with this was the German exchange to Vreden in October. Because it was so early after the beginning of the course I felt I was really being pushed in at the deep end, but the increase in confidence after the 10 days was amazing.

I also went on an exchange to France in March. This trip was a lot more structured and one of the highlights was our fleeting visit to Paris. The view from the top of the Eiffel Tower at night was one of the most amazing things I have ever seen.

Hope Adderley

When I joined Huntington Sixth Form, I thought it might be hard in the first few weeks because I wouldn't know anybody so I'd stick out like a sore thumb, but it really takes no time at all to find your feet and feel happy.

At the start of term, you get loads of opportunities to join in with clubs and you get to choose which PDP you want to do. I joined things like Amnesty International, the Tuck Shop team, and Debating, and then there's Panto at Christmas. If you do get involved, it's all the easier to meet people you really get on with.

Since September, I've been studying Art, Psychology, English Lit and Maths, although I started off with Biology instead of English. Although it's great to get the right choice of subjects first time around, it's not set in stone, and there is a degree of flexibility if you realise you haven't got it right.

This time next year, I'm planning on taking a gap year to do some paid and volunteer work at home and abroad, and then go on to study English at university.

Jonathan Kim

I joined Huntington Sixth Form in Year 12, having moved from Birmingham, and I soon fitted into the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the school. I am studying Maths, Physics, Chemistry and History and found all the subjects engaging and informative. My aim is to study Engineering at university and both the teachers and my form tutor have been very supportive of my goal.

The jump from GCSE to A Levels was a lot of hard work at first, but it was worth it, as the subjects are far more interesting once you get over the basics. Apart from my A Level subjects, there are lots of other things on offer in the Sixth Form. I particularly enjoy PDP (Personal Development Programme) on a Wednesday afternoon when I have been doing debating - just one of a range of exciting activities to choose from.

Luke Wilson

I joined the Sixth Form for a variety of reasons; the more relaxed atmosphere I had heard about, the high standards of teaching, the increased social scene and, for me at least, the continuity.

Before coming into the Sixth Form I knew I had always enjoyed Maths and Sciences, but above all I had an ambition to travel, which made a language sensible. I based my subject choices on these ideas. In hindsight, a year into my studies in the Sixth Form, I can now see I made a mistake by choosing Maths, Physics, German and Chemistry; as I quickly realised how much I missed the variety of studying ten subjects as I had previously. However, due to the flexibility of the Sixth Form, I have a multitude of options for next year, such as picking up various other subjects at AS Level.

The Sixth Form has opened my eyes to a world of new opportunities, given me new University and Career ideas, as well as a whole load of new friends. I have also furthered my knowledge in various areas of Maths and Physical Sciences, as well as improving my German.

When looking back at the last year I have learnt so much and had such a great time. At the time of writing, I have just booked a trip to see one of my friends in Italy, who was previously an International Student in the Sixth Form. I am also sorting out, through the Sixth Form; some work experience in Germany for next year; as well as sorting through application forms for various universities in Australia!

Prospective Students Home

(updated July 2009)