Curriculum

The Sixth Form Experience

Wiseman Sixth Form Experience

The Cardinal Wiseman Sixth Form is a vibrant and distinct learning community. We are very proud of our academic success as well as the individual care that we show to all our students so that they reach their full potential. We offer a diverse range of courses and a co-ordinated enrichment programme that inspires our young people to become model citizens of the 21st century.

In the two years that students spend in our Sixth Form, we are confident that they will be happy and will develop both personally and academically. Wiseman will enable them to become:

  • a more effective student and learner
  • more self-reliant
  • more socially aware and responsible
  • more qualified - gaining qualifications that will lead to university or employment
  • more able to communicate effectively
  • more responsible.

When students enter our Sixth Form, they are set target grades in each subject, which are based on their GCSE results. We continually monitor student progress to identify any potential problems and work through them so that target grades can be met.

Here at Wiseman we want to offer a supportive environment in which students can settle into their studies and social surroundings. Students will have their own study area, which includes a suite of computers, as well as use of the school library. Each student will be allocated a personal tutor who will meet with them on a one to one basis and also during tutor time to offer advice and guidance.

For students who wish to opt into higher education, there will be designated UCAS days at the end of Year 12 which include visiting a higher education fair and talks from outside speakers.

It is important to us that students make an informed decision when applying to university, from writing their personal statement to choosing the right course for them. We have a specialist UCAS and Enrichment Advisor who supports all students in the application process and organises for students to attend relevant courses and Russell Group workshops.

Cardinal Wiseman Sixth Form is part of the whole school community and to encourage this there are strong links between the lower school and the Sixth Form. Sixth formers are encouraged to help with lower school assemblies and tutor time, Key Stage 3 homework clubs and mentoring schemes so that they can take on responsibilities which will help them in the future. There is also the opportunity for students to assist with parent and open evenings and become prefects or senior prefects. Senior prefects make up the sixth form council which is an important forum to express ‘the student voice’ and contribute ideas into discussion and action. Examples of events that have been elected by the committee in the past are as follows:

  • Introduction of the Sixth Form study area
  • Fund raising events
  • Sporting events
  • Buying equipment for student use
  • Organising social events

The Sixth Form offers a coordinated enrichment programme which includes visits, external speakers, ‘Professionals and Lecturers’ week, subject specific residentials and workshops. Recently some of our students have visited the Houses of Parliament, Sky Studios and successfully gained places on the STEM programme at Imperial and the K+ mentoring at King’s College, London.

We have greater opportunities for Sixth Form students to get involved in sport and coaching. There are weekly sport clubs and access to a well equipped gym.

Whether students choose to continue with their studies at University or go into full time employment, we are confident that their time at Wiseman will be an invaluable experience that will prepare them for the ‘wider world’.

Religious and Moral Development:

All students who attend The Cardinal Wiseman Sixth Form follow the Religious and Moral Development Course. The purpose of this course is to explore spiritual, moral, social, political and philosophical issues in our world today from a Christian perspective. The course will include discussions and debates, reflective work and exploration of Church teaching. Our students will also have an opportunity to live this out through practical projects. Students will develop important critical thinking, debating and reflecting skills as well as engaging with important issues relevant to young Christians in our modern world.

What does Ofsted say about the Cardinal Wiseman Sixth Form? 

  • '[The Sixth Form is] tireless in their efforts to forge new relationships with business and industry and develop new progression pathways for students.' 
  • 'Outstanding features of learning and teaching ... [are evident in] the sixth-form programme'
  • 'The leadership of the sixth form is exceptionally strong and shows continuing improvement in the quality of learning and support for students'  (OFSTED July 2018)
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