Choosing to enrol at any further education establishment is a positive commitment to a programme of full-time study. However, it is fair to say that there is a significant jump in academic standards and expectations between GCSE and Level 3 courses which does require some adjustment, as well as differences in the style of teaching and learning involved. At Brigg Sixth Form, we place considerable value on ensuring that all our students have access to a personalised programme of pastoral support to supplement our high standard of subject teaching.

Towards this end, all sixth form students are allocated a personal tutor who will have time available daily to meet with them on either a formal or informal basis. The tutor is the first point of contact in relation to any issues that students may wish to discuss and they also deliver aspects of the tutorial programme. Regular meetings will be organised between students and their tutor, sometimes individually and at other times in small groups to facilitate discussions. The tutor also supports students with such activities as completing application forms and writing personal statements.

In addition, we consider the teaching of study skills to be an important element of all Level 3 courses. This forms part of our academic mentoring approach, which is based around a personalised learning programme and an associated study plan which is agreed between students, subject teachers and tutors. Students also keep a learning journal which acts as both an academic planner and a diary, detailing key aspects of their studies, including the use of personal study time. This forms part of regular discussions with their tutor and provides useful evidence of ongoing progress being made. Such documents are used by many professionals and keeping a learning journal of this type is considered to be good practice for the future.

We are proud of the high quality of support offered to our students to help them to achieve their full potential and, as a result, any student who is identified as not making expected progress will be offered additional support through the implementation of a personalised intervention plan.

Careers education, information and guidance are delivered by specialist careers advisors and this also forms part of our personal development programme.

With regard to the wider aspects of sixth form life, students will have the opportunity to participate in a range of enrichment activities. These include work experience placements, the possibility of undertaking an EPQ (Extended Project Qualification), participation in sports, educational visits and residential courses and attendance at talks and presentations by visiting speakers. Sixth form students also have their own committee which organises social, cultural and charity events and there is the opportunity to participate in the wider Academy Council.

As a result, the Brigg Sixth Form provides an environment which is not only conducive to academic success, but which ensures a vibrant and supportive social hub within which students can flourish and enjoy their time in the sixth form to the full.