JM6 Programme of Study

Programme of Study (The JM6 Offer)

At JM6, all students follow a programme of study tailored to student needs and aspirations. All students choose at least three A Level (or equivalent) subjects and some students elect to take four subjects if this is deemed suitable. As a smaller, highly supportive, rural sixth form we do not aim to offer the widest range of subjects. Instead, we provide a choice of traditional A levels with some vocational courses, which we feel are valued by universities and employers. Programmes of study are selected to match the needs of our KS4 students and support excellent progression to university, apprenticeships and employment across a wide spectrum of interests and career aspirations. The Study programmes also reflect our teachers’ subject knowledge, strengths and expertise at JM6, with experienced teachers inspiring students and delivering interesting and challenging lessons.

Our general entry requirements specify that students should have a grade 4 in GCSE Maths and English as well as having achieved specific grades in the GCSE subjects they want to pursue to Level 3. In the event that a student does not have a grade 4 in Maths or English  but is allowed to enrol, they are required to continue these subjects as part of their study programme. Students have timetabled lessons during the week with subject specialists to support them to achieve a grade 4 in their GCSE.

The Sixth Form study programmes also include a substantial amount of non-qualification activity, including academic mentoring  sessions, tutor group meetings, where we deliver our SMSC and Study skills programmes, and an enrichment programme on Wednesday afternoons. Students are also supported to complete a minimum of 3 days of work experience and employability skills. Alongside this, students are encouraged to take part in a range of activities which complement the qualification elements of their study programme and supports applications for higher education, apprenticeships or employment. Students can undertake a range of accredited and non-accredited enrichment activities, including the Level 3 EPQ, basic first-aid qualification, peer to peer mentoring , STEM activities, debating, charity and volunteer work.

We provide an ongoing programme of work-related opportunities designed to support students in planning their next steps post-18. This includes input from apprenticeship providers – including Hereford and Worcester Group Training Association, industry-specific career talks, and higher education briefings. Students also have ongoing careers discussions throughout Years 12 and 13 as part of their mentoring, as well as the support of our careers advisor. All students take part in a three-day work experience placement in Year 12 in order to help better prepare them for the world of work.

At JM6, we are regularly reviewing and evaluating our programme of study to ensure that it meets the needs of our students. Our goal is to ensure that all students leave Sixth Form with not only the qualifications that they need progress to the next stage, but also the information they need to make informed decisions about their future.

Our SMSC Programme

The Social, Moral, Spiritual & Cultural (SMSC) programme is designed to ensure all students develop the personal, social and independent learning skills that will support their A level success, prepare them for future learning, employment and in order to become positive citizens of their school and wider community. The study skills component of the SMSC programme includes sessions on organisation, time-management, effective note-taking, revision planning and revision methods. These are positioned within the Year 12 and 13 programme to maximise their effectiveness.

Developing future leaders

We are keen for our students to develop their leadership potential through offering a wide range of leadership positions including over the past three years; head students, co-chairs of student voice, head of charities, co-editors of the student newsletter, sports captains, house captains, lower school pastoral support liaison, student well-being, chair of debating. We greatly value the contribution our senior students can make to the whole school community.

Enrichment

We expect all of our JM6 students to work hard but also recognise the need for them to relax, stay healthy and enjoy other activities for a balanced lifestyle. Our enrichment programme, (including Wednesday afternoons when no lessons are scheduled) provides a host of opportunities for students to get involved and develop their skills. Activities include regular competitive sports fixtures in football, netball mixed-hockey and basketball. A recreational sports programme is also available to students including fitness, badminton, table tennis and volleyball. Arts opportunities including the JM6 production and senior choir are popular, while other students are supported in volunteering in local primary schools and care settings. Personal development opportunities and the opportunity to gain further accreditation for developing their life skills are provided through enrichment activities such as learning sign-language and basic first aid.