John Masefield High School & Sixth Form Centre
Sixth Form Life
Life at our Sixth Form is vibrant, supportive, and full of opportunities to make a real difference. Students are encouraged to take on greater independence and responsibility, preparing them for the next steps in education, work, and life. Our strong sense of community is reflected in the many events and initiatives that bring students together, from team-building activities and social events to collaborative projects that foster leadership and teamwork. We are proud of our students’ commitment to giving back through charity events, fundraising runs, and visits to local care homes, where they build meaningful connections and make a positive impact. There are also a wide range of student leadership opportunities, including roles such as Head Students, Leads of the Student Council, Sports Captains, Social Leads, Subject Ambassadors, and Charity Leads, which allow students to shape Sixth Form life, represent their peers, and develop valuable leadership skills. This balance of independence, community spirit, and compassion helps every student grow into a confident, well-rounded individual ready to thrive beyond Sixth Form.
Our Sixth Form students enjoy their own dedicated building, separate from the lower school, creating a more mature and focused environment for learning. Within the Sixth Form Centre, students have access to a designated study area equipped with computers and Chromebooks, supporting independent study and coursework. The Centre also includes a well-equipped kitchen and a comfortable common room with relaxed seating and a pool table—offering the perfect balance between study and social time.
Programme of Study
Our 16–19 Study Programme provides a personalised and ambitious curriculum that prepares students for higher education, apprenticeships and employment. Most students study three A Levels, with some choosing to study four A Levels where appropriate. Students also have the opportunity to enhance their academic programme by studying Core Maths and/or completing an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), developing valuable independent research and critical thinking skills.
Alongside their academic studies, students benefit from timetabled supervised study sessions that support independent learning and effective study habits, as well as a comprehensive tutor programme covering progression pathways, personal development, study skills and SMSC (Spiritual, Moral, Social and Cultural) education. All students participate in a weekly enrichment programme designed to develop wider skills, interests and leadership, with opportunities to engage in active citizenship through volunteering, student leadership, working with students in the lower school, and charity events that encourage positive contributions to the wider community. Students also have access to meaningful work experience opportunities that help them gain insight into the workplace, develop employability skills and prepare for their next steps.
Careers and Work Experience
Students receive tailored careers support over a two-year programme. This includes guidance on post-18 pathways, careers mentoring and support with next step applications. We regularly host guest speakers, including universities, apprenticeship providers and alumni, giving students access to a variety of pathways.
All students also complete 1 week of work experience, allowing students to encounter a range of sectors and support them in determining their next steps.
16-19 Bursary
Students aged 16–19 may be eligible for a government-funded bursary to help with education-related costs such as travel, meals, or essential equipment. This support is typically available to students who receive free school meals, whose parents are in receipt of Income Support, or whose household income falls below a specific threshold.