I’m sharing some tips on how to get the most out of sixth form college, now that I’ve realised it’s really all about preparing for what comes next.
What Is Sixth Form?
Apart from being the fastest two years in your child’s life, this is when 16 and 17 years old really niche down the subjects that they study. Options range from 3 A levels (sometimes 4 in exceptional circumstances), BTEC diplomas or T levels and many other vocational qualifications.
The main aim for most students is to gain the required qualifications needed to go on their next step, which is most often university or an apprenticeship.
Are you Academic or Practical?
This will determine which subjects you choose to study and what type of course. We have had 2 daughters go through sixth form college so far, both with very different learning styles. Both intelligent girls but both got the most out of their studies by choosing differently.
Our eldest went for the more traditional learning route of A levels – She was not sure what she wanted to study afterwards but knew she was likely to go to university.
Our middle daughter is very practical and had a clear idea of what she wants to do for a career, so knew the degree course she needed. This made it so much easier to make the decision of which courses she needed to choose. She opted for BTEC in Science with an Art A level, providing a perfect mix of what she needed, what she is interested in and also what she loves to do for a hobby.
Which Sixth Form College?
There’s a significant difference between staying in a school-based Sixth Form and moving to a Sixth Form college. We are very lucky around here that we have plenty of excellent sixth form colleges to choose from. Neither of my girls had the option to stay on at their school sixth form college so knew they had to make fresh starts.
Our middle daughter knew hardly anyone at her sixth form so knew that she had to get speaking to people early on if she was to make friends. She thoroughly got stuck in and made new friends, giving her a great social life while she was at sixth form.
Sadly, so many teenagers see sixth form as an extension of school and don’t put themselves out there to make new friends, thoroughly making the most of the increased freedom from being in sixth form.
Consider your child’s personality: do they need the support of a tight-knit school community, or are they ready to step into a more independent college-style atmosphere?
Extra Curricular Activities
Those Wednesday afternoon activities are there for a reason. Jump straight in during the first few weeks. Learn a new skill or have a go at a new sport and you will find a new lease of life at sixth form.
Extra qualifications
If I can give one piece of advice, it is to do an EPQ qualification (Extended Project Qualification). Those extra UCAS points you can get from doing this can make the difference between getting into the university of your choice or not. Both my girls thoroughly enjoyed their EPQ sessions – You can choose to do it on a subject that you enjoy and it does not have to be related at all to the subjects that you are studying.
Social and Emotional Readiness
The jump from GCSEs to Sixth Form is substantial. Students are expected to manage their own workload, meet deadlines, and think critically. Ask yourself:
- Is my child motivated and self-disciplined?
- Can they handle academic pressure?
- Are they emotionally ready for the increased responsibility?
If the answer is uncertain, a more flexible path (like a college with smaller commitments or a part-time job combined with training) might be less overwhelming.
Keep the Future Flexible
Remember: no decision is permanent. Many students change direction after Year 12 or even after completing their A-levels. What matters is choosing the next step that best suits your child’s interests, strengths, and goals right now. Encourage your child to:
- Speak with school career advisors
- Attend open days for Sixth Forms, colleges, and apprenticeship providers
- Research course content and entry requirements
- Talk to older students about their experiences
Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Sixth Form can be an excellent choice for students with academic ambitions, especially those planning to go to university. But it’s not the only route to success.
By weighing your child’s learning style, career goals, and personal readiness, you’ll be better placed to guide them toward a path where they can truly thrive. Trust their instincts, support their growth, and remember: whatever the choice, it’s just one step on a much bigger journey.
