Cambridge Edition November 2024 - Web

EDUCATION EDITION

That growth makes those two years at the top of the school stand out. “Between the ages of 16 and 18, so much change goes on. Students discover what they like and don’t like and their personalities develop,” says Jacqueline Paris, head of sixth form at Stephen Perse Cambridge. While a huge amount of effort goes into the formal subject lessons themselves, Jacqueline stresses that there’s so much more on offer. “We’re very conscious of developing the student as a whole, beyond just qualifications. It’s so easy to focus, during these sixth form years, on just the academic side of things and the university goals. Actually everything, both within and outside lessons, makes a difference.” From mentoring programmes to clubs, extension work to sport and social activities, this whole range “contributes to students finding their feet and their way.” At Felsted School in Essex, there’s an understanding that absorbing knowledge is of no use without the skills and sensitivities to apply it in real-world situations. “There is an all-pervading emphasis on developing the personal attributes and independence of mind that will enable each student to make active contributions to society and find fulfilment in life,” says Jack Dougherty, director of marketing at Felsted. “Sixth formers lead the way in sports and arts activities, as well as the school’s Combined Cadet Force, Duke of Edinburgh and Model United Nations event. This allows them to practise decision-making, team-building and communication. They also initiate and run their own fundraising events for charity and volunteer for good causes.” Nowadays, students are far better prepared for life after school than used to be the case. This is thanks to a combination of changes to what is being taught, among other factors including schools gaining new technology and insights into what their students need and how to provide it. “Teaching has evolved massively over the past 20 years,” states Jonathan Beckett, deputy head academic at Stoke College. “Our understanding of the next stages of students’ lives is really important and I feel that’s seen a huge improvement.” It’s helped by the way sixth form is structured, with smaller classes containing students and teachers who share a passion Absorbing knowledge is of no use without the skills and sensitivities to apply it in real- world situations

74 NOVEMBER 2024 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK

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