EDUCATION EDITION
A major highlight is seeing how hard students work to achieve their dreams and how they deal with setbacks
thinking and learn from one another,” says principal Ellen Hesse. “At the end of their project, they have to stand in front of the whole school and present the outcome of their research in a way that a non-specialist would understand. Through this, they are taught how to adapt their language for different audiences.” During their time in sixth form, students will also try a range of leadership roles on for size. At Stoke College, sixth formers train to become Stoke Listeners. “This provides a platform for younger pupils who don’t always want to talk to a teacher to share their worries with somebody older who is ready to listen and help,” says Jonathan Beckett. Abbey College’s sixth formers are involved in everything from student leadership teams to running homework sessions. They might also organise and lead student conferences for schools and colleges from across our region, under themes such as diplomacy. “Student leaders are chosen for the qualities they model to others,” says Ellen. “Kindness and respectful behaviour, helpfulness and
patience are valued in our community. There’s no point having a leader with a big ego because that doesn’t help anyone.” When all this thought and effort goes into planning sixth form programmes, it’s unsurprising that seeing students gain confidence and maturity, becoming well- equipped for life after school, is a hugely rewarding experience for their teachers. For Ellen, a major highlight is seeing how hard students work to achieve their dreams and how they deal with setbacks along the way. For Jacqueline Paris, it’s all about that butterfly moment when students are finally ready to go off and face the world. “The sixth form is transformational,” she insists. “It’s the time when students identify where their passions lie and prepare to explore them further. It’s seeing them leave school ready for the world ahead that gives me the greatest pleasure.”
PREPARING FOR THE FUTURE Students who graduate from Kimbolton (above, top) will be ready for whatever life throws at them
CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK NOVEMBER 2024 79
Powered by FlippingBook