PROSPECTUS 23 24 - Web
PROSPECTUS 23 24 - Web
PROSPECTUS 23 24 - Web
2023-2024
education is
the key to
unlocking
the world.
3 King Edward VI College | www.kedst.ac.uk | admissions@kedst.ac.uk
Contents
Welcome 4
Why King Ed’s? 5
Our Courses 7
Applying to King Ed’s 47
Student Support 48
The Aspire Programme 51
Additional Qualifications 52
4 King Edward VI College | www.kedst.ac.uk | admissions@kedst.ac.uk
Here you’ll find teachers who are passionate about their subjects, who will
encourage and inspire you. We have high expectations of all our students to
achieve their academic potential, whilst providing unrivalled support, advice and
encouragement from our experienced and dedicated pastoral staff.
We are a proudly diverse college community, with students who are committed,
friendly and capable. They really do make our college great. We look forward to
welcoming you onto campus and for you to discover what King Ed’s has to offer.
Holly Bembridge
PRINCIPAL
5 King Edward VI College | www.kedst.ac.uk | admissions@kedst.ac.uk
The most recent report from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA)
reveals that if a King Ed’s student chooses to go to university, the preparation they
receive at King Ed’s means that on average they are more likely to achieve a first
or upper second class degree than students in the state and independent sectors.
A levels are challenging and exciting!
We offer a breadth of subjects, with any combination
of courses, tailoring your programme of study to suit
you. The majority of students will select three subjects;
however, some students may decide to study four A level
subjects. When making your selection, remember that
students who choose subjects they enjoy tend to get the
most out of their studies.
7 King Edward VI College | www.kedst.ac.uk | admissions@kedst.ac.uk
our courses
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98.1%
PASS rate
APPLIED SCIENCE (BTEC)
WHAT IS APPLIED SCIENCE?
Applied Science is the study of biology,
chemistry and physics but with a greater focus ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
on how skills in each are used and applied There are no specific entry
in various real-world scenarios, job sectors requirements for this subject.
and industries. The BTEC Applied Science is
equivalent to a full A level.
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100%
PASS rate
Biology
WHAT IS BIOLOGY?
Biology is described as the science of life and
biologists work in many different and diverse ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
fields, including cell biology, medicine, food GCSE grades 6-6 in combined
science or a grade 6 in Biology (if
production and ecology. studied as a separate science) and
a GCSE grade 6 in Maths.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
The biology course is divided into six modules
covering topics including cell biology, biochemistry, DNA structure, function and
cell division, gas exchange in animals and transport in plants and animals, disease
and the immune response.
You will study biodiversity and classification of plants and animals. The
biochemistry of photosynthesis and respiration and research into genetic
inheritance, control of gene expression, gene technology, cloning and
biotechnology, and ecology.
Core Maths
If you achieved
a grade 6 in your CLICK HERE
GCSE maths you 98.3% TO FIND
will be enrolled
in Core Maths PASS rate OUT MORE
as part of your
programme.
business
WHAT IS BUSINESS?
Business is a dynamic subject which is
relevant, engaging and topical. Studying the ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
subject can give you the tools and information There are no specific entry
required to understand how businesses are requirements for this subject.
created, managed and become successful
while managing the external environment
around them.
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CHEMISTRY
WHAT IS CHEMISTRY?
Chemistry is the study of substances, what
they are made of, how they interact and what ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
role they play in living things. GCSE grades 6-6 in combined
science or a grade 6 in Chemistry
(if studied as a separate science)
WHAT WILL I STUDY? and a GCSE grade 6 in Maths.
The first year of the A level course will cover
organic chemistry, including alkanes, alkenes,
alcohols, haloalkanes and organic synthesis reactions, inorganic/physical
chemistry including moles, bonding and structure, redox reactions, energy
changes, reversible reactions and equilibria. In the second year you will develop a
deeper knowledge and understanding and prepare for the external examinations.
The course also includes a non-exam assessment practical endorsement.
Core Maths
If you achieved
a grade 6 in your CLICK HERE
GCSE maths you 100% TO FIND
will be enrolled
in Core Maths PASS rate OUT MORE
as part of your
programme.
CLASSICAL CIVILISATION
WHAT IS CLASSICAL CIVILISATION?
Classical Civilisation explores the values
and cultural beliefs of classical Greece and ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Rome, the two societies which are the bedrock GCSE grade 5 in either
of modern European society. Classical English Language, English
Civilisation is an academically demanding, Literature or History.
exciting and engaging course that develops
a huge variety of skills related to literature,
philosophy, history, art and architecture.
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Computer Science
WHAT IS COMPUTER SCIENCE?
Computer Science is not about using
computers; it is about controlling and shaping GCSE grade 7 in Maths or
the digital world through programming. The a GCSE grade 6 in both
core skills you need are to enjoy logical, Computer Science and Maths.
mathematical problem solving.
We use Python as the main teaching language, but you will be introduced to
a range of programming languages and techniques and explore technology
developments such as cloud computing, functional computing, and big data.
Core Maths
If you achieved
a grade 6 in your CLICK HERE
GCSE maths you 98.5% TO FIND
will be enrolled
in Core Maths PASS rate OUT MORE
as part of your
programme.
Criminology
WHAT IS CRIMINOLOGY?
Criminology is the scientific study of crime,
criminals, and the criminal justice system. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Criminologists investigate different types of There are no specific entry
crime and suggest ways in which crime can be requirements for this subject.
prevented. They try to provide explanations
for criminal behaviour, whilst also identifying
and supporting the victims. The Diploma in
Criminology is equivalent to one A level.
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Dance
WHAT IS DANCE?
Dance is an exciting subject that challenges
you physically, academically and creatively. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
If you want to be physically active, enjoy Recent dance experience
watching live and recorded performances and at a dance or theatre school,
want to discover more about the history and a GCSE grade 4 or
development of modern dance in Britain, this a BTEC in Dance.
is an ideal course for you.
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Drama and Theatre Studies
WHAT IS DRAMA AND THEATRE STUDIES?
You will explore what makes great theatre
work: the craft of the playwright, the ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
director’s interpretation, the work of GCSE grade 5 in either
performers, and the contribution English Language or English
of technical and design elements. Literature. Some stage
experience is desirable.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
You will study two challenging and exciting set plays and practically explore
three others, performing substantial extracts from each. You will also have
the opportunity to devise an original piece of theatre from a stimulus. All your
practical work will be informed by your research into some of the best theatre
practitioners.
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economics
WHAT IS ECONOMICS?
Economics is the study of choice and decision-
making in a world with limited resources. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
It examines how societies allocate scarce GCSE grade 6 in GCSE English
resources to meet the needs and wants of Language or English Literature
their citizens. and a GCSE grade 5 Maths.
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100%
PASS rate
English Language and Literature
WHAT IS ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND
LITERATURE?
This course combines the most enjoyable ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
parts of literature and language study. You GCSE grade 6 in either
will develop your skills as a reader, writer and English Language or
communicator, learning how language works English Literature.
in a range of situations.
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100%
PASS rate
English Literature
WHAT IS ENGLISH LITERATURE?
If you are reading this, it’s because you are
an avid reader and understand the power of ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
literature to affect hearts and shape minds. GCSE grade 6 in either
You will study prose, poetry and drama texts English Language
and develop your skills in critical analysis. or English Literature.
You will review modern texts and texts
from previous centuries whilst undertaking
independent reading.
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FINE ART
WHAT IS FINE ART?
Fine Art is an exciting course that will
challenge your creativity, technical ability and ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
conceptual knowledge. It is a broad course GCSE grade 5/BTEC Merit
that allows you to develop as an artist and a in a visual arts subject or
creative thinker. You will learn how to use a submit a portfolio of
wide range of traditional and contemporary current work for inspection
media, and will also develop your critical by a member of the visual
thinking skills through discussions, analysis of arts team.
works and a range of interests.
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FRENCH
WHAT IS FRENCH?
French is a widely taught language and is
spoken in 29 countries by over 300 million ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
people in the world. GCSE grade 6 in French.
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95%
PASS rate
GEOGRAPHY
WHAT IS GEOGRAPHY?
In today’s rapidly changing world the role of
geography is of paramount importance. It ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
involves the examination of environmental, GCSE grade 5 in GCSE
social and economic changes and issues in English Language or English
both human and physical environments. We Literature.
inhabit a dynamic changing world facing many
challenges. Geographers investigate these
challenges and look at ways we can solve
them.
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GEOLOGY
WHAT IS GEOLOGY?
Geology is a detective story where you get
to unravel how the planet works and gain an ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
insight into its history and possible futures. There are no specific entry
requirements for this subject.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
Over the two-year course you will learn how to identify and interpret minerals,
rocks, fossils and geological structures. How rocks form and deform through the
study of plate tectonics; and how to interpret past climates using evidence.
You will also study how natural resources form and how we exploit them, as well
as various geo-hazards and how we can mitigate them.
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100%
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GRAPHICS
WHAT IS GRAPHICS?
Graphics is the process of communicating
and problem solving through visual means. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Graphic designers create, control and GCSE grade 5/BTEC Merit
combine symbols, images and text to in a visual arts subject or
communicate meaning, messages and moods. submit a portfolio of
current work for inspection
WHAT WILL I STUDY? by a member of the visual
You will develop your skills and understanding arts team.
by studying the work of artists and designers and by exploring traditional and
digital techniques including drawing, illustration, typography, photography and
print-making. Through concept based design briefs, you will be introduced to a
wide range of applications for design work. You will learn to develop and refine
ideas and work in a reflective and exploratory way, keeping a detailed record of
your creative process.
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HISTORY - EARLY MODERN
WHAT IS HISTORY - EARLY MODERN?
The Early Modern History course covers
a period of over 200 years, from the 15th ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
century to the late 17th century. GCSE grade 6 in either English
Language, English Literature
WHAT WILL I STUDY? or History.
The Early Modern History course is divided
into four units. In unit one you’ll discover The Stuarts from 1603–1660.
Unit two delves into the history of Spain from 1469–1556. Unit three explores the
fascinating witch craze and popular culture in the 16th and 17th centuries. The
final unit is an independent research essay from a selection of titles offered to you.
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98.8%
PASS rate
HISTORY - MODERN
WHAT IS HISTORY - MODERN?
Modern History covers the period from the
18th century to the present. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
GCSE grade 6 in either English
WHAT WILL I STUDY? Language, English Literature
The Modern History course is divided into four or History.
units, the first unit covers the history of Britain
from 1900–1951. Unit two looks into the course of the American Revolution from
1740–1796. Unit three covers Russia and its rulers from 1855–1964. The final unit
is an independent research essay from a selection of titles offered to you.
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98.8%
PASS rate
HISTORY OF ART
WHAT IS HISTORY OF ART?
History of Art enables you to explore many
aspects of art and architecture from around ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
the world. You learn how to analyse and GCSE grade 5 in either English
interpret architecture, painting and sculpture Language or English Literature
within its historical and artistic context. or History.
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LAW
WHAT IS LAW?
Law is a subject which impacts on us all;
you’ll study how laws are made and the main ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
principles of the English legal system. GCSE grade 5 in either
English Language or English
WHAT WILL I STUDY? Literature.
You will study the English legal system,
law making and areas of both private and public law in England and Wales.
Through the study of criminal law, the law of tort and contract law, you will learn,
develop and apply the techniques of legal method and reasoning to analyse and
offer answers to legal problems, and construct and communicate legal arguments.
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100%
PASS rate
MATHEMATICS
WHAT IS MATHEMATICS?
This course is a great opportunity to enhance
your problem-solving skills, add depth to your ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
prior GCSE knowledge and discover new GCSE grade 7 in Mathematics.
mathematical concepts. You should choose
maths if you enjoy being challenged, if you feel the reward from persevering until
you find a solution and you want to further develop your logical thinking skills.
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MATHS WITH FURTHER MATHS
WHAT IS MATHS WITH FURTHER MATHS?
Mathematics and Further Maths is a more
challenging double A level, designed for ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
students with a love of and talent for GCSE grade 8 in Mathematics.
mathematics.
Please note: students who are planning on studying medicine at university are
advised not to study A level Further Mathematics.
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MEDIA STUDIES
WHAT IS MEDIA STUDIES?
Media Studies interrogates the media’s role
in society, culture, politics and the economy. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Focusing on communication processes and GCSE grade 5 in English
their impact on the lives of the individual, we Language or English
explore a range of media platforms such as Literature.
television, music videos, radio, advertising,
newspapers, the internet and video games.
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MUSIC
WHAT IS MUSIC?
Music develops practical skills in performing
and composing as well as much deeper ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
engagement with music history, theory Two of the following three:
and analysis. The core repertoire studied • GCSE music grade 5
is classical music from 1750–1930, plus • Grade 3 theory
some musical theatre, but students can also • Grade 5 practical (voice or
perform and compose in a wide range of other instrument)
styles.
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MUSIC TECHNOLOGY
WHAT IS MUSIC TECHNOLOGY?
Music Technology is designed for students
interested in pursuing a career in music ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
production. The Music Technology course is There are no entry
broken up into four units that cover the full requirements, but students
spectrum of basic skills needed to progress to should play an instrument or
a higher level of study or to work in one of the sing to a competent standard.
many areas of music production.
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PHILOSOPHY
WHAT IS PHILOSOPHY?
Philosophy is the study of the underlying
nature of everything from knowledge and ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
existence to morality and the mind. You will GCSE grade 5 in Maths
learn how to analyse and construct arguments and English.
on a range of philosophical topics. An
enquiring and analytic mind are a must!
92.7%
PASS rate
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION
WHAT IS PHYSICAL EDUCATION?
Have you ever wondered why some people
are faster than others, how personality affects ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
performance, or how technology can improve We have no specific academic
your performance? Then this subject is entry requirements; however,
involvement in one of the
for you.
practical sports/activities is
required.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
The main areas of study include physiological aspects of physical activity on the
body systems; biomechanics and how they help improve performance and prevent
injury; the psychological aspects of sport, how memory models can improve
movement skills, and how psychological concepts may affect participation and
performance in sport. You will also develop your knowledge of the emergence,
ethics and evolution of modern sport.
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95.2%
PASS rate
PHYSICS
WHAT IS PHYSICS?
Physics involves the study of the universe. It
is essential to our understanding of the world ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
around us and challenges our imaginations GCSE grades 6-6 in combined
with concepts like relativity and quantum science or a grade 6 in Physics
mechanics. (if studied as a separate
science) and a GCSE grade 6
WHAT WILL I STUDY? in Maths.
The course content is split into six modules;
module one is development of practical skills; module two covers the foundations
of physics. Module three focuses on forces and motion and in module four you
study electrons, waves and photons. In Year 13 students complete module five
which is the Newtonian world and astrophysics along with module six, which is
particles and medical physics. Lessons will incorporate an extensive range of
experimental work to enhance the learning experience.
Core Maths
If you achieved
a grade 6 in your CLICK HERE
GCSE maths you 98.1% TO FIND
will be enrolled
in Core Maths PASS rate OUT MORE
as part of your
programme.
POLITICS
WHAT IS POLITICS?
The study of politics is the understanding of
events which are happening now. These events ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
are not restricted to parliament and congress GCSE grade 5 in English
but impact everyday life for us all. Language or English
Literature.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
You will study British political and electoral systems including political parties
and parliament. You will study the American political system including their
Constitution, Congress, presidency and how civil rights, courts and pressure
groups function. The course covers political ideologies including conservatism,
socialism, liberalism and feminism. You will develop strong analytical skills
through the study of government policy and using extracts to build your evaluative
skills.
98.5%
PASS rate
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PSYCHOLOGY
WHAT IS PSYCHOLOGY?
Psychology is the scientific study of the mind,
brain and behaviour. Psychologists research ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
brain structure and function, mental processes GCSE grade 5 in Maths.
and social behaviours. We aim to answer
questions such as, is aggression a product of biology or environment? What
causes a phobia to develop? Why do we follow a crowd, when we know we
shouldn’t?
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SOCIOLOGY
WHAT IS SOCIOLOGY?
Sociology is the study of social groups and
social life in modern societies, and the ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
interaction between individuals within these GCSE grade 5 in English
groups. Language or English
Literature.
WHAT WILL I STUDY?
You will study socialisation culture and identity, families, households and
education using theoretical debates and arguments, supported by empirical
(evidence based) research. You will also review methods of sociological enquiry
and you will experience the application of various research strategies. You will
cover power and stratification with topics including inequality and world sociology.
Sociology is an essay based discipline, and a high standard of written English is
required for this subject.
100%
PASS rate
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SPANISH
WHAT IS SPANISH?
Spanish is an official language in 20 countries,
and is the native language of over 430 million ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
speakers. This makes it the second most GCSE grade 6 in Spanish.
common mother tongue in the world.
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STATISTICS
WHAT IS STATISTICS?
Statistics is used to research, model,
understand, analyse and predict data for ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
situations which involve uncertainty or GCSE grade 5 in Maths.
variability.
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TEXTILE DESIGN
WHAT IS TEXTILE DESIGN?
Textile Design incorporates surface pattern
and constructed textiles; these areas then ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
lead onto designing items including wallpaper, GCSE grade 5/BTEC Merit
stationery, fabrics, garments and accessories. in a visual arts subject or
submit a portfolio of
WHAT WILL I STUDY? current work for inspection
You start with studio-based sessions exploring by a member of the visual
a wide range of disciplines, covering both arts team.
traditional media and contemporary methods, giving you the chance to explore
techniques such as printmaking, digital photography, illustration, sculpture,
painting and drawing. Through a series of projects you will gain autonomy in
the direction of your work, leading to your self-directed personal investigation
coursework and the AQA externally set assignment.
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100%
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17 hours of contact
time per week based
on a 3 subject
programme.
Library
Opening Hours
Monday - Friday
8:30 am - 4:30 pm.
We don’t have a
uniform as we want
you to be able to
express who you
are. Just dress
respectfully.
We have a fantastic
food offering on
campus, but don’t
fancy it...don’t worry
there are plenty of
choices in the town
centre for places to
buy something to eat.
47 King Edward VI College | www.kedst.ac.uk | admissions@kedst.ac.uk
Induction
Once enrolled, students will be
invited to a further Induction Day
led by their Personal Tutor. September
48 King Edward VI College | www.kedst.ac.uk | admissions@kedst.ac.uk
Student Support
Becoming a student at King Ed’s does require you to have a level of independence,
but we fully support you during your time with us. Our specialist teams ensure
that your pastoral and additional academic needs are met, allowing you to thrive
and reach your full potential while you study with us.
Click here
to find out
more about
our pathways
Click here
to view past
Careers
Events
Financial support: 16–19 bursary fund Travel support
Each year the College distributes Most students living
government money provided to assist in the West Midlands
students who may be experiencing can make use of the
financial hardship. Money is allocated excellent public
on the basis of household income and transport links to travel
can be used by students for anything to college and are entitled
related to their studies, including to receive the Network West
transport costs. More guidance can be Midlands 16-18 travel card
found on the College’s website along which provides discounted rates.
with the relevant application form.
Those joining King Ed’s
from further afield can
access the College
transport which
provides a subsidised
bus service from the
following areas,
Bridgnorth, Bromsgrove,
Cleobury Mortimer,
South Birmingham, Wolverhampton
and Sedgley and parts of rural
Click here
for more Worcestershire.
information
Click here
for more
information
51 King Edward VI College | www.kedst.ac.uk | admissions@kedst.ac.uk
Our Aspire programme is open to any student looking to maximise their potential
and develop their skills beyond their A level curriculum. We provide a range of
activities and opportunities designed to challenge, inspire and guide you. Students
joining the Aspire programme can expect:
• Presentations and debates on a wide range of topics, developing thinking and
reasoning skills
• Inspirational talks and lectures by visiting speakers
• Open Day visits to top universities, including Girton College Cambridge and
Oriel College Oxford
• Information about summer schools and masterclasses offered by universities
• Guidance on planning independent research into university choices
• Opportunity to complete the Extended Project Qualification
THE LIBRARY
Additional qualifications
We offer a range of supplementary qualifications that you can take in addition
to your core programme. You can apply for these as part of the start-of-year
enrichment sign-up process. Please note that some of these opportunities have
limited availability.
il l
ng
m on
ic
phys i sk
c
n ec
t
giV in d F u
l
being physical giving back to giving back learning a connecting
and getting others or the to others new skill with others
active community
The King Ed’s enrichment offering the green society to rainbow reads.
provides students with the We have very active dance and drama
opportunity to build knowledge, companies and offer a wide range of
skills, understanding and personal musical ensembles such as choirs and
development through a wide variety orchestras, and students often form
of leisure and enrichment activities. their own bands.
The number of activities we offer has For students who want to participate
tripled this year and we continue to in a college sports team we have plenty
look for new and exciting opportunities of opportunities to get involved, with
to add to our diverse portfolio, there swimming, football, netball and rugby
really is something for everyone. We teams.
have staff-led groups which can be
both recreational and support your Over the last 12 months we have
programme of study, and student-led developed the experiences we can offer
groups that cater to every interest, from students through our affiliations with the
medical ethics to the debating society, Wildlife Trust, Rotary Club, Autin Dance
miniature gaming to dance workshops, Theatre and Glass Cone to name a few.
Heart of Mercia
multi-academy trust