Wider Opportunities

The Sixth Form at St Martin's School is committed to promoting personal development by giving its students the opportunity to take responsibility and to demonstrate leadership and other skills that are so attractive to future employers and universities.

 
Studying at sixth form level seeks to prepare young people for the transfer into Higher Education and employment by proving a framework within which they can explore personal interests and aspirations with regard to future career choices.  Early in Year 12, an extensive Higher Education and Apprenticeship programme encourages students to research alternative choices and develop personal aims.  Career conferences and other activities, such as university taster courses, inform students and parents of the different application processes and support students in successfully securing an appropriate Higher Education or Apprenticeship placement. 
 
There are many opportunities for students to become active members of both the school and the wider community either through direct involvement or by supporting sixth form activities to raise funds for charities.  Many students give their time supporting the work of the sixth form, perhaps through the Senior Student Leadership Team, Student Voice, or assisting younger students by working with tutor and teaching groups or as student-mentors.  In addition, the school is delighted to support student involvement in schemes such as the Duke of Edinburgh Awards Scheme and World Challenge.
 
Personal Development comes in many forms.  For some this means taking the lead in organising a club or other activity; for others it will include sport participation and coaching or involvement in artistic performances.  Developing an awareness of world issues is a key theme of personal development in the sixth form at St Martin's School and young people are challenged to think beyond their personal experience and develop an informed understanding of local, national and international issues.  The series of 'Focus Days' and weekly discussions present students with scenarios addressing dilemmas from areas of science, the arts, politics, belief systems and industry.  The annual ‘Insight into Management’ programme provides an extended experience of the work environment from within a structured, stimulating but enjoyable framework.  The sixth form PSHE programme provides information for young people as they develop into responsible adults through a programme of relationship, sex and health education, economic awareness and personal safety, particularly in relation to driving.