CURIOSITY, ASPIRATION & SUCCESS
WELCOME
TO OUR SIXTH FORM We are immensely proud of our vibrant, ambitious and successful Sixth Form community. Our Sixth Form is a place where young people are encouraged to aim high, challenge themselves and develop the knowledge, skills and confidence for the next stage of their journey. At Harris Academy Billericay Sixth Form, students learn in classrooms that are both rigorous and relational. We combine high academic expectations with strong relationships, ensuring students are challenged to think deeply about complex ideas and achieve their very best. Our aim is that students leave us with the knowledge, character and confidence to thrive in higher education, apprenticeships, employment and beyond. Whether students aspire to study at university, secure an apprenticeship or enter the world of work, we are committed to helping them achieve their goals. Student progress is exceptional, matching the highest-performing providers in the area, including local grammar schools.
We offer a broad curriculum, enabling students to choose a challenging programme of study that reflects their strengths, interests and ambitions. Alongside academic success, our courses develop independent learners, critical thinkers and confident young adults who are well prepared for life beyond Sixth Form. Students benefit from a rich programme of enrichment opportunities, leadership experiences and extracurricular activities, complemented by outstanding tutorial and pastoral support. Together, these experiences help students develop the qualities that universities, employers and apprenticeship providers value highly. Dedicated facilities and resources provide a more mature, independent and collegiate experience while students remain an integral part of the wider school community.
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CURIOSITY, ASPIRATION AND SUCCESS Our vision is to be a Sixth Form of excellence where academic ambition, intellectual curiosity and personal growth go hand in hand. We want every student to feel known, valued and challenged, developing the confidence and independence needed to thrive in an increasingly complex world. Curiosity, Aspiration and Success shape every aspect of Sixth Form life: • Curiosity encourages students to question, explore and develop genuine scholarship within their chosen subjects. • Aspiration inspires them to pursue ambitious goals and seize opportunities that will shape their future. • Success means achieving excellent outcomes while also developing the character, resilience and independence required to flourish in adult life.
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Through expert teaching, strong relationships and a culture of high expectations, students develop the knowledge, character and confidence needed to take their next steps successfully, whatever pathway they choose.
TAILORED SUPPORT FOR EVERY STUDENT We believe that students thrive when they feel happy, supported and valued. A strong sense of wellbeing is fundamental to both personal development and academic success, and we are committed to creating an environment in which every student feels safe, respected and able to flourish both academically and personally.
• A student suggestion box, providing opportunities for students to raise issues, share ideas and influence Sixth Form life;
Promoting positive mental health and wellbeing is a priority for students, families and staff alike. We continually review and develop our provision, listening to the needs of our community to ensure the support we offer remains relevant, effective and accessible. Our wellbeing provision includes:
• A varied programme of Sixth Form events, organised by students for students, helping to foster a strong sense of community and belonging;
• An open-door policy, ensuring students can seek support from Sixth Form staff whenever needed;
• Exam preparation and pastoral support sessions, including drop-in opportunities with the school nurse.
• Access to professional counselling services with our school counsellor;
Through this comprehensive network of support, we aim to ensure that every student is equipped not only to succeed academically, but also to develop the resilience, confidence and wellbeing needed for life beyond Sixth Form.
• Dedicated wellbeing advice and guidance delivered through assemblies, tutorials and signposting to external support services; • Wellbeing-focused learning sessions as part of our Sixth Form Future Citizenship curriculum;
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Timetabled wellbeing sessions;
• A personal tutor who provides ongoing academic guidance and pastoral support;
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HELPING YOU FIND THE MOST SUITABLE STUDY PROGRAMME Sixth Form study should be intellectually demanding, rewarding and transformative. Our curriculum is designed to help students develop subject expertise while cultivating the habits of scholarship that underpin success at university and in professional careers. Students are encouraged to think critically, debate ideas, work independently and engage deeply with their chosen disciplines. General Entry Requirements All applicants must achieve a grade 4 in Maths and a grade 4 in one of their English qualifications in order to gain entry to our Sixth Form. 3 A Level Pathway Students need to gain an average score of 5 from at least six subjects including a grade 5 in English and Maths. Subject specific requirements must also be met. Average grades may only include one vocational subject.
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4 A Level Pathway In exceptional cases, students may be considered for this pathway, and will need to gain at least four grade 7s and four grade 8s from their best 8 subjects including English and Maths. Subject specific requirements must also be met. The Mixed A Level/Vocational Route This comprises a double or two single award vocational courses and one guided A level. Students will need to gain an average grade of 4 from at least six subjects including a grade 5 in Maths or English GCSE where specifically stated in the subject specific entry requirements, or meet the minimum overall entry requirement of a Grade 4 in both English and Maths. (Students may include two vocational subject grades.)
SPECIFIC SUBJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Subject
Grade
Art
GCSE grade 5 in Art or a relevant subject.
Biology GCSE grade 6 in Biology or grade average 6 in GCSE Combined Science, with strong performance in the Biology components. Minimum Grade 6 in Maths. Business Studies GCSE grade 5 in Business if previously studied. Or a grade 5 in English and Maths if you have not studied Business before. Business Vocational (single or double award)
GCSE grade 4 in Maths and English.
Chemistry GCSE grade 6 in Chemistry or grade average 6 in GCSE Combined Science, with strong performance in the Chemistry components. Grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics. Chinese
GCSE grade 6 in Chinese.
Computer Science GCSE grade 6 in Computer Science if previously studied. Or a grade 6 in Maths if you have not studied Computer Science before. Drama
GCSE grade 5 in Drama or a grade 6 equivalent in a relevant subject.
Economics GCSE grade 5 in English and Maths. A grade 6 in another relevant subject (any Science, any Language, Geography, History, Sociology, Psychology, Business Studies, Economics). OCR National Vocational Engineering (single award)
GCSE grade 5 in Maths and grade 4 in English, grade 5 in the Physics element of the Combined Science or Physics GCSE.
English Literature or English GCSE grade 6 in both Language and Literature. Literature and Language Combined EPQ
Suitability assessed during Year 12.
Film Studies
GCSE grade 5 in Film Studies or grade 5 in English Language or Literature.
Financial Studies
GCSE grade 4 in English and Maths.
French and German
Grade 6 in the language you wish to study.
Geography GCSE grade 5 in Geography if previously studied and grade 5 in Maths. Grade 5 in Science if you have not studied Geography before. Health & Social Care Vocational GCSE grade 4 in Science with a strong performance in the Biology components (double award) Grade 4 in Maths and grade 4 in English. History GCSE grade 5 in History if previously studied. Or grade 5 in English Language or Literature if you have not studied History before. Mathematics
GCSE grade 7 in Maths. Grade 8 for Further Maths. Grade 5 for Core Maths (AS Level).
Music Technology Being competent on an instrument is desirable or a grade 5 or above at GCSE Music (though neither essential). Performing Arts BTEC
A grade 4 in Drama and a Grade 4 in English.
Physics GCSE grade 6 in Physics or grade average 6 in GCSE Combined Science, with strong performance in the Physics components. Grade 7 in Mathematics. Politics
GCSE grade 5 in English Language or Literature or History.
Product Design & Design Technology
GCSE grade 5 or equivalent in Product Design or Engineering and a grade 5 in Maths and English.
Psychology GCSE grade 5 in English Language and Literature and grade 5 in Maths and a 5 in a Science. Sociology
GCSE grade 5 in English Language or Literature.
Sport Vocational (single and or double award)
A merit in Sports Studies or a grade 5 in GCSE PE. Plus, a grade 4 in English and Maths.
Textiles
A GCSE grade 5 in Textiles, Art or DT.
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ENRICHMENT & PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT At Harris Academy Billericay Sixth Form, students benefit from a wide range of enrichment opportunities, from joining the Sixth Form Committee to completing an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). Central to this is the Future Citizenship programme, which complements academic study while preparing students for life beyond Sixth Form. Through a weekly speaker programme, students are exposed to diverse perspectives on issues shaping the modern world. Recent speakers have included politicians, scientists, faith leaders and charity professionals, helping to broaden horizons, encourage critical thinking and deepen students’ understanding of society. Alongside this, Personal, Social and Health Education supports students’ development through topics such as mental health, physical wellbeing and road safety, ensuring they are well prepared for adulthood.
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Students develop valuable communication and leadership skills through discussion, debate and active participation. Many take the initiative to lead sessions, organise events and contribute to the wider school community, developing confidence, independence and a sense of responsibility. These experiences are highly valued by universities and employers and often strengthen applications and interviews. Engagement with current affairs further encourages informed thinking and meaningful discussion. In addition, trips in the UK and abroad, alongside opportunities such as Duke of Edinburgh, Law Club and sport, provide memorable experiences that broaden perspectives, develop character and support personal growth.
LEADERS OF THE FUTURE The Future Leaders programme at Harris Academy Billericay Sixth Form ensures that every student has the opportunity to take on a leadership role aligned with their interests and aspirations. A wide range of roles is available, including Subject Ambassadors, Reading Champions, Sports Leaders, Community Leaders and Study Club Leaders, allowing all students to contribute meaningfully to the school community. By working closely with dedicated staff, students develop essential leadership qualities such as confidence, communication and organisation, while gaining valuable skills that enhance their future employability. These roles also provide an opportunity to give back to the wider school and local community, supporting student wellbeing through a sense of purpose and contribution.
Alongside this, further leadership opportunities are available on a voluntary basis. Students may apply to become Senior Prefects or join the Sixth Form Committee, an elected group responsible for organising the social and cultural life of the Sixth Form. Together, these experiences ensure all students can develop as confident, responsible and active members of the community, well prepared for their next steps beyond Sixth Form.
In addition, the programme strengthens links between the Sixth Form and the main school, enabling students to act as positive role models for younger pupils.
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INDIVIDUAL ADVICE & GUIDANCE A carefully designed programme of support ensures all students can access a wide range of opportunities and achieve their ambitions. As part of Harris Academy Billericay’s ambition to be a centre of excellence, we are committed to ensuring that every student leaves Sixth Form with meaningful choices ahead of them. Whether their next step is university, a degree apprenticeship or employment, students are supported to make ambitious and informed decisions about their future. Within our Sixth Form community, students pursue a variety of successful pathways. Many progress to university having studied A Levels or Level 3 vocational qualifications. A significant number apply to highly competitive institutions, including Russell Group universities, the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, and specialist degrees such as medicine and veterinary science.
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Some students choose to enter employment at 18, equipped with the qualifications gained during their two years of study. Others progress to Level 4 or degree apprenticeships, combining further study with valuable workplace experience. Comprehensive advice and guidance are provided by our dedicated Sixth Form leadership team and personal tutors. This support is enhanced through our Future Citizenship programme, bespoke drop-down days, university visits, opportunities to hear from former students and partnerships with organisations such as Investment 20:20 and Make Happen. In addition, all Year 12 students undertake at least one week of meaningful work experience, helping them develop key skills and gain valuable insight into the world of work.
PART OF THE HARRIS FEDERATION The Harris Federation is a not-for-profit charity with 59 primary and secondary academies in London and Essex. The founder and Chairman of the Harris Federation is Lord Harris of Peckham. His vision of delivering happy and successful education is brought to life by an excellent team of teachers and leaders. The Federation regularly tops academic studies and national league tables measuring progress and performance.
Harris secondary academies are known for combining traditional standards of manners, discipline and uniform with the best of modern teaching and technology. We send many of our Sixth Formers to Oxford, Cambridge and other Russell Group universities as well as to top apprenticeships and competitive vocational courses. We are immensely proud of the role that our alumni are now beginning to play in the world and of what we believe our current generation of students will go on to achieve.
APPLY FOR A PLACE We hope you are considering joining Harris Academy Billericay Sixth Form. Current Year 11 students will receive an application form during their guidance meeting in the autumn term. External applicants can apply via the Academy website. We strongly encourage prospective students and their families to attend our Sixth Form Open Evening in November,
where you can tour our facilities, meet staff and students and learn more about life in our Sixth Form. Following the application process, students will be invited to discuss their course choices and next steps with a member of the Sixth Form team. Full details of application deadlines and key dates can be found on the Academy website.
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School Road, Billericay, Essex CM12 9LH t. 01277 655191 e. info@harrisbillericay.org.uk www.harrisbillericay.org.uk