Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form Prospectus

An Inspiration Trust Academy

We care, we share, we dare to do more

Our Vision

We are a specialist Maths and Science sixth form in the heart of Norwich. Our vision is that you, our students, are to be the next generation of leaders within the STEM industries or any other profession you see as your future.

We focus on academic excellence and have high aspirations for your future. Our values are underpinned by the outstanding support and guidance we offer every student.

We are committed to providing our students with the very best learning opportunities so that you will achieve the very best possible outcomes.

Whilst we have high expectations of all of our students, we make sure you receive the individual support you need to develop into a scholar and a well-rounded, happy young adult. We encourage you to aim high, and our supportive and committed staff are always on hand to enable you to achieve your goals.

Take a virtual tour of Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form

Our Curriculum

Our teachers are experts within their fields, and students that enrol with us share our passion for these subjects.

A central aspect of the curriculum is that all students study at least two of the following subjects:

centre campus. Subjects available for Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form students at Jane Austen College include:

You also have the opportunity to study the arts, English, modern foreign languages and humanities at our partner specialist school, Jane Austen College - situated just a few minutes walk away on its own Norwich city

Sixth Form Life

At Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form you will receive five hours of teaching in each subject each week plus a one hour tutorial, with most students following a 16 hour timetable each week.

As well as your lessons, you will also complete tasks, prepare for lessons and revisit material. You should aim to spend at least as much time studying outside lessons as you do in the classroom.

This level of study can be daunting but teachers are always willing to help you organise your time effectively and help you to make the most of your school day. The flexibility of your timetable means that you can attend extra lessons, catch up on lessons that you might have missed and get ahead of trickier content. You can tailor-make your timetable to suit you. All students at Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form belong to a form. You’ll

find that the students in your form may follow the same subjects as you and will be in some of your classes too. This means that you will quickly make good friends and build strong support networks in and out of your lessons. Your form tutor will help you with study skills and organisation as well as university, apprenticeship and employment applications.

Learn more about Student Life at Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form

Preparing You For Post-18

Ready for Work

At Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form, we are committed to ensuring you reach your full academic and personal potential. You will find information on careers embedded in our lessons and our form programme will help you to develop life and employability skills that will serve you through university and employment.

We enjoy warm and growing links with local employers, organisations and higher education institutions, all aimed at providing you with valuable work-related opportunities and work experience. We also offer regular careers advice and guidance for all our students. Our External Speaker Programme is an opportunity for you to attend seminars led by local and national professionals and experts.

These sessions provide an insight into potential careers and are also an opportunity for you to question professionals in the sectors that interest you. These sessions, on a range of topics, also offer an additional opportunity for you to widen your knowledge and experience of the world around you.

“Preparing for Your Next Steps

We are here to support Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form students at every step of the journey. In tutorial sessions you will focus on writing personal statements, the skills required for university, apprenticeship and employment interviews and life beyond sixth form, all matched with expert advice and feedback.

Our Oxbridge Society, as well as societies for a range of professions including engineering, medicine, dentistry and veterinary science also provide the chance for like-minded individuals to get together to discuss their aspirations, share ideas on applications and support each other through the application process.

Specialist guest speakers from a variety of careers and professions give you the chance to hear more and ask questions about the wider world of study, research and employment. Whatever your ambitions, you can be assured that we will help you to realise your goals.

Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form feels like a family. It’s a relaxed environment where you can develop as a person while also learning and engaging in new content for your favourite subjects. A place where not only you can gain more confidence but truly explore your possible pathways, from captivating school trips to interesting electives, led by our incredible staff team, where you can learn far beyond the curriculum! From my own experience I decided to become a student mentor, a role in my gap year which allows me to engage with the current students to help them through their final year. The opportunities I have received have been incomparable and it’s all thanks to this wonderful sixth form!

Tom Watson - Subject Mentor

Alongside our curriculum, our Electives Programme gives you a wide variety of extra-curricular opportunities ranging from highly academic activities such as our STEP Maths support program to sports such as table tennis and football. Oxbridge Society will introduce you to aspirational universities. Whether you want to be an engineer, medic, dentist, allied health professional or vet, there is an elective for you.

Electives will encourage you to explore your ambitions and interests, boost your university application, provide academic and volunteering opportunities, offer fun activities and an environment in which to relax and meet new friends.

At Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form, we know how important it is for students to be exposed to the opportunities that learning STEM subjects can create for them. We run Outreach Programmes for primary and secondary students in Norfolk to join.

We offer our students many opportunities to take part in our outreach activities and encourage you to play a full role in these. You might choose reading or Maths support with primary and secondary school students, engage with young people with special educational needs, or organise charity events.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award

We are proud to offer our students the opportunity to participate in the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE). This internationally recognised programme provides young people with the chance to develop essential life skills, build resilience, and gain a sense of achievement through a balanced, non-competitive, and enjoyable framework.

We offer the Silver and Gold Awards, however we will support anyone who is currently finishing a Bronze Award.

At Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form, we are dedicated to supporting our students throughout their DofE journey. Our staff provide guidance and encouragement, ensuring that each participant has the resources and support they need to succeed. We invite all students to embark on this rewarding journey and take advantage of the opportunities the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award offers. Whether you aim to achieve the Silver, or Gold Awards, you will gain invaluable experiences that will serve you well in your future endeavors.

Basketball Academy

The Inspiration Trust Basketball Academy aims to provide a firstclass basketball programme that runs alongside outstanding academic education to young adults aged 16 to 18, encouraging you to set your aspirations high and supporting you in reaching your goals.

Established in 2023, the Inspiration Trust Basketball Academy has a focus on academic and basketball excellence, providing access to modern sports facilities, a fitness suite, and team classroom.

The Inspiration Trust is dedicated to developing the person as a whole, with the aim that the basketball academy can

instil attitudes and values such as; respect, integrity, hard work, and perseverance – all attributes needed to be successful in any walk of life.

High-quality coaching, supporting athletes with technical skills and tactical awareness

Two team training sessions per week

Compete in the College Basketball League

Small group/1:1 skill development session

Access to fitness suite

Strength and conditioning programme

VEO video analysis of games and training

Basketball England-approved court

For more information visit: inspirationtrust.org/basketballacademy or scan below.

Our Courses

Biology

All living organisms have similarities in cellular structure, biochemistry and function; an understanding of these similarities is fundamental to the study of Biology.

You will enjoy a flexible approach to the study of this diverse subject. Microscopy allows you to study the cell structure of a variety of organisms. Biologically important molecules such as carbohydrates, proteins, water and nucleic acids are studied with respect to their structure and function. You will also study the structure and function of gas exchange and transport systems in a range of animals and terrestrial plants. Heredity and the mechanisms of evolution and speciation are also covered.

Some of the practical techniques used to manipulate DNA such as sequencing and amplification are applied and their therapeutic medical use considered. Through this, you will develop a balanced understanding of the issues surrounding biotechnology.

Assessment at the end of Year 13 takes the form of three written papers, one of which is a synoptic paper covering content from both years. (OCR A)

Chemistry Chemistry is a practical subject and the development of practical skills is fundamental to understanding the nature of chemistry. You will be given many opportunities to develop the expertise needed to collect and analyse empirical data. Important skills are developed, including writing chemical formulae, constructing equations and calculating chemical quantities using the concept of amount of substance.

The role of acids, bases and salts in chemistry is investigated and the central role of electrons in ionic and covalent bonding is studied. You will also explore periodic trends to extend your understanding of structure and bonding.

Group properties are studied using Group 2 and the halogens allowing you to further develop your understanding of redox reactions. The importance of organic chemistry in everyday life is explored, placing chemistry in context.

Assessment at the end of Year 13 takes the form of three written papers, one of which is a synoptic paper covering content from both years. (OCR A)

Physics

During this course you will build on your knowledge of the laws of physics, applying your understanding to solve problems on topics ranging from sub-atomic particles to the entire universe.

Practical skills are embedded throughout the content of the course ensuring that you develop a range of practical skills in preparation for the written examinations.

Psychology

In this course you will develop a knowledge and understanding of psychological concepts, theories, research studies and their ethical implications. You will evaluate therapies and treatments in terms of their appropriateness and effectiveness.

You will be introduced to the important conventions and ideas that permeate the fabric of physics. Understanding of physical quantities, S.I. units, scalars and vectors help our physicists to effectively communicate their ideas and to model the motion of objects using mathematics. You will also learn about the important connection between force and energy to a range of situations.

Electrons, electric current, electrical circuits, wave properties, electromagnetic waves and, of course, quantum physics are studied together with the fields of astrophysics and cosmology.

Assessment at the end of Year 13 takes the form of three written papers, one of which is a synoptic paper covering content from both years. (OCR A)

Explanations for conformity and the impact of social influence are considered alongside the role of social influence processes in social change. You will consider the works and theories of psychologists such as Schaffer, Bowlby, Pavlov and Skinner.

Psychotherapy is explored including deviation from social norms. Failure to function adequately and the behavioural, emotional and cognitive characteristics of phobias, depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Psychology is placed in context through the evaluation of case studies and research methods; scientific processes and techniques of data handling and analysis are critiqued for their application, strengths and limitations.

Assessment at the end of Year 13 takes the form of three written papers which include shorter written answers, longer essay questions and data handling. (AQA)

Mathematics

Mathematics continues to be the most popular A-Level subject choice because it is accessible, enjoyable and challenging, with applications and use across many other subjects. The A-Level maths curriculum has a strong emphasis on deeper understanding and problem solving, which will prepare you well for work or study beyond A-Level.

As well as being essential for studying any mathematics-based subject at degree level, A-Level mathematics is required by many universities for students studying subjects such as chemistry, biology, economics or geophysics. On our A-Level maths course you will study a broad curriculum, including richer topics such as calculus from first principles, alongside the traditional ones such as quadratics, trigonometry and sequences.

“You will be taught by our mathematics teachers who are experts in teaching and between them have many years of experience. We work closely with the Advanced Maths Support Program as well as other mathematics organisations to challenge and enrich our students’ understanding of mathematics in every possible way.

Assessment at the end of Year 13 takes the form of three written papers covering content from both years. (OCR A)

Being a student mentor at Sir Isaac has been a uniquely special and rewarding experience. Throughout my three years as both a student and a mentor, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the ethos and enthusiasm that define the school. Every teacher is passionate about their subject and incredibly supportive—something I’ve aimed to reflect in my own approach to mentoring. Mentoring has allowed me to work closely with students, and it’s been a privilege to watch them grow in both academic ability and personal confidence. It can be challenging, but Sir Isaac has always believed in me and encouraged me to take on responsibilities I never thought I could. That trust has built my confidence and ability to adapt - qualities I will carry with me into university and beyond. The core value at Sir Isaac is simple: work hard, be nice. It’s a value the whole school truly lives by, and it’s one of the many reasons this place has had such a lasting impact on me.

Grace Robinson - Subject Mentor

Further Mathematics

Further mathematics is a second full A-Level in mathematics, useful for students considering mathematics at university, but also for students going on to study subjects that have a very high mathematical content such as physics, engineering or economics. In further maths, you will study additional pure mathematics topics such as complex numbers, matrices, and proof; there is a strong emphasis on problem solving.

The topics studied in further maths are at least as stretching as those in A-Level maths; you are expected to build a deeper understanding to be able to make links between all the content studied and apply your knowledge effectively when solving difficult problems.

You will study A-Level further maths as a timetabled subject alongside your other subjects. If you are considering studying maths at Oxbridge we provide support to develop the deeper problem-solving skills required for the MAT and STEP entrance exams. (OCR A)

Core Maths

Core maths is a level 3 maths qualification equivalent to an AS level in terms of demand and carrying the same number of UCAS tariff points. It is delivered in Year 12 only. You will study core maths as a complement to your other three A-Levels.

It is ideal for students who choose to study A-Levels involving significant mathematical content but who do not wish to study A-Level mathematics. In term one you will cover the fundamentals of the course including analysis of data, personal finance and estimation. In term two we support mathematical aspects of the biology, psychology and chemistry courses such as applying mathematical modelling techniques to the solution of problems.

Assessment is at the end of Year 12 and takes the form of two written papers. Many universities have shown their support for core maths by offering reduced entry criteria for students who study this qualification. (AQA)

Sir Isaac Newton has provided an incredibly supportive environment where, as a student, I found a community of like-minded individuals who take pride in their enjoyment of science and maths. I was supported by teachers, subject mentors, and friends who pushed me to achieve my best in my A-levels. The enriching atmosphere at the college inspired me to remain during my gap year and work as a subject mentor myself. This year as a subject mentor has helped me develop important skills that I will use in my future career. It has also deepened my understanding of my subjects, further preparing me for university. Sir Isaac Newton is an amazing place with a welcoming and friendly atmosphere whether you are a student or staff and I will miss it when I leave.

Iole Taylor Young - Subject Mentor

Computer Science

During this course you will be encouraged to develop a broad range of knowledge, understanding and skills in computing, as a basis for progression into further learning or employment.

A significant part of computer science involves programming to an advanced level, although no previous programming experience is required. You will develop an understanding of and the ability to apply, the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation.

You will learn to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience and by writing your own programs. In doing so you will develop the capacity for thinking creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically and learn to see relationships between different aspects of computer science.

Maths skills are essential and will be applied to Boolean algebra, comparison and complexity of algorithms and number representations and bases. In this digital age you will articulate the individual (moral), social (ethical), legal and cultural opportunities and risks of digital technology.

Assessment is via one computer-based practical exam, one written exam and an extensive computing project. (AQA)

Environmental Science

Environmental science is ideal for those with a strong interest in conservation and the impact of humans on the planet. It covers topics as diverse as the physical environment, research methods underpinning theories and data gathering. This includes changes to the atmosphere and weather patterns, the evolution of life on Earth and how data is used to model the processes studied.

Students who enjoy a multi-disciplinary approach to learning and have a keen interest in the sustainability of our planet will find the course engaging and thoughtprovoking.

The key topics you will learn include the biophysical environment, energy resources, pollution, circular economy and sustainability. You will include real-life case studies to give real-world applications to your work. This work will be supported by lessons in research techniques and statistical analysis of data. Both skills will be ideal preparation for life in industry and university.

Assessment at the end of Year 13 takes the form of two 3-hour papers. (AQA)

Our Partnership with Jane Austen College

Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form is partnered with Jane Austen College, enabling students to study from a wide range of subjects including English, humanities and the arts.

Jane Austen College Sixth Form has a phenomenal teaching team who are true experts in their field and are ready to inspire you through your A-Level studies.

The sixth form provides an excellent academic education for all our students but we also do a lot more. All of our students receive excellent support, enabling progress to university and into successful careers. The UK has some of the world’s top universities and our students achieve the results that help them there.

Progressing to university or a degree apprenticeship is increasingly about more than just grades. Jane Austen College’s pastoral and Academic Mentoring

Experts in Teaching

Programme gives you the wider experiences you need to develop excellent employability skills and will prepare you for university and beyond.

Their results are consistently top of the table and the sixth form has been rated Outstanding by Ofsted. Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form and Jane Austen College Sixth Form are both located in historic city centre buildings that have been redeveloped specifically for teaching subject specialisms.

Our students benefit from being at the cutting edge of maths teaching in the UK. Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form is the lead school for the Angles Maths Hub. We lead positive change in the teaching of mathematics in early years, primary, secondary and post-16 maths across both Norfolk and Suffolk.

The Hub supports maths staff throughout the region to develop and improve their mathematical subject knowledge and pedagogy through collaboration and high-quality training. Supported by the National Centre for the Excellence of Teaching Mathematics, the hub aims to improve teaching and promotes teaching for mastery in local schools.

Mathematics teachers at Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form ensure that you will benefit from the very best maths opportunities and teaching possible.

Subject Mentors

Our Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form Subject Mentors are former students who have taken time to return to the sixth form to mentor current Year 12 and Year 13 students.

As past students, they understand the pressure of studying for A-Levels and juggling multiple responsibilities. This enables them to bring a different and new perspective to things like revision methods. They are also able to listen if you have any anxious feelings about exams and offer advice from their own experience. As they are closer in age, this can help you feel more comfortable about being honest about your feelings.

Some of the current mentors also attended tutoring sessions when they were students and found it refreshing to be able to voice difficulties they had with topics they didn’t feel confident to bring up in class. Our Subject Mentors can encourage you to go back and

What our mentors say:

“As a mentor, I have been very keen to teach my new students. I thoroughly enjoy working with my students and feel proud when we help each other to overcome a problem and find the end solution.”

“I started out mentoring to maintain my academic knowledge before moving on with the next chapter of my life, but it has made me realise the value in the support the school provides and the satisfaction I get when students come in beaming about how they improved a grade in a test. I love seeing my students succeed and knowing I helped play a part in it.”

really take the time to break down different parts of the syllabus, while making sure that you understand and help you to answer questions that test your abilities. They can help you with organising your studies and provide all round support to ensure you have all the resources and support required to reach your full potential.

Being in a smaller group can really improve your confidence, especially if you find a classroom atmosphere daunting. Things you may have been struggling with can be cleared up in an environment that is more suited to you.

“Our role as Subject Mentors is to support and assist students in their studies. Since September, we have been providing small group sessions; identifying and tackling tricky topics and strengthening knowledge in areas of weakness. Each session is different, reflecting the range of abilities and needs of our mentees.”

“Working as an academic mentor has given me a great insight into teaching and education, aiding students with organisation and study skills to help progress in their subjects. I am glad to support my students through this and look forward to their success. ”

Travel

We are located in the heart of Norwich, close to Norwich Market, The Forum and Norwich Bus Station, with excellent public transport links.

Norwich Bus Station is approximately a 5 minute walk from our sixth form. There are frequent bus services that terminate at the station.

Norwich Train Station is approximately a 15 minute walk from our sixth form and has frequent connections from areas around Norfolk and Suffolk. Find out more at www.greateranglia.co.uk.

Network Rail offers the 16-17 Saver and 16-25 discount card, at a cost of £30, which can give you a 50% and 30% discount respectively on most rail fares.

Information is available at: www.16-17saver.co.uk www.16-25railcard.co.uk

Outreach

Launched in 2022, our Outreach Programme offers students of all ages across Norfolk free opportunities to explore their interest in the study of maths and science subjects. A key part of our vision to inspire and develop the next generation.

We run a range of programmes that are suitable for either schools, students or parents to sign up to. One of our key objectives is actively working with primary schools in Norfolk to provide them with opportunities which they can engage with, led by expert teachers. Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form students with an interest in engaging with the wider community can also benefit from the Outreach Programme. Our programme currently includes:

Primary and Secondary Mathematics

Masterclass in collaboration with the Royal Institution

GCSE further maths programme for Year 10 students

Primary and secondary enrichment lessons and workshops

Interview training, work placements and speed networking events

Opportunities such as our Mathematics Masterclasses provide insight into the teaching profession and allow students to share their knowledge with the next cohort of STEM leaders. Participation enables students to build upon their teamwork, communication and leadership skills whilst being given the chance to explore their own curiosities outside of the classroom.

To find out more please visit our website. Alternatively, you can email outreach@isaacnewtonsixthform.co.uk

Pastoral Support

Our vision is for all of our students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) to be integrated fully into the life of the college, and that all students have access to high-quality teaching.

Our pastoral system will support you while you are studying at Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form. If you have special education needs and disabilities we will work closely with you and your family to support you in school. Your form tutor, teachers and our academic and pastoral mentors are all here to make sure your needs are met.

The pastoral mentor takes pride in knowing our young people well and works with students and their families. Our pastoral mentor also works closely with our academic mentor. The academic mentor will support you with skills that promote successful study including organisation, time management, revision and life skills.

Financial Support

We want as many students as possible to experience the benefit of learning at Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form, and we encourage students who are eligible, to apply to our bursary scheme. You may be able to access a range of funding to help you in your studies.

The 16-19 Bursary Fund offers help to students at Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form to overcome specific financial barriers to participation so they can remain in education.

You could get a bursary to help with education-related costs if you’re aged 16 to 19 and:

Studying at a publicly funded school or college in England - not a university

On a training course, including unpaid work experience

Bursary money can be used to pay for things like:

Textbooks for your course

Stationery

Travel

IT equipment

Travel and food vouchers for university visits

Meal allowance if in receipt of Free School

Meals

Please contact us for further information on the bursary criteria and how to apply.

Entry Requirements

To study with us you will need to achieve six or more GCSEs at grade 5+ including...

5+ in maths, and...

5+ in one of English language or English literature, and...

4+ in the other of English language or English literature

For some of our subjects you will also need to meet specific entry requirements, for full details please see our website at isaacnewtonsixthform.org/entrycriteria

How to Apply

You can apply online by visiting the Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form website isaacnewtonsixthform.org/apply.

If you have any questions or issues with your application, please contact our team at sirisaac@inspirationtrust.org.

We are part of Inspiration Trust, twice ranked the country’s top family of comprehensive schools for pupil progress