Welcome Why Should You Join Us?
The Sixth Form Centre Course Overviews Pastoral Support
Support with Post-18 Progression and Careers
Going Beyond
Community Making An Application Where To Find Us
WELCOME
Welcome to Framwellgate School Durham Sixth Form. We would like to thank you for considering us at what is undoubtedly an important stage in your life.
We understand that entering post-16 education is a significant milestone for young adults and their families. Whether you are aiming to progress to higher education, an apprenticeship or employment after sixth form, we offer a wide range of courses to suit your needs and enable you to realise your full potential. Our provision is focused on the individual; we build enrichment and super-curricular opportunities around our students, whilst supporting them in their pursuit of academic excellence.
At FSD’s Sixth Form, you will find an inclusive and supportive environment where every student is known and valued. We engender a real sense of community which is built on high expectations, respect and encouragement. You will be challenged to aim high, supported to succeed and inspired to develop independence, confidence and resilience.
Our students benefit not only from high-quality, evidence-informed teaching and smaller class sizes, but also intensive academic and pastoral support. Our personal development programme is also
designed to empower our students, offering a range of opportunities to develop the wider skills and attributes that they will need to thrive in the wider world.
We look forward to welcoming you to a sixth form where you can flourish - academically and personally - be yourself and take the next steps towards a bright future.
The sixth form is a strength of the school. Sixth-form students are positive role models for younger pupils. They make a positive contribution to the school. In the sixth form, students learn to be independent in their studies. They engage and achieve well.”
Ofsted Autumn 2024
Mrs Emily King Head Of Sixth Form
WHY SHOULD YOU JOIN US?
Not only does Fram Sixth Form prepare you academically for the future; it also helps you grow into a resilient, compassionate, and respectful human being with skills and values that will follow you for life. Fram is not just the Sixth Form you go to, it is the community you get to belong to, contribute to, and be heard in.”
Megan
2024-25 Student President
I love the atmosphere in the sixth form. We are treated as young adults and everyone is free to be themselves. The smaller class sizes mean that I feel really comfortable in lessons and there are plenty of opportunities for teachers to help me one-to-one.”
Current Sixth Form student
At Sixth Form I have always been encouraged to follow my dreams and been guided in the right direction; the quality of teaching, pastoral support, and careers guidance at Fram Sixth Form has been outstanding.”
Lucy
2024-25 Student President
When it was time to make a decision in year 11, I knew that I wanted to stay at Fram, not only because of the familiarity, but because I knew how helpful and supportive the teachers would be. The Sixth Form here gets the balance just right between supporting me, preparing me for my next steps and giving me the independence to grow.”
Current Sixth Form student
I’m loving my time here in sixth form; after a great experience of lower school it was a no-brainer for me when deciding to stay. I feel like from an academic perspective, I’ve massively benefited from smaller class sizes, with teachers now being able to offer more tailored support, whilst I also enjoy the social element of spending time with my friends in a small community. I couldn’t recommend Fram sixth form more.”
Sam Year 13
I really enjoy all of my subjects; I am grateful for all of the extra opportunities I have had too, both academically and in extra-curricular activities. Alongside my three A levels I am studying for an EPQ, have completed the Sports Leaders Award and secured a great work experience placement in year 12 which has really helped me to produce a strong university application for a competitive course. I loved taking part in Enrichment Week at the end of year 12 too.”
Current
Sixth Form student
When I was in year 11 and it was time to think about my next steps, for me there was only one answer. I stayed at Fram Sixth Form because I knew I would be supported endlessly, both by my teachers and the Sixth Form team. Being here has given me the opportunity to succeed; to take on more responsibility; to prepare for university, and to be part of a wonderful community I will truly miss when I move on.”
Sylvie
2025-26
Student President
The team in Sixth Form have helped me submit applications to programmes and finalise essays for competitions, all of which are vital experiences that will enhance my university application; I have seen my own goals become tangible. Ultimately, this is a sixth form that nurtures ambition and allows dreams to flourish; this is something it does for every student who walks through their door.”
Georgia 2025-26 Student President
There’s no denying that studying for A levels can be intense, but I’ve been supported every step of the way here and I’ve really grown in confidence since year 11.”
Freya Year 13
I don’t understand why anyone would want to go anywhere else! For me, nothing beats the small class sizes, the help from your teachers and the support from the Sixth Form team.”
Vanya Year 13
Sixth Form is like a second family for me. The Sixth Form team know me inside-out and I feel so supported and valued by them. Every morning I look forward to being here!”
Charlie Year 13
THE SIXTH FORM CENTRE
Our Current Facilities
Our sixth form has a designated area separate from the rest of the school in which we have a suite of rooms and spaces for our students to use. First and foremost, it is designed to support and facilitate independent learning, but there is also plenty of space for us to come together as a community and for students to socialise at break and
Main study area
Pastoral Manager base
Careers Guidance Manager base
Dedicated computer suite (students can also use our laptops in other sixth form areas)
• Study booths
• Sofa area
• Sixth Form office
Our Upcoming Facilities
We are very excited about the new sixth form areas and facilities that will be at the heart of FSD’s new building. Students joining us in September 2026 will be the first to benefit from using them*.
Please be assured that whilst building work takes place on the school site, there will be no disruption to us in the current sixth form areas, and that we will ensure a smooth transition to the new building.
*Please note that our new building is scheduled to be completed for September 2027, however this may be subject to change.”
COURSE OVERVIEWS
We are pleased to offer a broad curriculum: students can choose a combination of courses which cater to their individual interests and strengths; challenge them academically, and enable them to achieve the qualifications they need to access their post-18 journey.
In order to enrol on our sixth form courses, applicants will need to have achieved a minimum of five grades 4-9 at GCSE level or equivalent, including English Language or Literature. Any student not achieving a grade 4 in GCSE Maths will be required to attend Maths lessons and resit the GCSE exam.
Please note: each subject has its own entry requirements, many of which are higher than our minimum entry requirements. You can find more details in our Course Book.
All of our courses are two-year courses, with the exception of Criminology which is completed in one year, and must be studied in addition to 3 other subjects. We require all students to take 3 subjects for the duration of their time in Sixth Form.
A Level Courses
Art and Design
Art and Design allows the development of creativity and artistic expression, and is one of the only subjects to be almost entirely practical. Art and Design is vital in today’s ever-changing world, where aesthetics are equally as important as function. Indeed, art surrounds us in our everyday living environment; from the buildings we live in, the mobile phones used to text, and the clothes on the high street.
Biology
Biology literally means “the study of life”. Biology examines the structure, function, growth, origin, evolution and distribution of living things. The course includes studies at
the molecular level, through to the cellular level, on to whole organisms and finally ecology and investigating organisms’ interactions with their environment. Saving threatened species, feeding people, genetically modified organisms, stem cell research and curing diseases—the 21st century offers many challenges to a biologist. Which ones are you interested in meeting head-on?
Business Studies
Studying A Level Business is a great way to develop your understanding of how Businesses operate and how they are managed. You will develop the knowledge and skills needed to analyse data, think critically about issues and make informed decisions, these are all transferable skills that are needed for further study and employment.
Chemistry
Ever wondered who was behind developing the latest shampoo or painkiller? Ever thought about the people who discovered treatments for cancer or AIDS? Well, chemists are behind these discoveries and developments that will shape our lives in the future. Chemistry is all around us, in the air we breathe, the food we eat and the stuff that makes our lives easier.
Computer Science
Computer Science is a practical and rewarding subject to study at A’ level, preparing learners to employ creative problem-solving techniques to real-world systems and situations. Organisational, analytical and programming skills developed throughout the course, together with a sound understanding of computer systems theory, are highly valued by universities and employers alike.
English Literature
Sir Richard Steele, a politician born in 1672, once said that “Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body”. He was right, of course, but it's not only the reading which exercises the brain, it's the thinking, discussing, arguing and writing about what we read that keeps our most vital organ in shape. Students with an interest in people and in the way they behave, think and feel will enjoy this course. There will also be the chance to develop the skills of analysis, or argument, persuasion, and of discussion, sometimes working independently but also in groups.
French
As society becomes increasingly globalised, so language study becomes increasingly important. Studying French opens doors not only to Europe, but also to French speaking countries throughout the world.
Further Mathematics Further Mathematics is an enjoyable, stimulating and rewarding subject to study. It offers the opportunity to explore new and more sophisticated mathematical concepts, whilst consolidating learning in A’ level Mathematics. Students intending to study a mathematics related degree will find Further Mathematics a huge benefit as it makes the transition to university easier.
Geography
Geography provides a strong foundation for understanding both the human and physical aspects of Earth, and the interaction between natural forces and mankind. Human geography deals with how people and the environment interact and the way in which they coexist. It also looks at how people and groups live (and move) in the world around us. Physical geography is concerned with the scientific
aspects of the world, with the emphasis being upon how these can be managed. Geography students will be equipped with a diverse range of skills such as: undertaking research and analysis, teamwork on practical projects, investigating global issues and the ability to interpret natural phenomena.
History
History enables us to understand the society in which we live today. It helps us to appreciate the civil rights we can easily take for granted such as democracy and freedom of speech. Historians are in demand in professions where a knowledge of politics and citizenship are vital such as law, journalism, the civil service and in education. Historians have analytical minds and love to talk, discuss and argue. They think logically and critically and are confident in their own opinions while respectful of others.
Mathematics
Mathematics plays an important role in a lot of what we do each day, even though it may not be obvious. Listening to a CD, watching the weather forecast, playing the latest computer game, using the internet or making a call on a mobile phone all rely on knowledge of a range of branches of Mathematics. Along with the practical applications, Mathematics has a beauty of its own which can be seen in nature and our environment.
Music
Music permeates our everyday lives. From concert halls to the cinema, Spotify to social media, podcasts to live performance, music is more diverse and readily available than ever before. Through the interrelated disciplines of analysis, composition, and performance, we encourage pupils to appreciate, understand, and think critically about the music around them.
Physical Education
Physical Education allows the development of a wide range of sporting roles. Firstly, it will allow further practical progression in your leading activities, as well as developing coaching and officiating skills in those fields. Aside from the practical aspect of the subject, it will develop a range of transferable skills in subject areas such as psychology, physiology, applied science and sociology.
plus the more abstract concepts involved with electricity, waves and WIMPs. It may delve deeper into the realms of astrophysics or take you back in time to the important experiments that have enhanced our lives today.
Politics
our eyes to what is really going on in the world in which we live.
Product Design
Physics is the subject that provides you with the Theory of Everything and answers the most important question of all:
Why?
Physics will take you on a journey from the fundamental building blocks of matter to the forces that hold galaxies and the whole universe together. It will give you grounding in general physics concepts, dealing with forces and motion Physics
Politics is about who gets what and how they get it. In that sense it is about everyday life—conflict, argument and compromise. Aristotle described politics as the “master science” as it is the essence of everything. The course itself aims to widen students’ understanding of the key issues in modern society. It investigates where power now lies, how people are represented and the opportunities for change. This includes for example, debates over whether we should go to war, civil liberties, the influence of Europe, the United States and rising powers like China, the obstacles facing minorities plus the role of political parties and pressure groups. Politics is an intellectually challenging and rewarding subject. It opens
Virtually everything you buy is designed or engineered. This course could be the pathway to many exciting and rewarding career paths in a rapidly changing technological society. From engineers to technicians, high-level manufacturing in the UK needs a skilled, highlytrained workforce which you could be part of. As well as developing knowledge and skills in technology-based topics, this subject is one which naturally develops transferable skills such as team work, problem solving and communication skills - all of which are vital in the ‘world of work’.
Research in Psychology seeks to understand and explain thought, emotion and behaviour of humans and animals. Psychologists use scientific methods in an attempt to understand and predict behaviour, to develop Psychology
Sociology procedures for changing behaviour, and to evaluate treatment strategies. Psychology is a combination of science and practice. Psychologists are interested in how people act, react and interact as individuals and in groups. Applications of psychology include mental health treatment, performance enhancement, self-help, ergonomics, and many other areas affecting health and daily life. The common factor linking people who study psychology is curiosity and the search for knowledge.
‘Sociology lifts the lid on the ordinary and extraordinary, digs around in the hidden meanings and contexts of our lives, and shows that what we take for granted rests on complex and dynamic social processes’. (Tony Bilton et al 1996).
Sociologists study people in society. Put simply, Sociology is the attempt to understand how society works. It provides description and analysis of
the patterns and structures in human relationships, and it encourages us to see the world through the eyes of other people. The need to understand the society in which we live is a pressing one. We all have a personal stake in this as we try to make sense of our own lives, as well as a wider responsibility to contribute to public debates about the way our society is organised and how it relates to other societies. Sociology helps us to do this.
Alternative Academic Qualifications (AAQs) and Other Qualifications:
Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification in Applied Science
The Pearson Level 3 AAQ Applied Science course will allow you to study how science is applied in many different types of professions and industries. The focus of the course is scientific usage,
concentrating on how scientists and others use science in their work. You will learn how science contributes to our lifestyle and the environment in which we live.
Criminology Level 3 Certificate
This 1-year course can be studied alongside students’ 3 A level or AAQ subjects, and is equivalent to an AS level; it is widely recognised by universities, apprenticeship providers and employers. The course allows students to explore criminal behaviour, the justice system and the media’s role in the public’s perception of crime whilst developing analytical, research and critical-thinking skills. Combining elements of psychology, sociology and law, this course is particularly suitable for – but not limited tostudents studying social science subjects.
Extended Project Qualification equivilent to AS level
The ‘EPQ’ is equivalent to an AS level and is highly valued by universities and employers. It offers an exciting opportunity for students to take control of their own learning and explore a topic of particular interest to them. The qualification allows learners to develop skills in research, organisation and independent thinking as they work towards a dissertation, and a final presentation in which they reflect on their unique project.
Pearson Level 3 AAQ in Health and Social Care
This course is designed for post-16 students with an interest in Health and social care and aiming to progress to higher education as a route to graduate level employment. Equivalent to one A Level in size, it is suitable for students looking to develop their applied knowledge and skills in health and social care alongside 2 A-Levels. This qualification can
lead to progression to degrees in Nursing, Social Work and BSC subjects allied to Health.
Sport Single Award AAQ
This Level 3 Applied Award in Sport offers a practical introduction to the sports industry.
Students study key themes such as body systems and physiology, health and fitness, sports coaching and development, and the wider sporting sector. Assessment blends internally marked assignments with externally set tasks, giving a balance of coursework and controlled assessments rather than a single final exam.
The course is delivered over two years and is structured into mandatory units that build practical skills—planning training programmes, analysing performance, and understanding how sport is organised in the UK. It suits anyone aiming for careers or further study in sport science, coaching, leisure management, or health and fitness.
This is the equivalent to one A-level.
Sport Triple Award AAQ
The Pearson Level 3 AAQ Sport Triple qualification will carry the same weight as three A-Levels, giving students a full, in-depth grounding in all major areas of sport study.
Students will learn about anatomy & physiology, sport science, coaching & leadership, performance analysis, health & fitness, plus specialist optional topics such as biomechanics and sports injury.
Assessment will be mixed: some units assessed by Pearson (external exams or set assignments), others through internal assessment (projects, practical work).
Students will build skills and knowledge valuable for both higher education and careers in sport, leisure, fitness, coaching, and allied sectors.
Pastoral Support
We strongly believe that academic success is underpinned by exceptional pastoral care. We are committed to helping students to build resilience, navigate challenges, and thrive. We engender a warm, inclusive environment in our sixth form and get to know our students as individuals; we want them all to feel seen, heard and valued.
Students benefit from seeing their tutor every morning, with whom they also have regular one-to-one meetings throughout each academic year. Within our team we also have a non-teaching pastoral manager who is based in our main study area with students and available to support them throughout the day. Our students also have access to the school’s Emotional Wellbeing Worker, and we work with a range of external services to offer additional and bespoke support for individual students when needed.
We recognise that studying for A levels and other post-16 qualifications can be intensive; throughout our personal development programme there is a consistent focus on mental health and wellbeing, and one of the benefits of a smaller sixth form is that we are able to quickly identify when a student may need additional support.
Support with Post-18 Progression and Careers
At Framwellgate Sixth Form you will benefit from comprehensive careers and progression support throughout your time with us. Our dedicated Sixth Form Guidance Manager is available in the Sixth Form Centre for students to speak to during their free time and study periods. Through their personal development programme, students cover topics including post-18 options, recruitment and interview skills, personal finance and employability.
There are regular opportunities to hear from visiting employers and higher education providers, both through the careers programme and through curriculum areas. Key events taking place throughout the year include mock interviews, our Careers and Progression Fair, and our annual Post-18 Conference. Every student will have the opportunity for a one-to-one personal guidance meeting with our qualified careers guidance counsellor to explore their future career ideas and post-18 plans.
Application support is available to all students regardless of their choice of post-18 destination. Following CV, application and interview preparation, many students successfully gain apprenticeship and full-time employment positions on completion of their studies. For those considering university, support with the UCAS process begins from the summer of year 12 and students are carefully guided through all aspects of the application process.
Going Beyond
We believe it is vital for all students to go beyond the minimum requirements of their programmes of study during their time in the sixth form. We offer a wide range of enrichment, extra-curricular, super- curricular and personal development opportunities that are designed to complement our students’ academic studies; extend their subject-specific knowledge; widen their interests and develop their confidence and personal skills.
Securing a place at university, an apprenticeship or a good job requires more than just academic success; both university admissions tutors and employers increasingly look for more, expecting to see well-rounded individuals who have gained valuable experience and explored their interests and potential.
Sixth Form Clubs and Teams
We have a range of extra-curricular activities which run at lunchtimes and after school in the sixth form; we also encourage students to set up new clubs to share their interests with their peers. Some of the options which are currently available are:
• Sixth Form football team
• Debate Club
• Christian Union
Educational Trips and Visits
We offer a range of subject-specific and wider opportunities for students. These include:
• Visit to Durham Crown Courts for all social science students
• ‘Lessons from Auschwitz’ project which includes a day visit to Poland
• Fieldwork at a variety of North East locations for Geography students
• Residential trip to London which includes visits to the Courts of Justice; London Dungeons, a Jack-the Ripper Tour and a West-End theatre production
• Visit to the Bill Bryson Library at Durham University
Personal Development
All sixth form students participate in personal development. We offer a high quality PSHCE programme covering personal safety, health and wellbeing, relationships and ‘living in the wider world’. As well as being delivered through our tutor programme, PSHCE workshops are also delivered by guest speakers and organisations. For example, students will attend workshops on driving safely and speed awareness; managing finances and budgeting, and drugs and alcohol. They will also gain a full First Aid qualification in year 12.
e Sports Leaders Award
This nationally-recognised qualification is open to all students, but is compulsory for those taking A level PE or AAQ Sport. The course is designed to develop students’ leadership, communication and teamwork through sport and physical activity.
Participants learn to lead sports sessions for various age groups and community members, gaining confidence and life skills applicable to higher education and future employment.
Currently our sports leaders support in the delivery of local sporting events including Durham schools athletics competitions and themed days at local primary schools.
Duke of Edinburgh Award
The ‘DofE’ is a highly regarded programme that challenges students to develop new skills, support your community, stay active and take part in an adventurous exhibition. Open to all students, the award is a great way to develop independence, resilience and teamwork, all while having fun and making lasting memories.
Work Experience
All of our sixth formers complete a work experience placement in year 12. They are supported to gain a placement in a workplace related to their potential career, where they can gain valuable insight into the world of work.
Having this opportunity allows you to make informed decisions about your future, whether that’s choosing university courses, apprenticeships or career pathways. It can strengthen personal statements, CVs and applications and provide useful networking opportunities with employers. Spending time in a professional environment will also enable you to develop transferable skills such as communication, problem-solving and teamwork, while building confidence and independence.
Community Enrichment
Our sixth formers are role models for students in the lower school and we encourage them to support younger students and to get involved in whole school events. Sixth formers can choose from the options below, developing their leadership skills and confidence whilst also giving back to the school community:
• Support in the running of lower school clubs and sports teams
• Become a peer mentor: this includes a full training programme
• Support in a subject: this offers students the opportunity to support in a key stage 3 lesson once a week in a subject of their choice. This option is ideal for those who are considering a career in education; students receive a full training programme including modules on safeguarding and special educational needs.
• The Sixth Form Council: working closely with our Student Presidents, the council’s duties include taking a leading role in organising community and charity events.
e Broadening Horizons Award
This award is unique to our sixth form and completed by all students in year 12.
This gives them the opportunity to develop the breadth and depth of their knowledge, both linked to and beyond their subjects. Students build up a portfolio of evidence that they have engaged in a variety of super-curricular activities that are designed to develop their academic skills, deepening their subject knowledge and also preparing them for the additional independence and academic rigour of post-18 study.
There are 3 different levels to the award: bronze; silver and gold. Students who complete the gold award will deliver a presentation to a panel which includes academics from local universities.
Become part of our Community
We know that students come to sixth form to achieve outstanding quali cations that allow them to access the next stage of their lives. We also believe, however, that having fun, building relationships and being free to be yourself as part of a unique community should be fundamental to the sixth form experience.
Events such as our ‘dress-up’ days and charity fundrais ers are always a highlight for both students and sta . Our inter-tutor challenges -from hula-hooping and Malteser-eating to pumpkin decorating and our annual ‘elf-on-the shelf’- also bring out the competi tive streak in everyone!
Our students bene t from our Enrichment Week at the end of year 12, where they take part in everything from paintballing to tent construction and cake making, as well as enjoying a social trip to the beach and funfair. We also hold additional community events including a festive morning of activities prior to the Christmas break; a Celebration Day at the end of year 13, and the highlight of sixth form once all the hard work is over: the summer Leavers’ Ball!’
Making an Application
You don’t have to attend the school in order to apply to the Sixth Form; we welcome applications from students at other schools. You can express your interest by contacting the school by telephone or emailing enquiries@framdurham.
Year 10 students at FSD are offered the opportunity to attend our ‘day in the life of a sixth former’ in the summer term. This is then followed by our Open Evening in the autumn term of year 11, after which students are invited to make an initial application electronically. We then offer our applicants a formal sixth form interview in January, where they will benefit from further guidance regarding their subject choices and post-18 intentions. Students who are expected to meet our minimum entry requirements will then be formally offered a conditional place.
