Learning & Enquiry
Cheltenham College curly bracket from their branding materials

Sixth Form

Cheltenham College Sixth Form is a vibrant, ambitious community of over 300 boarding and day pupils aged 16–18.

Pupils join the Sixth Form from our Lower College (Years 9–11) and from a wide range of other schools. Throughout their time in Sixth Form, every pupil is supported to achieve their potential and to prepare confidently for their next steps beyond school. Pupils may choose to board or attend as day pupils.

Academic Pathways & Qualifications

Pupils in the Cheltenham College Sixth Form typically study three or four subjects, choosing from around 30 qualifications, including A Levels, BTECs and C-Techs. To find out more about the subjects on offer, read the Upper College Curriculum Guide.

Continue to explore your favourite subjects, or explore new areas such as History of Art, Business Studies, Economics, Politics or Psychology. Our classes are small and you will have the support of specially selected academic tutors to help you get the most out of your learning.

You will also complete an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). This is your opportunity to study an area that interests you in more depth and develop the independent research and project management skills you will need at university and in the workplace.

Opportunities Beyond the Classroom

Sixth Form life at Cheltenham College extends well beyond academic study. Pupils are encouraged to develop confidence, leadership and independence through a wide range of co-curricular opportunities.

These include programmes such as the Mini-MBA, MDV, Community Action placements, and the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, alongside extensive sporting, musical, dramatic and creative provision.

Leadership is an integral part of Sixth Form life, with pupils taking on roles such as House and College Prefects, Academic Leaders, Sports Leaders and CCF Leaders. Pupils may also choose to compete in academic competitions, perform with orchestras and ensembles, or take leading roles in major school productions.

Preparing for the Future

Cheltenham College Sixth Form pupils progress to a wide range of higher education courses and destinations in the UK and overseas, including competitive pathways such as Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine.

Dedicated Careers and Higher Education staff provide tailored guidance throughout the Sixth Form, supporting pupils with subject choices, applications and preparation for life beyond school.

Specialist support is also available for pupils applying to Oxford or Cambridge, through our dedicated Oxbridge preparation programme.

 

The Sixth Form Experience

Hear first hand from our Sixth Form pupils, as they share their experiences below.

Meet Ngoni

“I joined Cheltenham College in Third Form, having also been to Cheltenham Prep School. I chose College due the support that is given to help you strive in all areas, whether it is in academics, sports, music, drama and art. What drew me to College the most was the pastoral care. Being an international student, College truly does their best to make it a home away from home. 

Teachers have helped me the most academically by pushing me outside of my comfort zone to reach my fullest potential. Most importantly, academic societies are the best place to further your understanding by encouraging important discussions about the subjects and its influence in the modern world. It is also a great place to ask questions that you are unable to ask in a classroom environment.”

Meet Ed

“Since the age of three, I have been part of the College community, having been to The Prep. When looking at joining College, the sport was really appealing to me, and the coaches at College made this decision even easier. Academics wise I knew that College had lots of options for GCSEs and A Levels. I am currently studying Sport Science, History, Business, and I completed the EPQ last year. When I leave College, I am going to be going to university in the USA on a rugby scholarship, and hopefully be part of something special at Lindenwood University, Missouri. 

Personally, I think the opportunities at College to try new things, meet new people, and make new connections is what makes it so special, and sets it apart from anywhere else.”

Meet Grace

“I joined Cheltenham College for Sixth Form, because I wanted a change from my previous school. With all on offer at College, it seemed like it would allow me to challenge myself and grow – as it has done. I am now studying Maths, Economics and Politics at A Level.

The best thing about College to me is my boarding house. I may be biased but Chandos is the best, it feels more like a home and I will truly miss it when I leave. I have had a wonderful experience at College and I will be sad to leave.”

Meet Ryan

“I joined College in the Fourth Form, I was at an international school in Hong Kong before I joined College. When my parents and I were looking to study overseas, the spa town of Cheltenham really stood out to us with its regency architecture and unique scenery. The school itself also had a lot of features that stood out such as its facilities and its proximity to the town centre. 

I think the availability of your teachers and tutors has really supported me throughout college. You are always able to find a teacher in your subject within the department or within your boarding house to help you with whatever issues you have with your work.

Why Study at Cheltenham College Sixth Form?

Why Study Mathematics at Cheltenham College Sixth Form?

Meet Head of Mathematics at Cheltenham College, Dr Enright, who shares more information about studying Mathematics and Further Mathematics in Sixth Form.

Why Study Politics at Cheltenham College Sixth Form?

Meet Head of Politics at Cheltenham College, Mrs Eldred, who shares more information about studying Politics in Sixth Form.

Why Study Business at Cheltenham College Sixth Form?

Meet Head of Business at Cheltenham College, Mrs Brooke, who shares more information about studying Business in Sixth Form.

Oxbridge Preparation

Higher Education & Careers

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