Sixth Form: A Bolder Future in Action

Welcome to Year 12

In September, we were delighted to welcome our new Year 12 students — selected from over 500 applicants in a highly competitive admissions process. Their journey began with our Induction Day on 5 September, designed to support their transition from GCSEs to the independent and academically rigorous environment of Sixth Form.

Students explored their A-Level and BTEC subjects through engaging workshops, a Welcome Assembly, and sessions with Form Tutors focused on study skills and organisation. They also took part in team-building activities, sports, and social events to help form new friendships and settle into the Bolder community.

Since then, Year 12 have made an outstanding start — demonstrating enthusiasm, curiosity, and commitment in every aspect of school life. We’re proud of how confidently they’ve embraced Sixth Form learning and look forward to seeing them continue to grow both academically and personally throughout the year.

Year 13 Results and Destinations

We are incredibly proud to celebrate the achievements of our outgoing Year 13 students following this summer’s A-Level results. Many secured places at prestigious Russell Group universities, including Queen Mary, Bath, Southampton, and Manchester, studying a wide range of subjects from Economics and Mechanical Engineering to Computer Science.

In addition, several students began high-quality apprenticeships with organisations such as DHL, Softcat, Samsung, and in nuclear engineering — while others successfully entered full-time employment. These outcomes reflect not only their determination and hard work but also the unwavering support of our staff and wider school community.

We look forward to welcoming our alumni back in future to inspire the next generation of Sixth Formers at Bolder.

UCAS and Early Entry Success

As our former students move on, our current Year 13 cohort are now preparing for their next steps. Having completed their mock exams, they are focusing on UCAS applications for Autumn 2025 entry, with an internal deadline of 28 November.

We’re thrilled that several students submitted their applications early — including candidates for Oxford, Cambridge, UCL, and Manchester, applying for courses such as Law, Medicine, Social Sciences, and Experimental Psychology. Impressively, two students have already received early offers within days of applying. Watch this space for further success stories!

Enrichment and Personal Development

This year’s Year 12 Enrichment Programme offers a rich blend of academic and personal development opportunities. Highlights include:

• Broadening Horizons – developing confidence, exploring new interests, and gaining practical advice for future planning.

• Wellbeing & LEGO Therapy – supporting mental health, teamwork, and communication through creative challenges such as designing a “flying car” for mobility support.

• Financial Literacy – practical sessions on budgeting and managing money.

• Health & Fitness – promoting wellbeing through use of the Sixth Form gym and exploring different fitness styles.

• Scholars Club – academic enrichment for high achievers, with advanced study and Oxbridge preparation.

• Museum Research Project – developing research, organisation, and critical thinking skills through real-world inquiry.

Attendance and Punctuality

A reminder that full attendance during term time is crucial for academic success. Sixth Form study is fast-paced and demanding, and missing even a few lessons can create significant knowledge gaps. We kindly ask families to schedule holidays outside of term dates, as term-time absences will only be authorised in exceptional circumstances. Thank you for your continued support in maintaining our high expectations.

Library News

Our Learning Resource Centre (LRC) continues to be a hub of focused study and independent learning. Sixth Formers are making excellent use of the space for UCAS applications, research, and coursework.

We’re also excited to announce a special ‘In Person Talk’ next term with Air Chief Marshal Sir Stephen Hillier, former Chief of the Air Staff and current Chair of the Civil Aviation Authority. His insights into leadership, service, and resilience promise to be a truly inspiring experience for our students.

Book of the Month

This month’s recommended read is “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” by Holly Jackson — a gripping young adult mystery following teenager Pip Fitz-Amobi as she reopens a local murder case for a school project. It’s a clever, fast-paced story exploring truth, justice, and persistence — perfect for our aspiring criminologists and storytellers!