We found out what it's like to make the transition into the Sixth Form at Harrogate Grammar School for students new and old.
We hear from Matthew, a student at Harrogate Grammar, about his experience moving into the HGS Sixth Form. Harrogate Grammar are holding a Virtual Open Event for their Sixth Form at 6pm on Thursday 12th November. Even if you've attended a school since the age of 11, making the decision to stay on for Sixth Form may not be an easy one. Harrogate Grammar School pride themselves on the support available for their students, both pastoral and wellbeing, when making key decisions about their futures. So what's it like making the transition into the Sixth Form for students that have already attended the school for five years? We heard from 16-year-old Matthew, who did just that:
"I always thought throughout the school, which has been highlighted in sixth form, that there's a very safe and comfortable environment created which means I'm never hesitant to ask student support if there are any issues that I have, no matter how big or small. "Whether it's a subject change or just having a down day, I don't think students are ever scared to go and speak to any member of staff, which has always helped me throughout the school - there would never be a scenario when I'd feel alone.[video width="1920" height="1080" mp4="https://vouchers.yourharrogate.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/HGS_Sixth-Form-promo-video-final-1.mp4"][/video] If students do feel the need to speak to someone, Form Tutors are usually the first point of contact – supported by the school's dedicated Student Support Manager. The Student Support Team, as well as teachers and other members of staff, are easily accessible for students, providing a support network that Matthew has seen in action:
"There's an environment created where even with the subject teachers, who you sometimes feel more comfortable with, there's never a barrier when you can't open up and be honest. "I've had friends in the past who have had issues, whether it's feeling down or things have happened at home, and coming to school has been an escape from that because it's very accessible and easy to find someone to talk to."So what are the major differences for students as they move from Year 11 to the Sixth Form? Matthew told us more about the transition:
"I've been here at Harrogate Grammar School since Year 7, but the overwhelming thing coming out of Year 11 was the sudden rush that you've moved into adulthood! "There's a flexibility and you're allowed to figure things out for yourself, which can be quite overwhelming and scary at first, but after the first few weeks I felt happier knowing it was down to me and I was having less leadership which was preparing me for university life. "You feel more motivated to succeed when you're being treated like an adult, which is something that definitely made a difference to me coming into Sixth Form."[caption id="attachment_2699" align="aligncenter" width="768"] Matthew stands with other members of the Sixth Form at Harrogate Grammar School.[/caption]
Harrogate Grammar’s Virtual Open Event
The virtual open event will take place on Thursday 12th November, and will offer students and parents the opportunity to hear from the Director of Sixth Form and Headteacher of Harrogate Grammar School, see subject presentations, meet students and experience the first class facilities navigating round a 3D tour. They have a large team dedicated to supporting students throughout their Sixth Form journey, offering specialist academic guidance, careers advice, and welfare support. With 40 subjects to choose from, students are offered support and guidance that enables each individual to achieve their potential. In addition, the Sixth Form provides specialist pathways such as Medical Sciences; Business & Enterprise; Education, Training & Public Services; STEM; Art & Creative Industries and Law. The Sixth Form facilities, including a fully refurbished study centre and enhanced social space, along with the use of iPads for learning provide a stimulating and inspiring environment for students as they pursue the exciting experience of Sixth Form life. To find out more about Harrogate Grammar School or for more details on their Virtual Open Event, head to their website. Alternatively contact the school on 01423 535235 or email sixthform@harrogategrammar.co.uk Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.
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