An engineering specialism within a grammar school
Sixth Form
Comments
A Message from the Head Boy
Ripon Grammar School offers a unique sixth form experience, combining academic results which students are rightly proud of with a range of social and extra-curricular activities for every taste.
The big change when entering sixth form is the responsibility you have for your own learning. Just as with all things, you get out what you put in, and students at Ripon Grammar succeed in attaining exceptional A-levels because of a strong ethos of hard work. The facilities we offer allow students everything they need to get the most out of their subjects; be that in the form of tremendous science laboratories or a dedicated studio for A-level artists. The Learning Centre provides computer access throughout the school day as well as a library space purely for sixth formers. The study room offers a more relaxed atmosphere where we can get on with group work, and the main school library, holding in excess of 10,000 books, is the perfect resource for coursework and homework. Of course academic success is not just about the spaces you are taught in, and the staff at Ripon Grammar School play an invaluable role in the sixth form experience. Teachers are passionate about their subjects and will always make time to see you at lunch or after-school to provide any extra help you need. This creates a genuinely friendly and supportive atmosphere where every student is encouraged to do the very best they can. Mrs Wise and Mrs Fell (Head and Deputy Head of sixth-form respectively) are always happy to help, particularly during the all-important period of university applications, when they offer individual guidance on personal statements and crucial advice on the sometimes baffling UCAS process.
Extra-curricular activities in the sixth form are as varied as the interests of our pupils and involvement in these myriad opportunities is a great way to get involved in the wider school community. There are sports clubs in everything from hockey to climbing, a variety of bands for the musically inclined, and well organised drama, chess and debating societies. A school council and sixth form committee also give students a voice in all matters involving the sixth form. One of Ripon Grammar School’s strongest aspects is the house system, which operates through every school year. The four houses - De Grey, Porteus, Hutton and School – form the basis of an exceedingly friendly rivalry between students. This year we have built on existing competitions, like the ever popular sports day and house rugby, and now run university challenge, master chef and engineering competitions. One afternoon a week is also set aside for taking part in your choice of clubs or engaging in voluntary work in the community. This can be in primary schools, nurseries or schemes for the disabled, the common factor being the sense of accomplishment that students get from doing something so worthwhile. Finally there are a series of sixth form balls, a great chance to let your hair down and completely forget about your work.
It is also important to highlight the role of sixth form students in the wider school. There are chances to take on vital leadership responsibilities as prefects, form prefects and peer listening. Whether the activities involve managing the queues for lunch or form prefects organising fundraising in our highly-successful charity week, the part we play as sixth form students in the smooth running of the school is an excellent experience and hugely rewarding.
The facilities at Ripon Grammar School offer sixth form students a superb education, and the commitment and friendliness of staff cement this environment of academic success. In balancing school work with an abundance of extra-curricular opportunities there is always time to pursue interests outside of A-level subjects. My time in the sixth form at Ripon Grammar has been the best of my school life and if you are willing to work hard and involve yourself then it will no doubt be for you as well.
Tom York
Head Boy 2010-2011
