Part of castle school education trust

"Castle School Education Trust is committed to high quality education across the primary, secondary and sixth form key stages. Our schools cover the South Gloucestershire area. We encourage independence within each school within a strong framework of values."

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Downend

  • To report a student absence please email dow-studentabsence@cset.co.uk or call 01454 862395 with your child's name, tutor group and reason for absence

Sixth Form Life

We firmly believe that Sixth Form is not just about your academic studies so whilst you are studying with us you will have the opportunity to take part in a range of enrichment activities to help support your future aspirations and help you stand out from the crowd.

Core Programme

All Sixth Form students take part in a core programme for one period each week.  During this time, you will participate in a range of activities delivered by both ourselves and external visitors.  This core programme will cover a range of health and wellbeing, study skills and careers topics. 

Enrichment Programme

During year 12 all students take part in the enrichment programme on a Wednesday afternoon.  This is a chance for you to do something different to develop your skills and knowledge to help you boost your UCAS application and CV.  

Enrichment opportunities include:

  • British Sign Language course
  • Community volunteering
  • Mental Health Champion Training
  • Core maths
  • Extended Project Qualification
  • Duke of Edinburgh Award
  • Team Sports
  • Student Events Team and Tuck Shop Management 

We also offer a range of both UK and international visits, to support subjects and the core curriculum.

Pastoral Support

We think that happiness is key to success which is why we place so much value on our pastoral support system. As a small Sixth Form we get to know our students very well which means we can offer the support and advice they need whilst they are with us. 

All students are allocated a personal tutor who will work with you throughout your time in Sixth Form.  From the moment you join us your tutor is there to help you settle in at the start of term and act as a central point for contact throughout the academic year.  You will have regular 1:1 tutorials with your tutor in order to support you with your studies and help you explore future career aspirations. 

We also have a Sixth Form learning mentor who is available to provide additional academic support and careers guidance if you need a helping hand along the way, or help you access outside support if required. 

Sixth Form students can also access our Wellbeing Centre, run by Sarah Ware, our dedicated Mental Health Lead.  The centre is open during the school day and is available on an appointment basis.  If you feel you need support with your mental health or wellbeing you can talk to us and we will refer you if appropriate.