Welcome

The Gryphon School Sixth Form is a large, successful and vibrant part of the school and local community. We welcome students in to Year 12 from both current Year 11 and from neighbouring state and independent schools across North and West Dorset and South Somerset as well as further afield.

In Year 12, every student is enrolled on a bespoke Programme of Study and there are additionally a number of scholarships available. The Ofsted-rated Outstanding Sixth Form offers a wide variety of courses and subject options, ensuring that students can pursue their passions, interests and career aspirations. We are proud to be able to offer each and every student high quality teaching and learning, an enriching extra-curricular experience and outstanding pastoral care and guidance which we believe sets us above many other providers. Our highly caring and supportive community generates our excellent examination results and bright futures for all.

Students enjoy more freedom when they join the Sixth form, with access to study facilities outside of the classroom including full WiFi access. We encourage all students to complete work experience during their time in the Sixth form and offer many opportunities to meet with representatives from a wide variety of career sectors and universities. We have regular careers events and guest speakers from many different fields, trips to local and national employers and universities and an annual visit to the UCAS convention. We have developed a strong partnership with Exeter University including an annual visit, and priority offers for our Widening Participation students. Students are encouraged to explore many avenues when thinking about their future path, and we provide bespoke support for each and every student related to their aspirations, ably supported by our full time Careers Advisor.

All students have a Personal Tutor to offer guidance and support throughout their studies, along with additional help from their Head of Year, the Head of Sixth Form and highly knowledgeable subject staff. Outside of the curriculum, we develop the important life skills of time management, research and planning that will allow students to be successful in their immediate and long term futures. We also encourage students to think about the wider world; we support an international charity, currently Medicines sans Frontieres, and a local charity, currently MIND; and carry out regular charity events. We debate current political topics, think about car safety, basic cookery skills, raise alcohol and drug awareness, learn how to budget when you move out of home and to name but a small selection of what is on offer. It is our aim that every single student leaves us not only with qualifications, but with life skills and experiences which will enrich their CV and make them stand out among their peers.