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  • Sixth Form

    Welcome to our Sixth Form

    Choosing between Sixth Form and college is one of the most important decisions you will make after GCSEs. At Ribston, we offer an exceptional co-educational environment where students are empowered to transform academically, socially and personally, bridging the gap between GCSEs and the exciting opportunities that lie beyond school. Why not join us for our Sixth Form Taster Day on 30th June to find out more? 

    Sixth Form Taster Day 2026

    Sixth Form Taster Day 2026. Images of students studying and enjoying student life at Ribston Hall High School. Booking details in text below image.

     

    Join us for our Sixth Form Taster Day to find out what it's like to attend Ribston's Sixth Form. The day will include subject taster sessions, an escape room experience and a BBQ lunch. You'll also be able to explore our Sixth Form, meet some of your teachers and connect with other students during the day.

    Date: Tuesday 30th June 2026

    Time: 8:45 am to 3:15 pm

    At: Ribston Hall High School

    Reserve your space by emailing sixthform@ribstonhall.gloucs.sch.uk.

    Bookings close on 23rd June 2026. Please book as soon as possible to guarantee your place.

    Why Choose Ribston Hall High School's Sixth Form?

    As a leading grammar school in Gloucestershire, we welcome students from Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stroud, Tewkesbury, the Forest of Dean, the Cotswolds, Swindon and beyond. Our ambitious and aspirational community provides the perfect balance of challenge, support and opportunity, enabling every student to thrive and achieve their full potential.

    Whether you are considering the benefits of staying at school for Sixth Form or comparing a Sixth Form versus a college pathway, our Sixth Form offers a distinctive experience built around four key pillars: Academic Excellence, Belonging, Aspirations and Opportunities.

    These pillars are brought together through the Ribston Baccalaureate, our unique framework for recognising achievement both inside and beyond the classroom. Through this programme, students develop not only outstanding academic credentials but also the skills, experiences and character needed to succeed at university, in apprenticeships and throughout their future careers.

    My daughter has flourished during her time in Sixth Form. Her teachers have supported her well in her chosen subjects.

    Parent of Sixth Form student

    Be Aspirational: Academic Excellence, Opportunities and University Success

    Sixth Form students in Science lesson
    Students in our purpose-built Science Centre

    Academic success sits at the heart of everything we do. 

    Our extensive range of A-Level subjects allows students to build a personalised programme of study that reflects their strengths, interests and ambitions. Whether your passion lies in STEM, the humanities, social sciences, languages, creative arts or sport, our expert teachers will challenge and support you to achieve exceptional outcomes.

    We foster intellectual curiosity, resilience and a love of learning through high-quality teaching, ambitious academic pathways and a culture of high expectations. Students are encouraged to think independently, engage critically with ideas and take ownership of their learning.

    As part of our commitment to academic excellence, students can access a range of opportunities including:

    • Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
    • Academic Excellence Programme
    • Oxbridge preparation
    • Russell Group university pathways
    • Degree apprenticeship support
    • Subject-specific enrichment opportunities
    • Independent learning and study skills development

    Through these opportunities, our students are equipped not only to succeed in their examinations but also to thrive in higher education and beyond.

    Ribston has helped me to have high aspirations and the personal drive to believe that I can achieve them.

    Year 12 student

    Belong: Be Unique in a Supportive and Inclusive Sixth Form Community

    Our Head Students standing together and smiling towards the camera
    Head Student Team 2026-27

    We believe students achieve their best when they feel they belong.

    Our welcoming co-educational Sixth Form community ensures every student is known as an individual, valued for who they are and supported to become the best version of themselves.

    The transition from GCSE to Sixth Form can feel daunting, whether you are progressing from Ribston or joining us from another school. Our experienced pastoral team, dedicated tutors and student leaders work together to ensure every student feels welcomed, supported and empowered from day one.

    Students benefit from:

    • Dedicated Sixth Form mentoring
    • Student leadership opportunities
    • A vibrant social environment
    • Purpose-built Sixth Form facilities
    • Exceptional pastoral care
    • Dedicated study spaces, common room and café
    • A strong culture of inclusion and respect

    We celebrate individuality and encourage students to be their authentic selves whilst contributing positively to our community.

    The environment is incredibly positive and supportive. All students know where to access help and I feel included and accepted in the Sixth Form.

    Year 12 student

    Be Successful: University Preparation and Future Aspirations

    Parents sitting on chairs during UCAS Information Evening
    UCAS Information Evening 

    Success means more than excellent examination results.

    At Ribston, we encourage students to think ambitiously about their future and develop the confidence, leadership and resilience needed to achieve their goals.

    Our students regularly progress to Russell Group universities and highly competitive apprenticeships, with many securing places on prestigious courses and programmes each year. We are proud of our reputation as a top Sixth Form for university preparation, providing tailored guidance that supports students throughout every stage of their journey.

    Our comprehensive UCAS application support includes:

    • Personal statement guidance
    • University and apprenticeship advice
    • Interview preparation
    • Careers education and guidance
    • University visits and taster events
    • Guest speakers and employer engagement

    Whether your ambitions lie in medicine, law, engineering, business, teaching, the creative industries or degree apprenticeships, we provide the expertise and support needed to help you achieve your aspirations.

    Ribston pushes all students to strive to achieve their goals, allowing us to become the best and most successful versions of ourselves.

    Year 12 student

    Be Autonomous: Opportunities Beyond The Classroom

    Four students in kayak during Duke of Edinburgh expedition
    Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award Expedition

    Education is about more than qualifications.

    We believe some of the most valuable learning takes place beyond the classroom, which is why students are encouraged to embrace opportunities that develop independence, confidence and character.

    Our students benefit from a rich programme of enrichment, leadership and personal development opportunities, enabling them to explore new interests, discover their strengths and build skills that universities and employers value highly.

    Opportunities include:

    • Student leadership roles
    • House and Subject Captains
    • Head Student Team
    • Volunteering and community engagement
    • Work experience
    • Clubs and societies
    • Sports and enrichment programmes
    • Gold Duke of Edinburgh's Award
    • Mentoring opportunities
    • Careers and enterprise activities

    By taking ownership of these experiences, students develop the maturity, adaptability and independence needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

    Independence is encouraged as we learn, and we are supported by our teachers at all times.

    Year 12 student

    Supporting the Transition from GCSE to Sixth Form

    Words 'Be Ribston Exceptional'

    We understand that moving from GCSE study to A Levels is a significant step. Our dedicated induction programme, study skills support and focus on independent learning in Sixth Form help students make a successful transition and quickly develop the confidence needed to excel.

    Whether joining us from Ribston or another school, students benefit from personalised guidance and a supportive environment that enables them to settle quickly and succeed.

     The environment of the school is very inviting and, as an internal student, that was important for me. Everyone in the Sixth Form is very kind, and it was easy to make friends.

    Year 12 student

    Ribston has supported my daughter through the transition into Sixth Form, giving encouragement and support. I feel that the school has shown care for their wellbeing inside and outside of school.

    Sixth Form parent

    Visit Our Sixth Form

    The best way to discover what makes Ribston's Sixth Form unique is to experience it for yourself.

    We invite you to visit our thriving co-educational Sixth Form, meet our students and staff, explore our facilities and learn more about our broad range of A-Level subjects, exceptional opportunities and the Ribston Baccalaureate.

    Whether you are considering your post-16 options, comparing sixth form and college pathways, or looking for a supportive and ambitious environment in which to achieve your potential, a visit is the perfect opportunity to see what life at Ribston is really like.

    Sixth Form Open Evenings

    Join us at our annual Sixth Form Open Evening to hear from our students and staff, explore subject areas and discover how our four pillars of Academic Excellence, Belonging, Aspirations and Opportunities shape the Sixth Form experience. We publish dates on our website and social media. You can find us on Instagram: @ribstonhallhighschool and Facebook: RibstonHallHighSchool.

    Sixth Form Taster Days

    Sixth Form Taster Day 2026. Images of students studying and enjoying student life at Ribston Hall High School. Booking details in text below image.

     

    Join us for our Sixth Form Taster Day to find out what it's like to attend Ribston's Sixth Form. The day will include subject taster sessions, an escape room experience and a BBQ lunch. You'll also be able to explore our Sixth Form, meet some of your teachers and connect with other students during the day.

    Bookings close on 23rd June 2026. Please book as soon as possible to guarantee your place.

    Personal Tours

    We understand that choosing the right Sixth Form is an important decision. If you are unable to attend one of our events, we are always happy to arrange a personal tour of our Sixth Form and wider school, allowing you to experience our community, facilities and learning environment at a time that suits you.

    We look forward to welcoming you and helping you discover why so many students choose Ribston as the next step in their educational journey.

    Mrs Cat Nicklin, Sixth Form Lead