“Pupils value the opportunities they are given to pursue interests beyond the classroom and many achieve success in them.”

ISI, April 2022

Sixth form wider curriculum

At Thames we know that education is not limited to the classroom; that is why our wider curriculum is designed to equip students with the transferable skills and resilience that will be key to their success post 18.

Staff challenge and support students to venture beyond their comfort zone, helping them to grow into compassionate and responsible citizens.

Alongside their A Level subjects, students engage in an exciting co-curricular programme designed to develop excellent communication, leadership and teamwork skills. This includes mentoring from someone in a workplace, independent volunteering, real world skills, leadership development and sport. The development of these skills sets our students apart so that they are fully prepared for the next step in their career be it higher education or a time in employment before finalising their career choice.

Students benefit from our strategic location which affords easy access to a wealth of opportunities within and beyond London. These opportunities include lectures and visits to museums, theatres and galleries to widen their subject knowledge and cultural perspective.

  • Excellent careers advice, which is varied and personal to each individual, helps to inspire and guide students as they consider their futures. Students are encouraged to consider the merits of higher education, degree apprenticeships and other options. This includes support and advice about courses and institutions, as well as guidance with the UCAS application process. Thames sixth formers have the opportunity to engage with representatives from a wide variety of professions through work experience, the school’s careers fair and visiting speakers. Additionally, carefully chosen workplace mentors appropriate to the interests of each individual, guide and mentor our sixth form students.

    Throughout their A level years, a personal tutor provides regular support and mentoring and also helps each student prepare their applications for university or other avenues.

  • Development of real world skills prepares our students for life beyond their secondary education as they move away from home either to study at university or for employment. Skills include:

    • Workplace IT skills including spreadsheets
    • Managing social media and digital footprint
    • Personal finance and budgeting
    • Cookery and nutrition
    • Self defence
    • First aid
    • Practical household skills including basic DIY

  • Sixth Form students will have a variety of opportunities to take on leadership roles amongst the student body and to demonstrate leadership beyond the classroom, such as through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award, local mentoring opportunities and in co-curricular and sporting areas.

    Students benefit from trips and visits afforded by our close proximity to the museums, theatres and galleries in London as well as trips further afield specific to the courses studied.

    Our sixth formers have the opportunity to participate in a two week trip to work in rural Tanzania with Go Make A Difference, a charity supported by the school. The teams build goat sheds, water tanks and support local health initiatives, schools and reforestation. As well as raising money for their personal trip costs, pupils fundraise for the projects they undertake. The opportunity to work alongside villagers in rural Africa provides an insight into the challenges of life in a low income country. Pupils return more focused, open-minded and reflective. This trip won an Independent Schools Association Award: “Outstanding Contribution for International Understanding” in recognition of its unique grassroots nature.

  • Staff at Thames take time to invest deeply in each student, helping them to develop compassion and respect, wisdom, confidence and resilience. Each student undertakes a programme of volunteering and mentoring in order to develop their personal and leadership skills.

    All sixth form students learn how to take a mature approach to their own physical and mental wellbeing, undertaking a meaningful exercise programme which includes team sports, as well as support with  individual sports such as self defence and pilates. Students benefit from independent privileges including access to local gym

    Strong relationships with staff will ensure all students are encouraged to pursue their unique interests and skills, whilst challenging themselves to explore new opportunities. Our wellbeing programme and proactive pastoral care focuses on developing wisdom ensuring that students are equipped and grounded to navigate life beyond school