Head of Sixth Form Autumn 12

Anouska, pictured here with the Sixth Form Christmas tree in St Luke’s Church, is Student Leader with responsibility for 'Charity and Fundraising Activities'. Thanks to her own creative contributions and her remarkable ability to motivate other students, even those who do not find working with a needle and thread comes naturally, the Sixth Form are proud of their combined efforts in decorating this year’s tree.

Students in both Year 12 and Year 13 have focused on preparing for and sitting practice exams this week, so have not fully embraced the Christmas cheer which is now beginning to gather momentum. They have been completing past papers, writing timed essays and answering multiple choice questions which provides them with a checkpoint to assess their knowledge and understanding as well as giving subject teachers an indication of attainment levels. As parents and guardians you can expect feedback on this exam series in a full report which will be published and sent home in the New Year.

Linear courses with exams at the end of Year 13 do require learners to master retrieval; the more frequently they do so, the more familiar they become with their courses and the more prepared they are for their final external exams. They build confidence too which is fundamental to success. In the same way our Senior Schools use the work of The Learning Scientists, 'Six Strategies for Effective Learning', Sixth Form students have these methods embedded in their learning. Spaced practice, in which students space out their studying over time and interleaving, where they switch between topics as they actively revise, are integral to their work and equip them effectively.

It is pleasing to have completed exam week and turn our thoughts towards the coming festivities. As mentioned last week, thank you for all the chocolates generously donated for the hamper we are giving to the Salvation Army. On Sunday 8 December it is hamper packing at Senior Boys from 9-11am; please join us and support the Lions Club as they provide vital supplies for Maidenhead families. Next week we are collecting those overcoats you no longer need, which we will pass on to the Salvation Army too. As a Sixth Form we are always grateful for your kind support and thank you, in anticipation, for enabling us to support our local community too.