F6rm

FAQs

How is the Sixth Form different?

The Isle of Wight College F6rm is a much more adult oriented environment. With such an orientation comes responsibility and students can expect to have a larger say in their programmes, giving feedback on their progress as well as the quality of experience they are getting. The centre is geared for students aged 16 plus rather than for a mix of ages and the supporting environment of services and facilities reflect this.

What additional benefits does the College Sixth Form provide?

There is a series of additional benefits by coming to the F6rm.  As well as state-of-the-art facilities and a student orientation, learners also get support in developing independent learning skills to help prepare them for higher education. Tutorial and careers support ensure effective guidance to help achieve personal objectives and a pastoral care system is available to guide students through their programmes, helping them to overcome any difficulties and allow them to concentrate on their studies. Given the large vocational programme already available at The Isle of Wight College, enrichment opportunities are also significant and we see this as critical to providing the basis of a sound CV. In addition, such a dedicated learning environment allows the students at the F6rm to experience the type of learning environment that would be encountered in work or at higher levels of study.

What is in this state-of-the-art environment?

There is an extremely high level of ICT infrastructure to support a dynamic learning environment. The design of our learning spaces ensures that the Government’s vision of ’21st century buildings for a 21st century service’ is achieved.

What choice of AS/A2 levels will students have?

There is a significantly larger choice than that currently available at any other single institution on the island. For example, The Isle of Wight College offers a range of over 37 A Levels with AS Levels in all major subjects.

Are students able to continue with minority subjects?

Our large F6rm Centre permits continuation of minority subjects which are sustainable due to efficiency and economies of scale. This does secure choice and improve options.

Do students continue to get work experience placements as well as study at the new College F6rm?

Yes. There is also an increased range of work experience opportunities arising from the good employer links developed by the college.

Is there a uniform code?

All students at the new F6rm are treated as young adults and the learning environment will reflect this however we would expect them to dress appropriately.

Are there any additional facilities which will help realise students potential?

The F6rm has new state-of-the-art accommodation with its own distinct mission and learning strategy. One-to-one personal tutor support will be available to ensure that all learners achieve their maximum potential. The team of staff are dedicated A level Teachers with a wealth of experience to your academic and pastoral wellbeing.

What is meant by increased Higher Education opportunities?

The F6rm is built alongside The Isle of Wight College. It has developed a higher education center which provides access to higher education opportunities for island students. The College is involved in discussions with local universities who are supportive of this strategy of increased HE provision to match high quality performance from post 16 students.

What benefits are there to parents?

There is strong support for students, including an allocated personal tutor, a weekly tutorial and a larger choice of AS/A subjects in one location. Parental engagement with the college is critical for its success. F6rm is very proactive in meeting the needs of parents for regular reports on student’s progress.

How does the Sixth Form advise students when choosing the right career direction?

The F6rm will be subject to stringent application processes and involve parents, Connexions and schools, to ensure that all learners are counselled with comprehensive advice and guidance onto an appropriate programme.

What quality assurance is there to ensure standards are maintained?

There is a rigorous observation of teaching and learning to ensure high standards within the classroom as well as regular surveys and focus groups to listen to and act on students’ views. As an example The Isle of Wight College’s Annual Assessment visit by Ofsted confirmed that The College has robust, mature and rigorous quality assurance arrangements and that ‘the college’s self-assessment process is very thorough, clear and evaluative, fully informed by all parts of the college. The development plans are equally rigorous’.

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