POST 18

Preparing for Post-18

Progression to university is the goal of most of our students.

Towards the middle of Year 12 the Futures course is focussed on university choices and the UCAS system as there are strict application deadlines; students who do not intend to apply for university use the process to research career or Gap Year options and can put together a curriculum vitae.

UCAS Applications

The first half-term of Year 13 is when UCAS applications are written and sent. The deadline is 5th December, but early applications are advisable. Certain courses have an earlier deadline of the 5th October. All students use an electronic application system which makes the whole process paperless and quick. Mr Boughton is available to provide guidance and support to students in the application process.

Information about grants, loans and fees is available to parents and students - an information evening takes place in September.

For further information, please visit the VLE.

***Please note that Mr Boughton hosts a weekly UCAS drop-in clinic for students every Wednesday after school in the Sixth Form meeting room (opposite the Y13 study). Please do come along for any questions you may have or assistance you might require***

Alumni Support

We are very happy to help Balcarras Sixth Form alumni with their UCAS applications. Students should use Mr Leathebarrow's email address as their referee contact on their application: dl@balcarras.gloucs.sch.uk. Students should then contact the Sixth Form offices to update the team on the courses they are applying for, and an update on any work experience or travel experiences relevant to the course (especially if there is a change of direction) and then we can update the student's reference accordingly and submit it to UCAS.

Balcarras Boost Programme

The Balcarras Boost Programme is run by Mr Niblett and aims for Balcarras students to:

Self-identify as high achievers
Have the confidence to express academic interest in public
Have a plan to achieve significantly above average
Feel accountable with their peer group in putting their plan into action
Apply to top universities with a high success rate

If you have a dream to attend one of the best universities in Britain or the world, then please consider joining Boost next year. Please contact Mr Niblett or speak to a member of the Sixth Form team if you are interested in joining.

Careers

***Mrs Lewis runs a weekly drop-in clinic in the Sixth Form meeting room for any students that require career support, including apprenticeship opportunities. Students are welcome to drop in any time on a Thursday or contact Mrs Lewis in advance. ***

Students are supported by the careers department as well as the Sixth Form team throughout the Sixth Form on post-18 opportunities.