Sixth Form

A Levels, the International Baccalaureate or BTEC courses are offered at Ardingly College. Both students and parents receive guidance and advice to help students make informed decisions.

In the sixth form the international pupils predominantly choose the IB course of study and the majority of British pupils choose A levels. Although this separates many of them in lessons they mix well together during their extra-curricular pursuits and social time.

ISI Report 2018

A Levels

A Levels offer both flexibility and depth to students, who are able to pursue a specialist programme in a focused range of subjects. Most Ardinians will start their Sixth Form programme studying four subjects of their choice, this provides students with the opportunity to explore their options more fully before some take the decision to take three subjects through to full A Level. Alongside their A Level studies, all students are required to produce an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) which provides the opportunity for A Level students to undertake a research project that mirrors the IB Extended Essay and provides students with the benefits associated with completing a research essay prior to university.

The International Baccalaureate

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is a highly regarded, internationally-recognised programme recognised by universities throughout the world.

The IB encourages students to ask challenging questions, reflect critically, develop research skills and, most significantly, to learn how to learn. Combined with the broad, balanced curriculum, the IB prepares students for the demands and rigours of further study and employment in the 21st century.

The Diploma Programme is designed to provide academic rigour, breadth and coherence. Students study six subjects (three at higher level, three at standard level) alongside the IB Core. All students study English and Mathematics, as well as a science, a language and a humanity as part of their diploma. For students who want both breadth and depth from their academic programme in the Sixth Form, the IB Diploma provides an excellent option.

The International Baccalaureate® (IB) learner profile describes a broad range of human capacities and responsibilities that go beyond academic success. They imply a commitment to help all members of the school community learn to respect themselves, others and the world around them. The profile aims to develop learners who are:

The IB Learner Profile.

Ardingly College has a commendable inclusive nature, accepting students from diverse backgrounds, cultures, languages and abilities. It provides a strong academic environment to its students. The culture and ethos of the IB is embraced, underpinned by the school World Ready philosophy and vision.

International Baccalaureate® Evaluation Report 2020

BTEC

BTECs provide a more vocational, applied approach to 16+ study than traditional A Levels. They were designed to accommodate the needs of employers, but more recently have been reformed to accommodate progression to university. They provide a practical, real-world approach to learning, without sacrificing any of the essential subject theory.

The Level 3 BTECs are equivalent to one A level and can be studied in combination with other BTECs and/ or A level qualifications.

The style of BTEC assessment suits students who find exams challenging and may not perform to the best of their abilities in the exam hall.

Providing we have sufficient student demand, we will offer BTECs in Business, Psychology and Sport.