Sixth form - St Mary's Calne Book an Open Day Saturday 16 May and Friday 18 September - 9.30am to 12.30pm Book now Skip to content sixth Form Sixth form In some of the UK’s best Sixth Form facilities, with ensuite study bedrooms for every boarder, the Sixth Form is a transformative time. It’s a chance to grow in independence, deepen learning and look to the future with confidence in an environment where every student is known, supported and inspired. A limited number of places are available for entry into the Sixth Form. Inspiring independence, confidence and growth in our outstanding Sixth Form Section Curiosity Sixth Form Curriculum Futures Programme Facilities Scholarships Donaldson Programme Wellbeing Outreach Programme Calne Girls Association Careers Lecture Programme sixth form Developing intellectual curiosity Our small class sizes create space for rich discussion, fresh perspectives and genuine curiosity. Students are encouraged to take intellectual risks, explore the subjects that matter to them, developing their own voice, all guided by expert teachers who know how to challenge and champion each student. Beyond the classroom, Sixth Form life is full of opportunity. From Model United Nations and Young Enterprise to music, sport and the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, you’ll find space to lead, contribute and discover what drives you. sixth form Sixth Form curriculum Our Sixth Form curriculum is both rigorous and enriching, preparing every student to make a positive contribution to their and our world. Most pupils study three A Levels, allowing for meaningful depth in their chosen subjects and strong preparation for university and careers ahead. A fourth subject may be possible, with personalised guidance from our academic team.  We make the most of our location to provide opportunities for additional academic stretch and breadth with lectures and workshops at both Bristol and Bath universities and theatre and music performances in London, Oxford and Bristol. With expert teaching, individual support and a curriculum that stretches beyond the classroom, our Sixth Form equips girls to excel at A Levels, university and beyond. View our full prospectus sixth form curriculum sixth form Futures Programme The world of work is changing fast, and our innovative Sixth Form Futures Programme ensures students are ready to meet it with confidence. Our bespoke Saturday Futures Programme offers workshops, expert guidance and real-world experiences to develop essential skills in areas like CV writing, networking, digital employability and Al readiness. In the Sixth Form students explore diverse pathways including university, apprenticeships and work experience, while life skills like self-defence, first aid and self-care build resilience and independence. Other highlights include the Tuesday Lecture Programme with leading speakers, EPQ research projects and our annual Inspiring Futures Conference – a dynamic day of talks, panels and practical career insights. Find out more sixth form Exceptional facilities Our Sixth Form enjoy outstanding modern purpose built facilities designed to support growing independence while maintaining connections to the wider school community. Our conjoined Sixth Form Houses – Florence Dyas and Helen Wright – offer spacious, en-suite study bedrooms alongside communal kitchens, gardens, lounges and seminar spaces, creating a vibrant and supportive environment where students live, learn and grow together. Our Sixth Form Houses give students the freedom to cook, host and manage their own time – with guidance from caring, experienced staff. Sixth Form students have a dedicated dining area and bar, and access to superb campus facilities, including a state-of-the-art fitness suite and indoor swimming pool. sixth form Sixth Form scholarships We celebrate and nurture talent, ambition and dedication through our range of Sixth Form Scholarships. In additional to up to three Academic Scholarships awarded based on GCSE results, we offer scholarships in art, drama, music and sport, with the expectation that recipients pursue the subject at A Level. Up to two Exhibitions may be awarded annually. Alongside these awards, The Calne Foundation Trust offers Enrichment Scholarships to support academic, travel or gap year projects that broaden horizons and benefit both self and others. Donaldson Programme Our bespoke, stretching Donaldson Programme celebrates the richness of Sixth Form life and the values that define a St Mary’s Calne education. Both personal and holistic, the Donaldson Programme empowers every student to discover new interests, develop valuable skills and reflect on her own growth. With the guidance of a dedicated personal tutor, each pupil is supported to set goals, track progress and make the most of every opportunity. Our six strands include: LeadeRSHIP Motivating others to engage and achieve Mentoring, Sports Leadership, Young Enterprise, School Parliament, running subject societies and opportunities to be a member of the senior student leadership team and Head Girl’s Team. SCHOLARSHIp Fostering a love of learning Wide range of subject societies, debating, EPQs, MOOCs, critical thinking, the Scholars’ Programme, Kaleidoscope student magazine and the Donaldson Electives. GLOBAL AWARENESS Understanding that we have responsibilities as global citizens Lecture Programme, Model United Nations, cultural activities, international trips, exchanges and Eco Group. SKILLS FOR LIFe Expanding interests and honing expertise for life Learning a new skill, basic cookery, public speaking, team building, finance and budgeting, playing in sports teams, fitness and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. GIVING TO THE COMMUNITY Embracing an outward-facing perspective Volunteering, fundraising, charitable endeavours, taking part in school events, prefect duties, writing for school publications, annual Charity Week and School Parliament. HIGHER EDUCATION AND CAREERS Preparing for the next stage Networking events, Inspiring Futures Conference, university conferences, mock interviews, lunchtime Careers Seminars, Interview Thinking Skills and the Lecture Programme. sixth form Wellbeing St Mary’s Calne Sixth Form is a supportive, close-knit community where independence and personal wellbeing is fostered. Students are guided by a specialist Sixth Form team with weekly personal tutors meeting offering personalised support, guidance and encouragement tailored to meet each of our student’s unique potential, ambitions and needs. Withing our unique horizontal boarding environment, living and learning alongside students of the same year group, deep friendships are forged alongside a strong sense of belonging and community. Our culture of kindness, positivity and mutual support creates a happy, purposeful environment where every Sixth Form student feels confident to be herself, and every success is shared and celebrated. sixth form Outreach programme Through our Outreach Programme, charity, service and mentoring are woven into school life, with Sixth Form students dedicating time each week to give back, mentoring younger pupils, supporting local schools in Calne and charity fundraising. Many Sixth Form students take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award, building resilience and teamwork through service and expeditions as well as joining international projects, from helping to build a school in Zambia to supporting education in Nepal. The Calne Foundation Trust offers Enrichment Scholarships to support purposeful volunteering opportunities. sixth form University destinations Most of our Upper Sixth leave for further study at leading universities and institutions in the UK and overseas. Take a look at the destinations of our recent Upper Sixth leavers. click here sixth form Alumnae The Calne Girls’ Association (CGA) has been a cherished part of our community since 1891, when Miss Florence Dyas founded the original Guild of St Mary’s Calne. Today, it brings together more than 3,500 alumnae across the world, from Olympians and award-winning authors to scientists, artists and entrepreneurs. The CGA offers a lifelong network of support, with opportunities for mentoring, careers advice, travel and social experiences. Former pupils regularly return to Calne to inspire and inform current pupils offering guidance and insight. Reunions, events and talks are held at school, London and around the world, helping to maintain lifelong connections and networks. Sixth Form lectures Our Sixth Form Lecture Programme brings fresh thinking and real-world insight into the heart of school life. Each week, the school community hears directly from inspirational speakers – from authors, entrepreneurs and directors to scientists, broadcasters and media personalities. The lectures spark curiosity, broaden perspectives and encourages pupils to think boldly about the future and the many different paths it can take. ST MARY’S CALNE BOARDING AND DAY SCHOOL Start your journey At St Mary’s Calne, one of the UK’s leading schools for girls, every pupil is known, supported and inspired to achieve her best academically and personally. We would be delighted to welcome you to our community and show you how your daughter can grow, learn and flourish with us. arrange a visit join us Homepage Sixth form