Sixth Form County Durham - Barnard Castle School

Sixth Form County Durham - Barnard Castle School
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Sixth Form
Sixth Form
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Barnard Castle School Sixth Form is unique. We provide structure whilst also affording independence. We expect students to be integrated within and role models for the whole school community.
Headmistress' welcome
Director of Sixth Form’s welcome
Barney Sixth Form is unparalleled: a place where the individual is championed whilst the community remains at the heart of everything we do. The plethora of opportunities, academic, extra-curricular and supra-curricular, allow students to explore and pursue varied and individualised interests and career paths, carving out future possibilities, developing their own set of transferable skills, and all the while generating confidence in their own character.
Today’s workplace demands agility and resilience, balanced with the softer skills of empathy and moral poise. All of these strengths are encouraged as a Barney Sixth Former, and every Sixth Former is a leader in our school; it could be through the Charity Committee or as an Academic Mentor for younger students, through public speaking in our Lectern Club, Duke of Edinburgh Award expeditions, opportunities on the sports pitch, as a music scholar or member of the Sixth Form Common Room – we promote and foster opportunities and interactions to prepare our students to be future leaders.
Barney’s Sixth Form provides the vital link between the foundation years in school and the career, opportunities and adventures that lie beyond. We inspire our Sixth Formers to engage with their journey with spirit, confidence and good humour, and to become open-minded and successful young adults. Whatever their ambitions and aspirations, Barney Sixth Form promotes a thriving and ambitious learning culture whilst nurturing and celebrating the growth of each individual character.
Rachel Johns
Director of Sixth Form
We understand the need for nurturing intellectual curiosity whilst balancing the value of well-being and character, and this underpins all aspects of school life, from target setting and reflection, to Sixth Form debates and Thoughts for the Day.
The Sixth Form experience at Barney
Academically, Barney offers A Levels, BTECs, Cambridge Technical and the Extended Project Qualification, and all subjects are delivered in small classes by expert classroom practitioners. These forums enable interactive tutorial-style environments rich with discussion, debate and dialogue. This is further supported by each student having a personal tutor providing academic and pastoral advice and support. Below is an overview of what is on offer for students considering Barnard Castle School Sixth Form:
Academic stretch from a range of highly valued A Levels and BTEC/CTEC courses
Outstanding pastoral care within a nurturing environment so that every student finds their niche and can embrace new challenges and opportunities with confidence
An individual programme of guided independence, encouraging a productive and reflective approach to independent study
A dedicated Sixth Form study and social centre which places us among the top centres in the region for academic study and resources
Experienced and inspirational subject specialists offering individual attention in small classes, tutorials and lectures
Exceptional facilities and opportunities for high-quality sport, science, music and creative arts
Genuine opportunities for leadership development in the daily management of our school community
Boarding provision, both full and flexi, for the chance to experience life away from home before university
Expert advice on higher education, careers and future pathways supported by an extensive programme of external speakers and trips
Opportunities for character development through programmes like Combined Cadet Force, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award,
Peer Support Mentoring and charitable service
The chance to join a 5,000-strong Old Barnardians alumni community offering outstanding career links and continuing the lifelong bonds made at school
We also offer and encourage a plethora of opportunities to lead and through our extra-curricular activities, the service and community engagements and societies, the Personal and Professional Development programmes and our daily interactions, we nurture their potential to do so.
We are defined by a happy, supportive and inclusive culture whereby our students feel safe to dare and grow both in character and in their academic ambition.
Our Sixth Form team
An experienced team, comprised of the Head of Higher Education and the Head of Careers, offer personalised guidance for university and apprenticeship applications, as well as mock interview processes and overall employment route support. On top of this, all students take part in our Professional Development Programme, crafting the crucial softer skills that we all need to traverse the complex world of work.
Additionally, our comprehensive HeadSpace programme provides an advantageous insight and understanding of national and international career opportunities from an extensive network of speakers.
Access to the Old Barnardian network
Barney Sixth Formers also benefit from the global reach and generosity of the Old Barnardian network – a remarkable community of former pupils working across an extraordinary range of sectors and professions. Whether seeking career insight, industry advice, or hands-on work experience, our students are supported by OBs who are not only leaders in their fields but who also share a deep affinity with the School.
Rich in character, conversation and connection, this international network adds a unique vibrancy to the Barney journey and is a powerful springboard into the world beyond.
Explore the Old Barnardian network
Book your Visit
If you are interested in learning more about the Sixth Form experience at Barney and would like to visit our school, please follow the link below and fill out a visitor registration form.
Open Events
Sixth Form
Also in this section:
Sixth Form
Discover how we support independence, ambition and next steps in the final years at Barney.
Sixth Form Curriculum
Tailored pathways that prepare for university and beyond.
Personal Development
Supporting personal growth, leadership and life skills.
Higher Education & Careers Support
Expert guidance to help shape pupils’ future pathways.
The Kenneth King Centre
Explore our dedicated Sixth Form centre that supports academic and personal development.
In this section:
Sixth Form
Discover how we support independence, ambition and next steps in the final years at Barney.
Sixth Form Curriculum
Tailored pathways that prepare for university and beyond.
Personal Development
Supporting personal growth, leadership and life skills.
Higher Education & Careers Support
Expert guidance to help shape pupils’ future pathways.
The Kenneth King Centre
Explore our dedicated Sixth Form centre that supports academic and personal development.
Back
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Open Events
Request a Prospectus
Parent hub
Our School
Headmaster's Address
Our Headmaster, David Cresswell warmly welcomes you to our school.
Vision & Values
At Barnard Castle School, our vision is simple and powerful: Community. Character. Ambition.
Welcome
Discover what makes Barnard Castle School a vibrant, nurturing, inspiring place to live and learn.
Our History
Learn more about the history behind Barnard Castle School.
Old Barnardians
Find out more about our strong, close-knit community of Old Barnardians.
Leadership & Governance
Meet the team who lead, guide and govern Barney with vision and integrity.
Venue Hire
Set within 50 acres of immaculate grounds, our facilities can meet a range of event requirements.
Vacancies
Explore our current opportunities and join the Barney team.
Provision of Information for Parents
Browse the policies and information that uphold our commitment to care and excellence.
Charitable Giving
Find out how Barnard Castle School are supporting local, national, and international charities throughout the year.
International Schools
Learn more about our drive to expand our global reach through establishing International Schools.
Holiday Programmes
Explore our holiday programmes are designed to support families and offer children unforgettable opportunities.
Admissions
UK Admissions
Begin your Barney story – find everything you need to start the admissions process with confidence.
International Admissions
Start your journey to Barney. Find the comprehensive guidance you need to confidently complete your international application.
Prep School
A guide to day-to-day life in our Prep School, including curriculum, routines and enrichment.
Senior School
A broad curriculum that supports academic excellence, growth and preparation for life beyond school.
Sixth Form
Discover how we support independence, ambition and next steps in the final years at Barney.
Boarding
Explore boarding life at Barney, with a focus on care, community and personal growth.
Forces Families
Support and guidance for military families, including continuity of care and CEA funding.
Open Events
An opportunity to see Barney in action with our Open Mornings and Open Evenings.
Transport & Bus Routes
Learn more about our comprehensive transport services, supporting students to and from the school premises.
Scholarships & Awards
Explore the range of Scholarships and awards that recognise and nurture talent across the school.
Fees & Bursaries
Find detailed information on school fees, payment plans and means-tested financial support.
Admissions
Start Your Journey
Begin your Barney story – find everything you need to start the admissions process with confidence.
Prep School Admissions
Explore entry into our nurturing Prep School, where curiosity, character and confidence take root early.
Senior School Admissions
Learn how to join our dynamic Senior School, where pupils grow academically and personally.
Sixth Form Admissions
Discover a forward-looking Sixth Form community that blends independence, challenge, opportunity and experience in equal measure.
International Student Admissions
Information for families joining Barney from overseas, with tailored support and a warm welcome.
Open Events
An opportunity to see Barney in action with our Open Mornings and Open Evenings.
Transport & Bus Routes
Learn more about our comprehensive transport services, supporting students to and from the school premises.
Scholarships & Awards
Explore the range of scholarships and awards that recognise and nurture talent across the School.
Fees & Bursaries
Find detailed information on school fees, payment plans and means-tested financial support.
Co-curricular
Co-curricular
Community, Character and Ambition in action.
Sport
Inclusive, aspirational, exceptional - Barney sport builds more than athletes.
CCF
Build leadership, teamwork and resilience through the CCF.
Drama
See how we invite all students to step into the spotlight.
Music
Music brings our entire school together and is a key pillar of our community.
Clubs, Societies & Activities
Clubs and societies to spark passions and friendships.
Service Time
Giving back through volunteering and community service.
Duke of Edinburgh Award
Challenge yourself and grow through the DofE Award.
News & Events
News & Updates
Stay up to date with the latest stories, achievements and announcements from across the school community.
Open Morning 9th May
Join us for our upcoming Open Morning on May 9th!
Gain a true sense of what life is like at Barney with a guided tour and the opportunity to meet the senior staff and ask any questions about admissions, curriculum, co-curricular activities and boarding.
Register your interest