Sixth Form Curriculum - Private Sixth Form

Choosing the right route for you

At Felsted we support both the International Baccalaureate Diploma and A Level pathways as we believe they offer a strong curriculum for different types of learner.

Both pathways should be considered by sixth form pupils as common misconceptions can often deter pupils from following a course that might be best suited to them.

Common Misconceptions

Common Misconceptions

The IB is harder than A Levels
This is not the case - with the IB you study six subjects instead of three subjects plus the EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) at A Level. Three of the six subjects will be at Higher Level and three at Standard Level which does not involve the same depth of study required at A Level. So whilst you are studying more subjects it does not necessarily mean that they are harder than A Levels.

You have to study A Levels to do medicine
You can still apply for Medicine degrees if you study the IB Diploma. To apply for most Medicine degrees, you are required to study Chemistry as well as another Science (Biology or Physics) or Maths. Because of the way the IB Groups work, you are able to take 2 Science subjects and Maths.

You have no free time if you study the IB
The IB curriculum requires more classroom teaching than A Levels so there are fewer ‘private study periods’. However ‘private study periods’ for A Level students require a significant amount of self study, so if you prefer to be classroom led then the IB might be best for you. You have to be organised to study either option and students of both academic pathways have enjoyed taking part in all the co-curricular and social aspects of Felsted School life. We have had music and sports scholars complete the IB Diploma successfully; they have managed their time well and have been able to train and attend performances and matches during their two year course.

You have to be a linguist to study the IB
This is not the case; yes, you do have to study an additional language to your own mother tongue, but this can be at ‘ab initio’ (beginner) level. So if you have not enjoyed learning French you could take up Spanish or Italian. You will also have to continue with English or your native language but this can be done at Standard or Higher Level.

Universities don’t understand the IB
In the early days of the IB Diploma being studied in the UK it is true to say that some universities did not appreciate the rigorous programme that it delivers and were not overly generous with their offers. However over the past few years this has changed and now most universities fully appreciate the IB learner; Felsted pupils have received some generous and even unconditional offers over recent years.

Sixth Form - Academic Overview (5 mins)

IB Curriculum

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Advantages of the IB Diploma
Challenges/problems to consider with the IB Diploma

Advantages of the IB Diploma

Able to continue with a broader range of subjects (six)
Internal assessment for each subject counts towards final grade in each subject
Theory of Knowledge (ToK) course encourages critical thinking skills, which is an advantage across all subjects
More accessible options for areas that you are less confident in (e.g. ab initio languages)
The Extended Essay is a chance to choose own topic for research
Open-ended exam questions and tasks in some subjects are exciting and allow for creativity
International cohort / new friends and experiences
Teacher and pupil led
Exam results are issued in early July which allows for early negotiation with universities

Challenges/problems to consider with the IB Diploma

Greater contact time for 6 subjects + ToK requires good organisation skills
Coursework requires good organisation and a consistent work ethic to avoid falling behind
You must be willing to continue with 6 subjects across specified curriculum areas
It is not an appropriate preparation for a Maths degree (especially at Oxbridge) – you would need Maths and Further Maths A Level

A Level Curriculum

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Advantages of A Levels
Challenges/problems to consider with A Levels

Advantages of A Levels

Able to focus on subject areas and specialisms
The syllabus and subject content is often much more defined
There is a wealth of resources to support your learning, such as study guides, textbooks and online materials
Fewer courses have a coursework element, which allows greater time to cover examination content and develop examination technique
More of a teacher led approach
Completing the Extended Project Qualification alongside your A Levels allows you to develop self-motivation and autonomy as well as giving you an opportunity to work independently on a topic of your choice
Less classroom contact time allows you more time to complete assignments and ongoing independent work during the school day and helps you to develop good time management skills

Challenges/problems to consider with A Levels

Careers and Higher Education

Our Professional Guidance Department provides clear, appropriate and individual advice, information, support and guidance so that you can make informed choices as you progress through the sixth form and into the world of work.

We identify 4 pathway routes for you to research. We advise you to prepare for two, to keep options open.

1. UK University
2. International University
3. Degree Apprenticeship
4. Direct workplace entry

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Independent Learning

Whether taking IB, A Level or BTEC courses, independent learning is a key feature of Sixth Form study.

IB students will complete an 'Extended Essay' (EE) allowing them to set a working question, undertake research and benefit from supervision and guidance with an appropriate subject specialist.

A Level and BTEC students will undertake an Extended Project Qualification ('EPQ'), for which they will identify a working question or hypothesis, undertake research and development of their ideas, write a report on their findings and conclusions and present their work to their supervisor and wider learning group.

We believe that the benefits of EPQ and EE go well beyond the grade that can be achieved (EPQ grades are equivalent to an AS level, going up to A*). These independent learning opportunities enable pupils to explore topics of personal interest and enthusiasm, and scaffolds pupils to develop their approach to learning in readiness for university or the workplace.

EAL (English as an Additional Language)

SFL (Support for Learning)

Sixth Form Admissions (16+ Entry)

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Boarding

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Wellbeing

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