Programme of Study
The programme of study for students at Marling School Sixth Form is a two year academic programme, based on three or four subjects started in September of Year 12 and completed to A Level in the summer of Year 13.
Most students take 3 A Levels and a Breadth Option as well as the Marling Diamond Programme which brings together super-curricular and extra-curricular activities. Breadth options available to students may include the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, Geology, Creative Writing, Fashion Textiles, Classics or Maths Skills.
PSHE
We run a regular PSHE programme to support your personal development and wellbeing. Topics include health, relationships, financial skills, and more—delivered through tutor time, assemblies, and dedicated sessions.
The programme rotates through key themes to help you build the knowledge and skills to thrive as confident, respectful adults.
STUDY & SOCIETY
THE SUCCESSFUL SIXTH FORMER
- Study skills
- A Level mindset
- Resilience
- Revision
CREATE YOUR FUTURE
- Unifrog - post-18 options
- Leadership
- Marling Diamond Programme
- Applying to University/other options
- Finance
- Democracy
- Ethics and belief
- Environment
SELF & COMMUNITY
HEALTH AND SAFETY
- Sexual health
- Drugs & alcohol
- Mental health
- Stress management/resilience
- Keeping safe
- Driving
- Digital literacy/internet safety
RESPECT & RELATIONSHIPS
- Vision & values
- Respect & healthy relationships
- Consent
- Equalities
- Gender
See the document below for an example of the Term 1 programme
Study Skills
Many students find the transition from GCSE to A Level challenging. Not only do A Levels require higher level skills, but students also need to undertake far more independent work and they need to learn to balance their workload.
To help with these challenges we use the A Level Mindset VESPA programme in tutor times and provide sessions on study skills, covering areas such as time management, planning, note taking and revision.
Below is a Study Skills booklet to help you get organised and get studying!
Marling Diamond Programme
We want every student to leave Sixth Form ready for their next step—whether that’s university, college, an apprenticeship or work. The Marling Diamond Programme helps you build the skills and experiences that universities and employers value.
You’ll choose activities that match your goals and interests, with dedicated time every Wednesday afternoon to get involved. From team sports and creative clubs to volunteering and personal projects, there’s something for everyone.
Check out our Beyond the Curriculum publications below to see what students have been up to in the past!
Early Applicants Programme
Applying to top universities like Oxford and Cambridge is competitive, so we offer extra support through our Early Applications Programme—open to all students.
It includes:
- Info evenings for students and parents
- Personal statement and interview prep
- Super-curricular advice and resources
- Insights from alumni and guest speakers
- University visits
If you're interested, speak to Mr Elson to get involved!
Access to Bristol
We have close links with the University of Bristol and many year 12 and year 13 students participate in the Access to Bristol programmes each year.
Students attend a series of sessions on Wednesday afternoons during the autumn or spring term. The sessions give an idea of what it is like to study at the University of Bristol, working with academics and current students who can offer advice and guidance about higher education and their subject area.
Taking part shows a commitment to further study that strengthens university applications. Students who successfully complete the programme are guaranteed a contextual offer interview from Bristol.
