On the 7th and 8th of March we held our second trips days of the year with multiple trips organised by staff in the Sixth Form. Here are the highlights from the days: English Language trip to the British Library First Year English Language learners visited the British Library on the Euston Road in London. They had a guided tour of the library which holds a copy of every text published in Britain alongside some global treasures. Students saw King George III’s collection of maps and views, the Library's copy of the Magna Carta, handwritten works from some of literature's greatest talents and a fascinating range of Sacred texts. Learners also had the chance to make use of the sound bank at the library, listening to a range of regional dialects from around the UK. There was then time for some sightseeing in London and dinner heading back to the Sixth Form. Biomedical and Forensics Trip to NHS Blood and Transplant Service Our two groups of Applied Science learners visited the NHS Blood and Transplant hub in Filton across both trips days. They heard about the range of career paths available within the sector, carried out a blood grouping practical in the training lab and took a tour of their manufacturing and testing laboratory facilities. The learners also learnt about the distribution network for blood products after donation, the quality assurance processes and the importance of meeting timeline requirements. History and Philosophy trip to the Imperial War Museum and Westminster Abbey Twenty-eight learners undertaking History and Philosophy A Levels enjoyed a trip to London on Friday 8th March. In the morning they took part in a curated session led by the learning team at the Imperial War Museum before experiencing the Holocaust Galleries. After a short walk to Westminster, they also were able to enjoy a guided tour of the Abbey, with the Philosophy learners visiting the Shrine of Edward the Confessor and the History learners visiting the tombs of Henry VII, Mary I, Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots.

Last Friday, SGS Sixth hosted 61 students and three members of staff from Blaise High School in Bristol. Three of our current year one learners, who used to attend Blaise High, were on hand to give the students a tour of the Sixth Form and also to answer questions about college life and their experiences as a learner with SGS Sixth. The Blaise High students were able to get a taste of A Level Biology, A Level Physics and our BTEC Applied Science courses (Biomedical and Forensic Science) with taster lessons led by our science staff. Following this, they also attended this months STEM@Lunch talk led by Andrew Barker of the NHS Blood and Transplant service with our own A Level and GCSE Plus learners in the Sixth Form. Blaise High learners had lots of questions for the speaker at the end of the talk. The day was organised by Vaia Adamaki, our Physics teacher who said 'The Blaise High students really seemed to enjoy both the Sixth Form and the talk. Their behaviour and interest in the talk was exemplary throughout the entire day. I hope they left with a greater understanding of what courses they might like to think about applying to in the future and with having had a really enjoyable and fun experience'. If your local school might be interested in working with us at SGS Sixth, please email us: sixth@sgscol.ac.uk

On Friday, 110 of our learners studying Sociology, Criminology, Law, Psychology and Forensic Science were able to experience the Sixth Forms Life Behind Bars conference. This thought-provoking event involved a group of guest speakers, all of whom are ex-offenders, visiting the Sixth Form to talk openly about their experiences. Sixth Form learners began the day in the Sixth Form library to hear from each speaker, each of which recounted their experiences of entering prison as young people and the circumstances that led them there. In the afternoon, the learners divided into smaller groups which allowed them to spend time with each speaker, asking them questions and receiving answers about the impact their crimes have had on their lives. During the day learners were encouraged to discuss the role of prison as a method of rehabilitation and its effectiveness. The day contained clear links to the topics studied in each of these subjects and was organised by Rebecca Wheeler of the Sociology department. The learners really enjoyed the day and its thought-provoking nature. Jess Harvey, studying Psychology said: "It was an eye-opening day because it showed the impact of prison in a different light. It was interesting to see how it has affected those who have incarcerated and also surprising to see how, at times prison has helped. It gave me a real understanding of what people who have served time have gone through".

The 28th and 29th November were the first trips days of the academic year. SGS Sixth learners enjoyed a range of different trips on these days. A Level English Language learners visited the offices of 'the Guardian' newspaper in London and took part in a workshop entitled 'Behind the Headlines' focusing on opinion writing. They also got a guided tour of the newsroom to see journalists at work. The learners also enjoyed some sightseeing around London, seeing Piccadilly Circus and Buckingham Palace. A Level Economics learners were invited to the Business School at UWE and took part in some Economic taster sessions. These included an introduction to the role of the Bloomberg Trading Suite and they also attended a lecture with current degree students on the Economic History of events leading up to the First World War. Lastly the learners also benefitted from a tour of the campus and the opportunity to ask student ambassadors about university life. L3 Criminology, A Level Sociology and A Level Law learners visited Shepton Mallet Prison. Whilst there they had a tour of the prison site that included the execution room and the cells. They also learned about historical punishments and retribution and engaged in a lively debate on the pros and cons of capital punishment. A Level Law learners also were able to visit Bristol Magistrates Court to sit in on some magistrates hearings. This was a valuable opportunity for Law learners to see the law in action and the learners received compliments from the clerk of the court of how engaged they were in the proceedings. A Level Geography and Biology learners were able to glimpse behind the scenes of the recently closed Bristol Zoo and use their classrooms to undertake a study of the human impact on ecology on the Downs in Bristol. They used a variety of different methods to investigate the distribution of organisms and collect data on flora percentatage before analysing their results, putting classroom theory into practice. A Level Psychology learners enjoyed a trip to UWE's Glenside Campus to visit the Glenside Psychiatric Hospital Museum. The hospital used to hold Psychiatric patients until 1994 and has multiple exhibits detailing historical treatments of mental illnesses like treplanning and the lobotomy. Lastly, A Level Physics learners visited the Engineering Department at the University of Bath and had a tour of the labs of the Mechanical Engineering department. They also took part in a demonstration using a wind tunnel and discussed fluid dynamics, and took part in a demonstration of tensile testing, where they took the data back to the Sixth Form to analyse. They also to look around the University of Bath campus and saw the sports centre of the university. More trips will be available on the next Trips Days being held on the 7th and 8th of March, with additional trips taking place in some subjects before then. We look forward to taking our learners on some more fantastic days out as part of their study programmes. Applications to join SGS Sixth are now open. To apply, please select your subjects from the subject page and submit an application. The next open day is on the 27th January.

In the latest of our STEM@Lunch talks series, A Level learners at SGS Sixth were lucky enough to listen to Dr Russell Haines, who works at MBDA Missile Systems. He spoke to the learners about the different routes to Engineering as a career as well as his own career path. He also went on to speak about the great opportunities there are within the company for work experience and apprenticeships if that was the path some students wanted to take on. Our STEM@Lunch talks series is a monthly talks series specifically designed for our STEM learners which invites experts from universities and employment in to talk to our learners on different topics.

On the 19th of September 2023, Law and Politics learners from SGS Sixth visited the Houses of Parliament with their teachers, Maddie Peace and Lamin Sanneh. On the trip, the learners were shown around Parliament, being able to see important national locations such as Westminster Hall, the House of Commons, the House of Lords and the robing room where the King gets ready prior to the State Opening of Parliament. They also took part in a workshop session looking at what laws should be introduced, with sessions exploring current events such as debates around legislation to ban XL Bully dogs and legislation around immigration policy. The learners also got the opportunity to speak to their local MP, Jack Lopresti, and ask him questions about Parliament and issues important to them; such as public transport in the Bristol area and education funding. Maddie, who organised the trip, said “This was an amazing opportunity for the learners who study both Politics and Law. They really enjoyed the trip, and the workshop was excellent and helped them to develop their public speaking skills. It also really contextualised the political process helping them embed what they have studied in the classroom."

SGS Sixth in Bristol has achieved a strong set of results, with an impressive 70% of students attaining grades A*-C. The college's dedication to academic excellence and student growth is evident in the outstanding progress showcased by its students. Some notable successes were seen in Maths (40% A*/A), Further Maths (67%A*/A) and Criminology (93% A*-C), with outstanding high grades and a raft and A*s across many other subjects. The overall pass rates were also strong, with (98%) achieving their full qualifications. There was also excellent performance in our newest BTEC course, Forensics and Criminal Investigations, with 6 from 10 achieving Distinctions. Behind these figures lie the remarkable stories of individual triumphs. 16 students have achieved the extraordinary feat of securing a suite of A*s and As. Their achievement showcases their academic ability, commitment and ambition but also reflects the outstanding guidance and support provided by the teachers within the Sixth Form. As these students step forward to embrace their academic futures, many are poised to enter some of the country's most prestigious universities (Russell Group, top 20). SGS Sixth is more than just grades and percentages; it's a place where individual talent is nurtured, and students are allowed to pursue a wide range of extracurricular activities, including over 30 Academies and access to professional-level sports facilities. The journey of students like Isobel Patel epitomises combining academic and sporting excellence. Isobel has secured a professional contract at Western Storm and has dreams of becoming one of the country’s leading female cricket players. She leaves having achieved A*, A, B in PE, Biology and Chemistry and is studying Sport and Medical Science. Many others have benefited from additional activities outside of the classroom, with Maths and Science Clubs, STEM lectures, and university trips. Head of SGS Sixth (Pastoral), Gary Parsons, commented, "Our student's achievements are a testament to their hard work and dedication, as well as the tireless efforts of our teachers. SGS Sixth takes immense pride in providing a nurturing environment enabling students to flourish academically and personally." Head of SGS Sixth (Academic), Becky Riddell, also praised the staff, commenting, “I am profoundly grateful to each member of our dedicated staff at SGS Sixth. Today, as we celebrate the achievements of our students, it is important to acknowledge the commitment, support, and professionalism our staff has demonstrated this academic year; the late nights, extra revision sessions and countless 121s have been the bedrock upon which our students' success stories have been built.” Here are just a few case studies among the countless successes: Bryce Gapper (Maths at Warwick University) Bryce's exceptional achievement of securing A* grades in A-Level Mathematics, Physics and Further Mathematics highlights his impressive command of numbers but also reflects his obvious potential. Beyond his A-Level grades, Bryce's journey at SGS Sixth has reflected his growth as a thinker and a scholar. His participation in the college's Honours Programme highlights his thirst for knowledge and intellectual exploration. The programme, designed to foster a deeper understanding of subjects and encourage critical thinking, has provided Bryce with a platform to expand his academic curiosity. He is off to study Maths at Warwick University. Bryce comments: “I have loved studying here. I really like my teachers they are so kind and supportive. I have particularly enjoyed studying whist doing the rugby academy and I would recommend the programme to anyone wanting to play sport whist studying. I am over the moon with my results. I couldn’t have asked for better. I am now looking forward to starting the next chapter at Warwick University.” Erin Martin (BTEC Forensics & A Level Psychology to study Forensic Science at Derby) Erin Martin's story stands out as an example of dedication, commitment, and the pursuit of excellence. With unwavering determination, Erin has secured an impressive Distinction* in her Forensics Diploma and developed industry-relevant practical skills. Her pursuit of the Forensics Diploma showcases her desire to learn and excel in a field that demands precision, analytical thinking, and a profound understanding of scientific principles. Erin is now off to study Forensic Science at the University of Derby. Erin commented: “I have really enjoyed it here. Forensics is really fun and undertaking this course has confirmed the career route and university course I would like to take. I am nervous but excited to start university and I am so please and relieved with my results. “ This year’s exceptional results bear witness to an institution that goes beyond imparting knowledge. They reflect the broader aspiration to develop well-rounded, creative, confident, ambitious students ready to take on the challenges of the modern world, whether work, university, apprenticeships or higher study. SGS Sixth continues to welcome student applications and has an impressive range of academic, technical and vocational qualifications to meet the student’s needs. To apply via the late applicant advice and guidance sessions, please visit www.sgscol.ac.uk for further details. The first A-Level Open Day for 2024-25 is Thursday 28th of September from 5:30 -8pm.

It was great to see three of our SGS Sixth A Level students, Morgan, Tegan and Marianna perform so well at their work placement. They completed this at University of Bristol where they gained practical experience working with machines and equipment relevant to their studies. They learnt how to test for diabetes, covid, had a psychology taster session, did data collection, and were also able to find out more about Uni life. Also Jack Peace has been undertaking work placement at Ashton Gate Stadium working with the marketing team. He is learning about the insights of what people do in this area. His favourite part of work placement so far is completing marketing schedules. His supervisor is very impressed with Jack and said that he is especially good at research in great depth. He also said that he is very pro-active, punctual and is always willing to work hard. It seems that Jack will have a great future in marketing!

Over the last two days over 200 applicants joined us for taster day at SGS Sixth. Applicants were able to experience four subjects alongside a question and answer session with the Heads of Sixth. At lunch time we held an academies fair for applicants to find out more about the exciting academies we offer in the Sixth Form, including Driving Academy, History Academy, Legal Academy and Horticulture Academy. Applicants were also treated to a performance from the Music Academy at lunch time. Still not submitted your application? There is still time! Applications are still live, so put one in today!

Thursday 29th June or Friday 30th June Come join us for a taster day in our Sixth Form! You can book a space on one of our taster days by filling in the below form. On the form we have asked you to choose four subjects to ensure that the final three subjects you choose are the ones that you are certain you will succeed in. Often, applicants are in two minds about which subjects they wish to study so this is the perfect opportunity to sample multiple subjects. Even if you are already sure of the subjects you would like to study in September, we strongly suggest you still attend an extra session to reassure yourself even more! Please be aware that there are limited spaces, so the Taster Day will run on a first come first serve basis. Once you have submitted the form, we will send you a follow up email with the details of the Taster Day in the run up to the day. The taster day will run from 09:00 to 14:45 on both days ***** Applications to taster day have now closed. There is still time, however, to put in an application for next year*************

We are delighted to announce that SGS College has hit their Operation Christmas target of £15,000 and provided food vouchers for nearly 500 of our most disadvantaged learners, plus stocked up our food banks for the new year. A huge thank you to everyone who supported this campaign and helped make a real difference.

The past 2 years have been exceptionally challenging for students, teachers and the wider community, but today SGS Sixth Form students are celebrating some truly outstanding results. A significant number of Year 13 students were awarded A*/As with 65 in total, many making extraordinary progress based upon their grades on entry. In the Sixth Form, 69% of students achieved grades (A*- C) with an overall pass rate of 97%. There are highlights across all 25 subjects including: 73% A*- B for Physical Education, 70% A*- B for Biology and 66% A*- B in Psychology. In addition, 66% of our Forensics and Criminal Investigation students achieved high grades in our newest BTEC subject. As a Sixth Form, we consistently provide a well-rounded, inclusive education that enables students to reach their full potential and continue our reputation as one of the best Sixth Forms in the South West. Megan Jowitt, aged 20, was part of this first cohort. Megan left school and chose to do a make-up course which she undertook for two years. She then did an apprenticeship in Marketing but felt it wasn't for her. She saw the new Forensics course at SGS and was inspired, so she applied instantly. Today she received a Distinction * Distinction (A*A) which is the second highest mark you can get in a BTEC. She also received a B in A Level Sociology. Megan will now study Forensic Investigation at the University of South Wales.