Beyond the Classroom

At Dean Close, education goes far beyond the classroom walls. Our Sixth Form pupils are encouraged to embrace challenge, adventure, and leadership through a diverse range of opportunities that build resilience, character, and confidence.

from rugby and hockey to netball and tennis—we also recognise that not everyone is drawn to the conventional. That's why our Adventure Programme opens the door to exhilarating experiences such as BMX biking, rafting, wall climbing, and much more. These activities are designed to push boundaries, ignite passions, and develop skills that extend far beyond the pitch or court.

Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award
Our commitment to adventure and personal growth is further embodied in the Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) Gold Award. Sixth Form pupils are encouraged to take part in this globally recognised programme, which challenges them physically, mentally, and emotionally, while fostering independence and leadership.

Nexus Programme
The Nexus Programme is another cornerstone of our Sixth Form offering. Through this initiative, pupils engage in seminars, workshops, and projects that cultivate critical thinking, global awareness, and real-world problem-solving skills. It's an opportunity to extend learning beyond A-level studies and prepare for the complexities of the world ahead.

Leadership and Mentoring

Leadership is woven into the fabric of our Sixth Form experience. Pupils are encouraged to take on significant roles, from leading house events and sports teams to mentoring younger pupils and supporting local community projects. Opportunities are available to work alongside the Marketing and Events Departments, the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), and more, offering a breadth of experience that goes well beyond the classroom. Sixth Formers are not only prepared to lead but to inspire others through example.

Our Sixth Formers also take charge of major school and charity events, such as the annual House Shouts Competition and the Disguised Decanian, demonstrating their organisational skills and community spirit. Additionally, events such as the Sixth Form Sports Dinners and the Sixth Form Christmas Disco, to name a few,  are exclusive celebrations that mark this special stage of their school journey.

Careers Guidance and UCAS Support
Preparing for life beyond Dean Close is a priority during Sixth Form. Our dedicated Careers Department provides tailored guidance, ensuring that each pupil is well-prepared for their next steps, whether that be university, apprenticeships, or the workplace. Pupils benefit from one-to-one mentorship for their UCAS applications, career workshops, and networking opportunities that equip them with the confidence and skills to succeed.

At Dean Close, the Sixth Form experience is designed to be as unique and ambitious as our pupils, equipping them with the skills, experiences, and confidence to flourish in whatever path they choose. As part of their Sixth Form experience, our pupils also benefit from dedicated spaces that are exclusively theirs—providing the perfect environment to study, collaborate, or simply relax. At Dean Close, we purposefully choose not to have a separate Sixth Form block. We believe that full integration within the wider school community not only strengthens their role as mentors and leaders but also allows them to positively influence younger year groups. These dedicated spaces are a haven of quiet and focus, whilst ensuring our Sixth Form remains at the heart of school life.

And when they do move on, they become part of the Old Decanian Society—a lifelong connection to the Dean Close community that continues to offer support, networking, and friendship well beyond school days.