Where Paths Open and Futures Begin..

Combining outstanding teaching with exceptional pastoral care, our students develop into confident, articulate, and independent young adults. Ratcliffe Sixth Form provides bespoke personalised university and career guidance, whether students choose top UK universities, degree Apprenticeships, or direct career pathways. Our strong employer links and tailored work experience opportunities give Ratcliffe students a real advantage in an increasingly competitive world.

High quality teaching is complemented by an emphasis on students’ personal development. Sixth Formers are not just prepared for exams - they are prepared for life. They leave as compassionate, resilient, and ambitious young people, ready to make their mark at university and beyond. 

Ratcliffe’s unique balance of academic challenge, personal growth, and leadership opportunity ensures every student thrives in an environment designed for success.

Alongside inspiring guest lectures through our INSPIRE series, students enjoy a vast choice of clubs, societies, trips, and social events. Boarders and day students alike benefit from a welcoming, close-knit community where relationships with staff are built on trust and respect. Our vertical tutoring system, Sixth Form Council, and student leadership roles ensure every individual has a voice and plays an active part in shaping school life.

Ben Harrison,
Assistant Head, Head of Sixth Form.

Sixth Form at a glance...

A Levels

At Ratcliffe College, our A Level programme offers an academically rigorous and globally relevant education, preparing students for success at top universities in the UK and around the world. We provide a broad and flexible choice of subjects, supported by expert teaching, small class sizes, and a personalised approach that nurtures individual passions and career ambitions.

Our A Level curriculum is closely aligned with international university entrance requirements and is complemented by tailored support for UCAS, Oxbridge, and overseas applications, including the US, Europe, and Asia. Students benefit from specialist guidance, international careers advice, and preparation for entrance tests and interviews.

Sixth Form Handbook

Aspiring Future Early Applicants Programme

Our Aspiring Future Early Applicants Programme is a highly valuable part of our Sixth Form provision that supports our A Level students through their application to the universities of Oxford or Cambridge, as well as providing practical resources, support and advice to apply for competitive courses in across a number of universities in Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science. Each year we see one third of Sixth Form students take up this esteemed programme.

 

Whether aiming for Medicine, Engineering, Business, or the Creative Arts, Ratcliffe Sixth Form students are equipped with the confidence and capability to succeed in their furtures.

Ben Harrison - Assistant Head, Head of Sixth Form

We seek to inspire our students to develop intellectual curiosity, independent thought, and transferable skills so that each student can achieve his or her full potential and develop the capacity for a successful and rewarding future, in whichever route they choose to pursue.

Ben Harrison - Assistant Head, Head of Sixth Form

Excellent preparation for life after school, say pupils, and not just Oxbridge and medical routes.

The Good Schools Guide, 2024

The overall academic achievement of pupils is excellent. Pupils attainment at GCSE and A Level is consistently high.

ISI Inspection (2022)