Welcome To Sixth Form
At Birchwood High School Sixth Form, we believe in celebrating every success, big or small, fostering a warm, inclusive environment where you can truly be yourself and supporting each and every one of our students to unlock their personal potential. Our team of dedicated staff is here to support you, whether that be in the classroom, exploring new passions, or providing advice and guidance. Join us for an unforgettable experience where you'll not only excel academically but also grow as a person.
A Message from our Principal Student
Nobody can give you a better view of life as a sixth form student at Birchwood than a current student…
Welcome to the Birchwood Sixth Form. I am Madeleine Gilbank, the Principal Student here at Birchwood High School.
For many of you attending Sixth Form will seem like the decision that will determine the entirety of your future (I know that is how it felt for me) and while it is the start of many big decisions to come, Birchwood is here guide you through the next two years.
Birchwood holds many values. Some of the most overt and important to me during my time at the school are: ensuring support towards academic success is always available; recognizing and encouraging the importance of enrichment opportunities and listening to the student voice and championing inclusion and diversity.
I hope you thoroughly enjoy your time at Birchwood Sixth Form, I know I have.
Madeleine Gilbank, Principal Student
A Message from our Head of Sixth Form
It is a real privilege to welcome you to Birchwood High School’s Sixth Form.
Birchwood High School is a community built on the foundation of inclusivity, where all are welcomed, supported at every step, and encouraged to pursue their dreams. I can honestly say that Birchwood’s Sixth Form truly is the jewel in our crown.
As you consider your next steps, whether it's university, apprenticeships, or entering the workforce, Birchwood Sixth Form offers a wealth of opportunities. From outstanding teaching in first-class facilities to dedicated careers support and enriching extracurricular activities, we are here to support your journey every step of the way.
With over 35 high-quality A Level and Level 3 BTEC qualifications, Birchwood’s Sixth Form not only delivers academic excellence but also provides a platform for personal growth and development. Our reputation for 1:1 personal support and guidance ensures that each student receives the attention and care they deserve.
As you embark on this exciting chapter of your education, we invite you to join us at Birchwood High School's Sixth Form, where you will experience a supportive community, challenging academics, and endless opportunities for growth.
We look forward to welcoming you into our vibrant community and supporting you on your journey to success.
Warm regards,
Mr Ian Torrance, Head of Sixth Form
Meet the Team
The Sixth Form Pastoral Team consists of staff, who are specialists, that ensure students receive the very best support over their two years in the Sixth Form. The Sixth Form is led by Mr Ian Torrance, who as Head of Sixth Form, has overall responsibility and provides strategic direction and leadership to the sixth form community.
Head of Year 12, Mr Jamie Clift plays a leading role in ensuring that students in Year 12 settle well in to sixth form life. He is responsible in keeping a watchful eye on students during this crucial transition as they move to become independent learners within their chosen subjects.
Head of Year 13, Mrs Carlie Hassani is responsible for the upper sixth form students and guides them through their next steps programme, supporting UCAS applications and assisting students in planning their future pathways whilst maintaining good academic standards as they approach the end of their school journey at Birchwood. Mrs Hassani also oversees our Level 3 Qualification Programme, which include all our BTEC pathways, applied courses and the Football Academy.
Mrs Judith Crimes is our Careers Lead and is based in the Sixth Form Centre on a full-time basis, which means that she is intrinsic to daily life in the Sixth Form. With increasing numbers of students deciding not to apply to university and instead head into apprenticeships or the ‘world of work’, Mrs Crimes is able to provide advice to students and has been instrumental in ensuring that all students leave our doors with a clear direction of their next steps.