Transition from Upper School to Sixth Form

As students approach the end of Year 11, we actively support them to navigate their options for life after Upper School.  

For many KAS students, our vibrant Sixth Form is the natural place to continue their studies, with a wide range of A level courses and other equivalent options on offer. 

From exploring Further Education routes to helping students to select subjects that cater to their curiosities and ambitions, we support them every step of the way. 

Support for students 

Sixth Form Taster Day

Students get a real feel for Sixth Form life by attending four sample lessons, gaining insights into course content, workload and assessment. It’s a chance to explore subjects they’re curious about – especially those only available at Sixth Form – and discover what suits their interests and goals. 

Further Education Info in Form Hour 

Year 11s further explore their options for life after Upper School in their weekly Form Hours. There’s an informative session with Sixth Form Director Eleanor Mitchell-Webb, introductions to subjects offered exclusively at A level from their Heads of Department, and a Higher Education talk by UCAS Advisor Sheila Hanlon. 

Open Day Invitation 

Our Sixth Form Open Events are a fantastic opportunity for Year 11s to discover more about the KAS Sixth Form experience. They are a chance to tour our dedicated facilities, hear from our Director of Sixth Form about the extensive academic and pastoral support we provide, and chat with current Sixth Formers about their experiences. 

There’s also a workshop covering subject combination considerations, planning for university or other Higher Education routes, and preparing for life beyond school. 

121 Application Support

Before their Sixth Form admissions interview, Year 11s have a one-to-one session with a member of our academic leadership team. These conversations help refine subject choices by exploring interests and future goals, ensuring each student finds the right path for them. 

Support for parents

Parent Webinar 

We host an informative webinar for parents to help build their confidence in supporting their child with their A level choices. This session is led by Takako Yeung, our Deputy Head responsible for Achievement, and supported by the Head of Year 11. 

Parent Review Meetings

Parent involvement is key at KAS, and the Year 11 Parent Review Meeting (PRM) in the Spring Term offers a space for parents, students and teachers to discuss Sixth Form options together, ensuring all parties feel confident in the chosen pathway. 

What’s the Sixth Form application process for Year 11 students?

Places are guaranteed for Year 11 students, provided they meet the subject grade requirements. Here’s what the transition process looks like.

Interview and subject choices

Students who wish to stay at KAS for Sixth Form attend an informal interview with a member of the academic team.

Following this and other opportunities to explore their options, they are asked to confirm their subject choices around early February.  

Subject Blocks confirmed

Using these student subject preferences, our Senior Leadership Team carefully designs Subject Blocks (groupings of subjects, from which students can select one option, up to a total of four).  

These blocks give everyone the best chance of studying their chosen subjects, whilst ensuring timetables are workable. (Please note that we cannot guarantee that students will be able to study all their chosen subjects.)

Welcome to Sixth Form!

Following August’s results day, September brings new opportunities and independence. Year 12 kicks off with a bonding camp to set the tone for the years ahead.

Back at school, students enjoy a bright Common Room, dedicated study spaces, and the freedom to head ‘down the hill’ to Golders Green at lunchtime. 

You can read student testimonies about life in Years 12 and 13 on our Sixth Form: Live Your True Colours page.