A Message from the Head of Sixth Form

On 1 st September 2008 we opened the doors of our spectacular new building to 33 sixth form students. Two brand new state of the art science labs, largely for sixth form use, were also unveiled. The sixth form centre provides a superbly resourced and contemporary environment of classrooms, seminar rooms and lounges, where students can both learn and relax – the aim is very much to create a ‘half way house’ between school and university. A dedicated library area and ICT suite provides university and careers information.

In addition to developing academic progress our sixth form students undertake a range of enrichment and service activities that will of course contribute to their university applications, but also enable them to successfully take their place in the world.

There are opportunities for leadership, for example as a School Prefect, and school service might include using one of their specialist A’ Level subjects to support younger pupils in the classroom, or running an after school club. As one would expect, there is an extensive extracurricular programme on offer. Increasingly universities are looking for students to demonstrate a passion for their academic subjects that goes beyond the classroom; equally important therefore will be the curriculum enrichment offered in all subjects, from subject related trips and lectures to inviting external expert speakers into school.

In order to further encourage intellectual development sixth formers undertake the Global Perspectives and Independent Research component of the rigorous Cambridge Pre-U qualification. This is a new course that has been eagerly anticipated by universities as it cultivates an interdisciplinary perspective and promotes a critical, questioning approach to global issues that might otherwise be taken for granted.

Next Summer (after AS exams) we are running a ‘culture and study trip’ to the UK. In addition to possibly undertaking some work experience this will be an opportunity to visit some of the Oxbridge colleges and other UK ‘Russell Group’ universities, attend subject-specific conferences and seminars, meet with university admissions secretaries and absorb some of the cultural highlights of London, Cambridge and Oxford. This will be invaluable preparation for all university applications, and particularly for Oxbridge students and those applying to the very top universities in the world

The Sixth Form at the British International School is a vibrant, challenging, and fun experience. I hope to have given you a flavour of life in the sixth form but the best way to find out more is to come and visit us – we look forward to seeing you!

Derek Mackey – Head of Sixth Form

The British International School, Riyadh