The final stage of education at the British School prepares our students for university courses and life beyond school in the adult world. During the 6th Form, also known as Key Stage 5 (Years 12 and 13), the pupils study for the A Level examinations, internationally recognised as demanding courses that can be used for direct access to many international universities. The vast majority of students graduate at the end of Year 13 to enter universities in the UK and Spain, as well as other European and world destinations. For entry to Spanish universities, we also offer specific preparation classes for students taking the EBAU examinations.
An important component of our students’ preparation for the next stage of the educational career involves thoughtful and individualised guidance on vocational decisions and university choices. This helps to ensure that informed and thoughtful decisions are made, helping to ensure fulfilment and success in their chosen pathway. Such support also includes university fairs and careers days where first-hand information is gleaned from experts and professionals in a range of vocational areas and universities.
6th Form students are actively encouraged to broaden their education and experience by assuming leadership and service roles within the school. This might include leading a small team in fund raising project, contributing to a group developing an ecology project or leading a discussion on a topic of current affairs. In addition, regular opportunities for service, taking positive action to support the school and local community, are promoted. Such work has included reading with young students, acting as a mentor to a student in need, supporting clothes donations to a local church and planting trees in a reforestation project. All of the activities enable our students to develop into caring and responsible world citizens.
As with all sectors of the school, the opportunity for the students to extend their learning outside of the classroom and school confines is an important component. Numerous fieldtrips are initiated and include fieldtrips on the island to sites of geographical, historic and biological importance. Students can also travel to other countries for educational visits and competitions in order to develop a wider understanding of the world, as well as enhancing subject expertise.