Sixth Form curriculum

The curriculum in the Sixth Form (16 to 18 years old) is designed to prepare pupils not only for A Level examinations but for life beyond Downe House.

We support our girls to achieve their personal best

We are confident that our outstanding results speak for themselves; in 2022, at A level/Pre-U, 92% of the grades achieved by the girls were A* – B and many girls went on to pursue higher education at first class university destinations.

Sixth Form curriculum Image slider 1000 x 1000 study downe house

A curriculum which recognises and rewards in-depth learning

The vast majority of students will study three subjects. Some girls may wish to study four subjects and it may be advisable for some to do so if they are considering particular professional courses, such as Medicine, at certain universities. These decisions will be made in consultation with the Futures Department.

All subjects (aside from the Extended Project Qualification and Higher Education and Research Skills) are taught via eight 40 minute lessons a week.

Subjects available in the Sixth Form

Read more in our Sixth Form options booklet.

 

 

Extending the curriculum

Alongside these academic subjects, we offer courses and schemes whereby girls gain qualifications and valuable experience:

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) – this equates to half an A Level

Leiths Academy – Introductory Certificate in Food and Wine

Academic Enrichment Lectures – regular lectures by external business professionals and university academics

Peer mentoring –  Sixth Formers can sign up to mentor younger students and meet with them regularly

CV Workshops – girls have the opportunity to learn how to write a compelling CV

Interview Practice: every girl in the Sixth Form receives tailored expert interview practice and advice, including the use of virtual reality programmes

 

 

Leiths Cookery kitchen

Our departments

Explore more about each of our departments to discover the details of each subject studied.

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Now accepting more Day Pupils for September 2025! Learn more at our Open Event on Thursday 9 May.
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