The RGS Sixth Form curriculum is a unique combination of elements which together will provide you with an excellent preparation for entry to university, and for life beyond it.
- A wide range of subjects, taught by subject experts
- All students study at least three subjects to A2 level
- All students can complete an Extended project (new for 2011)
- All students take part in 6plus (non-examined)
At Reigate Grammar School, Sixth Form students can choose from a uniquely flexible menu of courses, allowing them to select the most appropriate options. Unlike many schools, we do not start with a pre-determined list of options, but design our timetable afresh each year in order to accommodate the wishes of students. Although no guarantee can be given that every choice of subjects will be accessible, we are usually able to provide most students with their first preferences.
A-levels are currently divided into two parts: AS levels (which are equivalent to half an A-level) and A2s, which together provide the full A-level qualification. Students at RGS can choose to combine these in several ways, including three, four or even five A2s, one AS and/or the Extended Project. For further details, see Choosing your A-levels.
Students will sit AS examinations in almost all subjects in the summer term of the Lower Sixth with only a small number of subjects entering students for AS exams in January and June of the Upper Sixth. A2 examinations are sat in June of the Upper Sixth. This pattern of assessment assists the students to secure the best university offers they can. Students will need to aggregate (convert into a grade) their AS results at the end of the Lower Sixth, which will then have to be declared on their UCAS forms.
It is therefore vital that students understand the importance of working hard for their AS examinations in Lower Sixth. This means maximum effort from the moment a student starts an A Level course.
Although it will be possible to take a small number of re-sits examinations in January of the Upper Sixth, students will be strongly discouraged from doing so, since these would distract them from A2 work. Previous experience shows that fewer than half of re-sits result in improved scores and it is performance in A2 modules that determines award of the prestigious A* grade.
The full list of subjects available at AS and A2 for next September can be found here.
In addition, all students take a programme of general educational enrichment, which we call 6plus. The purpose of this course is to provide information and stimulation to the students, the chance to think about themselves and others, and the opportunity to develop both practical and life skills. The course offers a variety of elements, from Critical Thinking and IT skills to appreciation of art, music, motor maintenance, or basic cookery, which students find both enjoyable and worthwhile and a genuine contrast to the academic rigours of their A Level studies.