Confidence to Aim High: Discover RGS Sixth Form
As one of the region's leading co-educational Sixth Forms, RGS prepares students for the future with confidence
‘I’m most proud of getting a Cambridge offer; I really didn’t think I’d be capable of that.’ For Phoebe O, now studying Law at Cambridge University, Sixth Form at RGS Newcastle provided more than outstanding A-Level results. It gave her the confidence to pursue an ambition she once thought was out of reach. Reflecting on her journey, Phoebe credits the encouragement of Ms Enevoldson, Head of Sixth Form, and her UCAS adviser with giving her the confidence to apply for a course she once through was beyond her reach.
Confidence to Aim High
Stories like Phoebe's are at the heart of the RGS Sixth Form experience; a place where academic ambition is matched by exceptional support, opportunities, encouragement and a lifelong network.
Choosing a Sixth Form is about far more than selecting subjects. It is about finding an environment where young people can develop independence, build confidence and prepare for life beyond school.
With outstanding academic outcomes, exceptional pastoral support and a wide range of opportunities beyond the classroom, RGS Sixth Form is a place where students grow, challenge themselves, and prepare for the future with confidence.
With more than 30 A-Level options, including Business Studies and Photography, alongside BTEC Sports and Exercise Science, students are encouraged to pursue subjects they genuinely enjoy while exploring future career pathways.
Academic excellence remains a hallmark of the RGS experience, but as Head of Sixth Form Ms Enevoldson explains, the school's focus extends far beyond grades. ‘My role is to ensure students leave not only with great results but also as well-rounded individuals who are ready for life beyond RGS.’
This philosophy sits at the heart of the school's approach, helping students develop the skills, character and resilience needed to succeed at university, in apprenticeships and in their future careers.
Real World Learning
As one of the region's leading co-educational Sixth Forms, RGS provides an environment that closely reflects modern universities and workplaces.
Students learn alongside peers with different perspectives, backgrounds and aspirations, developing the communication, collaboration and leadership skills that will serve them throughout their lives.
Alongside academic study, Sixth Formers are encouraged to immerse themselves in school life through leadership positions, volunteering, sport, music, drama, societies and community partnerships. Many lead clubs, mentor younger pupils, support partnership schools or create entirely new societies based on their interests.
In true Sixth Form fashion, if an opportunity does not already exist, students are empowered to create it themselves.
The PLUS Programme
One of the defining features of the RGS Sixth Form experience is the bespoke PLUS Programme.
Designed to prepare students for life after school, weekly sessions cover everything from interview preparation and career planning to decision-making and personal development. Students hear from inspiring guest speakers across a range of industries and gain valuable insight into future opportunities.
Combined with the school's Complementary Studies programme, students can also develop practical skills and experiences beyond their academic studies, whether through sports leadership qualifications, volunteering, creative projects or community initiatives.
It is all part of ensuring students leave RGS as confident, capable and well-rounded young adults.
While Sixth Form naturally brings greater independence, students are never expected to navigate the journey alone.
Personalised Support
RGS offers a highly personalised support network, ensuring every student feels known, valued and supported. Each student benefits from guidance from tutors, mentors, UCAS advisers and the dedicated pastoral team.
The school's Futures team provides tailored advice on university applications, degree apprenticeships, careers and gap year opportunities, helping students make informed decisions about their future.
For those pursuing highly competitive destinations, including Oxford and Cambridge, Medicine, Veterinary Science and international universities, specialist support is available throughout the application process. Joe O, who is now studying Veterinary Medicine at the University of Surrey after achieving four A* grades, reflects on the impact this support had on his own journey. ‘They always took the time to offer help and encouragement whenever I needed it, and their positivity made a real difference to my experience at Sixth Form.’
An Inspiring Legacy
RGS has been helping young people unlock their potential for 500 years. Today, almost 10,000 Old Novocastrians continue to inspire current students through achievements in business, science, sport, technology, public service and the creative industries.
Whether students aspire to become doctors, lawyers, engineers, entrepreneurs, performers or scientists, RGS provides the foundations, opportunities and support to help them achieve their ambitions.
Families and Year 11 students from across the region are warmly invited to experience life at RGS Sixth Form for themselves on Thursday 15th October. The RGS Sixth Form Open Evening is an excellent opportunity to meet the staff and hear from current students and discover first-hand what makes RGS Sixth Form such a distinctive place to study.
