When pupils join Oakham School in Year 12, they arrive at a pivotal stage of their academic and personal journey. They are welcomed into a dynamic, ambitious Sixth Form community where they are encouraged to push their boundaries, refine their skills, and prepare for the future.
Because no two pupils are the same or learn in the same way, Upper School Sixth Form pupils choose one of two academic pathways – a choice of either A-levels and BTECs, or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). This opportunity to select the pathway best suited to them is the first step in navigating their own personal and bespoke Sixth Form adventure.
Entry Process
Whichever pathway they choose, all applicants for entry at 16+ will be invited to sit an online CAT4 reasoning test and have an interview. In addition, those candidates for whom English isn’t their first language undertake an English as an Additional Language (EAL) paper. CAT4 assessments and interviews take place online in the November & December prior to joining in September. We welcome applications later in the year if spaces are available.
We will also request a confidential reference from the Headteacher of the current school, asking predicted grades at GCSE/IGCSE or equivalent, as well as an insight into their day-to-day contribution and behaviour.
Offers made for entry at 16+ are conditional on the applicant’s performance in their GCSE/IGCSE examinations. It is our expectation that all applicants will achieve a minimum of four subjects at Grade 6 and three subjects at Grade 4. There may be additional specific GCSE/IGCSE grade requirements as a condition of embarking on specific subjects.
Scholarships
Applicants who achieve particularly well in the entrance assessments, and who have an excellent reference, will be invited to attend a separate 16+ Academic Scholarship assessment day at School in November.
Those applying to join Year 12 are also able to apply for a range of other Scholarships to recognise and reward exceptional talent. Scholarships are available for: Art, Design & Technology, Drama, Music, and Sport.
16+ Scholarship candidates will be invited to attend separate scholarship assessments and auditions for each scholarship applied for.
Choosing your Pathway
During the admissions journey, applicants will be able to ask questions, get advice and take guidance from our staff, helping them decide on the right academic pathway.
IBDP: Study in Breadth
International Baccalaureate pupils select six subjects, three at Higher (specialist) level and three at Standard Level, with some core subjects being compulsory. IB students also have two lessons a week in critical thinking (Theory of Knowledge) and write a mini dissertation in a chosen subject (Extended Essay).
A-level & BTEC: Study in Depth
Pupils select three subjects for detailed study. This can be a mix of A-levels and BTECs (A-levels are linear courses with exams at the end, BTECs offer continual assessment). There are no compulsory subjects, although the chosen subject combination must fit within the options grid. Pupils are encouraged to think carefully about how subjects might contrast and complement each other.
All Upper School pupils are expected to engage in creative, active and service-based activities to enrich their experience of Upper School.
Joining our Community
When joining Upper School at Oakham, Year 12 pupils become part of an inclusive day and boarding community, right in the heart of our school campus.
Our experienced Housemasters/Housemistresses and house teams, along with personal tutors, provide bespoke support and guidance throughout these crucial Upper School years. Further guidance comes from our expert Careers Dept. who start to highlight opportunities beyond School.
In Year 13, all pupils move up into their Final Year Houses – Round House and School House – where they enjoy greater independence and can focus on their studies and plans beyond School with their year group.
To ensure a purposeful and productive start to their Oakham School life, pupils attend a Familiarisation Day in June and an Induction Day in September. These events allow them to meet classmates and key staff, setting the stage for an exciting year ahead.
