How to Help Your Child Choose the Right Sixth Form College

Choosing where your child will study for their A levels is a significant decision. The right sixth form college can help them develop both academically and personally. The wrong fit, on the other hand, can lead to stress, poor motivation, or missed opportunities.

Here’s what to consider when helping your child make this important choice.

Look Beyond Grades and League Tables
Of course, academic results matter, but they aren’t the only indicator of success. Ask how the college supports students to achieve their potential, and how it helps those who might struggle at first to make real progress.

Ashbourne’s philosophy is built around the idea that any grade is achievable with the right support and strategy. It’s not a sink-or-swim environment. Instead, students are challenged by ambitious teachers, guided by regular one-to-one tutorials, and encouraged to take responsibility with confidence.

Understand the Learning Environment
Ask about class sizes. In large classes, students can get lost or fall behind without anyone noticing. Ashbourne limits classes to fewer than ten students, allowing teachers to build strong relationships with each learner. This extra-mile attitude and personal attention help unlock academic potential in ways that big institutions often can’t.

Ask How Wellbeing Is Supported
Your child’s academic success depends on their emotional wellbeing. Check what systems are in place to help students manage stress, especially around exams. Is there someone your child can talk to if they feel overwhelmed? Will tutors spot early warning signs?

Ashbourne offers a genuinely caring, pastoral environment, where tutors check in regularly and where every student is known by name. It’s a place that feels warm and welcoming, not cold or impersonal.

Look for Flexibility and Independence
Sixth form is a time for young people to step up and prepare for university or the workplace. The best colleges strike the right balance between structure and independence. At Ashbourne, students are given room to manage their own time, with the support of strategic systems and personalised timetables. It’s a model that encourages personal growth and self-discipline.

Ask About Enrichment and Culture
What kind of culture does the college foster? Is it overly rigid? Too hands-off? Does it have a healthy sense of ambition and energy? Ashbourne is known for its vibrant, dynamic atmosphere, with students from diverse backgrounds and interests. The college embraces individuality and promotes both academic and creative growth.

Annual highlights like the Mock Weeks and The Revue offer students a chance to lead, perform, and build community. These moments matter just as much as classroom time, they help students build confidence, friendships and balance.

Visit, If You Can
No prospectus or website can show you what it feels like to be in a college. If possible, visit with your child. Talk to staff and students. Notice how people interact and how the space feels. Ask yourself: is this a place where your child will be seen, supported, and inspired?

Finally
The best sixth form colleges combine academic excellence with a strong, supportive culture. They offer challenge without pressure, structure without rigidity, and independence with guidance. Ashbourne is proud to offer this balanced contrast, and to work alongside parents to help each child thrive.