FAQs

How will the sixth form be different?

The Isle of Wight College Sixth Form will be a much more adult oriented environment. With such an orientation comes responsibility and students can expect to have a larger say in their programmes, giving feedback on their progress as well as the quality of experience they are getting. The centre will be geared for students aged 16 plus rather than for a mix of ages and the supporting environment of services and facilities will reflect this.

What additional benefits will the College Sixth Form provide?

There will be a series of additional benefits. As well as state-of-the-art facilities and a student orientation, learners would get support in developing independent learning skills to help prepare them for higher education. Tutorial and careers support would ensure effective guidance to help achieve personal objectives and a pastoral care system would be available to guide students through their programmes, helping them overcome any difficulties and allow them to concentrate on their studies. Given the large vocational programme already available at The Isle of Wight College, enrichment opportunities will be significant and we see this as critical to providing the basis of a sound CV. In addition, such a dedicated learning environment will allow the students to experience the type of learning environment that would be encountered in work or at higher levels of study.

What would be in this state-of-the-art environment?

There will be an extremely high level of ICT infrastructure to support a dynamic learning environment. Design of learning spaces would ensure that the Government's vision of '21st century buildings for a 21st century service' is achieved.

What choice of AS/A levels will students have?

There will be a significantly larger choice than that currently available at any other single institution on the island. For example, The Isle of Wight College will offer a range of over 30 A Levels with AS Levels in all major subjects.

Will students be able to continue with minority subjects?

A large Sixth Form Centre will permit continuation of minority subjects which will be sustainable due to efficiency and economies of scale. This will secure choice and improve options.

What will the specialised diplomas be?

The new College Sixth Form will offer new specialised diplomas as they come on-line between 2008 and 2013.

Will students be able to continue getting work experience placements as well as study at the new College Sixth Form?

Yes. There will also be an increased range of work experience opportunities arising from the good employer links developed by the college.

Will there be a uniform code?

No, all students at the new Sixth Form will be treated as young adults and the learning environment will reflect this.

What additional facilities will help realise my child's potential?

The bespoke Sixth Form will be housed in new state-of-the-art accommodation with its own distinct mission and learning strategy. One-to-one personal tutor support will be available to ensure that all learners achieve their maximum potential.

What do you mean by stating that my children will get increased Higher Education opportunities?

Once the new Sixth Form is built alongside The Isle of Wight College it is proposed that the College will develop a higher education centre which will provide access to higher education opportunities for island students. The College has been involved in discussions with local universities who are supportive of this strategy of increased HE provision to match high quality performance from post 16 students.

What benefit is there to us as parents?

There will be strong support for students, including an allocated personal tutor, a weekly tutorial and a larger choice of AS/A subjects in one location. Parental engagement with the college is critical for its success. We will be very proactive in meeting the needs of parents for regular reports on student's progress.

How will the College be able to advise our children to choosing the right career direction?

The Sixth Form will be subject to stringent application processes and involve parents, Connexions and schools, to ensure that all learners are counselled with comprehensive advice and guidance onto an appropriate programme.

What quality assurance would there be to ensure standards are maintained?

There will be rigorous observation of teaching and learning to ensure high standards as well as regular survey and focus groups to listen to and act on students' views. As an example The Isle of Wight College's Annual Assessment visit by Ofsted confirmed that The College has robust, mature and rigorous quality assurance arrangements and that 'the college's self-assessment process is very thorough, clear and evaluative, fully informed by all parts of the college. The development plans are equally rigorous'.

For more information call the 6form hotline 01983 550666