How to apply
Applications are made directly to our sixth form, using the link below.
Applications for September 2023 are now open.
Each student must complete an application form with details of predicted grades and related course options. After submitting an application, each student will have a formal admissions interview with a member of the Sixth Form team in February. We then send out conditional offers based on the student’s predicted grades and their related courses options at that time. Offers are subject to change in accordance with the actual results a student achieves.
If you have any questions about the admissions process, don't hesitate to get in contact.
Pathways
We offer two key pathways at Ark Acton Sixth Form.
A Level Pathway
We offer the core academic A Level subjects that we know are most valued by good universities, and that allow you to keep your progression options as open as possible. Most students will study three linear A levels; some will take a fourth subject, depending on GCSE results.
Entry criteria: 7 subjects at GCSE with Grade 5 and above, including at least a 5 in English and Mathematics. You will also need to meet the individual entry criteria for specific subjects.
Professional Pathways
Professional Pathways is an innovative programme of study for Ark BTEC students aged 16-18, comprising a high quality vocational curriculum that is directly relevant to the workplace and teaches students key employability skills. This programme is aimed at preparing students to apply for selective universities or for progression directly into employment through school leaver programmes or degree apprenticeships.
Entry criteria: 5 subjects at GCSE with Grade 4 and above, including at least a 4 in English and Mathematics.
Entry requirements
Access to courses will be based on the following:
- Actual GCSE grades
- Course-specific admissions criteria
- Individual student data
- Advice and guidance of the Sixth Form team
Course options are subject to change during the autumn term if students are struggling with the level of study required and not progressing as expected.
Internal Students
We actively support and encourage internal students to apply to the Sixth Form. Every student receives advice and guidance from both the Head of Year 11 and form tutors about the best subject combinations for different degree courses and careers.
Internal applicants should note that they are not guaranteed a place in Sixth Form.
External Students
External students should bring proof of identification to interview, and on results day they must see a member of Ark Acton’s Sixth Form team with their results; individuals who fail to do so will not be offered a place. Please note that Ark Acton does not admit external students who have failed Year 12 courses elsewhere and wish to re-take them.
Oversubscribed Courses
Our maximum class sizes are 15 for science subjects, 18 for practical-based subjects, and 22 for classroom-based subjects. Where a course is oversubscribed, we will give first priority to students on roll during the previous academic year, then students who have met the application deadline, and then finally those with higher GCSE or vocational qualification grades relevant to the course.
Find out more
Ark's unique Professional Pathways programme
Sixth formers love our unique vocational alternative to A levels, which provides them with the skills they need to thrive at university and throughout their career.
Access game-changing bursaries
For Year 13 leavers going onto higher education, we offer bursaries ranging from £3,000 to £50,000 to help with the financial costs of university life.
Best-in-class careers provision
Our pupils dream big for life after school thanks to our highly aspirational careers programme, which includes visits to prestigious universities and employers, one-to-one guidance and a rich programme of workshops and visiting speakers.