Starting Sixth Form
Moving from GCSEs to sixth form is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. There's lots of new information to consider, such as new timetables, dress codes, meeting new people and getting started on your courses.
To make the transition as easy as possible here is some information and advice to help you get ready for sixth form and know what to expect.
Enrolment bundle
To ensure all Sixth Formers have all the resources they need to success on their courses we are offering an enrolment bundle to all students who enrol and study at NIA6 as part of our 2024 enrolment. This will include:
- Personal laptop
- Backpack
- Textbooks
- Stationery
(Students who decide not to continue with their studies at NIA6 will be required to return the items to the school.)
The School Day at NIA6
- Arrive: 8:45
- Registration: 9:00
- P1: 9:05 to 10:40
- Break: 10:40 to 11:00
- P2: 11:00 to 12:40
- Lunch: 12:40 to 13:10
- P3: 13:10 to 14:50
- Tutor: 14:50 to 15:20
Our Dress Code
- Business Attire - smart clothing suitable for an office
- Smart Footwear - No trainers, Uggs, sandals or high heels
- Minimal Jewellery - Keep it low key
- More details about Sixth Form Attire
Catering
NIA6 has a self-service food kiosk with drinks and snacks that can be purchased by students. It will be restocked with hot food twice a day.
Your first day
Top tips for starting sixth form
- Get organised - when you join sixth form, you'll be treated more like an adult. This means you will have more independence, but you'll also have more responsibilty. Studying at this level can be a lot of work so it's worth getting organised as early as possible. Consider what tools you prefer to use to stay organised. For some people it will be diaries and paper planners, others prefer digital tools and some just like a good old fashioned to-do list. Whatever you choose, make sure you commit to using them every day.
- Look after your wellbeing - prioritise self-care and remember to look after your physical and mental health. Eat as well as you can, get regular exercise, make sure you get enough sleep and make sure that as well as all the hard work, you don't forget to do things you enjoy too. If you start to feel stressed or worried then talk to a family member, a teacher or other staff member, or your GP. Don't be afraid to ask for help. You can also check out the links on our website.
- Make the most of your study periods - study periods are the perfect time to catch up on some homework, do some extra reading, get help from your teachers, or even begin researching your options for after sixth form/college. It's good to take a break, but don't fall into the trap of wasting this valuable time.
- Keep an open mind - it's not unusual for students to discover something new during their time at sixth form. This could be an unexpected interest in a subject, discovering a hobby they love, take up a cause they believe in or become friends with people they didn't know well before. Make sure you stay open-minded and embrace change - you never know what you might learn about yourself if you do.
- Extracurricular activities - whether its sports, volunteering, music or other activities it's good to get involved (but don't over commit yourself). Extracurricular activities help you grow as a person, give you new skills and look good on your CV.
- And finally - don't forget to have fun! Make friends, make memories and enjoy your time at NIA6.
