Curriculum Offer

At D6, our diverse curriculum offers a wide range of pathways to suit your ambitions. From A-levels and BTECs to T-Levels, our courses are designed to equip you with the skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to succeed in higher education or your chosen career.

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Darwen's multi campus sixth form

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We're proud to call Darwen home, offering multiple sites that provide a unique and enriching sixth form experience for young people in Darwen and beyond. Our commitment to Darwen reflects our commitment to your future.

Three unique campuses

Three distinct learning environments where every student can thrive and reach their full potential.

Kick start your future

Kick-start your future with our extensive sixth form courses designed to unlock your potential.

Darwen's multi campus sixth form

How we meet the 16-19 study programme requirements

The D6 16-19 study offer is designed to provide students with a structured and challenging learning programme that supports their development and progression in line with their career plans. Study programmes are individually tailored but will typically combine the elements below:

substantial qualifications that stretch students and prepare them for education at the next level or for employment
English and maths where students have not yet achieved a GCSE grade 4
work experience to give students the opportunity to develop their career choices and to apply their skills in real working condition
other non-qualification activity to develop students’ character, broader skills, attitudes and confidence, and to support progression.

At Key Stage 5, Level 3 students complete Academic or Vocational programmes, as well as a mixture of Academic and Vocational courses; Level 2 Vocational programmes are designed to be completed in a year, alongside Maths and English re-sits.
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Each study programme consists of a number of planned hours that are realistic and deliverable. Study programmes are designed to be full-time with a minimum of 540 planned hours per academic year but likely to be on average 600 hours.
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Higher ability students are offered the opportunity to complete the EPQ independently. A comprehensive Enrichment/PSHE programme is delivered through the tutorial programme and out of classroom opportunities. All students receive careers and future planning support. D6 are proud to work alongside the Rotary Club, Quakers, Talent Tap and the Access Project to provide a comprehensive programme of enrichment catered to the individuals under our care.

Developing beyond the curriculum

Personal development and essential skills

At D6 we place our young people at the heart of everything we do. Our Personal Development (PD) and Personal, Social, Health, and Economic (PSHE) curriculum is meticulously designed to equip our students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive beyond the classroom.

By fostering resilience, independence, and active citizenship, we prepare our learners to meet the challenges of an everchanging world with confidence and determination.

Our vision extends beyond immediate educational outcomes, focusing on equipping students with the skills and mindset for lifelong learning.

This includes fostering critical thinking, adaptability, and a passion for continuous personal and professional development. In addition, we emphasise the importance of global citizenship, encouraging students to understand and engage with global issues. This broader perspective prepares students to be informed and proactive members of the international community. Our curriculum encourages students to become active citizens who contribute positively to society.

Through initiatives like work experience, volunteering, and peer mentoring, students gain practical experience and develop a sense of responsibility and community involvement,which all contribute to them gaining a competitive advantage that enables them to transition seamlessly to the next chapter of their lives.

Driven by our core values, the ‘Aldridge Attributes’ of passion, creativity, determination, problem solving, teamwork and risk taking are woven throughout our Personal Development programme that ensures every student has access to a world of opportunities, irrespective of their starting points. We provide expert guidance on future pathways, including university and real-world alternatives, ensuring our students are well-prepared for the next steps in their lives. Our aim is to develop well-rounded individuals who are capable of making positive contributions to society and thriving in a diverse and dynamic world.

Enrichment AT D6

Enrichment

D6 students are role models to younger students at DACA, Studio and Vale but also to the larger community of Darwen. Being a role model is both a responsibility and privilege and we have encompassed these values into our leadership program that all students participate in.

Formal student leadership with Student Council

Curriculum leadership

Super-curriculum leadership

Pastoral leadership (including Wellbeing and anti-bullying ambassadors)

Community and Charitable Leadership

Students can decide which leadership group they want to be a part of, but this must be a minimum of one of the above leadership categories.

These activities offer students diverse opportunities to develop new skills, contribute to their communities, and achieve significant milestones. By participating in these challenges, students can work towards earning their Bronze, Silver, or Gold awards, fostering a sense of accomplishment and readiness for future endeavours.

This, undoubtedly, prepares pupils for external examinations at the end of the course and beyond into the world of post 18 education, training, and employment.

More information on specific aspects of these areas can be found on our website.

CEIAG AT DARWEN ALDRIDGE SIXTH FORM

Careers Education, Information, Advice, and Guidance (CEIAG)

1. Career Planning and Support: We provide comprehensive career guidance, helping students explore various career paths and set achievable goals. This includes workshops on CV writing, job searches, interview skills, and application processes for universities and apprenticeships.

2. Work Experience: Our program includes opportunities for work experience, giving students practical insights into different professions and helping them build valuable skills and networks for their future careers.

3. Higher Education Preparation: We guide students through the university application process, offering specialized support for UCAS applications and preparation for higher education. Our aim is to ensure every student has access to further education or a viable alternative that aligns with their aspirations.

In summary, D6 provides a rich and supportive environment where students can achieve their full potential. Through a balanced approach to personal development, enrichment, CEIAG, and future planning, we aim to nurture well-rounded individuals ready to contribute positively to society and succeed in their chosen paths, knowing that they leave us with a great deal of competitive advantage.

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