What is sixth form?

6th Form a continuation of your education at secondary school so many aspects will be the same and it is meant for those around the ages of 16 to 18. The school will offer a range of A and AS-level courses.

 

What is college?

A college is an advanced level of education that offers a variety of programs. You can gain certificates and diplomas or join apprenticeships or T-Levels. Colleges throughout the UK can either be public or private and both offer a varied field of study. Some even focus on specific areas such as business, medicine or the creative arts.

 

The differences between sixth form and college

 

1. Types of courses available

RMGS 6th Form stops at A levels.  Colleges, on the other hand, can offer differing levels of qualifications. Colleges can also offer more hands-on experience and not only learn theory but practice as well. 

Keep in mind that both are stepping stones for those that are considering university, but if you want to go down a direct route to university then sixth form may be faster. On the other hand, if you’re aiming to explore some options first, or to develop your skills in an area you’re passionate about, then going to college may be your best option. 

2. Timetables and lessons 

Sixth form is very similar to secondary school. You are typically busy throughout the day with lessons and you’ll get free periods for self-directed study in some cases. All in all, A levels are designed for you to focus on your studies completely, and the timetables will reflect this. Lessons will be done in a familiar setting and you’ll probably end up having smaller class sizes which means if you end up needing help, it’ll be easier to approach for help from classmates and the teacher.

In college, it’s a lot more relaxed with the timetables, and there could be several hours between lessons and maybe even a day of the week with no lessons, depending on the course and college. On the other hand, the classes will be much bigger, so it’s important to manage yourself properly. You’ll be treated more as an adult so it’s up to you to turn up to your lessons! 

3. Dress code

A dress code tends not to exist in college. For the RMGS sixth form, it will be the same as a college with no real dress code. 

4. Other students

When you go to sixth form, you will be amongst the oldest students at the school. The rest of the students are the younger ones in the years below you. When you go to college the opposite will be true, so you’ll be with a diverse group of people of different ages and backgrounds. 

The pros and cons of sixth form and college

Although it depends on what you’re looking for in the end, it’s worth considering some pros and cons regarding the difference between sixth form and college.

Pros of Sixth Form	Cons of Sixth Form
Familiar setting and same commute	It can feel like extension of years 7-11
Focused studies with a target to get your A-Levels	You won’t have the opportunity to explore options
You will know the teachers already	Less freedom in terms of schedule
You might stay with the same classmates and friends

 

Pros of College	Cons of College
Fresh new environment to reinvent yourself	A new environment isn’t for everyone
You’ll be able to meet new and diverse people	Many more students than you might be used to
Variety of courses and options for practical skills	Various age groups and opinions to consider
First time feeling like an adult

 

How do I know which one is suitable for me?

Knowing which one is suitable for you isn’t the easiest decision to make. When it comes down to it, it totally depends on you and what your goals are in the future. If you want to go to university as soon as possible, then maybe you’re looking at sixth form and completing your A-levels.

If you are unsure yet, or if you know what you want to actually do already, college can help speed up your career options up by giving you a hands-on, focused education where you need it most. 

There’s no wrong answer here and there are benefits to both. Getting a higher form of education will always be beneficial, no matter where it is, even if you choose to pivot or change what your focus ends up being a little further down the line.