Sixth Form
We have one class in the Sixth Form at Small Haven.
Our Vision
The aim of our sixth form is to empower each and every learner to thrive, grow and achieve their fullest potential in an inclusive and supportive community.
In our sixth form we are committed to nurturing confidence, independence, and essential life skills, empowering students to embrace their next steps – be it further education, meaningful employment, or active participation in their community – with resilience and self-belief!
ACE Pathways
In Small Haven School’s Sixth Form, we offer three tailored pathways — Achieve, Connect, and Employ (ACE) — to meet the unique needs and aspirations of our learners. These pathways are designed to empower students to develop their independence, prepare for further education, or take their first steps into the world of work.
The Achieve Pathway
The Achieve Pathway focuses on helping learners build and enhance their independent life skills, ensuring they are ready to thrive in their everyday lives and future aspirations. This pathway is carefully tailored to meet individual needs and goals, encompassing:
- Developing Social Skills: Practicing interactions in both familiar and unfamiliar environments.
- Increasing Independence: Working on essential skills such as safe travel, cooking, managing money, and staying safe in various settings.
- Supported Work Experience: Gaining practical insights through a work placement, with full support to ensure success.
Achieve is perfect for students who are looking to grow their confidence and self-reliance in a supportive and structured environment.
The Connect Pathway
The Connect Pathway is designed for learners planning to transition into further education in the next year. This pathway equips students with the tools, confidence, and guidance they need to take their next steps. Key features include:
- Course Exploration: Support in researching and selecting appropriate courses, with guidance throughout the application and interview process.
- Taster Sessions: Opportunities to experience further education environments with the support of familiar staff, helping ease the transition.
- Vocational Work Experience: A placement aligned with the learner’s intended area of study to build relevant experience and skills.
Connect ensures students are well-prepared for their educational journey ahead, fostering confidence and readiness for this exciting new chapter.
The Employ Pathway
The Employ Pathway supports students in preparing for and stepping into their chosen career paths. With a focus on real-world experience and job readiness, this pathway offers:
- Internship Preparation: Guidance and training at the start of the year to ensure students are ready for their internships.
- Personalized Internships: Flexible placements, tailored to each student’s interests and goals, lasting 1–3 days a week.
- Career Support: Assistance with applying for jobs and apprenticeships, as well as opportunities to visit various workplaces to explore career options.
Employ is ideal for students with a clear focus on entering the workforce, providing them with the experience and confidence they need to achieve their ambitions.
Each pathway at ACE is designed to support our learners as they transition toward greater independence, education, or employment, ensuring they are equipped to succeed in their unique journeys.
Opportunities for All Learners at Small Haven School Sixth Form Provision
Irrespective of the pathway, – Achieve, Connect, or Employ – every learner has access to a broad range of opportunities and learning experiences that foster personal growth, practical skills, and community engagement. These include:
- Core Academics: All learners study English and Maths Functional Skills or GCSE at the level most appropriate for their ability and goals, ensuring a strong foundation for their future aspirations.
- Learning for Life (PSHE): A comprehensive programme covering vital topics such as Sex and Relationships, personal safety, health, and wellbeing, equipping students with the knowledge to navigate life with confidence and responsibility.
- Qualifications:
- A Work skills Qualification that develops employability and workplace readiness.
- A Cooking Qualification to enhance independence and practical life skills.
- Optional accreditations in either Vocational Studies or Arts Award, offering tailored pathways for creative or practical achievements.
- Enterprise and Community Engagement:
- Students develop enterprise skills, exploring innovation, teamwork, and problem-solving in real-world contexts.
- They also participate in tasks, contributing to local initiatives and learning the value of social responsibility.
- Leisure and Physical Activities: Weekly opportunities for physical engagement, which in the past have included activities such as Boxing, Mountain Biking, and Golf, promoting fitness, confidence, and enjoyment. Digital Media and Teamwork: Learners help plan and create the whole school podcast, gaining experience in digital media, teamwork, and project management, while building independence and confidence.
- Debate and Critical Thinking: Weekly Question Time lessons allow students to debate topical and relevant issues, improving communication skills, fostering an understanding of British Values and learning about the wider world.
In Sixth Form we are committed to delivering a holistic education that equips learners for their future, whether their path leads to increased independence, further education, or employment. Alongside academic and vocational development, we prioritise personal growth and fostering a strong sense of community connection.
Our unique and specialised sixth form is housed in a self-contained, two-story building adjacent to the main school office. The provision is led by Mr. Gwyther, supported by the school’s Occupational Therapist, Collette, and Teaching Assistant, Kim. Additionally, specialist staff deliver and support specific subjects throughout the week, ensuring a tailored and comprehensive learning experience.
The building features a large classroom, a fully equipped kitchen, a digital media room, and a spacious common room, creating a dynamic environment for learning, creativity, and social interaction. While our sixth form operates independently of the main school, we value opportunities for our students to remain integrated into the wider SHS community.
To foster responsibility and community spirit, sixth form pupils take on meaningful roles within the school, such as assisting with catering for events, organizing fundraising activities, or supporting major school occasions like shows and sports days. This blend of independence and collaboration ensures that our learners develop vital skills while maintaining their connection to the SHS family.