The Perse School Cambridge

• Curriculum
  • Subject choices
  • Requirements for university
• Subjects
  • Art
    • Gallery
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Classical Civilisation
  • Design and Technology
  • Economics
  • English Literature
  • French
  • General Studies
  • Geography
  • German
  • Greek
  • History
  • Italian
  • Latin
  • Mathematics
  • Music
  • Philosophy
  • Physical Education
  • Physics
  • Politics
  • Psychology
  • Religious Studies
  • Spanish
• Pastoral care
• School life
• Extra-curricular
• Academic success
  • Exam results
  • University destinations
• University advice

The Sixth Form is an exciting time to explore in depth new fields of study – and to develop new skills out of the classroom as well. Our aim is to help students to achieve their full potential, and to prepare successfully for transition to the demands of independent study at university.

Teaching groups are small (normally a maximum of 14 per class, often fewer) and our pastoral systems are strong. Every Sixth Form student is known by their tutor, who sees them every day, and the Sixth Form is overseen by the Head of Sixth Form and two Heads of Year. Two senior tutors are also available to help or advise when needed. A team of UCAS advisors overseen by the Director of Qualifications and Progression offers specialist advice for those applying for university courses in science and engineering, arts and humanities, medicine and veterinary science, and for application to Oxbridge and US universities.

The Sixth Form offers great opportunities for students to specialise and to construct their own curriculum. Most students study four subjects at AS level, and continue three in the Upper Sixth to A2 level. A few (especially double mathematicians) choose to study five AS subjects in the Lower Sixth, and continue four subjects to A2.

Many students are clear that they are ready to specialise. An aspiring Medic may select Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths; an engineer might opt for Double Maths, Physics and Technology as an excellent springboard for university study. Others will keep their options open, and might study French, Psychology, Biology and Economics; or English, Maths, Music and History.

There are three key factors to consider in choosing an A-level subject combination:

• Ability profile: What subjects does a student excel in?
• Preference: What subjects does a student enjoy?
• University entrance: What subjects are required?

The following subjects are being offered for study in September 2012: Mathematics, Further Maths, Maths and AS Further Maths, Physics, Technology, Chemistry, Biology, Psychology, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Economics, Politics, Physical Education, Art, Music, English Literature, Geography, Early History, Modern History, Latin, Classical Civilisation, Greek, French, German, Spanish, Italian and General Studies. Japanese may also be available.

Music and Psychology are offered as two year Pre-U courses – a high-quality two-year alternative to A-levels with an emphasis on independent research, and in which some of our students have achieved a grade higher than the A-level A*.  Physics offers both A-level and a more mathematical Pre-U course.

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a uniquely refreshing and rewarding new course which students are encouraged to begin at the end of their Lower Sixth year. It offers the opportunity to produce a high-level piece of independent research in almost any topic or subject area – excellent preparation for university study. Perse students have successfully completed a diverse range of projects.

Sixth Form life extends far beyond the classroom or laboratory walls. We encourage all of our students to find a role in the very wide range of extra-curricular activities on offer – including drama, music, charities, and any of the wide range of clubs and societies – or to start their own. All Sixth Formers take part in the timetabled Enrichment Programme, which offers a broad range of opportunities. Enrichment options range from the outdoor (such as Perse Exploration Society, RAF, Organic Gardening) to the creative (including Jewellery making, Performing Arts and Perse Magazine) to a range of community service opportunities (such as Addenbrooke’s volunteering and work in primary schools).

Sixth Formers can also choose from a wide range of options for their three Games sessions per fortnight – there are opportunities both for those interested in high-level teams in sports including Hockey, Rugby, Netball and Cricket, and for those just interested in having fun, staying fit and trying activities such as Climbing, Rowing, Running, Badminton and others.