Sixth Form survey boost

Enthusiastic support has been given by students for the teaching, support and environment at Toll Bar Sixth Form in an exclusive survey.

The research was undertaken to ensure young people felt supported in the crucial run up to summer exams.

Every Year 13 surveyed said their teaching and academic support was excellent and 90% said the quality of support with revision and assessments was good or excellent.

Executive Principal Philip Dickinson was delighted by the survey results.

"I'm so pleased that what we see as our greatest attributes in our Sixth Form, high quality teaching and excellent revision and academic support, were reflected in the survey," he said.

"We have a close knit, Sixth Form community and believe we have a strong offer.

"But it's important we listen to what our students think and react accordingly. This is why the survey was undertaken.

"The feedback gives us confidence in the provision.

"Investment over the last couple of years has created a terrific environment for young people to thrive.

"But it is the excellent teaching, plus the learning and pastoral support, that are the stand-out survey results, not just in the quantitative data but also in the comments section.

"We can always do better but I'm proud of our distinctive, academic offer to young people across northern Lincolnshire."

Head of Sixth Form Christina Hook thanked students for the feedback.

"It is reassuring to staff that the hard work being put in is recognised by the people who matter most," she said.

"Our students create a caring environment where they support and look after each other.

"A large proportion come from Waltham Toll Bar Academy and, for them, that continuity and knowing they will be taught by outstanding teachers is important.

"But this survey also shows those students who have come from other schools really value the teaching and learning environment provided.

"Friendship groups are strong and our pastoral support also plays a key role in a happy and productive environment.

"Destinations are everything to sixth formers, be it higher education, full-time employment or apprenticeships.

"We have a fantastic record of students achieving first choice destinations and the survey highlights the support provided is crucial and appreciated."

She added: "It was pleasing to hear Year 13 students being particularly complimentary about the fantastic teaching and academic support they have received during their time here, as well as the support that they receive to prepare for examinations and assessments."

In the feedback comments, sixth formers encouraged Year 11 students to attend Toll Bar Sixth Form.

One said: "The best thing about Sixth Form is the support we get from teachers and the environment we learn in feels very comfortable."

On why Year 11s should apply, one student said: "It is a warm, welcoming environment, support is highly given and great opportunities help with future aspirations."

Another remarked: "It is a very welcoming community with lots of support and different connections helping you to decide the best path post A-levels."

"Toll bar is a small, welcoming community, with small classes and good support provided by teachers," said another sixth former.

"It's really friendly and academically challenging," said a third.

Others spoke of "amazing teaching", it was "like a community" and the sixth form was "fun, but with good teaching."

Applications are open to join Toll Bar Sixth Form in September. To find out more, go to www.tollbarmatsixthform.co.uk, call (01472) 500505, or email enquiries@TollbarAcademy.co.uk.

Celebrations on A-level results day last August at Toll Bar Sixth Form.