Our students answer your questions
Whether you are new to Retford Oaks from an external secondary school or currently in year 11 with us, thinking about your further education options can be overwhelming. To help you weigh up your options, some of our students have answered your frequently asked questions to support you in making your decision as to whether our sixth form is the best choice for you.
One of a kind
Being at Retford Oaks sixth form is an experience like no other. It’s the kind of place where the friendships you make and the memories you create will stay with you for life. The relationships here are genuine — everyone looks out for each other, and you always feel like you belong. It’s more than just studying; it’s about growing, laughing, and sharing experiences together. You won’t find a sixth form quite like it anywhere else.
Personal development
Success isn’t just about grades — it’s about preparing you for life beyond the classroom. Alongside working hard academically, you’ll take part in tutor sessions and personal development days that encourage discussion, reflection, and preparation for the future. These sessions help you think about the bigger picture — from practical life skills like opening a bank account and managing a budget, to exploring post 18 pathways such as UCAS, apprenticeships, and careers.
We want you to leave sixth form not only with strong results, but also with the confidence, knowledge, and independence to thrive in the world beyond.
Inspiring teachers
Our teachers strike the perfect balance between giving you the independence to discover things for yourself and being there when you need extra guidance and support. They don’t just focus on academics — they also encourage your personal development, whether that’s learning to drive, gaining work experience, looking after your fitness and wellbeing, or preparing for life beyond sixth form.
Staff treat you as a young adult, and the relationships you build are built on mutual respect. We’re proud of the positive influence and lasting impact our teaching staff have on the lives of our students
Research your courses
Before choosing your A Level subjects, it’s important to research them carefully. Look into the course content, the type of assessments, and the expected workload so you know what to expect — and make sure the subjects genuinely interest you, as enjoying what you study makes a huge difference.
It’s also a good idea to think ahead. Research your possible next steps after sixth form, whether that’s university, apprenticeships, or another pathway, so you can be confident that your subject choices will meet the entry requirements for your future goals.
Be prepared to work hard
At sixth form, there’s a stronger emphasis on taking responsibility for your own learning, managing your time effectively, and staying on top of your work.
While it can feel like a challenge at first, this independence is also what helps you grow — not just as a student, but as a young adult preparing for the future. The effort you put in now will make a real difference to your success and the opportunities open to you after sixth form.
You’re welcome
Starting somewhere new can feel daunting, but at Retford Oaks sixth form, you’ll quickly find your place. Each year, lots of external students join us and soon become fully embedded in the sixth form community. You will make friends, settle in, and become part of a welcoming, friendly environment where everyone supports one another.
Extra-curricular
While your courses will prepare you academically, our extra-curricular activities offer so much more. They give you the chance to develop important life skills like resilience, problem-solving, and adaptability. Getting involved also helps build character and grit, preparing you to face challenges both in and beyond the classroom. We highly recommend all students take up at least one extra-curricular to support their wider education.
Our support goes beyond simply presenting the choices. We provide tailored guidance to help you make confident, informed decisions about your future. This includes assistance with UCAS personal statements, interview preparation, and securing strong references. Whatever path you decide to follow, we’re here to ensure you leave Walton Post 16 ready to take your next steps with clarity and confidence.
Next steps
Our staff are here to guide you through all the options after sixth form — whether that’s university, apprenticeships, employment, or taking a gap year. We believe it’s essential to provide a full range of choices because there’s no one-size-fits-all path, especially as the world of work constantly evolves with technology and global events.
To support this, every student completes at least one week of work experience in a placement that matters to them. This hands-on experience is designed to be meaningful and practical, helping you make informed decisions about your future ambitions and pathways.
