Life at Excelsior Sixth Form

Personal development is an important part of every student’s experience at Excelsior Sixth Form. Alongside their qualifications, our programme helps students develop confidence, independence and the practical skills needed for further education, employment and adult life.

It prepares young people for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of life in modern Britain through learning about British values, relationships, equality and protected characteristics, mental and physical wellbeing, personal safety, financial literacy and careers.  

Be Ready and tutor time 

Our bespoke Be Ready programme responds to students’ needs and ambitions. Together with tutor time, PSHE and careers learning, it provides regular opportunities to explore wellbeing, relationships, staying safe and future choices. Tutors help students organise their learning, reflect on feedback and identify where they need support. 

Reading and literacy 

We prioritise literacy because confident reading and communication help students access their subjects and prepare for their next steps. Students use our bespoke Reading Graduation Programme during tutor time and supported study to develop their reading skills. Assessment helps us identify starting points and target support. Across subjects, students develop vocabulary, understanding of texts and confidence in expressing their ideas. 

Enrichment and experiences 

Our programme brings together life-skills activities, trips, assemblies and visiting speakers, including online sessions. The 2026–27 schedule includes the following opportunities, with some planned for later in the year: 

• University guidance with the University of Sunderland and Newcastle University, including applications and university life.  

• An apprenticeship roadshow and planned sessions exploring apprenticeship routes, including paralegal opportunities with Clifford Chance.  

• Wellbeing and revision-skills sessions with Villiers Park. 

• Financial education using HSBC resources and sessions covering budgeting, banking, saving, borrowing, credit, fraud awareness, income tax and employability.  

• A planned visiting speaker from the North East Ambulance Service. 

Student voice and digital independence 

Our ambassadors meet on Fridays to share ideas and help shape Sixth Form life, including wellbeing, literacy, careers, community activity and enrichment. Students also develop independence through iPads, Showbie and accessibility tools suited to their needs.