At Queen Ethelburga’s College, you’ll join one of the top-performing Sixth Forms in the North of England.
With 39 A Level and BTEC qualifications to choose from, exceptional facilities, and a unique fifth option in your timetable, you’ll have the flexibility to pursue additional qualifications, train in elite sport, or receive extra support in creative subjects.
Your Sixth Form Experience
Whether you’re a day student or a boarder, our Sixth Form is designed for students aged 16 to 18. You can stay on campus, commute via our extensive bus service, or drive yourself - we have plenty of parking if you've passed your test!
You’ll be part of a global community with over 40 nationalities represented. Our rural Yorkshire campus offers a peaceful and inspiring setting for study, with numerous opportunities to meet people from around the world.
We encourage independence at the Sixth Form. You’ll wear your own smart business attire and enjoy exclusive spaces for both study and downtime. If you’re boarding, you’ll also be free to explore York and nearby towns on Friday evenings and weekends.
QE College, one of the top independent schools for academic results in the country.
A Typical Sixth Form Day
Our school day runs from 8:30 am to 4:10 pm and includes six lessons, a morning break with a snack, and a lunch break. As a day student, you can head home at 4:10 or stay for after-school activities and possibly dinner - it’s up to you.
You’ll have access to early-morning training sessions, after-school clubs, the gym, swimming pool, and sports facilities. If you’re boarding, you’ll have dinner before attending Power Hour, an evening study session to help you stay on track with coursework or revision.
Need to stay late for a match or extra study time during exams? You can take advantage of incidental boarding whenever you need it.
Academic Pathways That Fit You
As a student at our independent sixth form in York, you can choose between two academic pathways at Key Stage 5:
Pathway 1:
Four A Levels plus an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). In Year 12, you’ll also choose a super-curricular subject to broaden your learning.
Pathway 2:
A minimum of three A Level or BTEC subjects, plus an additional timetabled option, such as an extra qualification, performance sports, or creative subject support.
You’ll also have a Personal Supervisor, a senior staff member who’s there to support you throughout your Sixth Form journey, both in person and online.
Stand Out with Specialist Support
Outside the classroom, you’ll have access to a wide range of programmes to help you prepare for university or your career:
- Early Applicant Programme: Get expert guidance if you’re applying for Oxford, Cambridge, Medicine, Veterinary Science, or Dentistry. Support begins during the last term of Year 12 and includes preparation for admissions tests, STEP exams and interviews.
- Performance Sports Programme: Train like a pro in football, cricket, basketball, netball or rugby with coaching in strength, conditioning, nutrition, and sport psychology.
- Extended Project Qualification (EPQ): Lead your own research project with help from an experienced supervisor. One of our students even scored 100% and secured a reduced university offer thanks to their EPQ.
- Queen’s Academy: Whether you study the arts or just enjoy them, you’ll have access to creative enrichment sessions to grow your skills and portfolio.
- UCAS Enhancement: Strengthen your university application with super-curricular activities, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, work experience, and leadership roles like Prefect or School Ambassador.
Study and Socialise in State-of-the-Art Facilities
As a student at one of the largest and best-equipped independent sixth forms in York, you’ll enjoy:
- Specialist classrooms for science, maths, business, music, technology, and creative arts
- A professional theatre for drama and performing arts
- A triple-court sports hall, gym, sports science labs, and outdoor pitches
- A skate park, climbing walls, padel courts, and basketball hoops
When it comes to study spaces, you can choose what suits you best, from the classic wooden library in Armorial, to the quiet and modern Genesis building.
Need a change of scenery? Grab a drink from the on-site coffee shop or relax at Muggles, our Sixth Form hub with a cinema, snooker table, games consoles, and even fast food on Fridays.
Independent Sixth Form Boarding That Prepares You for University Life
If you choose to board, you’ll live in some of the best Sixth Form accommodation in the UK - many say it’s better than university halls! Your room includes an en-suite, kitchen facilities like dishwashers and coffee machines, and welcoming shared spaces.
You’ll also learn life skills, like cooking on a budget, laundry, and managing your time. Our House Parents run workshops to make sure you’re fully prepared for independent living after Sixth Form.
Join Our International Community
If you’re an international student, you’ll feel right at home at Queen Ethelburga’s. Around half of our Sixth Formers come from overseas. We offer:
- An English Language Programme to help you improve your English and gain national qualifications
- IELTS preparation classes to support your university applications
- A Level courses in your national language
- The NCUK Foundation Programme, if you’re joining us for one year before university
Ready to Join an Independent Sixth Form in York?
If you’re looking for an ambitious, supportive, and inclusive independent sixth form in York, Queen Ethelburga’s College offers everything you need to succeed academically, socially, and personally.
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