Many school sixth forms in England are finding it hard to keep enough students. An education consultant shared that one school could not continue its lower sixth classes this year.
The East Anglian Schools Trust said Bungay High School in Suffolk had only 19 students joining its sixth form. Because of this low number, they could not run Year 12 classes this time.
Why Are School Sixth Forms Struggling?
Neil Watts, a former headteacher and now an education consultant, explained the issue. He said some school sixth forms are still doing well, but many cannot compete with bigger colleges and sixth form centres.
Since the early 2000s, there has been a slow move towards larger sixth form centres and colleges. These places usually attract more students and get more attention.
Sixth Form Colleges Are Bigger
Sixth form colleges are often much larger than school-based sixth forms. They can take thousands of students aged 16 to 19. Students can study A-levels, technical courses, and vocational courses there.
Because of their size, they can offer more courses and more support to students. This makes them more attractive compared to smaller school sixth forms.
Funding Problems Affect Schools
Funding has also gone down for school sixth forms over the years. Neil Watts said the money schools get for their sixth forms has dropped compared to when he was a headteacher.
This makes it hard for schools to hire good teachers or offer a wide choice of subjects. Many teachers prefer to work across all school years, from Year 7 to Year 13, but with fewer students, schools may not keep them.
Impact on the Whole School
Closing sixth forms does not only affect students. It can also change the whole school environment. Schools may find it harder to attract skilled staff when they do not have a sixth form.
Neil Watts said this can lower the overall quality of education. Some schools may lose experienced teachers who like to teach older students too.
No Clear Solution Yet
The future of school sixth forms is uncertain, especially in rural areas. Neil Watts said there is no perfect answer yet for places like Suffolk.
He feels sad to see school sixth forms closing because they can still help communities and offer good education. But with low numbers and less funding, many find it hard to survive.
FAQs
How many students enrolled in Bungay High School sixth form?
Only 19 students enrolled.
Why are sixth forms closing?
Low student numbers and less funding.
What is the difference between a school sixth form and a college?
Colleges are bigger and offer more courses.
Who is Neil Watts?
He is a former headteacher and education consultant.
Can sixth forms recover in the future?
It depends on funding and student interest.
