FAQs

We have tried our best to answer any questions you may have on this page, but if there is anything else you wish to ask please don’t hesitate to contact us via secretary@blue-coat.org and put FAO Sixth Form.

what do i do if i am unwell and cannot attend sixth from?

We hope that this will not be the case. However, if you are too ill to attend Sixth Form, your parent/carer needs to ring school on 0161 6241484 and report your absence to the absence line.

can i take holidays during term time?

You are asked not to take holidays during term time as missing lessons will impact on your progress at Sixth Form.

can i work whilst attending sixth form?

You may have a part-time job. However, your shifts must be outside of the school day. You cannot take time off Sixth Form to go to work. We strongly recommend that you complete paid work for less than 10 hours per week so that you can concentrate on your studies.

can i take time off for driving lessons / test?

Driving lessons are not permitted during the school day. Sixth Formers may book one driving test during term time.

how do you monitor my progress?

The Sixth Form Team liaise with subject teachers and Heads of Department regularly regarding Sixth Formers’ progress. If we identify that your are struggling or not making progress, intervention and support will be put in place.

do you have a prayer room?

Yes, we have a prayer room that is available to all Sixth Form Students.

do you provide transport to and from sixth from?

Yes, as well as being situated close to public transport links, we also provide a dedicated school bus service which reaches Uppermill, Ashton, Rochdale, Shaw, and more. Please see our Travel to Sixth Form page for more information.

can i get help deciding which subject to study at sixth form?

During your Subject Guidance meeting with a member of the Sixth Form Team, you can discuss your preferred subjects from our wide range of courses available.

do i have to be in sixth form for the whole day?

Year 12 students are expected to be in school from 8.40am – 3.20pm every day (except Q Wednesday when they may leave at 1.10pm).

In Year 13, we operate a privilege system. Year 13 students may go home at 2.20 pm if they are free period 5. Year 13 students can earn the privilege of ‘late starts’ in that have to arrive in time for their first lesson, e.g. if they are free period 1 but have a lesson period 2, then they do not have to be in school until period 2.

All Sixth Form students may go off site at lunchtime.

do i need to provide my own paper / excercise books? do i need a laptop?

You will be given subject specific guidance regarding what you need to bring. This will be clarified in pre-enrolment. Sixth Formers do not need a laptop but many find it useful to own one.