Sixth Form

Sixth Form

Cloughwood Academy Sixth Form – Preparing for Life Beyond School

Welcome to the Sixth Form at Cloughwood Academy, a special academy dedicated to supporting young people with a range of special educational needs, particularly in social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH), communication, and cognition. Our Key Stage 5 provision is designed to prepare students not only academically but also personally, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence required to thrive in adulthood, further education, work, and their communities.

Our Sixth Form Offer: Vocational Learning and Personal Development

At Key Stage 5, students focus on vocational specialisms and work towards industry-recognised qualifications, within a safe and nurturing environment that supports academic, social, emotional, and physical development.

Vocational Qualifications

Students select specialist pathways to develop practical skills and enhance future employability. Our 2025–2026 vocational pathways include:

• City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery
  Delivered in our professional kitchen, this two-year course covers food safety, cooking techniques, menu planning, and customer service. It prepares students for roles in commercial kitchens and the hospitality sector.
• City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Bricklaying
  Taught in our construction workshop, this course develops hands-on skills in bricklaying, health and safety, and sustainable building practices, providing a pathway to apprenticeships or employment in the construction trades.
• English & Maths
  All students work towards achieving Grade 4 or equivalent in English and Maths (Functional Skills Level 2), ensuring essential literacy and numeracy skills for everyday life and the workplace.

Industry Certifications

Students have the opportunity to earn additional industry-recognised certifications, further enhancing employability and workplace readiness. These include:

• Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate
• CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme)

These certifications complement the vocational pathways, giving students practical credentials valued by employers.

Preparation for Adulthood: Building Confidence and Independence

Transitioning to adulthood presents unique challenges for learners with additional needs. Our Preparation for Adulthood curriculum for Years 12 and 13 focusses on four key pillars:

1. Independent Living – Skills such as personal finance, cooking, hygiene, and daily routines.
2. Employability & Careers – Career exploration, CV writing, job applications, interview preparation, and understanding workplace expectations.
3. Community & Citizenship – Rights and responsibilities, environmental awareness, and active participation in the community.
4. Health & Wellbeing – Emotional regulation, mental health awareness, physical activity, healthy relationships, and personal safety.

Lessons are practical and experiential, allowing students to engage in activities such as budgeting, volunteering, accessing health services, and using public transport safely. This progressive, differentiated curriculum ensures meaningful outcomes for every pupil, regardless of ability.

Tailored Support and Real-World Experiences

At Cloughwood Academy, emotional and social development is as important as academic achievement. Each student receives individualised support within a nurturing environment, helping them thrive and build resilience.

Our Sixth Form offers meaningful experiences, including:

• Workplace Visits – Local businesses in hospitality, construction, retail, and healthcare.
• Work Experience Placements – Tailored to students’ interests and abilities, providing valuable industry exposure.
• Career-Focused Events – Career fairs, employer visits, mock interviews, and CV workshops.
• Community Projects & Volunteering – Fostering social skills, responsibility, and a sense of belonging.

Reflecting Our Values

Our Sixth Form programme embodies Cloughwood Academy’s core values of safety, respect, and the right to learn. We promote British values such as democracy, tolerance, mutual respect, and individual liberty, helping students become responsible, confident individuals who contribute positively to society.

Through a supportive, inclusive learning environment, we aim to bring out the best in every young person and prepare them for lifelong learning and successful adult lives.

Next Steps

To learn more about our Sixth Form pathways or discuss how we can support your child’s transition to adulthood, please contact our Sixth Form team. We welcome visits and conversations to explore how Cloughwood Academy can help your child flourish.