Student Leadership

Ashton Sixth students are given plenty of opportunities to develop their leadership skills, whether they be in the classroom or during extra-curricular activities. 

Student Committee

The student committee works closely with staff and students to ensure the sixth form is a welcoming, positive environment and each person is treated equally and given the help they need to succeed. They also represent the viewpoint of sixth formers and organise social functions and charity events.

All students are invited to apply for the role of senior student or deputy senior student and their peers vote for who they would like to represent them.

Duke of Edinburgh  - Gold Award

The Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award is offered to all students in years 12 and 13. The scheme is split into four sections and participants work independently through their physical, volunteering and skill sections. Weekly drop-in sessions allow us to monitor students' progress and to provide help and support.

For the expedition section, participants will take part in lunchtime training sessions before taking part in their practice and assessed expeditions away from school. We are very fortunate to have a qualified DofE instructor within the school staffing team who guides our students every step of the way.

Sports Leaders Award

All students have the opportunity to apply to complete the Sports Leader Award as part of their enrichment programme at the start of Year 12. The course builds on the experience gained through GCSE PE or Level 3 BTEC Sport, therefore it's desirable, but not essential that students have either undertaken or are currently studying for a sports qualification. We will consider all applications however, and previous experience as a leader may be accepted where relevant. The course delivery time is 30 guided learning hours.

Academic mentors

Academic mentors for all subject areas will be sought from both year 12 and 13 students at the start of September, via an expression of interest to the Head of Sixth Form. The role of an academic mentor is to provide specific subject-related support and guidance in their chosen area to students across KS3 and KS4 (and occasionally KS5). Students can self-refer or be referred by a member of staff.

 Student ambassadors

We encourage our students to act as subject ambassadors, representing those subjects they are passionate about, at events such as our Sixth Form Open Evenings, Year 11 inductions and also supporting tutor activities for lower school students. When choosing their A Level courses, many year 11 students find it really helpful to speak to students who have already studied that particular course.

We are never short of students to represent their subjects, and the passion with which they do it shows how much they care about their learning and the motivation to instill this in others.