SBUSixth opened in September 2023 as a dedicated sixth form for students aged 16-19.
In January 2025 we had a 'new provider' inspection from Ofsted. This reported that the sixth form was making ‘Reasonable Progress’ and that it would have its first full Ofsted inspection within about 18 months of that date.
You can read the New Provider report on the Ofsted website here
Some quotes from the 2025 Ofsted Report
“Governors and leaders work very well with their partner organisations and employers to develop and teach an innovative technical, skills-based curriculum.”
“Leaders have designed study programmes that provide clear pathways for students to progress… or to move on to university or higher apprenticeships.”
“The curriculum meets the demands of students and regional employers for high quality technical education in engineering, health and business.”
“Students benefit because they learn new skills and knowledge from teachers who are subject experts with an enthusiastic interest in teaching.”
“Staff prepare students well for their next steps. They encourage students to participate in activities such as volunteering in the community, taking part in skills awards, and setting up their own business. Students develop important employability and life skills linked to their curriculum pathway.”
“Leaders and managers foster a strong culture of safeguarding. Staff are suitably trained and know their students well.”
“Expert safeguarding staff provide students with effective support and make effective use of external agencies when necessary.”