“Sixth form is very different from ‘normal’ school. For a start, there is much more freedom in sixth form. You also get a much more direct teaching style as the classes tend to be smaller and you are only doing a few different subjects that you are really passionate about.”
Former St Edward’s sixth form student Ben Williams went on to study Technical Theatre Arts at Falmouth University and has recently graduated with a First-Class Honours. We decided to catch up with Ben to find out more about his time in sixth form.
How did you find your experience at St Edward’s sixth form?
My experience at St Edward’s sixth form was very positive. The teachers were very supportive and always helpful. I was very lucky to have good connections with the music and drama departments where I was allowed to work on all the different productions. From this, I also got to work on technical roles for sports events, open evenings and most other productions the school held. For the years I was at St Edward’s and St Edward’s sixth form I did virtually all the stage lighting and sound that was needed along with a friend. Without these opportunities, I don’t think I would be in the position I am today.
What A Levels did you do?
I did Music, Product Design and Physics
How different was sixth form to normal school?
Sixth form is very different from ‘normal’ school. For a start, there is much more freedom in sixth form. You also get a much more direct teaching style as the classes tend to be smaller and you are only doing a few different subjects that you are really passionate about. This means that if you are struggling with a problem there is more time for teachers to personally teach and help you. You also get study periods where you can pretty much choose what subject you want to be working on, this isn’t in the classroom but on your own, or with friends. This gives you the opportunity to brush up on skills that you may have missed in class or are struggling with. If the teacher for that subject is free at the time they will also happily help you go over the subject too.
What did you go on to do after sixth form?
After sixth form, I studied Technical Theatre Arts BA(Hons) at Falmouth University and I have recently graduated with a First Class Honours. This course was absolutely amazing and I would recommend anyone who enjoys lighting, sound, stage management or any technical side of theatre and live events productions to check it out. I have also gained many different qualifications from university like an IOSH working safely qualification and an IPAF mobile vertical 3a license.
My work can be seen on my website. A lot of my work here was inspired and helped by my foundations at St Edward’s.
What words of advice would you give to those thinking about applying to St Edward’s Sixth Form?
Follow your passions. Strive for your best grades possible, but don’t be disheartened if you don’t achieve what you want (or what you need for university), you can still be accepted and graduate with a First! Don’t be afraid to ask for help and have fun!
If you would like to find out more about the courses that we offer in sixth form, click here.
