Our curriculum intent is to have an ambitious and inclusive curriculum, that empowers our students to become life-long learners and successful global citizens.

Our five core curriculum aims promote this intention.

1. A well-sequenced curriculum to embed knowledge and skills, challenging all learners. This will allow our students to learn more, do more and remember more, through a broad and balanced curriculum. We believe that a thoughtful and well-designed curriculum will unlock and render accessible and interesting, even the most complex concepts. Our students will become better thinkers, problem solvers and future learners, with all the benefits these attributes bring. 

2. A literacy focused curriculum to promote a love of reading, develop a rich vocabulary and strong disciplinary [subject specific] literacy. This will not only advance our students access to the curriculum but also improve mental well-being and is a crucial foundation for their future life success. 

3. A careers centred curriculum to raise student aspirations and understanding of the world of work. This will allow our students to make informed decisions about their future. 

4. An enriched curriculum to develop students' cultural capital and drive their curiosity. By exposing our students to real-life applications, current affairs and historical associations, beyond the prescribed examination specifications, we will raise their cultural awareness and support them in developing a critical approach to the media, questioning and challenging ideas, to form their own informed opinions.

5. A society centred curriculum to prepare our students to be confident, active and responsible citizens that make a positive contribution to society.  We embrace and embed difference, throughout our curriculum, celebrating diverse voices in literature, music and art, selecting engaging and relevant historical genres and exposing our students to inspiration people from a broad range of ethic diversities, genders and sexual orientations. Our students learn to debate and discuss controversial issues of morality, whilst respecting the views of others, increasing their understanding of democracy, tolerance of those with different faiths and beliefs and individual liberty, as we promote Fundamental British Values. 

 

All our Post 16 students will follow a high quality, individualised programme of study to ensure their success as they prepare for employment, an apprenticeship, university or further or higher education.

In our Sixth Form, all students can expect the following as part of their study programme:

• Personalised career advice and guidance from our in-house Careers Advisor
• Individual academic monitoring and support
• Relevant vocational or academic qualification at Level 2 and Level 3
• GCSE English and Mathematics if required
• Opportunities to access external work experience
• Tutorial Programme
• Enrichment activities

Our Post 16 curriculum allows students the opportunity to pursue a challenging suite of subjects, suited to their interests, career goals and academic aptitude. We are highly successful at securing the best possible outcomes for students by tailoring the most appropriate programme of study.

We offer Level 3 BTEC vocational subjects in IT, Business and Applied Science, and new for 2025, Sport, with which students continue to secure excellent university places. We also offer T Levels in Healthcare Science and Business Administration. Our A Level subjects cover a broad range of disciplines. Furthermore, our students are able to access an even greater number of A Levels through the Hounslow Borough Consortium.

In addition, we offer a one-year Foundation Programme for students have not met the entry requirements for A Level, T Level or Level 3 BTEC. This enables students to secure Level 3 qualifications and progress to university.

Careers Advice

Throughout your time in the Sixth Form, you will receive impartial advice and guidance on what you need to do to reach your career aspirations.

English and Maths

Students who did not achieve a GCSE grade 4-9, or equivalent qualifications, in English and Mathematics, will be required to study these courses as part of their Post 16 Programme of Study.

Personal Development

You will attend a regular tutorial programme, which will consist of:

• One-to-one Progress Reviews
• Careers education
• Employability skills

A PSHE programme that will include:

• Equality & Diversity
• Health & Wellbeing
• Finance & Lifestyle
• Work & Progression
• Safeguarding
• British Values
• Prevent Agenda
• Citizenship

Enrichment Activities

As part of your Study Programme you will take part in a range of Enrichment activities which can include:

• Mentoring and coaching
• Duke of Edinburgh
• Research Project
• Educational speakers
• Educational visits
• University visits
• Volunteering activities
• Community Service
• Sporting Activities

Attendance

Excellent attendance is key to academic success.  Therefore, it is a requirement for you to attend all aspects of your Study Programme.

 

POST 16	Lesson per week
A Levels [per subject]	6
BTEC Level 2	12
BTEC Level 3 [Double]	12
BTEC Level 3 [Single]	6
T Level [Triple]	18
Community Service – compulsory	2
GCSE re-take	4

 

POST 16 OPEN EVENING

The School holds an annual Post 16 Open Evening each academic year to enable local parents residents and other stakeholders to learn more about the A Level, BTEC and T Level courses on offer at our school.  This year's event took place on 21 November 2024 from 17:45 to 19:30 in the Main Hall. The event for 2026 Admissions will be in November 2025. There will be an opportunity for parents and potential students to tour the School's excellent facilities and also to meet teachers and current students to learn more about these courses as well as the myriad of other opportunities available in the Sixth Form.

There will be a presentation by the Deputy Headteacher at 18:30 in the Sixth Form Centre.  Please contact the school at info@hestoncs.org if you have any further queries about this event.

We look forward to welcoming you to our School.

SIXTH FORM ADMISSIONS CRITERIA 

In deciding to offer a place in the Sixth Form, the following criteria will be used:

• An Attainment 8 score of 50+ to follow an A Level programme of study. Grade 5 or better must be achieved in English Language and Maths to be considered. Individual subject entry requirements must also be met 
• An Attainment 8 score of 38+ to follow a BTEC Level 3 programme of study 
• An Attainment 8 score of 28+ to follow the BTEC Level 2 programme of study 
• Courses will only be offered subject to demand and staff availability 
• Where a course is oversubscribed, places will be allocated on the basis of the highest Attainment 8 score 
• Satisfactory references for external candidates 
• Guidance provided by the Year 11 Learning Coordinator, Curriculum Leaders and the Sixth Form Team 

PLEASE NOTE

Students will not be permitted to repeat a course.

COURSE	ENTRY REQUIREMENT
Art, Craft and Design	5 in an Art subject
Art – Graphic Design	5 in an Art subject
Biology	Grade 6 in Biology or Combined Science and 6 Mathematics
Chemistry	Grade 6 in Chemistry or Combined Science and 6 Mathematics
Business	--
Economics	--
English Literature	5 in English Language and English Literature
Geography	5 in Geography
Government & Politics	--
History	Grade 5 in History
Mathematics - Further	Grade 8 in Mathematics
Mathematics	Grade 7 in Mathematics
Physics	6 in Physics or 6-6 Combined Science and a 7 in Mathematics
Psychology	5 in Science
Sociology	--

 

BTEC L3 Applied   Science	Attainment 8 Score of 38 and preferably a grade 4+ in Science, English Language and Mathematics
BTEC L3 Business/IT	Attainment 8 Score of 38 and preferably a grade 4+ in English Language and Mathematics
BTEC Sport Studies	Attainment 8 Score of 38 and preferably a grade 4+ in English Language and Mathematics
T Levels	Attainment 8 Score of 40 and a grade 4+ in English Language and Mathematics [and 4+ Science for Healthcare Science]
BTEC Level 2 Technical Award - Marketing	Attainment 8 Score of 28 and preferably a grade 3+ in English Language and Mathematics

 

 

 

 

 

 

We offer a wide range of enrichment opportunities to broaden your learning experience and develop your cultural capital. In addition to academic excellence, our programme of enrichment will help you to develop into a confident and resilient young adult.

Much like university, there are a host of clubs and societies to join in the Sixth Form and, as senior members of the School, you will have an integral role in helping run them. Through positions of responsibility like the Senior Student Leadership Team, Student Learning Mentors and Wellbeing Champions, you will develop vital skills for the future: leadership, team working and communication skills, preparing you for the world of work.

The Debating Society promotes public speaking, critical thinking and communication skills, giving you the ability to think quickly, challenge existing views and explore new ideas. This equips you for high quality, well-reasoned decision making in your professional and personal lives as well as furthering your understanding of the ever-evolving world in which you live.  Above all, debating is good fun!

The Explorers Club Lecture Programme enables you to deliver and listen to lectures on a range of subjects as diverse as hillwalking and astronomy. We also invite a range of visiting experts to talk to you about their interests and, crucially, the programme allows you to share your passions with others.

Community Service is a compulsory feature of life in the Sixth Form, encouraging you to make a positive contribution to our community through supporting younger students in lessons, supporting literacy and numeracy in local primary schools, completing placements in local care homes and raising funds for charity.

The Extended Project Qualification is offered to targeted students alongside A-level choices. The pursuit of the EPQ requires great commitment, discipline and organisation. You will be able to enhance and evidence your communication, critical analysis skills and independence, which will benefit you when applying to university and prepare you for the demands at undergraduate level.

To support our most able students realise their full potential, the Director of Sixth Form delivers the Oxbridge Pathways Programme which includes:

• Organisation of high quality internships with prestigious companies across both the public and the private sector
• Visits to Oxford University and Cambridge University
• Support with the organisation of appropriate work experience placements
• Support with the writing of Personal Statement and Interview workshops
• Support with applications to Oxbridge Summer Schools
• Organising the attendance to Medical and Legal Career Workshops
• Providing a named mentor for the A Level Extended Project

In Year 12, the top 10% participate in the Cambridge University Outreach Programme called “HE+”. Students attend a series of lectures and seminars that give information, advice and guidance on how to make successful Oxbridge applications, write personal statements and prepare for interviews.

Alisha Rizwan 

My time at Heston Community School has been incredibly enriching. One of the most appealing aspects of our Sixth Form is the variety of opportunities available, like the TEFL course, which has given me a head start toward my goal of becoming an English teacher. I have also enjoyed participating in writing competitions and the school elections. 

A feature I have always admired about Heston is our Well-being Hub. Created to support students, the Well-being Hub recognizes the importance of mental health, providing a safe space for students to discuss any concerns, whether school-related or personal. My experience in the Sixth Form has been deeply fulfilling, helping to shape and prepare me for life beyond school.

"A wise man once told me that when one enters a place, they should always have the intention of leaving it as a better individual than the one who had entered. I entered this school as a shy and introverted child. I am now a spirited young woman who isn't afraid to brave challenges, take risks and give everything my 110%." 

 

 

 

Simrit Bhari 

I am currently studying A Level Biology, Chemistry and Psychology at Heston with the goal of pursuing dentistry at university. Since joining Year 7, I have found Heston to be a nurturing and welcoming environment that has supported my growth both as a student and as a person. Staying on for Sixth Form was an easy choice due to my positive experiences in the lower school. 

The new Sixth Form Centre is outstanding, providing a space where I can study not only during school hours but also in the evenings. Plus, we can take advantage of the school gym during our half days and have the opportunity to join a range of societies. This year I am a member of the medical society.  

The teachers here are fantastic, always going the extra mile to support their students. Heston has also offered me numerous opportunities, such as mentoring and work experience, which have broadened my skill set and helped prepare me for the challenges that lie ahead after school. 

 

 

Angelina Tihhomirova 

I am a very dedicated student, though I sometimes find certain topics challenging to grasp in class. Fortunately, Heston offers a strong support system with staff who are committed to helping students like me succeed. This is one of the main reasons I chose to return here for my Sixth Form studies. I am aiming for A grades in my A-Levels and feel confident that, with the support from staff and the respectful, collaborative environment amongst students, I can achieve this goal. 

In our first term, I have joined several societies and even participated in a trip to Oxford University. I am especially looking forward to working with Mr. Naqvi and Miss Chana in our VEPA group, where we are currently focused on identifying our vision and the strategies we will use to achieve it. 

 

 

Jagjodh Dhuper 

At this school, I have truly thrived, thanks to the incredible support and guidance provided as I prepared for my GCSEs, transitioned to A Levels, and now focus on my final exams and future plans. Heston has given me a wealth of opportunities to explore different career paths and receive valuable guidance for the next stage of my education. 

I enjoy using the school gym during my free periods and appreciate that teachers are always open to listening and introducing new programs that students request. My tutor knows I’m interested in journalism and is always looking for ways to support that goal. I am very glad I chose to stay at Heston, and I am confident that I will achieve excellent results in my upcoming exams 

 

 

 

Sajjia  Aslami BTEC Diploma Business D*D* A Level Psychology  B [Reading Nursing, Kings College London]

Sajjia  was  always  the  most  hardworking  student  in  any  of  her  classes.    Her  quiet confidence in her abilities and her drive and ambition to succeed were exceptional. Her well-developed work ethic and her exceptional organisation skills helped her to achieve  the  highest  grades  in  all  of  her  BTEC  Business  units  whether  they  were assessed  internally  or  externally.    Sajjia  was  able  to  balance  well  the  demands  of pursuing    both    A    Levels    and    vocational    subjects,    a    true    testament    to    her determination to study nursing at one of the country’s top universities.

 

Shayan Khan, Mathematics A Biology  B Chemistry B [Reading Medicine, University  of Southampton]

Shayan  wanted  to  follow  in  the  footsteps  of  his  brother  and  study  medicine.    He worked  diligently  towards  achieving  well  in  his  public  examinations.     He  was  a Senior   Student   and   so   served   the   school   community   as   well   as   balancing   the demands  of  his  subjects.   Shayan  was  supported  by  the  Sixth  Form  Team  and  the Science  Curriculum  Area  with  1:1 interview  practice  and  wider  reading  materials  to support his application.

 

Riya Samra, Business Studies A* Sociology A Graphic  Design B [Reading Primary Education, University  of Roehampton]

Riya  was  always  interested  in  becoming  a  teacher.    She  was  able  to  access  help with work experience in a nursery with the support of the Sixth Form Team which reinforced   her   passion   to   pursue   education   studies   at   university.      Riya   was exceptionally hard working in all of her subjects.  She loved Business and was able to  develop  high  quality  analytical  and  evaluative  arguments  which  helped  her  to achieve an A*. She possessed an impressive quiet determination to succeed which should be emulated by all.

 

Gurpartap Saggu, Business Studies A Economics A Chemistry  C [Accounting Degree Apprenticeship - Moore Stephens]

Gurpartap’s interest in Accounting grew out of his family’s business.   He came into the Sixth Form with a determination to access a degree apprenticeship at one of the top  5  accounting  firms  in  the  UK,  and  so  he  did.   He  applied  to  university  as  well but had attended a range of apprenticeship opportunities afforded him by the Sixth Form Team, and he was secured work experience in accounting and finance through the School’s work with UPTREE.  Gurpartap was a conscientious student who worked really hard in all of his subjects and was a pleasure to teach.   Teachers  were always impressed by his quiet determination, and he was able to balance well the demands of being a Senior Student and his academic obligations.

Throughout your two years in the Sixth Form, you will receive practical advice and support to research career options, university courses, apprenticeships, writing personal statements, CVs and letters of application. All students will attend workshops to develop interview techniques.

Specialist careers education software is used to develop a professional profile, supporting university and apprenticeship applications. Furthermore, all students receive one to one careers support and attend targeted career workshops.

2022	2018
2021	2017
2020	2016
2019

 

UCAS is the admissions process for students applying to further education at universities and colleges.

The majority of our students apply to UCAS, with increasing numbers gaining higher level apprenticeships in recent years, so a significant amount of time is allocated to the process of applications. The Sixth Form Team provides expert guidance and support to students to help them choose the most appropriate courses.

The UCAS widget links you directly to the UCAS website. Through simple navigation, it is easy for you to explore the information and advice UCAS has to offer. The content is reviewed regularly by UCAS, so it remains up-to-date and relevant.

The section for parents is invaluable to the different stages of the application process. It includes a UCAS Parent Guide and the parent information tool.

 

OTHER USEFUL WEBSITES

There are subject guides and a range of useful resources to help you choose subjects and courses at:

www.ucas.com/ucas/subject-guide-list

www.ucas.com/ucas/undergraduate/getting-started/what-study

www.thestudentroom.co.uk/wiki/University_Courses

www.bestcourse4me.com

You can also take a virtual university tour on many university websites, by visiting www.ucas.com/virtual-tours