A recent episode of Fake or Fortune on the BBC was trying to establish whether a sculpture was by Henry Moore, worth millions, or an imitation worth nothing. Using a range of experts from across the world – from the Royal Collection in London to specialists in New York – the disagreement was eventually settled by the analysis of a former Highfields sixth form student. He had taken up a degree apprenticeship in forensic metallurgy and was working in Derby.
Watching the progress of our students means a lot to us, and we have developed a library of videos with former students who are now engineers, physiotherapists, vets, midwives, IT consultants and more; helping to inspire our current sixth formers. We even managed a trip to Downing Street this year, to see one of our students who is now second-in-command of the Prime Minister’s delivery unit.
For many years the supportive academic ethos created by our students and experienced staff team has led to excellent exam results. Nationally we have been in the top 25% for progress every year since 2011, with only two exceptions, and on several occasions near or at the top of the county’s achievement table, including in 2023.
Equally important to us, is building a community of generosity and fun. Hosting Christmas parties in care homes, visiting the elderly each week and reading in primary schools keeps us connected to our local community. Social events are organised by students each term, and there is a wide leadership programme where our students help to develop those in younger years. As well as taking a dip in the waters of Rother Valley Aqua park each year, we even found ourselves on a camping trip this summer, which was how a group of Year 13 students wanted to round off their time at Highfields. It is often these activities which help us to create the resilience needed for A level study and its challenges.
We hope you will come to visit us at our Open Evening on Thursday 14 November, where you can talk with students and staff about studying and enjoying all the other experiences that make up our sixth form. If you cannot make that, then do get in touch and we will help you to look round at another time.
Martin Flett
Director of Sixth Form
