St John’s Sixth Form College in Bishop Auckland recently welcomed around 90 Year 9 and Year 10 students for a special careers-focused taster day, offering a valuable insight into sixth form life and future opportunities.
Students from Wolsingham School and Bishop Barrington School were invited to attend the event, which combined subject exploration with guidance on potential career pathways. The initiative provided young learners with the chance to experience a wide range of sixth form subjects while considering how these options could shape their futures beyond GCSE.
Wide Range of Subjects on Offer
The day showcased the breadth of courses available at St John’s Sixth Form College. Visiting students had the opportunity to engage with a diverse selection of subjects, including:
- Social Sciences
- Art and Media
- Philosophy & Ethics
- History and Geography
- Health and Social Care
- Mathematics
- Business and English
- Law and Computer Science
- Sport
- Modern Foreign Languages
- Performing Arts
This hands-on experience allowed students to explore new areas of interest and gain a deeper understanding of how sixth form study differs from GCSE learning.
Warm Welcome and Engaging Experience
The event began with a welcome and introduction from Assistant Headteachers Mr. Dunn and Miss Somers, who outlined the aims of the day and highlighted the importance of planning for future education and careers.
Following the introduction, students enjoyed breakfast in the college’s bistro before taking part in a structured programme of lessons and activities. Throughout the day, they were encouraged to think about the wider impact of different subjects and how they connect to real-world careers.
Positive Feedback from Visiting Students
The taster day was well received by attendees, with many students expressing how beneficial the experience had been. During lunchtime discussions, several commented that:
“It was a very useful day to see another school and what might be possible in their future.”
The opportunity to visit a different learning environment and engage with sixth form teaching helped students broaden their perspectives on post-16 education.
Building Links Across Local Schools
Mr. Dunn emphasised the importance of collaboration between schools, stating:
“It was a great opportunity to work with students from other schools and introduce them to the future possibility of working with us in St John’s Sixth Form.”
The event highlights St John’s Sixth Form College’s commitment to supporting young people across Bishop Auckland and the surrounding areas as they begin to consider their next steps.
Supporting Future Aspirations
By offering early exposure to sixth form subjects and career pathways, St John’s Sixth Form College continues to play a key role in helping students make informed decisions about their education.
Events like this careers taster day not only provide practical insights into academic study but also inspire students to think ambitiously about their future opportunities.
