Why should students attend The NCS?
“I once heard a great speaker say “when you become the smartest person in your circle, you’ll stop growing”. I had a fantastic school experience and enjoyed learning in mixed ability classes but it wasn’t until I got to Cambridge that I realised that I’d become too comfortable with being one of the smartest people I knew! If you want to be successful you’ve got to learn to thrive in a room full of people like yourself, or even better, those who have gone or will go even further than you. The NCS provides an environment where the most able can learn in a stimulating and challenging environment with the support and tools for development that will mean success not only becomes a reality, but a fulfilling reality. Students will gain the knowledge to progress into their chosen fields as well as the necessary first hand experiences to maintain success by virtue of the learning environment they will grow accustomed to.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“Choose at least one subject that you are naturally good at and enjoy. Then choose subjects which are necessary for the career or field that interests you. Lastly choose a subject which will stretch you but you still find interesting- this will ensure you stay motivated when you find it hard. That was my approach, however my chosen field is not directly related. Most subjects will provide the necessary transferable skills employers are looking for but always do your research when it comes to entry requirements so you don’t close doors!”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“East London is flooded with top talent and high achievers. Although many of us past and present have been fortunate to utilise our talents on the world’s biggest stages, there is an equal amount who have found opportunities to be limited through no fault of their own. I firmly believe that the NCS is the first sixth form to recognise that grades are only half of the story. Getting into a top university or a leading global company is just as much about the sales pitch as having something to sell in the first place. The NCS is equipped with the best teachers, some of which have helped me to the place I am today. They also have a philosophy matched with a clear strategy to create world leaders. Finally, being a new sixth form, every student will have access to the latest technology and equipment; something which I wish I could have had during my A-levels.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“Choosing your courses may seem like the be all and end all of your future. However, now on the other side of A-levels I can admit that I possibly made the wrong choices. What I’ve learnt from the A-level experience is that it’s more important to choose subjects that you are able to achieve highly in as these are the same subjects which you later develop a passion for. When choosing subjects, there is a fine line between choosing with your head and your heart. Since A-levels I’ve always gone with a philosophy of choosing with my head which eventually has been the key to a happy heart.

When I chose my subjects, I targeted them so that I could apply for a science based degree, eventually physics. I was gently told that this probably wasn’t where my talents lay. Nevertheless, my love for physics prevailed. Retrospectively, I can say that I have some regrets. I was always a high achiever and suddenly I wasn’t sitting on the pedestal. This was demoralising and as a result didn’t enjoy my choices as much. I’ve been fortunate to pursue accounting which is in the Finance field where I was always most talented. I was lucky enough to have that chance to correct a potential previous mistake. Although this advice may not suit everyone and is possibly not what others would say, it has definitely been the lesson I’ve learnt from making A-level and degree choices.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“Having been highly impressed by its unique vision, which includes becoming the ‘Oxbridge Hub’ of East London, I can confidently say that the NCS is not going to be an ordinary Sixth Form for high achievers. The calibre of the facilities and the teaching staff speaks for itself. Furthermore, there is a vast array of extra enrichment on offer which includes links with leading corporate firms, help with BMAT and UKCAT entry exams, University Preparation Programme and sports. These are all things I dreamt of as a sixth former!

I genuinely believe it is going to be the only place for the top students in the area to achieve their full potential. “

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?

“The best advice I can give is to choose subjects that you really enjoy, what you are good at and what you need for the university course you are aiming for. It is also advisable to start looking at what is on offer at university and start to narrow down your degree choices. This will help you figure out which A-levels to do. But ensure you don’t pick something you hate! I remember knowing which A-levels I wanted to do back in year 10, since I had my eyes on a particular course at a particular university! If you are not too sure which path to take at university, then keep your options open and stick to what you are confident you can excel in.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“I can personally vouch for the quality of teaching and guidance at the NCS after having the pleasure of being taught by some of the high quality teachers in the Sixth Form I attended and my results were really pleasing. The NCS can provide the foundations and guidance needed in the critical years between secondary school and university, where key choices and experiences can shape your career and your life! It’s important that students realise that the teaching staff at the NCS is exceptional I wouldn’t have achieved the results I did without their outstanding understanding of how students learn.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“If you’re one of those lucky people that already know what they want in their career, then your A-Level choices pick themselves, with UCAS and personal networks lending a helping hand. However, to keep your options open, focusing on your strengths and interests while keeping a traditional base of subjects will open doors to any career you set your mind to. Make sure to pick one subject that you are good at/enjoy a lot as it will keep you on path when the going gets tough!”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“I was lucky enough to be taught and mentored by a number of the incredible teachers at the NCS and can honestly say I would not have achieved what I have today without their support. The NCS staff and mentors are fully committed to helping you realise your potential and achieve your dreams. The support network, resources and opportunities at the NCS will help you to become a rounded individual and this is exactly what top universities and employers are looking for in potential candidates.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“Make sure you pick subjects you enjoy and are passionate about, especially if you are undecided about what to do in the future, otherwise you are not going to enjoy your time at sixth form and will not have the motivation to achieve your best. If you are unsure about what you want to do, try and pick a broad range of subjects that will open the most doors. If you do have an idea of what you wish to do at university or in your career then make sure you tailor your subjects to this but talk to as many people as possible to make sure if it really is the right path for you.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“Newham’s motto is “Progress with the People” and this is exactly what the NCS has to offer. It is essential for Newham students to join a sixth form that will improve their existing skills and help them to develop new ones. The NCS has all the answers – from fantastic teaching staff to outstanding facilities, it has the potential to become a solid platform on which students can start to build their future success on. Nothing is more important than a strong foundation and so with the help of staff and mentors at the NCS, students will make the right decisions when choosing universities and future professions.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“A-Levels are tough (I’m not going to lie!) but that doesn’t mean you cannot succeed and do well! When it comes to picking A-Levels, there is a vital question that you must ask yourself – “Where do I want to be in 5 years’ time?” Many people ask this clichéd question, but the answer is very important. If you know the answer to this, your A-Level choices should be crystal clear. If you don’t have an answer to this question, don’t panic! I was in the same situation. However, my approach was to choose subjects that I enjoyed and was good at. It goes without saying that you are more likely to do well in a subject that you enjoy. Don’t hesitate to ask your teachers questions or other students. It is always a good idea to get someone else’s point of view about a subject that you are not too sure about. Take every day a step at a time and keep on top of your work. And most importantly, enjoy your time as an A-Level student – they were, without a shadow of a doubt, two of the most memorable years of my life so far!”

Why should students attend the NCS?
“The NCS is a school like no other in the area. Here it is clear that learning goes far beyond that which is structurally taught in a classroom. This includes an NCS lecture programme which has drawn speakers as high profile as Ed Miiliband and well known journalist Owen Jones. Such experiences can be crucial in inspiring students towards excellence. This along with support given by inspiring teachers is a formula for success.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“Never choose subjects thinking that they will get you an easy A. Do what you enjoy and what you’re good at whilst keeping in mind your long term ambitions. Although it may sound cliché, you will always do better in the subjects that you like and you may actually end up enjoying your studies.”

Why should students attend the NCS?
“With driven academic tutors, an impeccable and utterly outstanding set of facilities, countless resources and unlike other ‘brand new’ sixth forms, a team of highly experienced teachers, I wouldn’t understand why students could not attend the NCS. I embrace the fact that sixth form is the gateway to university; I believe the NCS is the optimum environment to stimulate teenagers to leave for university as accomplished adults. The ‘Super-Curriculum’ that the NCS offers is outstanding; this is what many students have to leave their classrooms to explore and enjoy before putting them on the university applications. By piquing the interests of students in specialised areas whilst offering them a traditional curriculum really gives them the best opportunity to become an all-rounded excellent pupil.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“When selecting A-Level courses, be really open minded. It will be a step up from GCSE, but its better doing something you love rather than something you are ‘good’ at, at GCSE. When selecting a university degree, the best advice is research; from the entry requirements, to course modules and even where you’d live. Being organised and efficient will always help! And also, don’t be afraid to try something new and challenge yourself!”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“There are two main reasons as to why I believe students should attend the NCS over any other sixth form centre. The first is the obvious commitment and dedication of the staff body. This is a commitment that is matched nowhere else, where teachers will be ready to support students throughout the entire process of A-levels. As a student I remember evaluating which sixth form will offer me the best teacher-student experience and it is this that students look at with most concern. Teachers at the NCS have a history of success in their field of teaching and therefore the teaching experience is made special for students.

NCS has worked extremely hard to gather students from different paths and different academic strengths to bring them together. The other reason as to why I believe students should attend the NCS is because of the great network of friends they will meet there. As a student, it helps when you are surrounded by like-minded, driven and high achieving individuals. By going to a high-achieving institution, you create a network of friends that go on to do great things. Some of these friends will remain for life and being associated with such people always comes with an advantage- not to mention the character of such friends, who keep you motivated and reminded of success.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“When choosing courses for A-levels, most students go with courses that they believe will help them get into a specific field. What I advise, is that unless your profession is extremely specific you should choose the courses you enjoy and have a genuine interest in. Ask yourself, will I take out an hour of my own time to research or read into something in this topic? Will you simply fall asleep reading it, not really pay much attention to the information presented or actually look to understand the different concepts that are being displayed and look to read more into the subject area? There is no question that A-level courses are challenging, but it is whether or not you really love the subjects you choose that determines the success you achieve.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“With a tailored style of teaching, the Sixth Form will ensure that students are given maximum support for their degree and career aspirations. This is a hard combination to achieve. The NCS understands that they are not only preparing high achieving A-Level students, but the leaders of tomorrow. This means that students will leave the NCS having acquired key skills necessary for their chosen industry- whether that be the sciences, technology, law or banking. The link the Sixth Form has with leading firms in key industries will help students gain a practical insight into the world of work; an opportunity that is rare to find!

Above all, the school will run a mentoring programme, including students like myself, who have attended leading institutions and are willing to pass on our experiences of the University admission process to NCS students. Sessions will be run to help students gain a greater understanding as to what their degree entails, key skills required and how to approach daunting tasks like the personal statement, interviews and admission tests.

In a nutshell, if you are an ambitious individual who wants to achieve big things, the support NCS will give you will be first class and unparalleled!”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“My best piece of advice for students would be to select a degree they are passionate about. It is important to remember that you will be studying the subject for 3-4 years and so you really have to engage with the subject! I would personally recommend attending as many University open days as you can and speaking to students on the mentoring programme from differing disciplinary backgrounds.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“The NCS really looks like a Sixth Form that is focused on the students first and foremost. From the great leadership at the school (whom I have been previously taught by and can personally vouch for), to the great resources and facilities you have, it seems that the NCS is determined to go above and beyond for students, which is something that all schools can’t say. In addition (and I am a little bias) the NCS seems to be a Sixth Form which encourages students to think outside of the box, by presenting them options that they may have never thought about before.

The fact that the NCS will have the resources and support needed if you wish to pursue studies in America is something which is unheard of in the vast majority of public British schools and this is just another feather in the cap of the NCS.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“Two major pieces of advice, a) learn what you’re excited about and b) if you have an idea of what you want to do going forward in university, gear your subjects towards that. The first thing to realise is that two years of studying three or four subjects is a long time! Alongside other extracurricular and personal commitments, it can make studying something which is tough and difficult. With that in mind it’s important to learn what you’re passionate about, as otherwise it can make studying feel like a chore, which isn’t the best experience.

I can definitely vouch for studying what you’re excited about – I enjoyed my four subjects at AS Level so much that I kept on all four at A Level (whilst also in process of applying to both UK and US universities!) Also, if you are already quite future minded (it’s OK if you’re not, that’s what Sixth Form is there for!), you should look ahead at what courses are required at university level. What I mean by this, is that if you’re thinking that you want to study Economics at university, then find out what A-Levels are generally required to do so (hint: you’ll need a fair bit of Mathematics!). This will enable you to have the confidence in knowing that the subjects you’ll take will help you get to your desired next level.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“All students regardless of background should receive the best education possible and I strongly believe the NCS will offer this opportunity to students. Having been taught by some of the teachers at the NCS I do not doubt the quality of teaching at all. Ultimately, I feel it is the extra-curricular support that truly distinguishes the sixth form to others. You will have the opportunity to receive one to one support during your university applications, develop the critical skills required when leaving sixth form and slowly begin developing your professional network, which is key for any path you choose.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“Be as informed as possible. If you are 100% sure on the profession you would like to enter then it is important to choose subjects that will allow you to enter this profession. If you are unsure on the profession you would like to enter (don’t worry I was like that too!), I would suggest choosing a wide range of traditional subjects that not only plays to your strengths but also those you enjoy.

Finally, talk to people about their A-Level experiences; the more questions you ask, the more you will be able to judge if it’s the subject for you!”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“Having attended Little Ilford School, Ms Yvonne Powell was my head teacher and she was fantastic, enthusiastic and a charismatic leader. I see the same values in Mr Ismail who has worked with leading companies and bodies to provide an excellent education service at the Collegiate.

Applying to sixth forms 5 years ago, I would have loved to have had the opportunity to apply to the NCS because it will be run by some of the best people in their fields who will put their pupils first and maintain a great educational ethos. I truly believe in the saying ‘you are what your company keeps’ and I believe the people that NCS will create will be people of success, inspiration and motivation, somewhere I would love to have attended and indulged myself in the spectacular facilities it has to offer, for example the debating chamber!”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“Do something YOU enjoy and are willing to physically roll your sleeves up and put your back into it. Too often students chose options to please their parents for example and ignore their real talents and abilities. I would say embrace those talents and choose a subject that will help build your career and help you in the degree you choose to do. For example, I chose social science subjects during my A levels and it has really helped me in my Law Degree.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“In my opinion, no other sixth form or college will be as dedicated to the success of its students as the teachers at the NCS. The NCS doesn’t only define success as achieving A*s and As at the end of your two year course but strives to develop confident, articulate, scholarly students who aspire to be the future leaders in every sphere of professional and social life. The NCS has fantastic links with top firms in the city as well as recruiters from the top universities, the NCS has “levelled the playing field” to give students from less privileged backgrounds a real opportunity to succeed and achieve – there is nothing stopping NCS students getting the best degrees and best jobs in the UK – or even outside the UK!”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“The best advice I can give is to always use your situation to your advantage and to never settle for less. Never look at a highly paid professional or a Nobel Prize winner and think “if only I could do it” – look at them and ask yourself “why not me.” Opportunities are there for everyone, seize and make the best use of them! Also apply to summer schools with the top universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, LSE and UCL; the NCS will be able to help you with these and more importantly give you the advice and guidance to be successful. Spend your time finding out about the subjects you really enjoy and really delve into them and read as much as you can about them. NCS has an excellent programme that will help you develop into academics who are able to think critically about your subjects. I’m really looking forward to meeting you in September and assisting you achieve your aims and ambitions.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“When universities view applications from students, they are not only interested in those individuals who achieve high grades but also want students that are well-rounded to join them. It is important to stand out from the other applicants if you are to have a good chance of securing a place. Looking at the extensive set of enrichment activities on offer at the NCS, students that attend this sixth form will benefit greatly when it comes to applying for university. Having been taught by some of the NCS staff I have nothing but praise for their teaching methods and passion for their subjects.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“When I had to choose what courses I wanted to do at A Level I already knew what profession I wanted to go into. Therefore, I decided to choose subjects, which would enable me to develop the skills that I would need at university. However, it is not a problem if you are unsure about what you want to study at university or what career path you want to choose as many people are often in that position. The important thing to remember is that you need to keep your options open at this point so that you are not limited as to what you can go into in the future. Choose subjects that you are good at but also choose those subjects that you enjoy as you will have to study that subject for at least a year. Also, don’t be afraid to ask those who have already been in your position about what subjects they chose and what options it opened for them.”

Why should students attend the NCS?
“As I went through the hurdles of changing schools for A-Levels, I wished there was somewhere like the NCS where I would be valued as an individual as well as be able to stay and study in Newham. There was a real void, however NCS has eliminated that. Students studying here will enjoy the real sense of enrichment required to make our teenagers well-rounded university students and future employees. What sets NCS apart is that here, every student is catered for, be it medicine you want to pursue or an arts subject. There is no hierarchy and everyone is supported. Community links, career evenings, fun activities, educational trips abroad..it all starts here guys!”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“This is your future and your drive and passion will shape and mould it into the way you want it to be! Be confident about your choices but be realistic. The ability to combine what you enjoy and what you are good at of course will come with experience and time, but it’s wise to start from your A level choices. Research around and try to think of future university courses/careers that appeal to you and use this as a benchmark to make your subject choices. Ultimately, it is your valuable time you will be investing in mastering them, so choose well, with enough thought and speak to people you know who have studied them. Ask us!”

Why should students attend the NCS?
“Education is broader than passing exams well. That is of course absolutely necessary, as is an impeccable work ethic. But education is also gained from experiences and a good education involves the development of skills that can sometimes be hard to define. I would attend the NCS because they are very aware of this and are dedicated to provide their students with opportunities to develop and refine talents that will make for successful careers. The NCS has already showcased its ability to produce amazing grades but there is also a strategic goal amongst teachers and management to inspire students and to go above and beyond so that they can achieve whatever it is they set out to achieve.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“I remember reading on the WHO website once that about 60% of us spend a third of our adult life at work. It’s so important that you enjoy the career you choose. I think it’s OK to not have it all figured out. The trajectory of your careers and choices will evolve with time however A levels are a great opportunity to start thinking about what you enjoy and focusing attention on certain subject areas. I think you should first and foremost choose subjects that you enjoy. I would also research career options, go for work experience and ensure that the subjects chosen lend themselves to a couple of the careers you are thinking about pursuing.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“Getting into medicine was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but also my greatest achievement. I struggled in secondary school as a person who was certain to get 5 A-Cs and could therefore be left alone. When I reached sixth form I felt I was behind everyone else and had to work that bit harder to catch up and that was before I even considered getting into university. Students at the NCS will have the unique experience of an A level program that is tailored to get you into the best universities in the country. Because getting into university, especially the competitive courses, isn’t all about good grades. You’re expected to be a rounded individual that stands out to the selection panel with a variety of extracurricular activities as well as a fantastic application, an extraordinary personal statement and a great interview. It’s hard to fit all that in when you’re trying your best to get the top grades. The NCS staff and student mentors will work tirelessly to ensure you have all of this and more for when you apply to the course of your dreams at a top UK university and I’m really excited to help the medical students of the future.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“Think long term. If you’re lucky enough to know what career path you want to go into spend some time looking at university requirements for those courses and look at A levels based on those. That being said, picking a subject you hate will not work well so unless you really need it for your university course maybe look at a subject that will offer the same transferable skills. If you are unsure of what you want to study at university then pick a broad range of subjects to give you as many skills as possible. And finally, no matter what degree you want to do, or what career you’re looking at going into, pick one A level that you will love. I picked English literature and it was a class I always looked forward to. And you never know, it may prove useful to have a qualification in something unrelated to your planned future. My A level in English Lit is now allowing me to do a masters in medical education.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“Education empowers people to believe in their abilities and to go out and create positive change, especially at a young age! I think anyone who is serious about long-term change should invest in themselves first and I am confident that the NCS is the best institution to help students thrive in their respected fields.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“I love proverbs and here is one: Do what you love and love what you do. I never knew what profession I wanted to pursue but what I did know was that I enjoyed sciences and I liked new challenges. My advice to students who are unsure about what they want to study, is to speak to those who were in their shoes not too long ago. These people can provide invaluable advice on how to avoid mistakes (such as picking an A-level which is not recognised by the institutional degree programme). Just remember that it’s ok not to know what you want to do in life and sometimes you have be patient until you decide what’s ideal for you. Keep doing something until it works. It worked for me.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“The common trend is for the most hard working and career driven students of Newham to join 6th Form schools and colleges outside the borough. The NCS offers an exciting opportunity for students in Newham to have the same, if not higher standards of teaching and facilities to assist their learning, in order to help them achieve the most competitive grades. There are exciting opportunities available to potential students, such as assistance with university applications and gaining relevant work experience, summer schools, workshops/tutorials and many more.

With a skilled and successful team, bringing forth a magnitude of experiences of the educational field, the 6th Form represents an idea which is new to the Students of Newham. The main aim of the school is to provide the foundations for students to stand upon in order to achieve the highest grades and thrive towards obtaining a place in the best universities.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“The subjects chosen for A Levels are vital as they ultimately determine the career pathways that are both available and most suited for individual students. It is important to take into consideration the topics that are most enjoyed, whilst also understanding the job prospects that would be accessible from the chosen courses. Having an awareness of the field you want to go into is ideal. However, if this is not currently apparent, it would be beneficial to undertake some career based research. This would allow students to gain information regarding the different fields available and help determine the most attractive; whether that is Medicine, Research, Law, Economics, Journalism and so forth.

Additionally, if the student knows what degree they wish to study, a good idea is to look on the UCAS website. This would help them identify both the subjects and the grade requirements that specific universities require in order to obtain a place in the chosen course.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“As Newham students you have a fantastic and rare opportunity. The NCS have created a team of motivated, knowledgeable and experienced individuals who will focus on supporting your ambitions and give you the skills and information you need to achieve these.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“It’s OK not to know what you want to do with the rest of your life right now. I didn’t know either.

Whether you know or not, make sure you do your research. Talk to people who work in the areas you are interested in, find out what qualifications are needed for those jobs – most will require a relevant degree and those in turn will have certain A level entry requirements.

If you don’t enjoy the subjects that your chosen career demands, think early about whether this is really right for you. Do you really know what this job involves on a daily basis? Make sure you’re picking something you want to work hard at.

If you really don’t know, focus on what you enjoy and if you can, keep the subjects broad. I was terrified I would get my choices wrong and close lots of doors – but there are always chances to change your career path – so don’t panic.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“The educational environment created by the institution that you attend has a colossal impact on your achievements and enjoyment of your course. The NCS is creating a success-orientated, focused and supportive environment for the students so that they may achieve to the best of their abilities as well as enjoy their time studying their A-Level subjects.

Moreover, the NCS already has very strong links with top industries and universities, which is going to provide its students with the competitive edge and essential information and understanding that they need, so that they are fully prepared to make the life changing decision of applying to a top university.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“Firstly, if you have an idea about what you want to study at university, research the entry requirements for that course in university prospectuses and choose your A levels appropriately. However if, like me, you do not know what you want to do, then there are three things to consider when you are choosing your A levels:

1. The subjects you are good at
2. The subjects you enjoy
3. Keeping your options open

That is how I decided on my A levels. I considered the subjects I was good at and the ones I enjoyed. If you’re still not sure what to choose, think of a subject area (such as science, art, humanities) and choose a core subject from that area that you are good at and can see yourself studying in a huge amount of depth for two years!”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“The NCS will provide the students of Newham the opportunity of choosing a credible sixth form in their local area. It will allow students to choose an excellent sixth form, which has an outstanding set of capable and caring teachers who will help them achieve their potential. I can say this, as a few of the teachers I know are going to be teaching at the sixth form. With such a great team of teachers who are committed to a student’s education, the pupils can thrive in an academic environment and excel academically and later on in life. A great set of A-levels will provide a strong foundation for the future.

I also have a great love for sport and with a leisure centre practically next door to the sixth form, it is an opportunity no student should pass. Sports can relieve stress as well as keeping the body and mind fit.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“Choosing subjects for A-levels can be confusing and decisions can be made in haste. I remember not to long ago when I was choosing my A-levels and unfortunately I was one of the students who, to meet deadlines just put down a subject for the wrong reasons. At the time I didn’t feel I had someone to support me through this process and as an mentor I hope to provide this role for students. A-levels are the foundations on which the future of a young person’s life will rest upon. The results that are obtained in these two very short years will provide the opportunity for a person to enter a degree of their choosing. For these reasons it is of the utmost importance to choose A-level subjects which the student really enjoys, but also ones that the student is good at, so the highest levels could be achieved.

Also students in sixth form also need to make the crucial decision in what degree or job they would like to go into in the future. Personally going through the application process, I remember it being a confusing and sometimes even scary. There were times when I felt that I really needed support in writing my personal statement, which can be a lengthy and difficult process. When I was applying for medicine, I was aware of the fact that there is strong competition in this country, especially for universities in London and often it is here, most people wish to study. It is vital that anyone who wants to apply, should build their personal statements, early on with what they learnt from various experiences rather than simply listing various work experiences. At the NCS you will receive all the support and guidance that you need from NCS Mentors and the very strong links that the NCS has.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“The NCS has the staff and skills needed by young students to be able to help them make incredibly important decisions about their careers. The NCS has the expertise to help students get into university and also guide them towards a career pathway that they will love and enjoy.

I have been fortunate enough to be mentored by some of the staff at the NCS and I can honestly say that without their support and advice, I would not be where I am today. Taking their advice and listening to their experiences played a huge role in making my decision about applying for Medicine and it’s the best decision I’ve ever made – I absolutely love studying Medicine at Barts and have never looked back!”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“Take your time in making a decision and always choose subjects you find interesting, particularly if you are still undecided about what you’d like to study in the future. That way, you’ll enjoy your two years at sixth form and go on to study a degree you thoroughly enjoy.

If you already have an idea of what you would like to study at university, I would advise you to reach out and speak to as many people as possible who have an understanding of that course. Also, if you’re already considering where to apply, I would suggest reading into the course structure at different universities and actually visiting the universities to really get a feel for what the next few years have in store for you.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“The NCS offers a great opportunity for students to be stretched, challenged and supported in their application to the most competitive universities in the UK and abroad. The high calibre of teachers within this sixth-form, which I can personally vouch for, are passionate, enthusiastic and dedicated and will definitely provide you with a high quality class room environment. This will definitely drive students to excel and allow them to make an informed decision about the area of study they wish to pursue at University.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“Students choosing their courses should definitely go for subjects they are interested in and subjects that they can excel in; which in most cases go hand in hand. However being interested in the subject is of major importance as it will make it easier when studying difficult topics due to your own genuine interest. Furthermore, if you have some idea of what you want to pursue at University make sure you check course requirements or recommended subjects for the particular degree in advance of your A levels. However do keep in mind when you enter sixth-form your interests may change and become more defined as you move through the first year. Have confidence in what you are interested in, it will take you far!”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“The NCS is based on a solid foundation of teachers who want to push and stretch students to their full potential, something I can personally vouch for, having been mentored by some of them myself. This, coupled with the alumni contact base, provides additional guidance to students and makes it a winning combination.”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“If you’re not sure what subjects to study, pick the ones you enjoy and have a passion for and do some research to see what career paths you could take with them.”

Why should students attend The NCS?
“When I was offered the privilege to become an NCS Mentor, I naturally wanted to know more about the new sixth form and so I explored their website and spoke to the teachers. And now, I can honestly say I want to go back to Sixth Form. Why does time go by so quickly? But that aside, the NCS offers a massive range of opportunities that were not so readily available when I was doing my A-levels. First and foremost, I was very impressed by the Emerging Talents Programme on offer as everyone knows work experience is essential in order to pursue a degree of high calibre such as Medicine, Dentistry or Law and this programme facilitates the process. Moreover, when going through the enrichment activities, I noticed they had a ‘learn to write and speak Arabic’ course which piqued my interest as I have wanted to learn Arabic for a long time, mainly to understand my religion fully but there are also great career opportunities on offer in Arab speaking countries such as Dubai (I’ll let you do your research!). And last but not least, if nothing seems to make the NCS stand out to you, then go because you will be in safe hands with the amazing staff (some of whom I can personally vouch for). You won’t regret it!”

What advice would you give students when choosing their courses?
“Choosing your course will always be a time of uncertainty (unless you know what career you would like to pursue after university). However I was in that boat once too and I chose to do what I’m best at (which, naturally, were the subjects I most enjoyed). I had a passion for Languages but Science intrigued me also and I wasn’t sure which one I was more inclined towards so I chose to undertake two from each of these headings in order to create some form of balance. This is important as although some universities don’t mind which subjects you achieve your expected grades in, most of the top universities would demand that at least two of your A-level subjects correspond to the degree you have chosen. For example, a degree in Biology or Chemistry at a good university would require you to achieve at least two A-grades in either Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics. However the best thing to do, in my opinion, is that if you have a vague idea of what you would like to study at university, make a list of all the possible subjects and check out their grade requirements at the universities you would most like to attend. This will allow you to narrow down the number of choices and know where your focus must lie. And as to those who have no clue at all, don’t worry! It will become clearer as the year progresses.”