How to Help Your Child Get The Most Out Of Sixth Form
The transition to sixth form is a big step in your child’s academic journey. It’s a time of greater independence, deeper learning, and important decisions that can shape their future. Whether your child is preparing for university, an apprenticeship, or entering the workforce, sixth form offers crucial opportunities to grow both academically and personally. As a parent or caregiver, your support can make all the difference. Here’s some advice from a private sixth form college in Surrey:
Understand the Shift in Expectations
Sixth form is different from secondary school. Students are expected to take more responsibility for their learning, manage their time effectively, and think more critically. Teachers offer guidance, but students are encouraged to be more self-motivated and independent.
How you can help: Talk to your child about the importance of staying organised and proactive. Encourage them to take ownership of their studies while letting them know you’re there if they need support.
Create a Productive Study Environment
A dedicated, quiet space for studying at home can make a huge difference in focus and productivity. Sixth form work is more demanding and often includes independent research, essay writing, and revision.
How you can help: Work with your child to set up a comfortable, distraction-free study space. Help them create a realistic study schedule—especially around exam times—and check in on how it’s going without micromanaging.
Support Time Management and Organisation
Between coursework, deadlines, part-time jobs, and social lives, time can easily get away from sixth form students. Good organisation is key to avoiding last-minute stress.
How you can help: Encourage the use of planners, apps, or calendars to keep track of assignments and deadlines. Help them break larger tasks into manageable chunks, and talk about strategies for avoiding procrastination.
Encourage a Healthy Balance
Sixth form can be intense, and it’s important your child doesn’t burn out. Encouraging a balance between academics, extra curriculars, social time, and rest is essential for well-being.
How you can help: Keep an eye on stress levels. Encourage regular breaks, physical activity, and time with friends or family. Promote healthy sleep habits—late-night cramming isn’t effective in the long run.
Be Involved, But Not Overbearing
Teenagers want independence, but they also need to know you’re there. Stay engaged by asking about their courses, teachers, and experiences. Celebrate their successes and help them learn from setbacks.
How you can help: Attend parent evenings, read school communications, and keep open lines of communication at home. Show interest without applying pressure—let your child lead the conversation about their goals and challenges.
Discuss Future Plans and Options
Sixth form is often when students start thinking seriously about life after school—whether that means university, an apprenticeship, or something else. These decisions can feel overwhelming.
How you can help: Have open conversations about their interests, strengths, and aspirations. Offer guidance on researching options, preparing applications, or writing personal statements—but let them steer the decision-making process.
Encourage Resilience and a Growth Mindset
Not everything will go perfectly during sixth form. Whether it’s a low grade or a tough day, how your child responds can shape their confidence and motivation.
How you can help: Remind them that setbacks are part of the learning process. Praise effort as much as achievement, and help them see challenges as opportunities to grow.
Sixth form is a time of transformation—academically, socially, and emotionally. With your support, your child can make the most of these two important years, laying a strong foundation for the future.
By encouraging independence, providing structure, and staying connected, you can help your child thrive—not just survive—in sixth form.
