Uniform and Routines

We are very proud of our Sixth Form. This applies to work ethic, community and also our presentation and appearance.

We are very proud of our sixth form. This applies to work ethic, community and also our presentation and appearance.

As the vast majority of our students progress to top universities, our dress code mirrors expectations of dress at Russell Group and Oxbridge universities. We therefore expect that all students will dress in a way that is appropriate for learning or for any sixth form sponsored event. Student dress choices should respect the intent to sustain a community that is inclusive of a diverse range of identities.

Cowes Sixth Form is responsible for seeing that student attire does not interfere with the health or safety of any student, that student attire does not contribute to a hostile or intimidating atmosphere for any student.

There will be times throughout the year when all sixth form students will be required to dress in formal attire such as suits or business wear. These include rememberence day, Speech, Mock Trial, Open Days, Prize Giving and interviews. Please ensure you have access to appropriate formal wear for such occasions.

You will have your photograph taken and the ID cards will be issued within the first month. You must wear your lanyard and ID cards at all times within the building.

This is essential for safeguarding.

You will need to have a pen, pencil and ruler in every lesson as well as a ring binder folder to organise course notes, revision resources and assessment data.

Other stationery equipment such as highlighters, coloured pencils, rubbers, pencil sharpeners etc. would also be useful.

You will be provided with lined paper in lessons to make the essential learning notes from the lesson and it is your responsibility as sixth form students to take full responsibility for your learning.

Academy teaching staff will supply a recommended book list and for most subjects you are expected to buy the core text book; you will be advised of the details when you begin classes.

Some subject have their own specialist equipment lists.

You are expected to take responsibility for full attendance and consistent punctuality to all lessons and enrichment activities. We cannot help you to achieve your future aspirations if your attendance is inconsistent.

Remember also that you will often require references for future university, apprenticeships and employers which take attendance into consideration when assessing applications.

Our most successful students are in the academy between 8:30am and 3pm as a minimum. There is a strong correlation between academic success and high attendance and therefore we expect all sixth formers to aim towards 100% attendance.

Medical and dental appointments

Where possible these should be arranged for after school or during school holidays. The academy understands that this is not always possible, however, you should attend school prior to or following a medical/dental appointment and avoid a full days absence. If you have a hospital, orthodontist, driving test, university visit, religious festival or other authorised appointment you should advise our attendance – [email protected] and your tutor in advance of the intended absence.

Holidays during term time

We strongly discourage the taking of holidays during term time and do not authorise term
time holidays.

Unplanned absence

You must email [email protected] or telephone the attendance office before 9:00am am to notify us of your unexpected absence for that day (01983 203103). Full details of your reason for absence will be required.

Our team will then notify teachers of your absence. If you have to go home from school due to illness, you must report to reception and inform your form tutor via email. Once parents/carers have been contacted, you must sign and swipe out using your ID card before leaving the premises.

There is a cashless catering service, so you will have an account for food with our academy. You are allowed to eat and drink within the designated dining areas and within the sixth form common room. Please keep your common room clean and tidy.

For further information about the cashless catering system contact reception.