Enrichment
We offer a range of Enrichment opportunities at Lord Lawson Sixth Form.
EPQ (Extended Programme Qualification)
EPQ is an A-level standard standalone qualification designed to extend and develop students’ abilities beyond the A-level syllabus and prepare for university or their future career. It can be taken as an extension of other Level 3 qualifications or vocational qualifications and is worth half an A-level (up to 28 UCAS points). The EPQ is recognised by universities and employers and many universities make lower A-level offers to students undertaking an EPQ.
Students lead their own projects, planning and carrying out research on a topic that they’ve chosen. They can take inspiration from something touched on in class or something personal and unrelated to their studies. This research is then used to produce a written report and, in the case of practical projects, an artefact or a production.
Students can develop skills which are valuable for higher education, including:
- become more critical, reflective and independent learners
- develop and apply decision-making and problem-solving skills
- increase their planning, research, analysis, synthesis, evaluation and presentation skills
- learn to apply technologies confidently
- demonstrate creativity, initiative and enterprise.
Student Leadership Opportunities
The Student Leadership Team offers sixth formers a unique opportunity to develop essential leadership, communication, and organisational skills while making a real impact on school life. Members of the team represent the sixth form student body through a variety of roles, contributing to key decisions, supporting school events, and leading initiatives that enhance the learning environment for all.
It’s a chance to:
- Develop leadership skills through planning projects, mentoring younger students, and chairing meetings.
- Influence school policy by providing student perspectives to staff and governors.
- Organise and run events such as charity fundraisers, assemblies, and enrichment activities.
- Build your university and career profile, demonstrating initiative, teamwork, and responsibility.
The Student Leadership Team is open to all motivated sixth formers who want to make a difference, challenge themselves, and leave a lasting legacy in the school community.
First Aid
Students work with St John’s Ambulance, who deliver relevant, life-saving first aid skills in their ‘Street First Aid’ sessions, tailored to our sixth form students.
Through interactive sessions based on real-life, first aid situations that are relevant to many young people’s lives today, students will learn practical skills while improving their confidence and knowledge when dealing with emergency situations.
Sessions cover:
- responding to a catastrophic bleed
- dealing with an alcohol or vape spiking incident
- performing a primary survey and CPR
- how first aid situations affect mental health and wellbeing, and how to get support
British Sign Language
The BSL Enrichment programme offers students the opportunity to explore both the language and culture of the Deaf community. Sessions provide a fascinating introduction to the history and development of BSL as a recognised language, while also raising awareness of the experiences and perspectives of Deaf and hard-of-hearing people.
Students will begin to acquire practical communication skills, including finger spelling, essential greetings, and everyday signs, enabling them to introduce themselves confidently and begin simple conversations with BSL users. Alongside this, students will develop strategies for inclusive communication, such as fingerspelling unfamiliar words.
Beyond learning the basics, the enrichment emphasises the importance of accessibility and inclusion. Students are encouraged to reflect on how even small efforts—such as using a few signs—can help build understanding, reduce barriers, and make members of the Deaf community feel welcomed and respected.
This enrichment not only equips students with a valuable life skill but also fosters empathy, cultural awareness, and a deeper appreciation of linguistic diversity.
Fitness
Our fully equipped fitness suite is available exclusively to sixth form students during their enrichment hour. Whether you are new to exercise or already have a regular training routine, the suite offers a supportive environment to develop your fitness, strength, and wellbeing.
Students can access a wide range of equipment, including cardio machines, free weights, and resistance training stations. Staff are on hand to give guidance on technique as well as to ensure safe and effective use of all facilities.
The fitness suite is not just about physical health—it’s also a space to boost mental wellbeing, relieve stress, and build confidence. Many students find that regular exercise helps them focus better in lessons and improves their overall energy levels.
Reading Partners
The Reading Partners scheme gives sixth form students the chance to make a real difference in the lives of younger pupils. As a Reading Partner, you will be paired with Year 7 or Year 8 students who could benefit from extra support in developing their literacy skills.
Through weekly one-to-one sessions, you will help younger students build confidence, improve fluency, and develop a greater enjoyment of reading. Your encouragement and positive role-modelling can transform their attitude to learning and support their progress across the entire curriculum.
This scheme is also a fantastic opportunity for sixth formers to strengthen their own skills in communication, mentoring, and responsibility. It is particularly valuable for those considering careers in education, psychology, or any role working with young people. Above all, it allows you to contribute to the school community in a meaningful and rewarding way.
VEX Robotics
VEX Robotics offers a dynamic and engaging platform for student enrichment, blending hands-on learning with real-world applications in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Through designing, building, and programming robots, students develop critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
It encourages problem-solving through trial and error, fosters resilience, and nurtures a growth mindset. Students gain exposure to coding, mechanical design, and teamwork—skills that are increasingly vital in today’s technology-driven world.
It encourages problem-solving through trial and error, fosters resilience, and nurtures a growth mindset. Students gain exposure to coding, mechanical design, and teamwork—skills that are increasingly vital in today’s technology-driven world.
Year 7 in-class support
As part of the enrichment programme, sixth form students have the opportunity to take on a valuable mentoring role by supporting Year 7 lessons. This experience allows you to work alongside teachers, providing guidance and encouragement to younger students as they settle into secondary school life.
You might be helping individuals who need a little extra support, leading small group activities, or assisting with classroom tasks to keep lessons running smoothly. This role is an excellent way to develop leadership, patience, and communication skills, while also making a real difference to the learning and confidence of younger pupils.
For those considering careers in teaching, childcare, youth work, or any role involving teamwork and responsibility, this is a fantastic opportunity to gain first-hand experience. It’s also a chance to contribute positively to the school community and act as a role model for our newest students.
Sports Leaders
The course aims to provide pupils with employability skills through leadership and is ideal for developing communication, self-belief, teamwork, self -management and problem solving.
Pupils will complete 14 hours of leadership within our community to demonstrate skills and behaviours learned over the course. This can be achieved through local sports clubs and feeder schools. Students will also complete a written booklet to reflect on their planning and delivery of these events. Students are expected to attend all sessions and complete work independently.
It is also worth up to 16 UCAS Points!
The Sports Leaders course allows you to gain an insight into lesson and event planning. It also helps develop leadership and adaptability skills that can then be transferred to wider life. It’s perfect if you are considering a career in the following: Coaching, Teaching, Events Management, SEN Management, Sports Development.
