Transforming Futures
A significant investment in the new Higher Line provision at Stonyhurst College is transforming the Sixth Form experience, catering to the evolving needs of today’s young adults
The innovative Sixth Form space at Stonyhurst provides senior pupils with transformative opportunities, unlocking a diverse array of educational and career pathways. This thoughtfully designed environment combines a structured and comprehensive timetable with a strong emphasis on promoting independence.
The investment in the Sixth Form (Higher Line) areas significantly enriches the curriculum, facilitating pupils’ seamless transition to university and the professional world. At the core of Higher Line is the Stonyhurst ethos of nurturing ‘men and women for others’, which fosters leadership among pupils.
For 16 to 18-year-olds, joining the Sixth Form at Stonyhurst gives them a new perspective, presenting them with a chance to flourish and discover career paths that align with their interests.
The newly designed common rooms, known throughout the College as ‘Playrooms,’ feature dedicated study areas and inviting relaxation spaces.
PLAYROOMS & STUDY AREAS
The term ‘Playroom’ is a long-held tradition at Stonyhurst and is derived from the emphasis on drama within a Jesuit education.
The new Poetry (Year 12) and Rhetoric (Year 13) Playrooms have been created to encourage study and interaction. The areas are bright and contemporary, thoughtfully designed to reflect the typical working environments of the 21st century.
A global perspective is a defining feature of the school, particularly within Higher Line, where pupils are not only prepared for their next educational or career steps but are empowered to explore opportunities around the world.
One of the expansive new areas evokes a classic Oxford-style university common room, creating a prestigious yet comfortable environment. It features traditional leather Chesterfields and walls adorned with historic Stonyhurst photographs, while other spaces embrace a more relaxed, contemporary university campus feel.
COLLABORATIONS
Collaboration is key to the new Higher Line zones where pupils and teachers work together, as Assistant Head Edward Allanson explains: “In today’s environment employees or university students may not have their own workspace, they may be ‘hot desking’ so pupils need to be prepared to adapt to different spaces to work effectively.
“The new Higher Line spaces empower pupils to collaborate on various projects in group settings. These distinctive areas encourage a sense of independence, distinguishing senior pupils as they take charge of their learning experience.’’
In addition to the new Higher Line areas, Sixth Formers have access to further spaces for independent study, including Stonyhurst’s historic libraries, cultivating a spirit of autonomy in their academic pursuits.
CURRICULUM
New Sixth Formers joining the College in Year 12, in addition to those who have had the advantage and continuity of a Stonyhurst education from a young age, are offered three different routes of study – as opposed to the traditional single A level route.
Study options include the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, A levels and the Cambridge Technical Diploma (CTEC) in Sport or Business.
These three pathways provide flexibility, allowing for tailored programmes that align with each pupil’s learning profile, university goals and future career aspirations.
“Depending on the year group, around a third to a half of pupils go down the IB route,” explains Mr Allanson.
“It’s an amazing course with a global approach – it is an important part of who we are at Stonyhurst.”
The Class of 2024 achieved an impressive average of 145 UCAS points, which equates to three A grades at A level, highlighting the exceptional academic standards at Stonyhurst.
UNIVERSITY PREPARATION
Stonyhurst pupils benefit from a dedicated Careers Department that provides an extensive range of resources and expert advice to help them navigate their future choices. Engaging assemblies are held to explore various career paths and university options, including opportunities at institutions worldwide and apprenticeships. Stonyhurst’s strong alumni network connects young people with global leaders who offer valuable insights and guidance in their respective fields.
The Careers Department at Stonyhurst is an invaluable resource. The team assists pupils in preparing for their futures beyond Stonyhurst, providing insight into a variety of options and empowering them to make informed decisions.
Mr Allanson adds: “We collaborate closely with organisations to stay informed about industry trends, ensuring that our pupils leave Stonyhurst fully prepared for the future.’’
UNICORN COFFEE SHOP
The newly created Higher Line spaces include the Unicorn Coffee Shop, formerly a common room, which has been transformed into an exclusive haven for Sixth Form pupils to relax, socialise and enjoy snacks or a light lunch—distinct from the main College refectory. This vibrant environment radiates the lively atmosphere of a high street coffee shop.
LEADERSHIP AND MENTORING
Although the new space is designated for Higher Line, interaction between senior and younger pupils is promoted. Sixth Formers are encouraged to cultivate vital leadership skills through a pupil-led initiative called Stonyhurst Line Families, designed to connect pupils across all year groups. “There is no superiority attached to Higher Line as every pupil is an essential part of the College,” explains Mr. Allanson.
Mentoring and mixing with younger pupils has formed a crucial part of the recent integration of Years 7 and 8 into the main college building – bringing the College in line with other educational settings. The 11 and 12-year-olds, formerly accommodated in Stonyhurst’s Prep School, now have dedicated classrooms and Playrooms known as Aloysius House: “The Sixth Formers have played a major part in welcoming Year 7 and 8 pupils to the College, talking them through the way things work.
“For Higher Line, this gives the senior pupils a real sense of supporting the younger ones, a tangible sense of leadership that works on every level.”
Stonyhurst College
Clitheroe BB7 9PZ
01254 827073
ukadmissions@stonyhurst.ac.uk
stonyhurst.ac.uk
