University & UCAS

Higher Education Preparation at University Academy Holbeach Sixth Form

Preparing students for life beyond Sixth Form is at the heart of what we do at University Academy Holbeach. Our Higher Education preparation programme ensures that every student — regardless of their background or starting point — has the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to move successfully into university, higher or degree apprenticeships, or other advanced pathways.

Led by Head of Sixth Form, Mrs Evans, and Learning Coordinator & Mr Svarc, our team works closely with students to provide personalised guidance at every stage. Supported by Assistant Learning Coordinators, Miss Mawer and Mrs Brown, we combine strong pastoral care with high academic expectations to fully prepare students for the challenges of higher education.

Clear Guidance on Courses, Routes and Destinations

From the beginning of Year 12, students receive structured support to explore potential university and higher education routes. We help them understand the differences between traditional degrees, foundation courses, higher and degree apprenticeships, and more specialised pathways such as teaching, healthcare or public services.

Time is dedicated to identifying students’ interests, strengths and aspirations, and matching these to appropriate courses and institutions. We encourage students to research universities beyond just their reputation, looking at teaching styles, assessment formats, placement opportunities and graduate outcomes.

Dedicated UCAS and Application Support

Our UCAS programme guides students step by step through the entire application process. From setting up UCAS accounts and drafting personal statements to choosing the right courses and meeting deadlines, students receive clear, structured support throughout.

References and predicted grades are carefully prepared in collaboration with subject teachers, while the full Sixth Form team — including Mrs Evans, Miss Mawer and Mrs Brown — work together to check and quality-assure all applications. This ensures that every submission is accurate, polished and competitive.

Students receive ongoing feedback on personal statements and guidance for interviews, admissions tests and portfolio preparation where needed.

Academic Readiness and Study Skills

Higher education requires independence, critical thinking and effective study habits. Throughout Years 12 and 13, students are encouraged to take greater responsibility for their learning, manage deadlines and develop effective revision strategies.

Teachers emphasise skills such as extended writing, research, evaluation of sources and independent study. We help students build confidence in reading beyond the syllabus, engaging with academic material and contributing their own ideas — all essential skills for degree-level study.

Where necessary, additional support is provided for organisation, time management and exam preparation to ensure students are ready for university expectations.

Experiences Beyond the Classroom

We believe that first-hand experiences help students make informed decisions about their future. Students are encouraged to attend university open days, subject taster sessions and virtual talks. We regularly organise visits and invite a range of speakers, including university representatives, student ambassadors and former UAH learners who share their experiences.

These opportunities help students understand campus life, student finance, academic expectations and the realities of studying away from home.

Support for All Pathways

Our approach recognises that university is one of several excellent routes available to students. We support learners exploring all higher-level options, including higher and degree apprenticeships, specialist training programmes and vocational qualifications.

Students receive clear, unbiased guidance to help them compare opportunities, understand entry requirements and choose pathways that best match their personal goals and career ambitions. Whether a student aims for a competitive Russell Group university or a practical apprenticeship pathway, we ensure they have the support and information required to succeed.

Strong Pastoral Support Throughout

Our pastoral— ensures that students feel supported both academically and personally throughout their Sixth Form journey. Regular mentoring, progress review meetings and wellbeing support help students stay focused, manage pressure and maintain balance.

By the time they leave UAH Sixth Form, students are fully equipped not only with the qualifications they need, but also with the resilience, independence and self-belief essential for succeeding in higher education.

UAH ensures students are academically and personally prepared for the transition to higher education.