A Levels

The development was announced following a review of Sixth Form curricula, undertaken at both KES and KEHS during the Autumn Term of 2024. This review comprised a consultation involving pupils, parents and staff, as well as feasibility studies into different options for the schools’ Sixth Forms.  

It was clear from the surveys that parents and pupils at both schools were primarily looking for an academically successful Sixth Form which prepared pupils for university through high quality teaching and the promotion of independent thinking and learning. They also talked about support, from staff who knew and understood each child as an individual and who supported them to achieve their potential. The Sixth Form experience should also balance academic success with co-curricular activities, wellbeing and enrichment.    

While many KES parents, pupils and staff valued the IB Diploma’s broad stimulation and preparation for life beyond university, there was a very strong desire from parents and pupils for the opportunity to take A Levels at KES, primarily to facilitate greater depth of study and flexibility in subject choices.  

While A Levels have been reintroduced at KES, we are committed to building on the legacy of the IB Diploma, which has been an important part of our story over the last 15 years.  

Sixth Formers at both KES and KEHS benefit from a wider bespoke curriculum, retaining strength in developing critical thinking and service learning, which are valued by so many parents at KES and indeed have been part of the KES and KEHS stories for generations. A Levels are the examined qualification providing the depth of study that pupils and parents are looking for.  

We are proud to offer a great breadth of subjects, at a time when many other schools are shrinking their offer. 

The wider curriculum embeds the essential skills which pupils will need for life: a broad perspective, cultural, digital and financial literacy, healthy living and effective learning habits. It is balanced with study periods and the flexibility for each pupil to have a choice in what is taken through to examination. In sum, we have combined the holistic vision of the IB Diploma with the depth of A Levels, from a position of great strength.  

As we look to an exciting future, King Edward’s School and King Edward VI High School for Girls will remain two distinct schools, with a shared ambition- to offer the very best education to their pupils, creating a life-long love of learning in a stimulating and supportive environment.