Dear Parents and Guardians,

Recently, our Year 11 students took part in AS Taster Sessions, giving them a brief insight into the courses we offer at Sixth Form. Since then, we’ve received lots of feedback and questions from students, which makes this the perfect opportunity to share with parents the extensive support available at Cathays High School.

Cathays High School Sixth Form offers an outstanding, supportive environment for your child’s next step in education.

Why Cathays Sixth Form?

Consistently Excellent – Ranked in the Top 25% of Sixth Forms in the UK for the past seven years.

Outstanding Outcomes – Last year, every student secured their first-choice university.

Specialist Success – All medicine applicants have achieved their goals over the past two years.

A Nurturing Environment – Our small, friendly Sixth Form is perfect for students who thrive in a close-knit, supportive setting. Smaller class sizes foster closer relationships between students and staff.

Personalised Support – We know your child! Our staff understand their strengths and aspirations, ensuring tailored guidance every step of the way.

Exclusive Opportunities – We work closely with Cardiff University. Students who join the ‘Step Up’ programme receive full application support and a guaranteed interview for their chosen courses.

Our Courses – Tailored for Every Learner

Level 3 (A Levels):Students must have a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades A-C* to study AS/A Level courses. Please note that some subjects have additional entry requirements.

Level 2: GCSE ReSTART Programme. We are one of the few schools in Cardiff offering this unique opportunity to start again if things didn’t go as planned the first time.

ESOL – We provide exceptional support for students who are new to the English language, helping them settle, succeed, and achieve their goals. Many of our ESOL students have not only thrived with us but have gone on to study at degree level at universities across the UK. This is something we are incredibly proud of and reflects the personalised guidance and opportunities we offer every learner.

Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales – Taken by all students to develop essential skills for future success. Nearly all UK universities accept the Welsh Bacc, and it is often our students’ highest grade – a key factor in securing places on competitive courses.

GCSE English/Maths Resits – Unlike many schools, we provide timetabled lessons and full support for students who need to resit English or Maths if these were not part of their 5 A-C grades.*

Flexible Options

One subject can be studied at Cardiff and Vale College (CAVC) if not offered at Cathays or if there’s a clash (Subject to CAVC entry requirements) Transport can be provided between sites during the day. Only for Level 3 courses; students must take two subjects at Cathays.

Students who are passionate about pursuing Art-related courses at university can choose up to two creative subjects from our wide range of options, including Art, Photography, Graphics, and Textile Design.

Support & Monitoring

At Cathays Sixth Form, we provide exceptional monitoring and support to help every student succeed. Unlike most schools and colleges, which typically offer only 2 progress checks and one mock exam round, we deliver 4 formal progress checks and 2 full exam rounds each year.

This proactive approach means we can identify any concerns early and put targeted interventions and personalised support plans in place for students who are underachieving—ensuring they stay on track and reach their full potential.

Enrichment

• UCAS and university engagement.
• Employer-led sessions (health, cybersecurity, Companies House, BBC).
• Business Forum for work experience.
• Trips to careers fairs and life skills activities.
• SEREN Network for high-achieving students.
• PSHE, budgeting skills, and extra-curricular trips.
• If your child is currently predicted grades that may make them eligible for the SEREN Network at Post-16, we also offer mentoring, summer schools, and UCAT guidance for top university pathways.
• Our Student Leadership Team plays a vital role in Sixth Form life. They represent the student voice at Cathays, acting as a key link between students and staff. Their role includes sharing ideas, influencing decisions, and helping shape the Sixth Form experience for everyone.

We look forward to supporting your child’s success. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your child’s options further, please do not hesitate to contact me. I would be delighted to speak with you.

Warm regards,

Mrs C Taylor

Raising Standards Leader for Post 16