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September 23rd 2025
Sixth Form life is different for everyone, for some it can be a new challenge but for others it can be a bit stressful and confusing. I have put together some suggestions to help you hit the ground running and get started in the best possible way. So, here are the 5 top tips to a successful start to your Sixth Form experience:
1. Workload
At first, the Sixth Form workload can feel daunting and overwhelming. A good way to manage it is by planning out your week and using your free periods wisely. Get homework done during your free periods so that after school you still have time for clubs, revision, or just to relax. I assign a couple of free periods to each subject to make sure I have enough time for everything. Over time, the workload will become more manageable. Take on opportunities when they come, but don’t push yourself beyond your limits - your wellbeing is important too.
2. Teachers and asking for help
It’s normal to get stuck on homework sometimes. The key is not to struggle alone. The teacher-student relationship really shifts in Sixth Form - they expect you to be more independent, but they’re also still totally open to helping when you ask so don’t be afraid to reach out. You’ll notice everyone does it (there always a sixth former lurking in one of the teacher’s offices asking about the homework), and it can make a huge difference to both your confidence and your understanding.
3. Bag essentials
Most people have a massive bag of non essentials - keep it simple. No need to break your back in the first month! These are the main items to bring:
- A small pouch of beauty (deodorant, hair tie, hairbrush, perfume, sanitary products)
- Clear pouches to keep loose paper - never know when you’ll need it and useful for storing homework (we’ve all had that one incident where you pull it your homework and it’s all scrunched up and you have to decide whether to 1. Live with it or 2. Rewrite it
- Small pencil case (pens, pencil, ruler, highlighter)
- iPad/laptop
- Umbrella (there’s been too many times where I have been soaked through in the rain going to and from school)
- Specific subject textbooks and equipment
4. Cozy flats are the way to go
A comfy, inviting space upstairs where you can unwind and recharge and which makes those study sessions a little easier. The flats are a secluded place for quiet study and peace although if you are anything like me, you’ll end up chatting to everyone and anyone who’ll listen until it’s the end of the period and all you’ll have to show for it is a topic sentence! So, use the flats to your advantage. Decorate them to become inviting and comforting spaces where you can spend some focused study time.
5. Stay social
Academics matter, but Sixth Form is also about making the most of your time. Socialise within your Year Group and beyond - it’s a great way to meet new people and feel part of the community. Clubs and activities are the easiest way to do this, and there’s something for everyone: sport, academic societies, creative hobbies, or more niche interests like junk journalling.
Above all, try to enjoy it! Sixth Form is the best opportunity to spend time getting under the skin of subjects that you truly love.
Georgia (Lower Sixth)
