Balliol offers three year long academic programmes: Floreat, Frontier and Fibonacci. The courses are open to Year 12 students from state schools across the UK, and start in the Spring Term. If you would like to find out more about these programmes, including a recording of this year’s online open evening, please see the Access Programmes web page.

Balliol offers a selection of year-long academic programmes: Floreat, Frontier and Fibonacci. The courses are open to Year 12 (S5) students from state schools across the UK, and start in the Spring Term. Many participants have gone on to make successful applications to Oxford, and other competitive universities. Currently, Balliol has students at both undergraduate and post-graduate levels who previously took part in the programmes.

Floreat focuses on Humanities subjects , Frontier on the Life Sciences and Fibonacci on Mathematics (and related fields). Each programme is designed to academically challenge and stimulate those who are interested in applying to competitive universities.

The programmes are free of charge. Financial support is available during the residential trip to cover travel costs. It should be noted that this is only available for participants who live in households which fall into POLAR 4 categories 1 or 2 or IMD Decile 1/2.

You can find your POLAR 4 score by visiting the Office for Students website and entering your postcode into the search box (make sure that there are no spaces in your postcode).

You can check your IMD Decile on the IMD page.

Online Open Evening for our programmes - Wednesday 8th October 2025.

A recording of the Online Open Evening can be found on our YouTube channel.

Thankyou for the engagement so far regarding our committees, further engagement would be brilliant.

If you are thinking of going into a career within the sporting industry or just have a passion for sport please do not hesitate to reply to this email, or contact myself, Tom or the head student email privately.

@Head Students

@Thomas Mayles

@Brooke Powell

Getting involved is a great way to start building up your UCAS, personal statement or even CV. If you are unsure why not get involved, come to a meeting and try it out!! Meetings will be held during tutor time and will let all interested know an arranged date.

Many thanks, 

Brooke Powell and Tom Mayles

I have received the below information from MEI detailing a free online course you are able to access by registering using your school email address. This looks like an excellent opportunity for you to get involved in and will definitely help you navigate A-Level questions in a more confident manner. Use the links below to register yourself.

The course is ideal for Year 12 students looking to strengthen their skills early, and Year 13 students who may need to prepare more quickly for upcoming challenges. It’s supportive, engaging, and suitable for any student who enjoys mathematical enrichment – not just those planning to sit a test.

There’s no need for schools to register – students apply directly, choosing the session that suits them best, so please use the links to apply.

 Monday 29 September at 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

Thursday 2 October at 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

Monday 6 October at 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

The results are as follows:

Agree:22

Disagree:19

Well done to Harry and Tom who were the proposition.

Many thanks,

Violet Devereux

Mr Yates On: Ophelia, Death and the Pre-Raphaelites.

Years 11-13 (& staff welcome too)

Drama Studio 3:30-4pm.

We’d love to welcome a Sixth Form student (or students) to join our core volunteer team as a Content Creator Intern. This is an unpaid, experience-based role, perfect for anyone with an interest in digital media, sport, creativity, or community engagement.

The role would include:

• Coming along to Great Cornard parkrun on Saturday mornings and Great Cornard Juniors on Sunday mornings.

• Filming and creating fun, engaging content for Facebook and Instagram.

• Helping us set up a TikTok channel, all within parkrun’s social media guidelines.

Students can either:

• Commit for a whole school year, or

• Join on a term-by-term basis – giving more students the chance to get involved across the year.

As with all parkrun volunteering, students will also earn official volunteer credits, which count towards milestone t-shirts. They’ll have the flexibility to both run and volunteer on the same day, or simply volunteer if they prefer.

This is a great way to build confidence, learn new skills, and contribute to the local community in a fun and supportive environment.

I’d be very happy to provide more details or arrange a chat if this sounds of interest."

We are pleased to announce that the TGS Sixth Form debate society is starting up again this year. 

Last year we saw debate topics ranging from the legalisation of marijuana to abolishing private schools, and we would like to welcome anyone with a keen interest in public speaking and debate to come along to our first meeting of the year to offer new topic and get involved. 

If you would like to be a part of debating at TGS and all of it's associated events and benefits, please come along to G9 at lunchtime this Thursday. 

We look forward to seeing you!

Project Q will keep you updated on all meetings and the applicable logbook section(s) can be completed directly with your supervisor.

Tuesday 2nd September - PD day

Year 12 return to school on Wednesday 3rd September 2025.

Year 13 return to school on Thursday 4th September 2025.

Commencing with WEEK A timetables.

This weeks debate is “This house is pro life”.

Debaters are Daisy Ward, Tom Berry, Betsy Devereux and Violet Devereux.

I would like to thank everyone who debated and attended today, It was a great debate for which there were persuasive arguments on both sides.

The results are as follows:

Agree:5

Disagree:26

I would like to congratulate Betsy and Daisy, the opposition who won.

I have received the below information from MEI detailing a free online course you are able to access by registering using your school email address. This looks like an excellent opportunity for you to get involved in and will definitely help you navigate A-Level questions in a more confident manner. Use the links below to register yourself.

The course is ideal for Year 12 students looking to strengthen their skills early, and Year 13 students who may need to prepare more quickly for upcoming challenges. It’s supportive, engaging, and suitable for any student who enjoys mathematical enrichment – not just those planning to sit a test.

There’s no need for schools to register – students apply directly, choosing the session that suits them best, so please use the links to apply.

 Monday 29 September at 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

Thursday 2 October at 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

Monday 6 October at 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

Mr Gibson On: Benevolent or Exploitative? How has the idea of the legacy of the British Empire changed?

Years 11-13 (& staff welcome too)

Drama Studio 3:30-4pm.

Part of the National Gallery’s nationwide Articulation Programme  this event champions student voice, independent thought, and confident communication, particularly through the discussion and presentation of visual culture. 

The day is free to attend.

Event Details: 

Date: 15th October 2025
Time:  10am-3.30pm
Location: Gainsborough's House

Who it's for: KS5

What the day includes 

• Guided engagement with key artworks 

• Support on public speaking and presentation skills 

• Opportunities for students to express personal responses to visual material 

• Takeaway resources to support ongoing Articulation delivery in school 

This day is ideal for students studying Art, Art History, English, History, or any subject where visual analysis and communication play a key role in their development. 

To attend please email Miss Nichol lnichol@tgschool.net by Friday 19th September.

Commencing with WEEK A Timetables.

Please click the image above to view the challenge information.

At UEA, we design our Open Days to give you real insight into what it’s like to study here, so you have the information you need to make decisions about your future. Tour campus, find your perfect accommodation, meet lecturers, and get a feel for student life in Norwich. Then hop on the bus  to discover the vibrant city of Norwich with a free group travelcard. We’ve even partnered with Greater Anglia and National Express to help with travel costs – see our website for details. We can’t wait to welcome you. 
Book now for Saturday  29  November 

If any of the above are of interest please either follow the links in the email or get in touch with me.

Best wishes,

Billie Sutterby (she/her)

Higher Education Adviser

Discover everything you need to know about the subjects that interest you.

UK Top 25 (Complete University Guide 2025) and UK Top 30 (The Mail 2025)

UK Top 20 for research quality (Times Higher Education Rankings for the Research Excellence Framework 2021)

World Top 20 for Health and Wellbeing (QS World University Rankings for Sustainability 2024)

World Top 100 (Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024)

Athena SWAN Silver Award Holder (since 2019) in recognition of advancements towards gender equality for all (Advance HE)

University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ

We’ve got the production teams behind the TV shows Sunderland 'Til I Die’ and Tommy: The Good. The Bad. The Fury giving exclusive behind the scenes insights that you won’t hear anywhere else. Plus, careers talks and sessions on improving media literacy.

• Complete personal statement on Morrisby and share it with tutor for feedback

• Once edits have been completed student can share with DR Talbot and book an appointment with him

• Universities love early applications, you are more likely to get an offer if you submit your UCAS application earlier rather than later . Ideally you will have applied by the end of this term PLEASE DO NOT LEAVE IT TILL THE LAST MINUTE AS DR TALBOT WILL NOT HAVE TIME TO HELP YOU WITH YOUR APPLICATION.

• An account set up on the Government find an apprenticeship website

• A spreadsheet of companies they want to approach with dates of when the applications are opening and closing

• An up to date Linkedin account

• An up to date CV

• Have looked at the list of Higher and Degree Apprenticeships I sent out a few weeks ago to all Year 13 students

See here for more information about Apprenticeships https://amazingapprenticeships.com/

Debaters were as follows:

Agree: Ben Forth and Matt Fairbairn

Disagree: Levente Szabo and Ben Theuiler

The votes were as follows:

Agree: 13

Disagree: 2

If you're interested in the creative arts at TGS, why not follow tgs_creative on Instagram?

A massive thank you to anyone who gave up their time to participate in our committee, whether you've been in a reel or supported our meetings.

Kind regards,

Phoebe

We’ve got the production teams behind the TV shows Sunderland 'Til I Die’ and Tommy: The Good. The Bad. The Fury giving exclusive behind the scenes insights that you won’t hear anywhere else. Plus, careers talks and sessions on improving media literacy.

Commencing with WEEK A Timetables.

Kind regards,

Violet Devereux 

BBC Verify on Tour is heading to Swansea University on Friday 23rd January as part of a nationwide series designed to inspire and empower young people....and your group are invited to join in virtually!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE LIVESTREAM

This brand-new initiative, supported by the BBC Academy & BBC Verify is all about helping young minds navigate the online world with confidence. In an age of misinformation and digital overload, these events aim to explore how to spot false content, think critically and become smarter media consumers.

Our next event is in partnership with Swansea University and packed with exciting sessions designed to spark creativity and build skills in journalism, radio, storytelling, in content creation and more.

First up we have BBC Verify’s ‘Filter the Fakes’ with journalists Paul Brown and Megan Davies. If you’ve ever wondered who to trust or how to tell fact from fiction this is your chance to find out with a session to help young people think more critically about what they read, see, and share online. They’ll learn how to spot fake news, question sources, and feel more confident navigating the digital space.

Then join journalist and audio producer John Offord, currently leading the Bradford StoryHub for the Bureau of Investigative Journalism, for an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at crafting powerful long-form audio investigations. Using a BBC World Service documentary that he produced as a case study, we will deconstruct the narrative-exploring the central question, story structure, and editorial decisions about what to include or leave out for ethical, legal, or editorial reasons.

We’ll hear from some amazing people who’ve made their mark in the media world with a careers panel including Beth Williams, a former BBC apprentice journalist; Sophie Davies, Marketing Manager at Swansea City Football Club; and Hannah Williams from BBC Drama Outreach. They’ll share how they got started, give you real tips from their own journeys, and answer your questions about breaking into the industry.

To finish the day, calling all Heartstopper fans, we have our Production Q&A and go behind the scenes of the successful drama, Heartstopper.

Welsh director Euros Lyn - the creative mind behind the hit Netflix series – will reveal how the team worked together to bring authentic teen experiences to life.

Don’t miss this chance to learn, get inspired, and see what it really takes to make it in media!

https://www.bbc.co.uk/academy/live/verify/

• A judgement-free zone to talk about worries, friendships or future choices

• Tools to set goals and build confidence

• Free access to professional counsellors, forums and self-help resources

Free webinars: Preparing you for what’s next

Useful links :

• Education Resources - Signposting videos, case studies & guides

• Wellbeing Activity Sheets

• https://connect.kooth.com/koothtalks

• https://connect.kooth.com/for-families

• https://explore.kooth.com/

Let’s work together to ensure you feel prepared, supported, and ready for what comes next.

Warm regards,

Kooth
kel@kooth.com
connect.kooth.com

There’s a lot to think about when weighing up university, from which course to choose and where to live, to managing your budget and making friends. Whatever’s on your mind, ask those who know best: current students. UEA’s ‘Ask Us’ online chat is an easy way to find out what university is really like. 
Ask your question 
 

• Year 12/1 webinar: Being application ready 

It can be difficult to know how to make the most of sixth form and your holidays when preparing for university. Join this webinar from UEA to hear more about extra and super curricular activities you can undertake while studying at sixth form or college, how to build skills, making the most of higher education and UCAS events and more. 
Thursday 29 January, 5.00-5.45pm 
Register now 

Our spring programme of subject tasters is now live. These online sessions help students to connect classroom learning with university study and are a great super-curricular activity to include in personal statements.

• 19 January: Chemistry - Using spectroscopy to detect food fraud 

• 21 January: English Literature - Dystopia 

• 22 January: Global Development - Human rights and the refugee 

• 28 January: Engineering - Latest developments in nuclear energy 

• 29 January: Sport - Sports psychology 

• 02 February: Economics - Globalisation and development economics  

• 03 February: Critical thinking skills workshop 

• 03 February: Psychology: Studying psychology at university 

• 04 February: French politics: Macron and beyond 

• 09 February: Maths: The mathematics of cryptography 

• 10 February: Politics - Tour of political thinkers and their relevance today 

• 11 February: Languages: Importance of languages in careers 

• 12 February: Journalism: The journalist's toolkit 

• 25 February: Economics: Thinking like a statistician 

View the full programme 
 

Debaters were as follows:

Proposition: Ben Forth and Ben Theulier

Opposition: Elena Cornish and Tom Berry.

Well done to Ben F and Ben T who won the debate -

The results were as follows:

Agree: 3

Disagree: 8

Being Application-Ready – The University Perspective.

The session on 29th January guides, encourages and motivates students to be proactive in making full use of their time in sixth form and during their holidays so that, when they come to apply, they have all the ingredients for a standout application. In the session, Lucy and Lois will discuss extra and super curricular activities, building skills, researching universities, making the most of HE and UCAS events, and how to make the most of holidays.

• January 29 @ 17:00 - 17:45 HE Guidance: Being Application-Ready - The University Perspective - UEA (16+) Find out more » [NEW]

For those who find it easier to follow the direct link:

• https://www.channeltalent.co.uk/event/he-guidance-being-application-ready-the-university-perspective-with-lucy-nottingham-lois-braysher-higher-education-advisers-from-university-of-east-anglia/

All events are online and free for school and college groups and their students. They are not recorded because we aim to prioritise active learning and not to inhibit those joining live. In most cases slides and other resources are shared afterwards.

Zonta

For the young ladies wishing to apply please have applications submitted by 28th February.

Who are they for?

Serious applicants in Year 12 at UK state schools, who are studying the appropriate qualifications required for their chosen course at Oxford.

What will the day involve?

Each day will feature an Oxford style tutorial, a guided tour of Balliol College from a current undergraduate student and a talk on the admissions process. A two course free lunch will be provided in the Balliol Hall. Participants will need to complete work in advance in order to take part in the tutorial session.

Please note that support with travel costs will be only be available for the most disadvantaged applicants who live in households which fall into POLAR 4 categories 1 or 2 or ACORN categories 4 or 5 or IMD decile 1 or 2.

You can find your POLAR 4 score by visiting the Office for Students website and entering your postcode into the search box (make sure that there are no spaces in your postcode). You can find your ACORN score from the Acorn Webpage. You can find you IMD Decile by using the IMD webpage.

How can I apply?

Prospective applicants will only be able to attend only one Try Before You Buy event. These events are in great demand therefore applicants must ensure that they are able to attend and are able to complete the work and return it by the deadline which is usually a week before the event. Details of the 2026 Try Before You Buy Days are as follows:

Try Before You Buy Day 1 — 18th March 2026

Subjects: Chemistry, Classics, English, History, Maths, Medicine, PPE

To apply, please complete this form by midnight on 8th February 2026.

Try Before You Buy Day 2 — 27th March 2026

Subjects: Biology, Chemistry, English, History, Maths, Medicine

To apply, please complete this form by midnight on 15th February 2026.

Try Before You Buy Day 3 — 1st May 2026

Subjects: Biology, Computer Science, English, History, Medicine, Physics

To apply, please complete this form by midnight on 5th April 2026.

Try Before You Buy Day 4 — 7th May 2026

Subjects: Biochemistry, Computer Science, Law, Maths, Physics, PPE

To apply, please complete this form by midnight on 5th April 2026.

Try Before You Buy Day 5 — 11th May 2026

Subjects: Biology, Engineering, Law, Maths, Physics

To apply, please complete this form by midnight on 12th April 2026.

Try Before You Buy Day 6 — 15th May 2026

Subjects: Biochemistry, Engineering, Law, Maths, Medicine, PPE

To apply, please complete this form by midnight on 12th April 2026.

Try Before You Buy Day 7 — 18th May 2026

Subjects: Computer Science, Engineering, English, History, Law, PPE

To apply, please complete this form by midnight on 19th April 2026.

Try Before You Buy Day 8 — 29th May 2026

Subjects: Chemistry, Computer Science, Engineering, History, Maths, Physics

To apply, please complete this form by midnight on 19th April 2026.

Please note that there may be different arrival times for different groups. Registration will either be 10.15−10.40 with the day ending at 14.30 or registration 10.40−11.15 with the day ending at 15.30. You will be notified in advance about your arrival and finish time.

Our spring programme of subject tasters is now live. These online sessions help students to connect classroom learning with university study and are a great super-curricular activity to include in personal statements.

• 02 February: Economics - Globalisation and development economics  

• 03 February: Critical thinking skills workshop 

• 03 February: Psychology: Studying psychology at university 

• 04 February: French politics: Macron and beyond 

• 09 February: Maths: The mathematics of cryptography 

• 10 February: Politics - Tour of political thinkers and their relevance today 

• 11 February: Languages: Importance of languages in careers 

• 12 February: Journalism: The journalist's toolkit 

• 25 February: Economics: Thinking like a statistician 

View the full programme 
 

Commencing with WEEK A timetables

We are incredibly proud to share the exciting news that Savannah Jeffrey, a Sixth Form student here at TGS, has been offered a provisional place with the world-renowned Phantom Regiment as part of Drum Corps International (DCI) in the United States this summer. DCI is one of the most prestigious marching and performance competitions in the world, bringing together elite performers to tour and compete across multiple states in front of audiences of over 26,000 people at championship events. Being selected for such an opportunity reflects Savannah’s dedication, talent, and commitment to excellence.If successful in securing her final place confirmed in April. Savannah will spend three months in the USA, touring, performing, and competing at the highest international level.

Alongside performing, she will develop invaluable life skills including independence, resilience, teamwork, time management, and personal responsibility, all while representing herself, her school, and the UK on a global stage. This opportunity, while life-changing, also comes with significant financial commitment. Savannah is required to contribute approximately £1,000 per month during the lead-up period, with total costs reaching $6,500, in addition to flights, equipment, and essential living expenses.We are keen to support Savannah on this journey and invite our school community and wider supporters to do the same. Any contribution big or small will help make this remarkable experience possible and allow Savannah to focus fully on pursuing her dream.

If you would like to help Savannah achieve this amazing opportunity she does have a Go Fund Me page where you are able to make a donation.  Savannah Jeffrey GoFundMe

Thank you for helping TGS support a truly inspiring opportunity and a student who embodies ambition, determination, and excellence.

Forwards.

1. Henri Piot (vc)

2.Charlie Kinsella

3.Fin Harries

4.Matthew Dix

5.Ollie Bradbury

6.Tom Ford

7. Max Shenton ©

8.Joey Roach

Backs.

9.Henry Pilgrim

10. Luke Foxwell

11. Jack Bentley

12. Ted Warren

13. Ethan Bowen (vc)

14. Justin Noynay

15. Thomas Berry Impact players.

16. Nathan Berry

17. Alfie Barke

18. Dan leader

19. Tristan Talbot Clark

20. Harry Clark

21. Uzo Enyenabo-okolo

22. Bartosz Bielesz

Coaches

Brooke Powell

Abbie fisher

On a cold, wet and windy afternoon, Thomas Gainsborough Sixth Form rugby team pulled out an outstanding performance with a commanding 29–0 victory over Northgate sixth form. With a squad of 22, including 7 new players bravely stepping up to play their first game of rugby ever, TGS scored five tries with two converted, their performance showcased both attacking flair and rock-solid defence, the tries were scored by Luke Foxwell, Ethan Bowen, Tom Ford, Matt Dix and Daniel Leeder.

From the opening whistle, TGS set the tone by controlling possession and territory. The forwards were relentless at the breakdown, laying the platform for the backs to stretch the opposition. The first try came early after sustained pressure near the try line, where Ethan Bowen saw a break in Northgate's defence and powered through to open the scoring.

Momentum continued to build as the second and third tries followed before halftime by Tom Fords powerful break and Luke Foxwells pace, both stemming from crisp passing and excellent support play. By halftime, TGS led comfortably, but it was their defensive organisation that truly stood out as they were now really coming together as a team every tackle was met with commitment, even by the 7 new players, no contact was hid from.

In the second half, both TGS and Northgate kept the intensity high, with TGS Flyhalf Luke Foxwell putting in a few kicks to confuse the defence and gain meters. Matthew Dix brought fourth try, and a final score by Dan Leader beating two defenders in the closing minutes sealed a comprehensive win. The conversion tally brought the full-time score to 29–0, a reflection of dominance across all areas of the game. It was a performance full of teamwork, showcasing dominant tackles from the forwards and a pace loaded back line. Despite efforts from Northgates attack and defence the hard work TGS have put in over the last couple of months training was reflected in the score.

Some of our Year 13 students assisted Mrs Cook to host an assembly for Year 12 this week about taking opportunities, and why work experience is important during Year 12.

Hannah, Harry, Mia and Sophia shared their experiences about their work experience placements which they completed during Year 12.

Placements ranged from Virtual work experience in Journalism, along with in-person placements in Investment Banking, Physio and Chemistry.

Our students shared why it's made a difference in Year 13 to them with their Apprenticeship and UCAS applications.

We encourage all students to complete work experience and/or volunteering while in Year 12.

Mrs Cook is always available to speak to in our Careers Hub. (PCook@tgschool.net)

This week our special assembly guest speaker was Eloise Pilcher of 'Kooth'.

Kooth is a free, anonymous, and safe online mental health service, commissioned across the UK, offering young people aged 10–25 a space to explore their thoughts, build resilience, and access support on their terms, at any time.

For all students, especially those in Year 6, 11 & 13, this means:

• A judgement-free zone to talk about worries, friendships or future choices

• Tools to set goals and build confidence

• Free access to professional counsellors, forums and self-help resources

Kooth runs free live sessions for students, covering how they can support transitions and equip students with practical strategies to support their wellbeing during these phases.

Free webinars: Preparing you for what’s next

Useful links :

• Education Resources - Signposting videos, case studies & guides

• Wellbeing Activity Sheets

• https://connect.kooth.com/koothtalks

• https://connect.kooth.com/for-families

• https://explore.kooth.com/

Let’s work together to ensure you feel prepared, supported, and ready for what comes next.

Warm regards,

Kooth

Tuesday 13 January, 4-7 pm, G Block

Dear families,

The Year 12 Subject Teacher Evening on Tuesday 13 January is an opportunity for you to have a 5 minute meeting with some of your child's subject teachers to discuss progress and next steps.

All meetings will take place in the main building, students are expected to attend with their parent/guardian.

Following on from the trial launch of the Arbor Parent Portal and App detailed at www.tgschool.net/arbor we are using Arbor to launch our second Parents' Evening.

Arbor refers to these as Guardian Consultations..

Once you have successfully logged into Arbor (we know that a number of our Primary Schools already use the system), you will see a heading 'Guardian Consultations' on the home page.

The period for you to schedule your appointments will be from Tuesday 16 December at 18:00 until Friday 9 January at 18:00.

You will be able to book meetings, add notes and re-arrange meetings during this period.

The Arbor Help Centre provides step by step instructions to book meetings.

We look forward to seeing you on Tuesday 13 January 2026.

Any difficulties, please email enquiries@tgschool.net

Adults £13.00

TGS Staff and under 18's £8.00

TGS Students FREE

Monday 9th February 6:30pm - 9:00pm

Tuesday 10th February 6:30pm - 9:00pm

Wednesday 11th February 6:30pm - 9:00pm

Thursday 12th February 6:30pm - 9:00pm

• Teacher Lecture Series Continues 5th February 3:30 - 4:00 pm

• High School Musical Productions 9th-12th February 6:30 - 9:00pm.

• Half Term 16th - 20th February

• Mock Interviews 24th February

• Zonta Applications Deadline 28th February

• 24th March 2026 Year 12 Pathways Evening

• 20th April Year 12 Progression Examinations Week

• 8th May Year 13 Leavers Assembly (TBC)

• 10th June UCAS Discovery day at Essex University for Year 12's

• 22nd June Year 12 Work Experience Week

• 30th June Year 13 Leavers Event

• 9th July Year 12 Enrichment Day, Cambridge

You can sign up with this link:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScOn3pkbIzSro9so1uPmd3m-xxe0zktwvMdptLoNsMK59j-xg/viewform?usp=dialog

The auditions are scheduled to take place between the 2nd and 13th of March so get practicing!

Good luck,

The Head Students

Scholarships can help you fund your studies at university, whether you need it for accommodation, travel costs, equipment, food or more. It's essentially 'free money' that you don't have to give back! But, how do they work and how do you apply for them? Check out our helpful guide, which takes you step by step through what a scholarship is, how to apply and how to write a stand-out application. 

Scholarships guide 
 
 

You’ve applied to university – what happens next? 

Just submitted your university application? This quick guide walks you through what happens next, so you know exactly what to expect and how to feel prepared for the journey ahead. 
Next Steps guide 

This morning, we had Stewart Dempsey speak to our Year 12 students about applying to become an Army Officer along with University Scholarships (for example medicine and veterinary) apprenticeships and importantly what skills and character they look for. 

Further details on opportunities with Army can be found on their website  Army  and Jobs@Army 

Projects can be on any topic in STEM, and they don’t need to be finished or perfectly done - whatever you’ve been working on with your students, we can’t wait to see.

Entries close soon! Enter by 4 March.

Students at the Sixth Form enjoyed a dynamic and engaging Enrichment Day this week, taking part in a wide range of activities designed to build confidence, skills and teamwork.

The day featured practical mock interviews, giving students valuable experience in preparing for university, apprenticeships and employment. Volunteers from the local community provided constructive feedback, helping students refine their communication techniques and professional presentation.

First aid training sessions proved especially popular, with students learning vital life-saving skills and gaining greater awareness of how to respond in emergency situations. Meanwhile, others embraced the lighter side of the programme, trying their hand at carpet bowls and stepping into energetic line dancing workshops that had the hall buzzing with enthusiasm.

Additional activities throughout the day encouraged collaboration, resilience and creativity, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy and learn from.

The day finished on a reflective positive for all, with a truly inspirational talk from Mike Keen.

Mike Keen 

"Amongst other labels, Mike is a chef, kayaker, traveler and adventurer - passionate about eating your environment and changing the way we eat to a more sustainable and less crazy system. A regular speaker and chef at Food Festivals he is based in Suffolk, England where he has built (and is continually developing) a sustainable homestead with his partner Lucy which they use as a base for workshops, talks, demos and pop-up events. When he's not there he's often to be found in the arctic (or other cold places) researching food and kayaking."  

Keen is best known for his immersive expedition living alongside Inuit communities in the Arctic. Driven by a passion for traditional skills and extreme environments, Keen travelled to the Arctic to experience life as the Inuit have lived for generations. During his time there, he adopted many traditional practices — including travelling by kayak, hunting, fishing and surviving in harsh polar conditions. The experience required resilience, adaptability and a deep respect for indigenous knowledge and culture.

The Expedition Qaqortoq to Qaanaaq 2023 can now be viewed in a fascinating film. (For further details please follow link)  'Qajaq Man'

"So chuffed for this to be shown for the first time in its final form @cphdox !

The official trailer is out and on their website as well"..."Am super grateful to Kristian at Landmark Film", ... "And most of all the people of Greenland who were so incredible for the entire journey. I’ll see you all again soon for another adventure. Qujanaq!
Please feel free to share this far and wide, would love it to get out there and on screens!"

#eatyourenvironment

• 15th - 24th April Year 12 Progression Examinations Week

• 8th May Year 13 Leavers Assembly (TBC)

• 10th June UCAS Discovery day at Essex University for Year 12's

• 22nd June Year 12 Work Experience Week

• 30th June Year 13 Leavers Event

• 9th July Year 12 Enrichment Day, Cambridge

We would like to invite you to our Pathways Evening on Tuesday 24th March from 6 - 7.30pm.

This evening offers students and their families the opportunity to explore the wide range of routes available after Year 12, including University, Apprenticeships and employment.

A representative from a local university will provide guidance on making strong applications, understanding key timelines, and navigating the financial aspects of higher education such as fees, grants and loans.

Students will also hear from some of our former Sixth Formers, who will share honest insights from their first year beyond school—highlighting what supports success, the challenges that can lead to setbacks, and what university life is really like. We will also include a parent’s perspective to give families a fuller picture of the transition.

For those considering alternatives to university, our Careers Advisor, Mrs Katy Osborne, will deliver a dedicated talk on Apprenticeships, Higher Technical Qualifications or going straight into work, outlining the pathways available and how students can prepare effectively for them.

This year, families will also receive information about our Year 12 Work Experience Week, which all students will take part in. This important programme helps students develop key employability skills, gain insight into real working environments and strengthen future applications—whether for university, apprenticeships or employment.

The evening will conclude with a Q&A session and is always a highly informative and enjoyable event.

We strongly encourage families to attend so that students feel supported and confident as they make decisions about their next steps.

Please complete the following Online Attendance Form by Tuesday 17^th March to confirm your attendance to this evening.

Regards

Sixth Form Team

For more details please see Mr Richards.

On 23rd April, in an essential session for students, parents, carers and advisers, we are joined by Lauren McWilliams and Harry Ward, two fantastic Higher Education Advisers from UEA, as well as two undergraduate students. The team will provide insider information to help students get ahead with managing their money at university. 

During the session, our undergraduates will offer real examples of what they spend in a week and how using budgeting tools helped them to manage money smartly. They will also discuss finding part-time jobs while studying and what students need to think about before applying. There will be plenty of opportunity to ask questions too.

• April 23 @ 16:30 - 17:15 HE Guidance: How Do I Manage My Money At University? - UEA (16+) Find out more » [NEW]

  
  

  Notes:

  1. We run events on Zoom. To avoid any frustration, it is worth checking with your IT that staff and students can access the sessions over the school/college network. We are always around to test with you too. 
  
  2. For those who find it easier to share with the actual urls, please find these below:

  • https://www.channeltalent.co.uk/event/he-guidance-how-do-i-manage-my-money-at-university-hear-from-current-students-with-higher-education-advisers-2-student-ambassadors-from-university-of-east-anglia-3/

    
    

  3. All events are online and free for school and college groups and their students. They are not recorded because we aim to prioritise active learning and not to inhibit those joining live. In most cases slides and other resources are shared afterwards.
  
  4. If you feel you have a slightly younger group than the advertised age that would benefit, we fully trust your judgment. Please do register.
  
  5. School/College Participation in Channel Talent events is available here: https://www.channeltalent.co.uk/school-college-channel-talent-participation/
  
  6. If this email has been forwarded to you as a teacher/school leader or interested professional and you would like to hear directly about events, please register here: http://eepurl.com/duFY5H .

For further information on this charity please visit - It's On The Ball

If you have a strong interest in science and how the body works, this is a great chance to learn how laboratory science helps diagnose and treat patients. You will explore the world of biomedical science and pathology through practical activities, laboratory tours and interactive sessions with NHS professionals.

At a glance

• Who can apply: students aged 17 to 18

• When: Tuesday 21 July to Friday 24 July 2026

• Where: Education Centre, West Suffolk Hospital

• Course length: four days

• Application deadline: Thursday 30 April 2026

I am incredibly proud.

Well done again!

Mr Alexander 

Mrs Osborne also met with head of Apprenticeships to get some tips and advice on CV's and group assessment etiquette. Our students asked lots of great questions and represented the school impeccably. Our students all enjoyed the amazing choice of lunch options in their canteen and suitably impressed by the building and environment. We look forward to taking another trip of Year 10 and 12's there in April. We'd love to see some girls along on the next trip also.

If you are unable to attend a webinar you are especially interested in you can simply sign up and receive access to recorded versions of each session.

Register For Your Webinar Place Here

The focus of the debate was the current situation in Iran, a topic which encouraged careful research, diplomatic discussion and consideration of different international perspectives. Students approached the challenge with maturity, confidence and impressive eloquence, showing both their knowledge of current affairs and their ability to collaborate under pressure.

It was a fantastic afternoon, which showcased excellent public speaking, critical thinking and teamwork from all involved. The Debate Society are looking forward to future events with King's Ely and other schools, and hope future conferences will be as successful.

We are incredibly proud to share the exciting news that Savannah Jeffrey, a Sixth Form student here at TGS, has been offered a provisional place with the world-renowned Phantom Regiment as part of Drum Corps International (DCI) in the United States this summer. DCI is one of the most prestigious marching and performance competitions in the world, bringing together elite performers to tour and compete across multiple states in front of audiences of over 26,000 people at championship events. Being selected for such an opportunity reflects Savannah’s dedication, talent, and commitment to excellence.If successful in securing her final place confirmed in April. Savannah will spend three months in the USA, touring, performing, and competing at the highest international level.

Alongside performing, she will develop invaluable life skills including independence, resilience, teamwork, time management, and personal responsibility, all while representing herself, her school, and the UK on a global stage. This opportunity, while life-changing, also comes with significant financial commitment. Savannah is required to contribute approximately £1,000 per month during the lead-up period, with total costs reaching $6,500, in addition to flights, equipment, and essential living expenses.We are keen to support Savannah on this journey and invite our school community and wider supporters to do the same. Any contribution big or small will help make this remarkable experience possible and allow Savannah to focus fully on pursuing her dream.

If you would like to help Savannah achieve this amazing opportunity she does have a Go Fund Me page where you are able to make a donation.  Savannah Jeffrey GoFundMe

Thank you for helping TGS support a truly inspiring opportunity and a student who embodies ambition, determination, and excellence.

On the sunny afternoon of Wednesday, 18th March, we headed over to the public speaking event at Bury St Edmund’s rotary club. The majority of competitors were Year 9 students from local schools, while Beth, Penny and I ended up competing against one other team from a nearby sixth form.

Overall, it was a fantastic time; the Year 9 students did very well indeed & we were impressed by the broad range of topics they presented. For instance, one topic centred around the idea of how empathy can be viewed as a superpower, whilst another team took a more personal approach, by exploring the impact of a particular medical condition - which one of their own team members happened to suffer from.

Regarding our topic, we decided to focus on the ‘effect of technology on human interaction.’ We believe this topic is very prominent in today’s society, especially when considering the rapid pace at which technology is developing. The role of chairperson was delegated to Penny, while Beth was in charge of the main argument, leaving me to conclude our debate with the vote of thanks. We ended up being the runners-up and although we did not bring the trophy back this year, it was still a valuable opportunity.

A big thank you to Mr Alexander and Miss Fairs for transporting us to the event and back to school.