Our Sixth Form Enrichment Programme is distinctively Bedalian. We have seized the opportunity afforded by linear A Levels to develop a programme for Sixth Formers that encourages them to develop their interests, go beyond their courses, work independently and - importantly - to love learning.
Our approach
The Enrichment Programme is Bedalian in its idealism, breadth and content. It is structured around our conviction that education should be about ‘head, hand and heart’ and that learning should be undertaken for its own sake. At the same time, the Enrichment Programme is by no means just idealistic. We want our students to be ready for university and life after Bedales and to have developed the skills of independent learning that are so vital in Higher Education and beyond. The Enrichment Programme helps to achieve this.
Enrichment Programme structure
All students must choose Enrichment options worth at least four credits. If they pass all their courses, they are awarded the Bedales Enrichment certificate. Those students taking three A Level subjects should consider taking more Enrichment options, and if they gain six credits, they will be awarded the Bedales Enrichment Diploma.
A credit is the equivalent of the work of one double period for one term. Our short courses are worth one credit each. Some options are worth more credits, such as the Extended Project Qualification (worth four credits), which lasts two terms and requires considerable independent work. A student’s Enrichment Programme could be constructed from short courses, or from longer courses for more credits.
All of the courses culminate in a tangible ‘outcome’ of some sort, whether that is an artefact, an essay, a reflective record, or a presentation. Each course will be assessed on a pass/fail basis by the lead teacher. The courses contribute to the development of 'head, hand and heart', and we encourage students to take a range of courses so they develop not only intellectually, but in their ability to craft things, and to think empathetically.
There is an opportunity to take the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award as part of enrichment (see DofE website for more information about the award).
Enrichment courses
The Enrichment Programme brochure gives prospective students an indication of the courses available, which are subject to change based on student demand and teachers’ expertise. Enrichment courses are confirmed at the start of each academic year, when Sixth Form students will be invited to choose their courses.