Sixth Form Student Views

You are considering coming to St Bernard's Sixth Form - let's hear from some of our current students to find out their views on the school. 

How has St Bernard’s shaped your character?

Ese Ovie - Head Student 

The support system here is something I’m immensely grateful for as teachers notice when you are struggling and guide you through it to make sure you feel that you’re never handing things on your own. That kind of consistency really helps you mature without you realising it.

This school also gives plenty opportunities — such as leadership roles, enrichment sessions, conferences and extracurriculars. Teachers don’t just mention these opportunities; they actively encourage you to take them. That gentle push helped me step out of my comfort zone and build confidence over time, further shaping my character.

Another thing that shaped me strongly, is the disciplinary system. It is fair, clear and teaches you take accountability in a calm and structured way. Which further prepare you for the expectations you’ll face later on in life such as universities, apprenticeships, or the workplace.

And when it comes to preparing us for the future, St Bernard’s makes sure we leave with a well-rounded understanding of our options. We get guidance from people who genuinely know their fields, whether if it’s UCAS, apprenticeships or careers. You’re never left guessing, and you are always left with information needed to make real decisions such as our new scheme Enrichment. 

All this combined has shaped my character in a steady practical way, helping me grow into some more confident, organised, and ready for what comes next.

Why did you choose St Bernard's sixth form?

Zainab - Deputy Head Student 

I chose to come to St Bernard sixth form due to the community I knew I would experience whilst being here, our sixth form is smaller than others which allows us to receive personal feedback from teachers as we are able to build that relationship with our teachers as well as with our year group.

St Bernard sixth form has a variety of subjects with great teachers who continuously motivate us to perform above and beyond academically, our teachers have faith in us even if we don’t have the faith in ourselves.

Coming to St Bernard was one of the best decision I made for myself education wise as I have never alone whenever I struggle, but also the teachers do their best to ensure every student is heard which is done through Microsoft forms, school council and many other which allows students to give feedback on what they like and what they don’t that will aid they learning. Within St Bernard sixth formers are also given the opportunity to be apart of the school in different ways to make a difference which could involve becoming deputy head girl, starting your own club, being house captain or even just taking up a responsibility role in form which allows us to take up responsibility and grow.

Why do you like STB sixth form?

Susi Cabrelli - Deputy Head Student 

What I like most about St. Bernards sixth form is the strong sense of community that is part of everyday life here. Academically, being a smaller sixth form makes a huge difference; teachers can get to know how you learn, what you find challenging, and you’re interested in (even if it goes beyond the specification). This connection with teachers helps to create a supportive environment where you never feel lost in the crowd. Beyond academics, the smaller number of students is something that I have really come to appreciate, as you can fully get to know everyone. After a short while, you know your year group and settle into a friendly environment.

A unique activity we all take part in is our monthly shared breakfast. I really appreciate these because we can spend time together, share food, and offer feedback about sixth form life. Opportunities like shared breakfast and our suggestion boxes have been a really positive addition, helping us to make changes that reflect our needs.

Another thing I love is having our common room and study support room. Being slightly separate from the main school creates a much calmer environment, this helps a lot with the transition to sixth form. The common room gives us our own space to relax, which is so important when sixth form life starts to feel stressful, while the study support room offers us a quiet space where it’s easy to focus and get work done.

All these different aspects make St. Bernards Sixth form a place where you feel supported, stay motivated, and most of all enjoy your time.

We look forward to welcoming you to St Bernards Sixth Form - remember if you have any queries do not hesitate to contact us here at St Bernards, please email us: sixthformadmissions@stbernards.southend.sch.uk