Sixth Form Information booklet - d'Overbroeck's College

AcademicMattersWhen do you learn most effectively? Whatsubjects engage and inspire you? Sixth Formis about feeling involved with your academicwork; grappling with issues that engage you.We want students to be happy here: to grow in selfconfidenceand to become more aware of the worldaround them. This is a process fuelled by academicsuccess, and we aim above all to help students realisetheir full potential.Exactly how we do this varies from one student to another,but our general principles are constant: inspirationalteaching; small, dynamic classes; work that will stretchand challenge; an energetic, lively atmosphere.And our goal is simple: each student should leave usfeeling they have had the opportunity to do their very best.We help students towards success of this kind by workingwith them to choose a suitable, balanced combination ofsubjects; by avoiding the anonymity of large classes; andby ensuring that their academic progress is monitoredclosely and regularly. In this section, we’ll outline ourapproach to academic learning in the Sixth Form atd’Overbroeck’s – and why we believe it is effective.23

Choosing your subjectsKeeping track of your progressUnderpinning our Sixth Form is the principle of choice.We offer a large range of A levels so that our students mayselect those that exactly match their skills and ambitions– because we believe that, if you make the right subjectchoices, you’ll be most likely to excel.Typically, the only restriction on subject combinationsNearly 40 subjectsto choose fromhere at d’Overbroeck’sis whether a particularchoice seems sensiblein light of your abilities,interests and ambitions.It is therefore important that you think through yourchoices carefully. Here are some factors to consider:• What are your interests and strengths?• Do your choices fit with your future plans? Do youneed, for example, to study Biology and Chemistryin order to study Medicine at university? What aregood subjects to study if you want to read Law?And so on.• Is the overall combination of subjects a balancedone? – ‘Will there be too many essays to write?’;‘Is it a good idea to study both Business Studiesand Economics?’• What are the differences between GCSE andAS study in the same subject?• What about those subjects you’ve never studiedbefore? – ‘What precisely is Communication andCulture? Psychology? Classical Civilisation?’Choosing AS subjects is a key moment in your educationand may well shape your future degree and career. It istherefore critical that we provide all the information youneed to make the best possible decision. We do thisthrough a variety of means, including:• Online subject profiles outlining the nature anddemands of each subject.• Considerable discussion of subject choice duringthe initial interview.• The opportunity to ‘sit in’ on classes.• Meetings with senior staff to discuss your optionsin detail.• Time – perhaps the most important factor. Wedo not rush you into a decision but let youresearch the subjects, talk to friends and teachersand have the freedom to change your mind. Aconsidered decision is likely to be better than adecision made in haste.How many subjects?Students usually study four subjects at AS level andcontinue with three of these for A level. However, studentsmay study more subjects if they wish, and if they are ableto cope comfortably with the additional demands thisplaces on their time – after all, two of last year’s UpperSixth managed to gain five A*s each!To make strong progress and reach your potential, it’s vitalthat you receive regular feedback on your work. On a dayto day basis, this comes from individual subject teachers.More broadly, we keep track of students’ academic‘The quality ofpastoral careshown for pupilsis outstanding…Parents receive good informationabout their child’s progress. Severalcomprehensive reports are senthome during the year. These includegood quality information, includingtargets for future achievement, whichis clear and useful to parents.’– ISI Inspection Report 2007progress throughouttheir A level course,and keep both studentsand parents fully andfrankly informed.How do we do this?Subject teachersregularly submit gradepredictions and writereports – which arediscussed in detail withstudents before theyare sent to parents.Every student issupervised by one ofthe Directors of Studies– a team of 19 seniorstaff. Each Director ofStudies supervises asmall number of students for whom they have pastoralas well as academic responsibility. Directors of Studiesreceive regular subject tracker grades for their students,affording them a detailed insight into their students’ effortand attainment in class. In many cases, a student will alsobe taught by their Director of Studies.Via regular one-to-one meetings, the Director of Studieshelps their students to develop effective study habits,organise their time and balance the demands of theirsubjects. They are always on hand to offer help or advice –and a sense of perspective, should academic or personalpressures build up. The Director of Studies will also:• help students individually with all aspects of theiruniversity application• coordinate students’ study programme• liaise with each student’s subject teachers todiscuss his or her progress and any issuesThe relationship between each student and his or herDirector of Studies is pivotal. Its aim is to ensure thatstudents are happy and well motivated and that they aremaking the most of their time at d’Overbroeck’s.Contact with parentsDirectors of Studies are the focal point for contact withparents. They will make contact to discuss any mattersthat might arise, and include parents in all relevantcommunications. Conversely, parents are more thanwelcome to contact their child’s Director of Studies at anypoint. Alongside these opportunities for ongoing dialogue,there are regular parents’ evenings, as well as informationevenings covering topics such as university applications.Directors of Studies are typically in regular telephone oremail contact with parents throughout the Sixth Form.We offer A levels in…AccountingAncient GreekAncient HistoryArt & DesignBiologyBusiness StudiesChemistryClassical CivilisationCommunication & CultureComputingDrama & Theatre StudiesEconomicsEnglishFilm StudiesFrenchFurther MathsGeographyGermanGovernment & PoliticsHistoryHistory of ArtItalianJapaneseLatinMandarin ChineseMathematicsMusicMusic TechnologyPhilosophyPhotographyPhysical Education (PE)PhysicsPsychologyReligious StudiesRussianSociologySpanishFor more details of these subjects and how we teach them here at d’Overbroeck’s, please ask for a copy of our subjectbooklet or explore the online subject profiles atdoverbroecks.com/sixthform/subjects4 5

The AQA BaccalaureateThe AQA Baccalaureate (or ‘the English Baccalaureate’as it is increasingly being known) is a relativelynew sixth form qualification that was introducednationally two years ago.It is intended as an additional qualification to be takenalongside a standard A level programme, with the aimA new way toextend yourA level studiesof adding breadth and depthto sixth form education – whileretaining the flexibility insubject choice that the A levelsystem has always offered.We pioneered the AQABaccalaureate in Oxfordshire – and our experiencehas been wholly positive: those students who choseto take the qualification have enjoyed it and, we feel,gained a great deal from it so far. Currently, around athird of our students choose the AQA Baccalaureate.How does it work?Unlike other baccalaureate qualifications such asthe IB, the AQA Baccalaureate retains A levels at itsheart – so those students taking it study three or fourA levels in any combination. Alongside these standardA levels, there are three additional elements to beundertaken:• an enrichment programme, which recognisesand encourages achievement outside theclassroom, whether the Duke of Edinburgh’sAward, work-related activities, communityinvolvement, sport, music, drama…• an extended project. The possibilities forthis are diverse. Last year saw projects onthe disappearance of bees, the monarchy inThailand, immortality – and many more.• an examined AS level in Critical Thinking,taken alongside the student’s normalprogramme of 4 AS levels. It is a high-endAS Level that focuses on the analysis ofwritten argument and the rigorousinterpretation of data.Whom does it suit?The AQA Baccalaureate is ideal for students whointend to apply to Oxbridge and/or to competitivedegree courses such as Law, Medicine, VeterinaryScience, English, etc.Our teaching styleWe believe that teaching is about engagement andstimulation, debate and challenge.‘What is free will?’ (Philosophy); ‘How can a number beimpossible?’ (Maths); ‘What is culture?’ (Communication& Culture); ‘Shouldinterest rates go up ordown?’ (Economics).Sixth Form is a timeto form opinions oncompelling issues – toargue your perspectiveand respond to theideas of others. Teachersat d’Overbroeck’sare looking for opinions backed up by informed argument– so you can expect classes in which you’re thoroughlyimmersed in issues, discussions and debate.Because our classes are small (the average class size isseven), you’ll always be able to voice your thoughts andreceive direct support and feedback from your teachers –yet still reap the benefit of group discussions, enriched bythe perspectives of your fellow students.Outside classesIn addition to their classes,students will, of course, spenda considerable amount of timeengaged in homework andprivate study: in all, we wouldexpect a typical student to bestudying for about 40 hours aweek, including classes. Theywill also meet their Director ofStudies on a regular basis todiscuss their progress.During the day, students are ableto work in the supervised libraryat the Swan Building or in thestudy room at Ewert Place. Theycan relax in the student commonroom at the Swan Building –where they can also buy foodand drink.‘[Teachers are] lively,buzzy, excited to besharing a wealth ofknowledge’– Good Schools Guide 2008‘Studying hereencourages youto make themost of eachpocket of time...to be muchmore organisedand efficient.’– George Meagher, studentIn addition, any student who is enthusiastic about arange of extra-curricular activities – whether sport,music, volunteering or anything else – would be wellsuited to the AQA Baccalaureate programme.6 7

Student LifeThe Sixth Form at d’Overbroeck’s is a placeof energy and enthusiasm; a place fizzingwith ideas and activity. It’s a richly diversecommunity in which students are buoyed bythe support of both teachers and friends.So what is it like to be a student at d’Overbroeck’s?First of all, it’s worth bearing in mind that this will be anenvironment that’s new to everyone in the Lower Sixth.Joining d’Overbroeck’s Sixth Form, a student doesn’t haveto contend with established friendship groups – becauseEveryone’s onfirst-name terms– students andteachers alikeeveryone is in the sameboat. And our studentscome from a diverse rangeof schools – state andprivate, large and small, UKand international – offeringthe opportunity to makeplenty of new friends.Settling in should be easy. There’s a strong sense of community:everyone’s on first-name terms – whether studentor staff – and the atmosphere is open and informal, livelyand energetic.College eventsThroughout the year, students have the opportunity to joinin with numerous events – from concerts to trips abroad;sports fixtures to the Leavers’ Ball.A good way to get a flavour of the College year is to browseour Sixth Form Newsletters – or our online news feed:doverbroecks.com/sixthform/news89

A typical week in the Sixth FormA typical week in our Sixth Form is busy, varied and exciting.There is, of course, a great deal of work – but also plenty ofopportunities to be involved in sports and extra-curricularactivities. As you can see from the sample timetable below,there’s always plenty going on.Get yourself something to eatSandwiches and hot and cold snacks are available in theCommon Room at the Swan Building between 12.00 and1.30pm every day of the week. Hot and cold drinks areavailable throughout the day.Period 1Period 2Period 3LunchPeriod 4Period 5Period 68.45-9.5510.10-11.2011.35-12.4512.45-1.25 1.25-2.352.45-3.554.00-5.10Monday Biology Psychology Drama Enrichment EnrichmentMeeting DirectorTuesdayPsychologyEconomics Activities Activitiesof StudiesWednesday Biology Drama Economics PsychologyThursday Drama Biology Economics Activities ActivitiesPlay sport or join a club or societyTwice a week, classes finish in the early afternoon,allowing students to take part in sport and otherextra-curricular activities.Activities and extra-curricular events also occurthroughout the week: for example, the Actor Traininggroup meets on Tuesday evenings, Debatingon Thursdays and so on. And for those studentsin our sports teams (or supporting them) there willalso be matches during the week.Friday Economics Psychology Drama BiologyClassesTime for private studyManaging the Sixth Form workloadOther events and activitiesThe bulk of your time is, of course, spent in classes. Giventhe way that we teach – interactive classes with smallgroups – you can expect your time in the classroom to belively and stimulating.Every week includes a number of free periods.Much of the time, you’ll be using these to dohomework or prepare for lessons – perhaps in theCollege library.In the Sixth Form more than ever before, you’llbe in control of your own work schedule – with aconsiderable amount to do outside lessons.We’ll support you as much as we can. You willhave regular one-to-one meetings with yourDirector of Studies to ensure that you are copingwith your workload – and developing the ability tomanage your time effectively.Throughout the College year, there will be a varietyof special events, workshops, competitions, fieldtrips and so on.You’ll have the opportunity to listen to visitingspeakers (from entrepreneurs to professors,sportspeople to celebrities). For Lower Sixthstudents, this is incorporated into weekly sessionsas part of our Enrichment Programme.10 11

Our buildingsMost of our Sixth Form teaching takes place in two buildings which are close toone another geographically: Ewert Place (in Summertown) and the Swan Building(on the Banbury Road, between Summertown and the City Centre)The Science, Maths, Computing and Art departments are Will all my classes be in one building?at Ewert Place – meaning that the computer room, scienceDepending on your combination of subjects, you may orlaboratories and facilities for fine art, ceramics, photography,etc. are all based there, alongside a supervisedmay not have all your classes in one building. If you wereto study History, English, Politics and Film Studies, forstudy area. Virtually all other departments are at the Swaninstance, all your classes would be at the Swan Building.Building, which also houses the Library and studentConversely, if you were to take a combination of scienceCommon Room. Music and Drama are both taught withinand humanities subjects, you would have some of yourthe College’s Performing Arts department in our Leckfordclasses at Ewert Place and the rest at The Swan Building.Place buildings, again just a few minutes’ walk away.The two buildings are only a short way apart along theBanbury Road; and you always have at least a 15-minuteWhat computer access is there?break between classes. Not only does this give you aYou will have easy access to computers in all of our teachingbuildings and boarding houses. PCs are networked lesson, but it also allows ample time in which to movechance to clear your mind in readiness for your nextwith broadband internet access and all the software that between buildings if you need to.you are likely to need.Commuting to CollegeCarRail ServicesParking in Oxford is becoming more difficult all the time. The city’s railway station is a few minutes’ walk fromIf you are driving in from outside the Oxford ring road, we the city centre. For further information on timetablesrecommend the city’s Park & Ride facilities. For further and ticketing, please visit www.nationalrail.co.uk. Busesinformation, please visit www.parkandride.net. There leave the train station regularly and stop near The Swanis also a Pay and Display car park in Diamond Place, Building, 111 Banbury Road.Summertown, close to our Ewert Place site.Sharing transportBus ServicesIt may also be possible to share transport arrangements.There are two main bus companies in Oxford – Stagecoach(01865 772250) and the Oxford Bus Company to College from the same area.We are happy to put you in contact with people travelling(01865 785400). Both offer daily, weekly, fortnightlyand monthly bus passes as well as multi-trip passes. Forfurther details on local bus services, please visitdoverbroecks.com/sixthform/transportActivitiesTime topursueexistinginterests –and explorenew ones…12 13

Drama, Music, Sport and more…A busy and wide-ranging programme of extra-curricular activities is an importantfeature of life at d’Overbroeck’s. A broad selection of clubs and activities isavailable – from individual and team sports to drama, music and debating, Dukeof Edinburgh, environmental awareness, and many more besides.With two afternoons per week dedicated to extra-curricular In the Upper Sixth, you are free to decide whether oractivities – plus further clubs and sports sessions throughoutthe week – there’s plenty of opportunity to pursue your participation continues to be valued and encouraged, andnot to take part in the Activities programme – thoughinterests and talents, and to explore new ones.we hope that most students will carry on with their chosenActivities throughout the Sixth Form.Perhaps you’ll choose to polish your public speaking inthe Debating Club or learn the art of Ballroom Dancing. Ormaybe you’re a keen sportsperson?Trips and visitsAlongside the ongoing activities programme, the CollegeParticipation in sport and activitiesyear is also peppered with trips and visits. Skiing in theItalian Alps – seeing at first hand the relics and remnantsIn the Lower Sixth, you will be expected to take part inof the USSR and Nazism on our History trips to Russiaat least one activity of their choice each week. You’ll beand Germany – examining the paintings and frescoes ofable to choose freely from the full range of options onFlorence for Art/History of Art – investigating multinationaloffer, subject only to your first choice activity not beingcorporations such as BMW as part of the Business Studiesover-subscribed.course…The list goes on.Parents have the opportunity to let us know at the start ofthe academic year if they do not wish their son or daughterto participate in the weekly Activities programme.The range of optionsOur Sport & Extra-curricular Activities Co-ordinators Johny,Jo and Carly work tirelessly to ensure a diverse array ofoptions. Below are some of the activities typically on offer:ArtMaths OlympiadBallroom & Latin Dance Music (various ensembles)BasketballMusic TechBook ClubNetballComputing ClubRamblingCricketRole Playing GamesDanceRoundersDrama ClubRugbyDuke of EdinburghSixth Form Events ClubEnvironmental Group Spanish ClubFilm ClubSquashFirst AidTarget 2.0 (EconomicsFootballinterest rate challenge)GymTennisHockeyYogaThe above list is not exclusive, and we do our best torespond to suggestions. In the past, for instance, we haveorganised horse riding, polo, golf and shooting options inresponse to requests by students.Our facilitiesWe are fortunate in having the use of some excellentsports facilities, thanks to a series of partnerships withlocal organisations.Principal amongst these isOxford Brookes University,whose Centre for Sportoffers facilities includingan astroturf pitch, a fullyequipped sports hall, afitness gym, squash,badminton and basketball‘[The College] hasuse of fantasticfacilities’– Good Schools Guide 2008courts and a climbing wall. We also use excellent footballand cricket pitches and tennis courts in North Oxford, andhave access to rowing facilities.What’s true on the sportsfield is no less so in the realmof the Arts. In recent years, our musicals, for instance,have been performed at Keble College’s professional-classO’Reilly Theatre – and our Winter Concert has been heldat St Hilda’s College’s internationally renowned Jacquelinedu Pré Music Building.For more information on activities at d’Overbroeck’s,please visit doverbroecks.com/sixthform/activities – whichfeatures photos of sports facilities, videos of musicperformances and more.14 15

Results &DestinationsWhere do you see yourselfin three years’ time?For the vast majority of our students, sixth formis a springboard to university. And, while lifeat d’Overbroeck’s is about far more than justacademic results, we are obviously highlyfocused on helping students achieve topmarks in their exams.As you can see from the chart to theright, 27% of 2010’s exam entriesreceived the new top A* grade –compared to a national average of just 8%,and an independent school average of 18%.This is a fitting testament to the hard work ofour students.B (22%)A (32%)C (13%)A* (27%)1617

A level results 2010A level results 2009Subject Total entries A* A B C D EAccounting 2 2Art 11 5 2 2 2Biology 29 6 11 6 6Business Studies 13 4 4 5Chemistry 24 7 12 2 2 1Classical Civilisation 1 1Communication & Culture 15 5 5 4 1Computing 2 1 1Drama 2 1 1Economics 28 16 6 3 2 1English Literature 16 5 7 3 1Film Studies 5 1 3 1French 9 4 2 3Further Maths 21 12 6 1 1 1Geography 8 2 5 1German 2 2History 15 2 7 4 2History of Art 2 1 1Law 2 1 1Maths 45 21 9 9 2 3 1Music 2 1 1Music Technology 6 1 3 2Philosophy 4 1 1 2Photography 10 3 2 3 1Physical Education 5 1 3 1Physics 22 9 6 5 1 1Politics 23 9 10 2 1 1Psychology 9 1 5 1 2Russian 1 1Sociology 7 4 2 1Spanish 6 2 3 1Totals 346 94 110 78 45 14 5Percentages 27% 32% 23% 13% 4% 1%Subject Total entries A B C D E UAccounting 2 2Ancient History 1 1Art 11 4 6 1Biology 20 15 1 3 1Business Studies 18 12 3 1 2Chemistry 17 13 2 1 1Chinese 2 1 1Classical Civilisation 3 2 1Communication & Culture 20 16 4Computing 4 3 1Drama 7 4 2 1Economics 37 25 9 2 1English Literature 21 15 4 2Film Studies 6 2 4French 8 5 2 1Further Maths 25 15 3 2 2 3Geography 6 1 1 3 1German 3 3History 12 5 7History of Art 5 2 1 1 1Law 3 1 1 1Maths 49 36 6 3 3 1Music Technology 2 1 1Philosophy 2 2Photography 10 2 3 4 1Physics 20 12 4 2 2Politics 23 11 7 4 1Psychology 4 3 1Religious Studies 2 1 1Sociology 6 2 3 1Spanish 4 3 1Sports Studies 5 2 2 1Totals 366 228 78 39 16 4 1Percentages 62% 21% 11% 5% 1%

Results Day 2010 – student storiesThis year’s Upper Sixth achieved an outstanding set of A level results. Here arejust a few of the stories from Results Day 2010…Economists excelThe results achieved by this year’s Economics studentswere truly outstanding: over half were awarded an A*.Many of these students are going on to study Economicsor related courses at top universities.Kira Tritenko is one such student. Alongside her A* inEconomics, she gained A* in Maths, A in Politics and Bin Spanish, comfortably beating her AAA offer. Next year,Kira will study Economics at LSE – which she’s lookingforward to immensely – but she’ll miss her teachers atd’Overbroeck’s:‘Economics at d’Overbroeck’s is the best. The way theteachers explain things is absolutely amazing. Theteachers go way beyond the syllabus, which really helpsyou enjoy the subject and do well.’A passport to volcanologySteph Buller gained an A* in Geography, an a in BusinessStudies and a C in Classics, easily meeting her offerfrom Coventry University to study the intriguingly-entitledNatural Hazards course.Natural Hazards involves the study of earthquakes,volcanoes and the like – and will include a fieldwork tripto Iceland to investigate the island’s (by now notorious)volcanic activity.Creative communicatorsThis year, a number of students combined creative andcommunicative flair.Lulu Jones, for example, got A*s in both Photography andCommunication & Culture, as well as a B in English. She’llbe heading to Liverpool in the Autumn to study Communication,Media & Popular Music – a niche course with onlyaround 15 places, unique to Liverpool.Meanwhile, Jodie Lewin combined A*s in Communication& Culture and Geography with an A in Art, and is off toread Sociology at the University of Bristol. Sasha Ussgained A grades in Art and History and an A* in Sociology,and has won a place on the highly competitive ArtFoundation course at Oxford Brookes University. And ourUpper Sixth Performing Arts Scholar Gidon Fineman haswon a coveted place at the prestigious Guildhall School ofMusic to study composition, having gained an A* in Musicand A grades in Drama and English.Finally, outstanding photographer Rory Matthews achievedA*s in Photography and Computing and a B in History.He’ll be studying the renowned Photography degreecourse at Falmouth. It’s very rare for Falmouth to acceptstudents without a foundation certificate, so the fact thatRory received an unconditional offer to join after his Alevels is testament to the quality of his work.Three Upper Sixth star performers. Clockwise from top left:Steph Buller, Becky Latcham-Ford and Gidon FinemanStatistical highlightsWith a third of our students achievingstraight A/A* grades and 13 studentsgaining three or more A*s, 2010 wasanother year of excellent academicachievement for our Upper Sixth.Our proportion of A* grades – 27% – was far in excess ofboth the national average (8%) and the average for UKindependent schools (18%, as published by the IndependentSchools Council).Subject result highlights are shown to the right.Subject result highlights57% A* grades Economics, Further Mathsand Sociology50% A* grades Computing and Music47% A* grades Maths41% A* grades Physics33% A* grades Communication & Cultureand Photography88% A/A* grades Geography80% A/A* grades PE79% A/A* grades Chemistry67% A/A* grades Psychology60% A/A* grades History59% A/A* grades Biology2021

Going on to universityNearly all our students go on to university either directlyafter A levels or after a gap year. Obviously, choosing theright course and institution is key – so we start the processearly, in the spring term of the Lower Sixth.Preparing for OxbridgeOn average, 10% of our Upper Sixth leavers go to Oxbridge each year. We help ourstudents prepare for the highly competitive selection progress by offering a placeon our intensive Oxbridge Programme to any student with ambitions to apply.Every year we run a busy programme of events: visits touniversities, applications workshops and presentations byguest speakers, including returning alumni of the College.Meanwhile, each Director of Studies works with his or herstudents on a one to one basis to advise them and helpthem with the process.Where do d’Overbroeck’s students go?Our students study a diverse range of subjects atuniversity, from the traditional Sciences, Humanities andArts courses to more modern degree subjects such asBusiness & Management, Sports Sciences and MusicIndustry Management. Below are our top 10 universities(by number of students gaining places at each) over thepast three years combined:1 University of Leeds2 Oxford Brookes University3 University of Oxford4 University College London5 Cambridge University5 University of Edinburgh5 Imperial College London5 London School of Economics9 University of York10 King’s College LondonApplication to Oxbridge is about more than excellentgrades. One must also make an informed choice ofsubject and college; understand Oxbridge’s systems andA personalisedcourse ofpreparationand guidancecriteria; submit a polishedapplication; and excel atinterview.The aim of our OxbridgeProgramme is to help withall the above. We supportstudents’ applications throughintense academic preparationin the specific subject(s) involved, alongside collectivetraining in the requisite skills.Unlike most universities, Oxford and Cambridge still interviewthe great majority of applicants. To ensure that ourstudents perform well under these conditions we arrangefrequent interview practice, as well as providing detailedfeedback on their performance. To succeed at interview, astudent must demonstrate informed enthusiasm for theirchosen course, coupled with outstanding academic skills.The Oxbridge preparation course begins in at an earlystage in the Lower Sixth and is a structured programmelasting right through to the interview.The programme includes:• A personalised course of additional studysupervised by an appropriate member of theacademic staff. Not only does this ensure thehighest possible scores for AS and A2 units; it alsoprovides time to explore the subject and developareas of understanding that may lie beyond theA level specification.• Regular tutorials, either individually or in verysmall groups, to simulate the atmosphere of anOxbridge tutorial.• Guidance on the choice of college and course, aswell as the application procedure. This includesinformation sessions for all Oxbridge candidates,together with a conference with guest speakersin June of the Lower Sixth. At least one Oxbridgeadmissions tutor normally attends this conference.• Meetings with current or past Oxbridge studentsin order to share their experience of the applicationprocedure and particular courses.• Mock interviews (often videoed) and individualfeedback in the Autumn term of the Upper Sixth.Our Inspection ReportOf course, our students aren’t the only ones who areregularly examined… Below is a selection of extracts fromour most recent ISI Inspection Report (2007) – the full textof which is available on our website.‘The quality of relationships between staff and pupils andamong pupils is excellent in all areas of the school. Pupilsfeel valued and supported by staff… and their relationshipswith staff are characterised by mutual respect andpoliteness in a relaxed atmosphere. This care for thepupils is at the heart of the ethos of the school. In the sixthform, pupils commented on the relaxed relationships theyhave with staff but were clear that teachers are also ableto challenge, for example, their attitudes to work, withoutjeopardising those relationships.’‘Teaching encourages responsible behaviour in pupils inall sections of the school. Relationships between teachersand pupils are based on mutual trust, respect andunderstanding, and the need for pupils to take responsibilityfor their own learning. This shone through all aspects ofschool life.’‘Highly effective arrangements are in place to give adviceto pupils on careers and application for higher education,co-ordinated by the head of careers together with a memberof heads of department, and pupils receive individualadvice and oversight from their director of studies.’‘Teachers provide highly effective support and guidancefor all pupils in all sections of the school. Pastoral careis a priority and pupils’ comments in questionnaireshighlighted the good quality of care they receive.’‘Discussion and argument amongst pupils is effective andwell informed. Pupils listen well to the views of others andaccept their views readily. In a Year 12 history of art lessonpupils were able to share their opinions on frescoes effectively,the discussion based on secure subject knowledge.Pupils present arguments with clarity. In addition to workin class, opportunities across the school for debating anddrama foster confidence in this area.’‘In their demeanour around the school, in conversation,and in their dealings with one another, pupils throughoutthe school demonstrate strongly developed social skillswithin a relaxed atmosphere. The mutual respect shownbetween pupils and teachers throughout the school is akey element in the tolerant and considerate ethos whichpervades lessons and other activities.’2223

Applying to medical coursesAs with Oxbridge, competition for places on medical degree courses is fierce. Forstudents with ambitions in this area, we provide similarly extensive support.BoardingKey features of our Medical Sciences Programme include:• A programme of presentations and discussionson current issues in medical science – the latestscientific advances, ethical dilemmas, developmentsin the NHS and so on. These ensure thatstudents are up to date on current thinking andable to explore some of these challengingissues in depth.• Expert advice and help in researching the differentcourses and institutions available.• Interview practice with expert feedback.• Help organising work experience.Students who are considering making applications inMedicine, Dentistry or Veterinary Science should talk totheir Director of Studies as soon as possible once theyhave joined the College.The Medical SciencesProgramme begins atthe start of the First YearSixth and is coordinatedby Paul Baily. Paul, whois the Head of PhysicsFormal interviewpractice anddetailed feedbackand a Director of Studies, has many years’ experiencein this field and our track record of placing students atmedical and veterinary schools is excellent.The fact that some universities set entrance examinationsfor medical courses makes the preparation afforded by ourMedical Sciences Programme all the more valuable.Find outabout thevariousoptions forthose livingin College24 25

Boarding at d’Overbroeck’sHaving a comfortable and welcoming place to live is an essential part ofa fulfilling and successful Sixth Form experience.Living in a Boarding HouseThere are three d’Overbroeck’s boarding houses: ‘106’, Hayfield House andBensons House. All three are in close proximity to our main teaching buildings.Around half of our Sixth Form students are boarders. Ouraim is to ensure that all are happy and well looked-after.Choosing your accommodationThe boarding options we provide are varied, offering agood deal of flexibility and choice to students and parents.Broadly, these fit into two categories: living in one of theCollege’s boarding houses, or with a local host family.However, within each of these categories exists a varietyof further possibilities.If you’re thinking of joining d’Overbroeck’s as a boarder,our Accommodation Team will be on hand to help youchoose where you’d like to live. We’ll discuss the optionswith you to find out what works best: would you prefer toshare with another student or have your own room? Doyou like the idea of a communal boarding house, or amore ‘familial’ atmosphere? Whatever your preferences,we’ll do our best to meet them.When you visit the College, you’ll meet a member of theAccommodation Team and discuss the boarding options,then arrange to visit those that appeal to you.Each house provides a convivial boarding environmentwith comfortable, spacious and well equipped rooms,plenty of communal space and pleasant gardens.Hayfield House and ‘106’ each offer accommodationfor around 20 students – with girls and boys occupyingseparate sides of the houses. Whilst Hayfield House largelyconsists of single rooms, ‘106’ has shared double roomswith ensuite facilities. Bensons House, meanwhile, is agirls-only boarding house for five students in single rooms.In each case, the resident Houseparent is there to takecare of every aspect of running the house and lookingafter the students: providing pastoral and personalsupport, preparing dinner and creating a happy, homelyand supportive atmosphere in which the students cansuccessfully live and work.During the week, boarding house students have a regularevening study period from 7-9pm, followed by some freetime in which to relax and socialise. We do also maintain acurfew to ensure that everyone has enough sleep!2627

Living with a Host FamilyHost family accommodation offers plenty of scope for flexibility and individualchoice. We work closely with a wide range of families in north Oxford, the majorityof whom have provided accommodation to our students for a number of years.Boarding questions & answersBelow, you’ll find the answers to some of the most common questions we receiveabout boarding at d’Overbroeck’s. If your question isn’t answered, please don’thesitate to get in touch.We know our host families well and visit them regularly.It’s important that we find the right host family for eachstudent – so if you decide host family accommodation isright for you, we suggest two or three different possibilitiesthat we think are suitable, and leave the final decision toyou once you have visited the houses and met the hostfamilies.All our host family rooms are single, and are fully furnishedand equipped. If you have a particular request – accessto a piano, for instance, or a special dietary requirement –then we’ll take that into account.As you’d expect, this type of accommodation variesconsiderably in terms of location, number of students, sizeof family and so on.All families are located in north Oxford, most withinwalking distance of the College, or a few minutes awayby bus. In the great majority of cases, breakfast andevening meals are provided by host families, though afew rooms are available to students over 18 years old on aself-catering basis.Many families provide internet access; some have childrenand some have pets. Essentially, it’s up to you to tell uswhat you’re looking for.The families that house our students have usually doneso for a number of years. They are friendly, supportiveand understanding without being intrusive. You will feel athome, but you will also have the flexibility and the degreeof independence you’d expect as a sixth former.How many students board in the Sixth Form?Just over half of our Sixth Form students are boarders –that is, approximately 130 students each year.What is the boarding house atmosphere like?Our boarding houses provide a warm and homelyenvironment in which students are able to live and workhappily and comfortably. The atmosphere is relativelyinformal, but there are some house rules, designed toensure that everything runs smoothly and safely. Ask theAccommodation Office for a copy of the house rules if youwould like to see them.Where is the accommodation located?All of our accommodation is in north Oxford and withinclose proximity to our teaching buildings: most are around5 to 10 minutes’ walk – or a short bus or cycle ride – away.What are the ages of the students in theCollege boarding houses?Students at Hayfield House and ‘106’ are 15 to 17; thoseat Bensons House are between 16 and 19.Are the boarding arrangements inspected?In common with all boarding schools in the UK, ourboarding provision and every aspect of the arrangementswe make to ensure the welfare of our boarding studentsare the subject of regular inspections conducted onceevery three years by Ofsted. Our most recent inspectionwas in February 2009.Is self-catering an option?We have a small number of requests each year fromstudents who would prefer to prepare their own meals. Afew self-catering options are available with host families.Please note, though, that self-catering with a host familyis usually reserved for students who are over the age of 18and therefore usually in the second year of the Sixth Form.How many students live with each host family?Our host families usually have between one and fourstudents per family. Some students prefer to be the onlyone with a family while others prefer to live in a housewith other students. This is a question that we alwaysdiscuss with prospective students and parents at ourinitial meeting, and we will accommodate your preferencewherever possible.The Accommodation TeamAll boarding arrangements are made and monitored by the two members of staff who run the College’s AccommodationOffice: Felisa Deas and Rebecca Rue.Felisa and Rebecca are always available to students and parents both in and out of term-time. Should the need arise,they may also be contacted in the evening or at the weekend via an emergency mobile number that is given to allstudents and parents at the start of the academic year.Please feel free to contact Felisa and Rebecca directly if you have any questions about boarding arrangements.Telephone: +44 (0)1865 888935Email: accommodation@doverbroecks.com28 29

Applying to d’Overbroeck’sAdmissionsThinking about joining us for Sixth Form?We’d love to meet you. You’re welcome tocome along to one of our open days, orsimply to drop in and visit.Visiting usYou may well find it helpful to come along to one of ourSaturday Open Mornings, which take place once eachterm. You’ll find a list of Open Morning dates on page 37.Alternatively, you may choose to visit on a normal teachingday (please just telephone us in advance, so that we canensure the right people are available to meet you) – or, ofcourse, do both!When you come to visit, we hope to get to know you – aswell as to give you as much information as we can aboutall aspects of our Sixth Form, and to discuss any questionsyou may have. You will spend a lot of time with a senioracademic member of staff – normally either the AcademicHead of Sixth Form, Alasdair, or Sami, the Principal – talkingthrough the details of your academic programme andA level subject choices. You may also meet Hannah, ourSocial Organiser, who will give you an idea of College lifeoutside lessons: social events, trips, activities and so on.Finally, if you intend to board, you will talk to either Felisaor Rebecca from our Accommodation Office.You will, of course, also have the opportunity to see theCollege in action. You’ll find out about the range of sportsand other extra-curricular activities on offer, as well ashaving the opportunity to meet staff and current students,and to ask as many questions as you wish – the moresearching the better!Please allow around an hour-and-a-half to two hours foryour visit. Don’t worry: this won’t be an intimidatinglyformal process. Of course, we will be interviewing you –but it’s also an opportunity for you to get to know us, andfor us to work out together if this is the right choice for thenext stage in your education.Following the initial visit, you would be very welcome tocome and see us again to explore in greater depth, orperhaps to meet particular teachers or heads of department.We are also very happy to arrange for prospectivestudents to spend a day or half a day sitting in on classesif they wish to.Our academic entrance requirementsTo join the Sixth Form you will need at least eight GCSEswith grades A* to C. These should normally include Mathsand English. At least four subjects should be at grade B orabove, and you will need to have achieved at least a B inany subject that you have studied to GCSE and intend tocontinue studying at AS level.International students who are studying for qualificationsother than GCSEs will be expected to achieve results thatare equivalent to the above.We will also ask your current school to provide us witha reference.Applications may be submitted at any point in the academicyear for entry in the following September, thoughobviously the sooner this is done the better. If you wouldlike to apply for a scholarship, please see pages 32-33 fordetails of the scholarships offered by the College.Information for international studentsIf you are living abroad, we realise you may not be ableto come and visit the College. We are happy to arrangetelephone interviews with prospective students and toanswer all your questions by telephone and/or email.Students whose first language is not English are usuallyasked to take our English test, which is designed to give usan assessment of the candidate’s current level of English.Moving to d’Overbroeck’s for the Upper SixthEvery year, we receive a few applications from studentswho would like to transfer to d’Overbroeck’s for the secondyear of the Sixth Form having completed the first yearat another school. If you are considering a transfer tod’Overbroeck’s mid-way through the Sixth Form, pleasecome and see us for a discussion as early as possible.Entry aged 11+ and 13+ to Leckford PlaceLeckford Place is the 11-16 section of d’Overbroeck’sCollege. You will find information about Leckford Placeon the College website, doverbroecks.com – or you cantelephone +44 (0)1865 302620.For any queries about Sixth Form admissions,or to arrange a visit, please call the Sixth FormOffice on +44 (0)1865 310000 or email us atmail@doverbroecks.com.3031

Sixth Form ScholarshipsThe College offers a number of scholarships and awards each year to students whoshow outstanding achievement and potential as well as the willingness to make asignificant contribution to the life of the College and student community.We welcome scholarship applications for the comingacademic year from students who would like to join theSixth Form for a full-time two-year course of study.• The Barrington-Ward Art ScholarshipAwarded to a student who shows outstandingtalent in the visual/fine arts supported by astrong portfolio of current work.The College also offers a number of bursaries which, unlikescholarships, are means-related. If you wish to discussthe possibility of a bursary, please contact the Principal.• Environmental Awareness ScholarshipAwarded to a student able to demonstrate awell-informed awareness of environmentalScholarships• Academic ScholarshipsUp to four such awards may be made in a yearto candidates who show outstanding academicpotential supported by a high level of academicachievement to date.• The Mary Tarrell Science ScholarshipAwarded for outstanding ability in science toa student who will study at least two sciences(Chemistry/Physics/Biology) at A level.• The April Darling Performing Arts ScholarshipAwarded to a student who shows outstandingtalent, commitment and enthusiasm in music,drama or both. Candidates for the PerformingArts scholarship must be intending to study atleast one of these subjects at A level, and willbe expected to play a very active part in Collegeproductions and other performing arts activities.issues along with enthusiasm, initiative andleadership qualities. The successful candidatewill be expected to take a lead role in promotingenvironmental issues among the student bodyand will help to promote environmentally driveninitiatives within the College.Enterprise AwardThis new award is for a student who can demonstrateexceptional entrepreneurial skills and who will continueto develop entrepreneurial initiatives whilst at College.This may, for example, be a student who already has abusiness of some sort, someone who has participatedsuccessfully in Young Enterprise, or simply someone witha good business idea and the necessary skills to developthis whilst with us. The successful candidate will be activelyinvolved in our enterprise provision across the wholeschool and will develop their own business initiatives,making use of the support and advice we can provide.The award will be based on a student’s performance in aselection process which will involve problem solving, teamactivities and a presentation and interview.Value of ScholarshipsThe financial value of a scholarship is at the discretion ofthe College, up to a maximum of 20% of tuition fees. Thevalue of a scholarship may be extended by an appropriatemeans-tested bursary in cases of genuine need. Pleasenote that boarding charges, where relevant, apply in full.Selection procedureScholarships are awarded on the strength of a specialwritten examination and audition/portfolio as appropriate,as well as an interview, the applicant’s personal statement,a reference from his or her current school and any otherappropriate supporting material.In the case of the Academic and Science scholarships, theaward will also normally be conditional upon candidatesobtaining at least eight GCSEs at grade C or above, at leastsix of which must be at A or A* (or equivalent overseasqualifications). However, scholars will typically achievegrades much higher than this minimum condition.How to applyCandidates applying for a Scholarship should completethe application form, available from the Sixth Form office.Access Award: The Julie Baily ScholarshipIn addition to the above Scholarships, the College alsooffers an Access Award. This is offered in some yearsto a student of outstanding academic ability wishing tomove from the state sector into independent education.Applications for this award, which may amount to asmuch as 100% of tuition fees, are considered only fromstudents whose families would demonstrably not be ableto consider independent education otherwise.This year’s scholarsIn the Lower Sixth……and in the Upper SixthApril Darling Performing Arts ScholarshipFlora McGivan (Leckford Place)Academic ExhibitionsJoanna BrownDonald CraigieLilit MesyanAll Rounder Academic ExhibitionSam BartonAcademic ScholarshipsIsabella MaineMadeleine HurryApril Darling Performing Arts ScholarshipMatthew ThornsEnvironmental Awareness ScholarshipLouisa GoodfellowFlora GriffithsAcademic ExhibitionsRhys Tong-JonesGareth PatersonArt ExhibitionDaisy BernardAll Rounder Academic ExhibitionEdward Hornsby32 33

Frequently asked questionsWhat attracts most students to d’Overbroeck’s?Is sport compulsory?What are the rules?What are the medical arrangements?The most common reason given by prospective students istheir desire for a Sixth Form with a more open and matureenvironment than that of their current school.Our strong track record of academic achievement and inhelping students to gain places at top universities and onhighly competitive degree courses is also a strong factor inmany cases.Another factor that often draws students to d’Overbroeck’sSixth Form is the wide range of subjects that we offer atA level (see page 4), and the fact that we allow eachstudent the freedom to choose the combination ofsubjects that best suits his or her interests, strengths andfuture aspirations.Where do students come from?A question usually asked by those hoping the answer willbe ‘no’! The answer is indeed that sport is not compulsoryin the Sixth Form at d’Overbroeck’s. Students are howeverexpected to take part in at least one extra-curricularactivity in the Lower Sixth – but this need not be sporting:other options include drama, debating and Duke ofEdinburgh, to name but three. Please see pages 14-15 formore information about our activities programme.What extra-curricular activities are there?For a full listing see page 15. Our extra-curricular activitiesprogramme grows and develops each year, with newactivities and clubs being added at the suggestion of eitherstaff or students. So, if you are keen on something that wedon’t currently offer, great! Come and get it started.As a dedicated Sixth Form environment, we don’t feel theneed to impose the sort of battery of rules that is madenecessary in most schools by the presence of youngerpupils on the same site. This is a more mature setting, inwhich students are treated as young adults rather thanas schoolchildren.We place great emphasis on academic work and achievementand we monitor students’ progress very closely.But we’re less strict about dress codes or hairstyles, forinstance, and we don’t regiment every minute of every day.In other words, our approach combines structure withinformality, meaning that trust and personal responsibilitylargely take the place of a lengthy list of do’s and don’ts.Can students drive to College?Unless they are already registered with a GeneralPractitioner here in Oxford, students are asked to registerwith the Banbury Road Medical Practice. The practiceis very close to the College and consists of a number ofdoctors, both male and female, ensuring that students canalways see a doctor quickly if and when the need arises.Staff from the medical practice are normally present at thestart of the academic term to register students.We also have an arrangement with a local dental practicethat looks after our students when the need arises.Is there a uniform?No. Students are free to wear what they like and feel mostcomfortable in – within reason, of course!Many of our students are from Oxfordshire. However,students also join us from all over the UK – and from otherparts of the world. Students join us from both independentand state schools.What sport does the College offer?A whole range of individual and team sports are on offereach week ranging from fencing to football and fromrowing to rugby. For full details, please see pages 14-15.Yes – but beware. Parking is difficult and/or expensive.The majority of roads in North Oxford are for permitholders only so the best solution is probably to use thePark and Ride options (see page 12 for details) – althoughmany students choose to cycle to College.Do you offer Scholarships and Bursaries?Yes we do. For full details of the awards we offer see pages32-33.What is the ratio of boys to girls?Usually around 50:50, but obviously this may vary a littleyear on year.What is the proportion of boarders?Just over 50%.How many students in a class?We teach in small classes: the average size is sevenstudents; the maximum we ever have in a class is 10.Will it be easy to make friends?Yes! The Sixth Form is a new environment for everyonejoining us, so you will be in the same position as lots ofothers. Everyone is eager to make new friends. You willnot be joining a school where friendship groups have beenestablished for years. This is an open and friendly environmentin which students form strong friendships – oftenthe kind that continue long beyond Sixth Form.How do I decide which subjects to choose?A weighty question – and one that we think is likely tohave a significant bearing on your academic success. Weaim to give prospective students as much guidance andhelp in choosing their subjects as they need. For moredetails, see page 4.34 35

StaffSixth Form Teaching StaffPrincipal+ SAMI COHEN, BSc, FrenchAdministrative Principal+ RICHARD KNOWLES, MA, DPhil, EconomicsBursar+ PETER TALBOT, BEdAcademic Head of Sixth Form+ ALASDAIR MACPHERSON, MA, English*Academic Co-ordinator+ ALASTAIR BARNETT, BA, PGCE, History*Head of Lower Sixth+ CAROLYN NEWTON, BA, MPhil, Sociology*,Communication & CultureSixth Form Registrar+ BRIDGET NORTON, BASixth Form OfficeCLEMMIE LOUCH, Executive PA DiplomaMERIEL FOX, Executive PA DiplomaAccommodation OfficeFELISA DEAS, BA; REBECCA RUE, BASport & Extra-curricular ActivitiesJO KALIES, BSc, Physical EducationJONATHAN RICHARDS, BSc, Physical Education*CARLY WISE, BA, Physical EducationSocial Organiser & Alumni RelationsHANNAH JOHNSONCollege CounsellorCATHERINE BECH, BA, Adv. Diploma in CounsellingPrincipal’s PAPAT HARRISFrank Adam BSc QTS, MathsMelinda Allan BA CELTA DELTA, EALKatie Amiri BA TESOL TEFL, EALLouise Arnould BA BTec, ArtDaniel Austin BA, EALPaul Baily BA Cert Ed, Physics*Ursula Boughton BSc PGCE, MathsChristophe Brinster M ès L, French*Clare Cameron BA PGCE, Business Studies*Chris Carter BSc PGCE, Physics, MathsAndrew Colclough BA MA, Politics*Margaret Craig BA MA FAETC, History of ArtCharles Currie MPhys PGCE, Physics,Patricia Dass MSc, Psychology*Jing Ping Fan BA MA PGCE, MandarinStephen Field MA PhD, ChemistryJulia Ford BA, PsychologyElena Germanino MA, ItalianAndrew Gillespie MA, Business Studies*Amy Godel BA PGCE, MathsFrances Godsal BA MA, Drama & Theatre StudiesAnita Goriely Ms PhD, MathsNick Haines MPhil, MathsKeiko Harada MA, JapaneseSimon Harrison BA, Economics*Christopher Holland BA, EnglishGraham Hope MA DPhil, MathsClare Horne MA DPhil PGCE, Maths*Fizza Hussain BA PGCE, Drama*Anna Irvine BA TESOL, EALAdam Johnstone MA MSt, BiologySusanne Kreitz PhD, German*Pascale Lafeber MA, FrenchJagjeet Lally BA MSc, EconomicsAndrew Latcham BA DPhil, History, PoliticsAbby Loebenberg DPhil MPhil, SociologyChristine Martelloni MSc, FrenchSusan McKendrick BA PGCE, Music*Andrew McNeill BSc PhD, Maths*Elina Medley BA MA PGCE, PhotographyAlan Milosevic BSc PGCE, Maths, Computing*Carolyn Newton BA MPhil, Communication & Culture,Sociology*Jane Nimmo-Smith BA, Classics*, Ancient History*James O’Connor BTec HND, Music Technology*Kate Palmer BSc PGCE SDes, Geography*Max Parsonage BSc PGCE, Chemistry*Mark Piesing BA PGCE, Communication & Culture*Nick Reeves MA PGCE, Art*, History of Art*Jonathan Richards BSc, Physical Education*Ana Rodriguez Nodal BA, SpanishAndrew Sheahan BA, EconomicsTuncel Tack BSc PhD, Chemistry*Jaimie Tarrell BEd, Biology*Emma Tinker BA MA PhD, Communication & Culture,English, Film StudiesOliver van Biervliet BSc PGCE, Biology, Physical EducationNatalia Walker BA, RussianDavid Wareham BA MA TESOL, EALLouise Wheaton BSc PGCE, GeographyClare Wildish BA, Accounts*, Business StudiesMartin Winstone BA MLit, History, PoliticsCarly Wise BA PGCE, Physical EducationSharon Wyper BA PGATC MA, ArtEdward Yeo BA PGCE, Music+ Director of Studies* Head of Department or Departmental Co-ordinatorChairman of the Governing BodyJames Noel, 25 Broomhouse Road, London SW6 3QUTelephone + 44 (0)20 7736 5492Term dates 2010-11Open DaysWinter TermTerm startsHalf termTerm endsMonday 6 SeptemberFriday 22 October toSunday 31 October (inclusive)Wedneday 15 DecemberSummer TermTerm starts Tuesday 26 AprilBank holiday Monday 2 MayHalf term Monday 30 MayTerm ends Wednesday 29 JuneTo help you get a taste of life at d’Overbroeck’s, we holda series of Open Mornings throughout the year, offeringan opportunity to visit the College and to meet staff andstudents. These are held at The Swan Building, 111Banbury Road, Oxford, OX2 6JX. Do join us at our nextOpen Morning if you can.Spring TermTerm startsWednesday 5 JanuaryFor a full calendar of events, please visit our website.Open Morning dates for 2011 include:Saturday 5 February 2011Saturday 7 May 2011Half termTerm endsSaturday 19 February toSunday 27 February (inclusive)Friday 1 AprilFor further details, please visitdoverbroecks.com/sixthform/open-days36 37

How to find usBy train or busTrain and bus connections to Oxford are good. FromLondon trains run regularly from Paddington station, andthere are two 24-hour bus services – Oxford Espress andthe Oxford Tube – both running from Victoria and MarbleArch, approximately every 20 minutes during the day.Buses also run regularly from Heathrow and Gatwickairports, direct to Oxford.The railway station and the bus station are both locatedin the centre of the city, a short taxi ride from The Swanbuilding, our main Sixth Form teaching site.By carPrivate vehicle access to the centre of Oxford is restricted,so if you are visiting d’Overbroeck’s by car from outsideOxford the best approach to the College is via theCutteslowe Roundabout, avoiding the city centre entirely.Listed below are directions to help you find us by car.From the North M40Leave the M40 at Junction 9 and follow the A34 towardsOxford. Leave the A34 at the Pear Tree Interchange andfollow the A44, signed to Oxford and London. At theadjacent Wolvercote Roundabout, turn left towards London(A40, the Oxford Ring Road at this point) until you reachthe Cutteslowe Roundabout (see page opposite).From the North A44Follow the A44 to the Wolvercote Roundabout, then turnleft towards London (A40, the Oxford Ring Road at thispoint) until you reach the Cutteslowe Roundabout (seebelow).From the South M40Leave the M40 at Junction 8 and follow the A40 to Oxford.At the Headington Roundabout, turn right onto the RingRoad, West (A40), signed to Cheltenham. Follow the roadfor about 3 miles, then turn left at the first roundabout,which is the Cutteslowe Roundabout (see below).From the South A34Follow the A34 (Western Bypass) around Oxford, ignoringsigns for the city centre. Leave the A34 at the Pear TreeInterchange and follow the A44, signed to Oxford andLondon. At the adjacent Wolvercote Roundabout, turn lefttowards London (A40, the Oxford Ring Road at this point)until you reach the Cutteslowe Roundabout (see below).From the Cutteslowe RoundaboutNow that you’ve made it to the roundabout, follow theBanbury Road (A4165), signed to Summertown, towardsthe city centre. Pass through the shopping area ofSummertown and over the junction with the Marston FerryRoad (B4495). Continue down the Banbury Road and TheSwan Building is on your right (opposite Linton Road andParklands Hotel).38 39

‘Quite possibly the leading independent sixth form in the UK.More than that, it’s a place of energy and laughter, of singlemindeddetermination among students to do the best they can.And d’Overbroeck’s doesn’t let them down.’Good Schools GuideWe have sought to keep the information in this booklet to a manageable level. Please contact us if you would like toreceive details of the College’s policy and procedures relating to health and safety, including those for health and safetyon school trips and activities; our policy on safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children (which is, incidentally,published in full on the website); our disability inclusion policy and current accessibility plan; our anti-bullying policy, etc.These documents, among others, are available on request.41

42d’Overbroeck’s Sixth FormThe Swan Building111 Banbury RoadOxford OX2 6JXTel. 01865 310000Fax. 01865 552296sixthform@doverbroecks.comwww.doverbroecks.comPhotographs by Eric Richmond, Tom Parnell