Great teaching, great results
In every subject you will be taught by an experienced and dedicated team of subject specialists. Our students consistently achieve higher results than the national average in terms of achievement, and these results have enabled past DSFC students to gain places at Oxford, Cambridge and other prestigious universities and courses, both in the UK and abroad.
Our commitment to providing the best learning experience is constantly evolving, and we take time as a college to reflect on and implement the best ideas and research in education to ensure you are getting the most support possible in your studies.
You will have access to a dedicated programme for students wishing to apply for medicine and veterinary medicine, and to support those who may need to sit other pre-university tests in subjects such as law and the humanities. If your ambition is to go into a Degree-level apprenticeship you will have access to potential employers and apprenticeship providers through our well established Careers Programme.
What can you offer me beyond my courses?
We offer so much more than A Levels and BTECs. Enrich your college experience with our array of trips, lectures and conferences. Get involved in an extensive number of subject-related opportunities, including extension classes and a wide range of visits. A mixture of experts from around the UK, highly respected public figures and ex-students who have gone on to highly successful careers come to share their experiences and advice on a regular basis. You can also contribute to research in your own subject areas by completing an Extended Project Qualification on a topic of your choice, whilst learning important skills for further study at university.
Beyond your subjects there are a wide range of activities which you can participate in and we always welcome suggestions from you for new groups or clubs. This year we have had a College netball team, the Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, a reading society and opportunities to shadow different book awards, and a drama production with Northgate High School.
Will I have a tutor?
You will have university-style 1-2-1 meetings with your tutor throughout the year as part of our pastoral support which has been repeatedly described as ‘outstanding’ by OFSTED. Regular group sessions focusing on a range of post-16 specific guidance, including study skills, UCAS and careers guidance and life skills will prepare you for being an effective 21st century citizen.
All students will attend a tutorial programme aimed at developing your study and work-related learning skills. You will also have timetabled study periods to support your learning and make up your required number of supervised hours.
How can I have a voice?
Lead your way to success and join the College Senate to represent the entire College student body and be the voice of change. Have your say in how the College is run as well as the events we hold and the external partnerships and community work we are involved with. As part of the Senate you will be working with a student body of around 20 volunteers.
You can choose which committee you wish to serve on – focusing on either the College’s charity work, teaching and learning or student well-being – and can run for the student-elected positions of President and Vice-President. The Senate consists of many hard-working, dedicated people who are tireless in ensuring that students at DSFC are happy and content. Let one of them be you!
What is the site like?
You will be studying at an exclusively post-16 site which allows us to have a mature approach to private study and the working day. You will have access to a wide range of facilities for both lessons and private study time, including a professionally qualified and Chartered College Librarian with expertise in supporting A Level and BTEC students. Our Eco Cafe provides a relaxed environment in which to take a break from studies.
