Upper Sixth ‘upskill’ with Skills-based Course
The Upper Sixth have done remarkably well by embracing the opportunities this programme has afforded them as a result of the cancellation of their exams and the continuation of teaching that RGS has been able to provide.
Whether pursuing undergraduate study in the humanities, arts or sciences, the programme has provided the students with opportunities to reflect on what university study will be like and the key skills they will need in order to succeed on their courses. In addition, they have been able to complete some preparatory work for their courses, from Game Theory to Teaching (we clearly have not put them off!).
Alongside this, they have spent time developing their digital skills, which will be so vital in their future careers. Mike Nicholson, Director of Undergraduate Admissions at the University of Bath, says: “These skills will be essential in a world where more will be done online involving differing technology and platforms.” Having Apple Teacher status or the iDEA Silver Award on their CVs will be another way to differentiate themselves from the competition in the future.
Personally, I have really enjoyed the online discussions with RGS Alumni, talking about anything and everything to do with life after RGS. The sharing of their experiences with our students has been invaluable. It was also useful to listen to the co-founder of Purple Frog, Patrick Garratt, share his expertise on renting student accommodation – we found out that rents will often be reduced after the Christmas holiday!
It seems that cooking and baking have also been a prominent theme for many households during ‘lockdown’, and our Upper Sixth students have not disappointed, including tackling katsu curry on one of the hottest days of the year! Some examples of their creations can be seen here: https://padlet.com/cam5/nmpya0nuh0ifrp1t.
We would all have preferred to have had a ‘business as usual’ end to the year, but we have certainly turned a ‘lemon into lemonade’ with the skills-based courses and my thanks to the staff for leading and organising the course and the students for participating with such commitment and good humour. Everyone certainly deserves a wonderful summer break.
Mr M Evetts, Head of Sixth Form