Sixth Form with College Partnerships
From September 2026, our Sixth Form provision will include exciting college partnership programmes with Activate Learning (Oxford City College), designed for pupils who need supported transition to further education. This enhanced provision is available to both our existing pupils and those joining us from other schools.
Who Is This For?
This provision is perfect for students who:
- Are not quite ready for full college independence
- Want to explore different vocational options
- Need continued support while experiencing college life
- Would benefit from a gradual transition approach
Two Pathway Options
Pathway 1: Introduction to Industry: For pupils who need staff support or want to explore different options
What’s included:
- One full day per week at Oxford City College
- Accompanied by a Unicorn Teaching Assistant
- 6-week taster blocks in up to 6 different courses
- Choice from: Catering, Retail, Business, Health & Social Care, Early Years, Sport, Art
- Bespoke options available (Travel & Tourism, Hair & Beauty, Construction)
Pathway 2: Vocational Course: For pupils ready to attend college independently
What’s included:
- One full day per week on a specific vocational course
- Independent attendance (no Unicorn staff required)
- Course options: Hair & Beauty, Catering, Public Service/Sport, Health & Social Care, Construction
The Best of Both Worlds
Pupils in our college partnership programmes will:
- Experience college life in a supported environment
- Continue their core studies at The Unicorn School 4 days per week
- Build supportive relationships with our trusted staff (whether continuing or newly developed)
- Access integrated therapy support throughout their transition
- Build confidence gradually before making the full move to further education
Our Commitment to Transition
This provision recognises that not all pupils are ready for immediate transition to college or employment. By offering this supported bridge, we help pupils:
- Build confidence in new environments
- Develop independence skills at their own pace
- Explore career interests without commitment pressure
- Maintain emotional security whilst stretching their boundaries
- Prepare thoroughly for their next steps
Our plans are to develop a work experience programme. Through this programme we will support all Sixth Form students with work experience placements, drawing on our strong connections with local employers and providing additional staff training as needed.
Planning Your Child’s Future
We’ll be sharing detailed information about our college partnerships with Year 9, 10, and 11 families throughout 2025, allowing plenty of time for discussion and planning.
This enhanced provision launches in September 2026 and will run alongside our core Sixth Form curriculum detailed on our main Sixth Form page.
Get in Touch
Contact us to discuss how this enhanced provision could support your child’s transition to independence and further education, whether they’re currently at The Unicorn School or would be joining us for Sixth Form.
