Academic Ambition

Our A Level focused curriculum balances breadth and specialism, guiding students to outstanding results and top universities, apprenticeships and careers. The Independent Schools’ Inspectorate (2023) found SGS students: “Inspired by the school’s aim for them to be academically ambitious.”

Making the right subject choices

Subject choices should be made carefully, and reflect genuine interest, career goals, and ability. Students are advised to consult widely before finalising options. Timetables are tailored to student preferences, allowing most to study their chosen subjects.

University entry requirements

Certain degree courses require specific subjects, such as Chemistry and usually Biology for medicine, or Mathematics and Physics usually required for engineering. We advise students on subject selection, and they can research requirements through our careers department, university websites, and UCAS.

Subjects for more selective universities

The Russell Group of more research-focused universities, provide guidance on A Level subject choices:

View the Russell Group’s informed choices guide

Making the transition to independent learning

At SGS, A Level subjects prepare students for both employment and higher education, and for life more broadly.

Lower Sixth students start with 10 hours per subject per fortnight. In Upper Sixth, students typically have 11 hours per subject per fortnight, taking on more responsibility to prepare for independent learning at university and in the workplace.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

The EPQ is an independent research project leading to a Level 3 qualification. 88% of our 2024 EPQ students achieved A*, A, or B grades, with many receiving adjusted university offers because they were taking an EPQ.