Ben visits Corby Sixth Form to speak with Shaun Cook and Kathryn Brindley-Edwards from the Bedford College Group. Shaun is the Principle of Tresham College and Kathryn is the Principle of Sixth Forms.
Corby Sixth Form opened in 2023 and offers many unique opportunities to its students. From traditional A-levels to T-levels to apprenticeships, the campus provides a host of ways in which students can thrive. The Bedford College Group is one of the biggest college groups in the country and supports nearly 10,000 young people across their campuses.
Careers not courses
Corby Sixth Form works hard to prepare people of all ages for the world of work. The Sixth Form offers 34 different A-levels in standard and unique subjects like classics, politics and their new environmental science course. Kathryn is passionate about sustainability and emphasises how it is built into all the courses they offer, not just environmental science or geography. The guests agree that being environmentally, economically and socially sustainable is a crucial skill in the current day.
As well as this, the sixth form offers vocational pathways to develop trade skills and a variety of apprenticeships. Shaun mentions an often overlooked challenge is ensuring students – many of whom cannot drive – can reach work experience placements easily. This involves creating opportunities close to public transport routes which are accessible to young people.
Bridging the gap between business and education
Corby Sixth Form is a strong advocate of apprenticeships and the value they provide to both young people and employers.
Many people have misconceptions about whether apprenticeships are a good avenue to pursue. However, they can be an excellent way for young people to gain experience in a working environment while studying.
Employers also benefit greatly from offering apprenticeships. Alongside fostering new talent in their sector, employers can benefit from the skills and insight young people have to offer. The government will also cover most of the cost of apprenticeships.
The guests discuss the disconnect between the education and business sectors. Ben then shares his plans to try and bridge this gap so both industries can recognise the mutual benefit in their partnership.
The Bedford College Group puts learners at the heart of everything they do, but Shaun and Kathryn have struggled with funding cuts and competition with other schools. However, they remain dedicated to bringing students one step closer to their goals, whatever those may be.
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