What do our students say?

Some of the best people to speak to regarding what sixth form is like are our current and past students. Current students are always available at our open events and will be more than happy to talk about their experiences of being a sixth form student. If you’d like to hear about what some of our past students have to say, then just click on the links below. Each link will take you to a testimonial from one of our past students; you’ll find out about their experiences in sixth form, as well as what they’ve gone on to accomplish since leaving.

Oliver’s story

Hi I’m Oliver, a former student who started at Forge in year 7. After 5 very happy years at the school I decided to stay on at sixth form and continue to be part of the Forge family up until the age of 18.

When I started year 12 I was unsure of what I eventually wanted to do long term. As a result, I chose a combination of subjects that played to my strengths and those that I had a real interest in. I studied A-level Business, A-level Maths, BTEC ICT and Finance Studies. I can honestly say that my time at sixth form was a transformative experience that helped to build my self-confidence. In addition to my studies I took part in the sixth form football programme, which involved weekly coaching sessions built around my lessons, together with matches in a local semi-professional league. The programme not only enhanced my physical skills, but also my teamwork and leadership skills.

Sixth form also opened doors to other incredible opportunities. In year 12 I got to participate in a local radio show and I also visited Auschwitz-Birkenau in Poland to see the World War 2 concentration camps first hand. The visit gave me a deeper understanding of history and humanity and it led to me becoming a Holocaust Ambassador. In taking on this role I spoke to younger students in the Academy about my visit to the camps and helped to educate them about the Holocaust.

By the time I reached year 13 I had received lots of support and guidance in planning what to do after sixth form and I made the decision to apply to study a degree in cyber security at Worcester University. I decided to do this as I had really enjoyed the ICT course in sixth form and I wanted to build on it further. As you can imagine, I was overjoyed when I was awarded a place on the degree course after finishing sixth form.

Sixth form was a great experience and I will be forever grateful for the support I received during my time at Forge

Ishrat’s story

Supportive, transformative, empowering — these are the three words that best define my experience at Ormiston Forge Academy.

I’m Ishrat. I joined Ormiston Forge Academy in 2013 and completed my sixth form studies at the Academy in 2020. The support and encouragement provided by my A level teachers and the sixth form team was exceptional. All staff were incredibly patient and understanding, always prioritising our mental wellbeing alongside academic success. Sixth form truly felt like a second home; a place where I was both supported and challenged to achieve my best.

I studied business, maths, IT, and finance at sixth form and this laid the foundation for my passion in bridging the worlds of technology and business. The guidance and belief my teachers had in me gave me the confidence to pursue university.

Sixth Form also gave me opportunities to push myself outside of my comfort zone — something I didn’t always understand at the time. I still remember being told, “Doing the uncomfortable will one day make you comfortable.” Back then, it felt like just a phrase, but now it makes perfect sense. Whether it was through class presentations, group projects, or just being encouraged to speak up and take initiative, these experiences gradually built my confidence and resilience. They taught me the importance of growth through discomfort, a lesson that continues to shape my life and career.

After completing my A levels I progressed to university and in 2023 I was awarded a First Class Honours degree in Business Information Technology.

Following university I secured a place on a graduate scheme within the civil service. I now work for the Government in the field of cyber security . It’s a career that I enjoy immensely and my time in sixth form helped me get to this position.

Looking back, Ormiston Forge wasn’t just an Academy; it was a family. The dedication, care, and encouragement from the staff have had a lasting impact on both my academic and personal journey.

I’m truly grateful.

Anissan’s story

Hi! My name is Anissan and I began my journey at Forge in year 7 back in 2017. For me, the UK was a new country, with new people and I joined year 7 later than everyone else. Nevertheless I quickly felt very comfortable and welcomed in the school, so it was not a difficult decision to choose the sixth form at Forge once I’d reached the end of my GCSEs. I joined the sixth form in 2022, studying A level Biology, Chemistry and Psychology.

My experience at sixth form was great! I followed the medicine pathway, which is designed for students looking to progress to a medical related degree. I was provided with a lot of support in finding work experience in local hospitals, which strengthened my university application. The sixth form team also set up weekly 1 to 1 mentoring sessions with a medical student. Furthermore, through The Access Project ‘s Medicine and Dentistry society, I was provided with seminars and practice sessions to help prepare for university interviews.

After achieving an A grade and 2 B grades in my A levels, I was awarded a place at the University of Birmingham on the biomedical science degree course. My plan is to use the degree course as a route into a graduate entry medical programme.

Overall, my experience at sixth form is one I will always cherish and I am grateful for everyone who helped me achieve what I have so far.