Part of castle school education trust

"Castle School Education Trust is committed to high quality education across the primary, secondary and sixth form key stages. Our schools cover the South Gloucestershire area. We encourage independence within each school within a strong framework of values."

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Downend

To report a child's absence for years 7-11 please email dow-studentabsence@cset.co.uk or call 01454 862395.  For 6th Form please call 01454 862333.  

Care & Guidance

At Downend and Mangotsfield Sixth Form, we believe that student wellbeing is the foundation of academic success. Our supportive and inclusive environment ensures that every student receives the care, guidance, and encouragement they need to thrive.

Pastoral Support

We place great importance on pastoral care, recognising that happiness and wellbeing are key to achieving your best. As a small and inclusive Sixth Form, we take the time to get to know each student personally, allowing us to offer tailored support throughout your journey.

Each student is assigned a personal tutor who will be your main point of contact from day one. Your tutor will help you settle in, provide ongoing guidance, and hold regular one-to-one sessions to support your studies and explore your future aspirations.

Our dedicated Sixth Form Learning Mentor plays a central role in supporting student success. They deliver targeted support programmes designed to meet the evolving needs of each year group. In Year 12, students can benefit from our Boost Programme, which helps ease the transition into Sixth Form by building study skills, confidence, and routines. In Year 13, the Step Up Programme offers tailored support to help students refocus, stay on track, and prepare for final assessments and next steps.

We are also committed to supporting students with their mental health and wellbeing. If you're struggling or need someone to talk to, our team is here to listen and help. We can offer guidance, provide a safe space for conversation, and signpost you to appropriate external support services when needed.

Students with additional needs

We warmly welcome applications from students with a wide range of needs. As a fully inclusive Sixth Form, we are committed to ensuring that every student has access to the support they need to thrive. We work closely with our school’s SEND team and a range of external agencies to put the right strategies and resources in place for each individual.

If you feel you would benefit from additional support during your time in Sixth Form, please let us know on your application form so we can begin planning the best way to support you.

Scholars Programme

Students joining us with an average GCSE point score of 7.5 or above (typically grades 7–9) will be invited to take part in our Scholars Programme—a tailored initiative designed to support high-achieving students in reaching their full academic potential.

The programme is especially suited to those aspiring to study at top Russell Group universities or pursue competitive fields such as medicine, dentistry, or veterinary science. Scholars benefit from a range of exclusive opportunities, including:

  • Personalised application and interview preparation
  • Enhanced work experience placements
  • Specialised STEM workshops
  • Access to a variety of summer schools and academic enrichment activities

Our Scholars Programme is designed to challenge, inspire, and equip students with the tools they need to succeed at the highest level.

Careers Advice & Guidance

We are committed to helping every student make informed, confident decisions about their future. All students take part in a comprehensive careers programme throughout Years 12 and 13, designed to explore a wide range of pathways—from university and apprenticeships to employment and beyond.

We work in partnership with a variety of external agencies to provide expert guidance and up-to-date information. Each student receives a one-to-one careers meeting with an independent advisor, tailored to their interests and goals. In addition, students will take part in at least two career-focused events and enjoy the opportunity to visit a university campus, helping them gain insight into life after Sixth Form.