Standing as a striking landmark of glass and steel on the edge of Ipswich, One Sixth Form College, often referred to simply as One, is one of the largest post-16 providers in Suffolk. Since opening its doors in 2010, the college has evolved into a hub for over 2,000 students from across Ipswich and the surrounding rural communities. The environment feels less like a traditional school and more like a modern university or professional workplace, designed to bridge the gap between secondary education and the world of work or higher study.
The college operates under the Eastern Education Group, having integrated into the trust in 2015. Under the leadership of Jake Robson, who took up the post of Group Sixth Form Principal in 2022, the college has focused on expanding its curriculum to include over 30 A-level subjects alongside a substantial vocational and technical offer. This scale allows for a social and academic breadth that smaller school-based sixth forms rarely match.
The atmosphere at One is defined by its architectural openness. The central atrium, often bustling with students, acts as the heart of the college, where the boundaries between different subjects and pathways are blurred. This physical transparency reflects the college's ethos: a mature, independent environment where students are expected to take ownership of their learning.
There is a distinct lack of the hierarchical structures found in 11-18 schools. Students do not wear uniforms, and the relationship between staff and students is professional rather than paternalistic. The college's mission, to provide an inclusive and inspirational learning environment, is evidenced by the wide range of learners it attracts, from those pursuing elite university places to those undertaking specialist technical training.
The college's values of resilience, ambition, and respect are embedded in the daily routine. During free periods, the Learning Resource Centre (LRC) is a focused space for independent study, while the outdoor terraces and social zones offer a release from the academic intensity. It is a place for the self-motivated; the sheer size of the student body means that while support is readily available, the impetus for engagement lies with the individual student.
As a specialist post-16 institution, One Sixth Form College directs its focus entirely toward A-level and vocational outcomes. In the most recent results cycle, the college achieved an A* to B rate of 40.28%. While this sits below the England average for the elite academic tier, it reflects a comprehensive intake that prioritizes accessibility alongside achievement.
Ranked 1,704th in England and 9th in Ipswich for A-level outcomes (FindMySchool ranking), the college performs in line with the national typical band. This position reflects a solid performance, sitting within the middle 35% of schools in England (25th to 60th percentile). For many students in Suffolk, the value lies in the consistent progress made from their starting points at age 16.
The college sees approximately 3.1% of entries achieve the top A* grade and 12.5% achieve an A. In a cohort of nearly 1,000 students, this represents a significant number of high achievers who successfully secure places at competitive institutions.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
A-Level A*-B
40.28%
% of students achieving grades A*-B
The curriculum at One is notable for its variety. Students can choose from traditional academic A-levels, such as Mathematics, Physics, and English Literature, or opt for Level 3 BTEC Extended Diplomas in fields like Forensic Science, Game Design, or Health and Social Care.
Teaching follows a collegiate model. Lessons are typically two hours long, allowing for deep dives into subject matter and extensive practical work. In the science laboratories, students use industry-standard equipment that rivals many university facilities. The Creative Arts wing is equally well-appointed, featuring specialist studios for textiles, photography, and fine art.
Teachers are subject specialists, many of whom have arrived from industry or research backgrounds. This expertise is particularly visible in the vocational courses, where the curriculum is mapped to professional standards. The college also offers a range of GCSE re-sit opportunities in English and Mathematics, providing a vital bridge for students who need to secure these fundamental qualifications before progressing further.
The destination data for the 2023/24 cohort reveals the diverse ambitions of the student body. Approximately 34% of students progressed to university, a figure that represents the college's role in facilitating higher education for a wide demographic.
The academic rigour is evidenced by the elite university pipeline, with one student securing a place at Cambridge in the measurement period. While the college's Oxbridge offers typically focus on the University of Cambridge, students also regularly secure places at Russell Group institutions such as the University of East Anglia (UEA), Essex, and Nottingham.
Beyond university, 12% of the cohort moved into apprenticeships, significantly higher than the local average. This reflects the college's strong links with regional employers. Additionally, 32% of students entered direct employment, highlighting the professional readiness of those finishing vocational pathways. The college's dedicated careers team, based in the Student Support zone, provides individual guidance from the first term of Year 12.
One Sixth Form College is a non-selective state provider, but entry is subject to meeting specific academic thresholds for different pathways. For the A-level programme, students typically require a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English and Mathematics. Certain subjects, such as Science and Mathematics, require a grade 6 or 7 in those specific areas at GCSE.
For vocational Level 3 courses, the entry requirement is usually four GCSEs at grade 4 or above. Applications are made directly to the college through their online portal. The priority application deadline typically falls in late January for September entry.
The college is highly popular and often reaches its capacity of 2,300 students. While there is no formal catchment area, priority is given to students from partner schools within the Eastern Education Group and those living in the Ipswich and South Suffolk area. Families should use the FindMySchool Map Search to check their proximity to the Scrivener Drive site, as travel distance is a factor in the application process.
Recognizing the transition from school to college can be daunting, One has invested heavily in a centralized support system. Each student is assigned a Personal Progress Tutor (PPT) who acts as their first point of contact for any concerns. The PPTs lead weekly tutorial sessions covering topics from mental health and stress management to financial literacy.
The Student Support team includes trained counsellors and welfare officers available for one-to-one appointments. For students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), the Additional Learning Support (ALS) department provides tailored interventions, including exam access arrangements and assistive technology. The college environment is physically inclusive, with full lift access and wide circulation spaces designed for accessibility.
Extracurricular life at One is framed as the "Character Education" programme, designed to build skills beyond the purely academic.
The college's Sports Academy is a major pillar, offering elite pathways in football, rugby, and basketball. The on-site fitness suite and sports hall are of a high standard, hosting both competitive fixtures and recreational sessions.
The annual Creative Arts Festival is a highlight, showcasing student work in film, fashion, and digital media. The college also hosts regular Battle of the Bands competitions and theatre productions in its purpose-built performance space.
STEM excellence is promoted through the Robotics Club and the Medical Society, the latter of which provides specific support for students aiming for clinical careers. Students also participate in the Formula 24 Greenpower racing challenge, building and racing electric cars.
The college day typically runs from 9:00am to 4:15pm, though student timetables vary depending on their subject choices. There are no "free periods" in the traditional sense; students are expected to be in independent study in the LRC when not in lessons.
Transport is a key consideration for a regional college. One is served by a network of dedicated student buses covering most of Suffolk and parts of North Essex. For those travelling by public transport, the college is a short bus ride from Ipswich railway station. There is limited on-site parking for students, which is allocated via a permit system prioritizing those with the greatest travel needs.
This is a state-funded academy with no tuition fees for students aged 16 to 19. While education is free, the college recognizes that many students may face financial barriers to study. The 16-19 Bursary Fund is available to help with essential costs such as transport, meals, and specialized equipment. Applications for the bursary are assessed based on household income and personal circumstances, and students are encouraged to apply as early as possible in the autumn term.
One Sixth Form College is a modern, high-energy institution that excels in providing a bridge between the classroom and the professional world. It is a school of opportunity, offering a breadth of curriculum that few other providers in the East of England can match. Best suited to self-motivated students who are ready to leave the structures of secondary school behind and who value a professional, university-style atmosphere. The main hurdle is the step up in independence; for those who embrace it, the facilities and specialist teaching offer an excellent platform for progression.
Yes, One Sixth Form College is a highly successful provider, rated Outstanding by Ofsted in its most recent full inspection in April 2022. It achieved top marks across almost every category, including the quality of education and provision for learners with high needs. Academic results are solid, with over 40% of A-level entries hitting A* to B grades.
Applications for September 2026 entry are now open and are made directly through the college's online portal. While there is no hard closing date, the college recommends applying by the Christmas period to ensure an interview can be arranged early. Interviews are usually held monthly in evening sessions.
The standard entry requirement for the A-level programme is five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English and Mathematics. Many subjects have higher specific requirements; for example, A-level Mathematics or Science usually requires at least a grade 6 or 7 in that specific subject at GCSE.
Yes, the college is served by an extensive network of dedicated student buses covering Ipswich and a wide catchment across Suffolk. Transport routes and costs are updated annually, and students eligible for the 16-19 Bursary Fund can receive financial assistance towards these travel costs.
One offers a broad range of Level 3 BTEC Extended Diplomas, which are equivalent to three A-levels. These include specialist subjects such as Game Design, Forensic Science, Health and Social Care, Business, and Performing Arts. The college also offers T-Levels and various apprenticeship routes through the Eastern Education Group.
The college has a dedicated Additional Learning Support (ALS) department. They provide a range of services including one-to-one tutoring, help with study skills, and ensuring that exam access arrangements are in place. Ofsted specifically highlighted the college's provision for learners with high needs as Outstanding in 2022.
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