RR6 Sixth Form

United in Excellence is more than a motto for this Wimbledon consortium. RR6 brings together Ricards Lodge High School and Rutlish School to create a co-educational sixth form where students benefit from the combined resources, expertise, and outstanding Ofsted ratings of both institutions. Operating across two campuses, this state-funded sixth form offers A-levels and BTECs to around 300 students aged 16 to 19, with approximately 91% of leavers progressing to university. A new STEM building opening in September 2025 signals continued investment in facilities and capacity.

The partnership between Ricards Lodge, an all-girls school, and Rutlish, an all-boys school, creates something distinctive in Wimbledon. Students who have spent five years in single-sex education suddenly find themselves in mixed classes, sharing resources across two sites separated by a short journey through leafy south-west London streets.

This transition brings both opportunity and adjustment. Students describe the environment as warm and familiar, particularly valued by those continuing from the partner schools. The dual-site model means timetables span both campuses, with students expected to manage their own movement between locations. This builds independence quickly, a deliberate feature rather than a compromise.

Both founding schools hold Outstanding Ofsted ratings. Ricards Lodge was inspected in September 2023, with inspectors noting that pupils are hard-working and highly motivated, with exemplary behaviour and extremely positive working relationships with staff. Rutlish received its Outstanding judgement in September 2024, with the inspection highlighting a welcoming and aspirational culture where students achieve very highly.

The sixth form inherits the strengths of both institutions. From Ricards Lodge comes a tradition of preparing young women for their role in the 21st century, with strong emphasis on leadership and community contribution. From Rutlish comes an ambitious curriculum and high expectations for academic achievement. Together, they create an environment where students from different educational backgrounds learn alongside each other.

A-level results at RR6 sit in the middle 35% of sixth forms in England, placing it at 1289th in the FindMySchool rankings. In 2024, 5.5% of grades were A*, 15.6% were A, and the combined A*-B rate reached 46.8%. These figures fall slightly below the England average of 47.2% for A*-B, though the comparison requires context.

RR6 operates with genuinely open entry compared to many sixth forms. Three distinct pathways accommodate students at different academic levels. Pathway 1 accepts students with eight or more GCSEs at grades 9-7, enabling four A-levels or equivalent BTECs. Pathway 2 requires seven GCSEs at grades 9-6, allowing three A-levels plus an additional qualification such as the Extended Project Qualification. Pathway 3 admits students with five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, focusing on three A-levels or BTECs.

This inclusive approach means the cohort includes students who would not meet entry requirements at more selective sixth forms. Value-added measures arguably tell a more meaningful story for an institution serving this broader intake, though such figures are not routinely published.

BTEC results tell an impressive story. In 2023, 54% of all BTEC grades achieved Distinction* or Distinction, equivalent to A*/A at A-level. This outstanding pass rate reflects strong vocational teaching and suggests that students on applied pathways receive equally rigorous preparation.

The curriculum emphasises specialist subjects in Mathematics, Computing, and Performing and Visual Arts, reflecting the strengths of both partner schools. Sciences, humanities, languages, and creative subjects are all available, giving students genuine breadth of choice.

Teaching benefits from the specialist staff of two Outstanding schools. Small group sizes enable focused attention, with teachers able to work closely with individual students. The approach emphasises developing independent learners, a necessary transition from the more structured environment of Years 7 to 11.

Subject-specific entry requirements apply to A-level choices, ensuring students have appropriate foundations. Those studying sciences, for example, need strong GCSE grades in relevant subjects. This targeted approach helps manage the challenging transition from GCSE to A-level content.

The new STEM building, scheduled for completion in September 2025, will enhance science provision significantly. The two-storey facility includes three science laboratories with preparation rooms, a CAD suite for design and technology work, and dedicated independent study space. This investment, funded through the Department for Education's Post-16 Capacity Fund, reflects growing demand for sixth form places locally.

Form tutors provide academic monitoring alongside specialist careers and UCAS advisers. The Director of Sixth Form works across both schools, ensuring consistent support regardless of which campus hosts a student's classes on any given day.

University progression rates are strong. In 2024, 91% of Year 13 leavers progressed to university, with 28% securing places at Sutton Trust Top 30 universities. The school notes with particular pride that 100% of students eligible for free school meals went on to higher education, demonstrating effective support for disadvantaged students.

Destinations span a wide range of institutions. Recent leavers have secured places at LSE, Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester, Cardiff, and Portsmouth, among others. Courses include Architecture, Chemistry, Psychology, Economics, English Literature, Geography, Liberal Arts, Environmental Science, Law, and Sports Media.

Support for competitive applications is structured and comprehensive. Students applying to Oxford, Cambridge, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Conservatoires, and other competitive destinations receive additional guidance through the specialist application process, including advice on college choices and interview preparation.

Not all students pursue university. Degree-level apprenticeships with prestigious companies attract some leavers, while others secure places on art foundation courses, take gap years, or enter employment directly. Around 95% of leavers historically progress to university, though this figure varies annually based on cohort preferences.

Applications are coordinated through the London Borough of Merton, with students applying through either Ricards Lodge or Rutlish depending on gender. Female applicants apply through Ricards Lodge; male applicants through Rutlish. This division reflects the administrative structure rather than any difference in provision once enrolled.

The application deadline for September 2026 entry is 4:00pm on 16 January 2026. Late applications are placed on a waiting list. The process requires contact information, a recent school report, and a passport-sized photograph. Online applications take approximately twenty minutes to complete.

Interviews take place between November and February. Students whose predicted grades do not meet pathway entry requirements will not receive interview invitations; the school notifies unsuccessful applicants in writing. This clear approach ensures applicants understand expectations early.

Internal applicants from Ricards Lodge and Rutlish form the majority of the intake, though external applications are welcomed and encouraged. The mix of internal and external students creates diversity of experience within the cohort.

Induction days for September 2026 entry are scheduled for Monday 29 and Tuesday 30 June 2026. These sessions help students familiarise themselves with both campuses, meet staff, and begin building relationships with future classmates.

The pastoral framework prioritises developing independence while maintaining appropriate support structures. Students are expected to take greater responsibility for their learning, attendance, and organisation compared to their earlier school years. This deliberate shift prepares them for university or employment.

Form tutors meet students regularly, monitoring academic progress and personal wellbeing. The transition to co-education after single-sex schooling requires sensitivity, and staff are experienced in supporting students through this adjustment. Those arriving from external schools receive particular attention during the settling-in period.

Working relationships between staff and students, described as extremely positive in Ofsted reports for both partner schools, extend to the sixth form. Teachers know their students well, creating a safe environment where concerns can be raised and addressed.

Mental health support is available through both schools' counselling services. Peer mentoring programmes train older students to support younger pupils, developing leadership skills while strengthening the school community.

Enrichment Programme

Every Year 12 student participates in the fortnightly Wednesday afternoon enrichment programme. Options rotate but have included Debate, Equality and Diversity Society, Current Affairs discussion, Introduction to Mandarin, and Bike Skills. This mandatory participation ensures breadth of experience beyond academic subjects.

The programme extends to work experience opportunities during Year 12 summer term. Students gain practical workplace insight that informs university applications and career decisions.

Sport

The Rugby Academy at Ricards Lodge and Cricket Scholar Programme at Rutlish provide specialist pathways for talented athletes. These programmes operate alongside recreational sport, ensuring opportunities at all levels.

Duke of Edinburgh Award continues through the sixth form for those wishing to pursue Gold level. Combined Cadet Force also remains available for students who joined in Year 9.

Creative Arts

Dance showcases, gallery exhibitions, and theatrical productions feature throughout the academic year. The specialism in Performing and Visual Arts at both partner schools means facilities and teaching expertise support ambitious creative work.

Music provision includes opportunities for ensemble work and performance. Students interested in Conservatoire applications receive dedicated support through the university guidance programme.

Leadership and Community

Senior students serve as role models across both schools. Opportunities include leading community and charity events, acting as mentors to younger students, and representing the student body through formal leadership positions.

This emphasis on contribution reflects inspection findings that students are prepared comprehensively for their futures, not merely in academic terms but as engaged citizens.

Trips and International Experience

Residential trips operate both within the UK and internationally. France, Spain, and destinations through Camps International feature in the programme. Day trips support curriculum enrichment across subjects.

RR6 operates across two Wimbledon sites. The primary address is c/o Ricards Lodge High School, Lake Road, SW19 7HB. Students should expect to travel between campuses depending on their timetable.

Both sites sit within school safety zones with restricted vehicle access during certain times. Drivers without permits may face penalty charge notices. Parents should factor this into drop-off and collection arrangements.

Public transport links are reasonable for south-west London. Wimbledon station, served by District and Northern lines plus National Rail services, is approximately one mile from the Lake Road campus. Multiple bus routes serve the area.

Contact for admissions enquiries is Mrs A Chambers, RR6 Office Manager, at rr6administrator@ricardslodge.org. The main telephone number is 020 8946 2208.

Dual-site operation. Students must manage timetables across two campuses separated by a journey through Wimbledon. This develops independence but requires organisation and time management. Those uncomfortable with this level of autonomy may find the arrangement challenging, particularly initially.

Transition to co-education. Students from Ricards Lodge and Rutlish have spent five years in single-sex environments. The sudden shift to mixed classes represents significant adjustment. While most adapt well, some find this transition more demanding than anticipated.

Middle-ranking results. A-level outcomes place RR6 in the middle 35% of sixth forms in England. Families prioritising headline results above all else should consider whether the inclusive admissions approach and strong progression rates represent better measures of success for their child.

New STEM building in progress. The 2025-26 academic year will see construction works completing on the new sixth form block. While facilities will ultimately be enhanced, some disruption during the transition period is possible.

RR6 offers something distinctive in Wimbledon: a state-funded sixth form that combines the resources and Outstanding reputations of two highly regarded schools. The inclusive admissions approach, with three pathways accommodating different GCSE profiles, means students who would not gain entry elsewhere can access quality post-16 education.

University progression rates of 91%, with particular success in supporting disadvantaged students, demonstrate effective outcomes beyond headline A-level grades. The new STEM building signals continued investment, while the enrichment programme ensures breadth alongside academic focus.

Best suited to students comfortable with independence and able to manage the dual-site structure. Those continuing from Ricards Lodge or Rutlish benefit from familiar relationships with staff, while external applicants gain access to facilities and expertise their previous schools may not have offered. The transition to co-education adds social development to academic preparation, creating well-rounded young adults ready for university or employment.