Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form Free School

The UK's first specialist maths and science sixth form operates from a converted 1930s fire station in the heart of Norwich. Students here achieve some of the strongest A-level results in the region, with 42% of grades at A*-A in 2024 and a track record of Oxbridge success that places the school among the top 200 nationally for Cambridge admissions. Part of the Inspiration Trust, Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form combines rigorous academic expectations with a distinctive STEM focus that prepares students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The school is rated Outstanding by Ofsted, a judgement confirmed in November 2023. Students arrive with strong GCSE profiles and leave with university places at leading institutions. Five students secured Cambridge places in the most recent measurement period, with 88% of leavers progressing to universities or degree apprenticeships. For academically ambitious students in Norfolk and beyond seeking rigorous STEM preparation without independent school fees, this represents an exceptional opportunity in the East Anglian education landscape.

The Old Fire Station building, which celebrated its 90th birthday in January 2025, provides an unusual and compelling setting for post-16 education. The red-brick architecture of 1930s Norwich meets modern teaching facilities, creating a campus that students describe as distinctive and purposeful. Prior to becoming a sixth form, the building served Norwich firefighters through World War II and for 77 years until operations moved to Carrow in 2011. Two years later, Inspiration Trust breathed new life into the structure, preserving its heritage while installing laboratories and contemporary learning spaces. The result is a campus that honours history while looking firmly towards the future.

Located on Bethel Street in the city centre, the school benefits from excellent transport links and a vibrant urban environment. Students have access to Norwich's cafes, libraries, and cultural venues during free periods, creating a university-style experience that prepares them for the independence required in higher education. The city centre location also means students from across Norfolk and neighbouring counties can commute effectively, with Norwich railway station approximately 10 minutes' walk away.

Chris Jennings leads the school as Principal. The leadership philosophy centres on a deceptively simple mantra that permeates every aspect of school life: work hard, be nice. This ethos shapes daily interactions, with high academic expectations balanced by genuine investment in student wellbeing. Under his leadership, the school has maintained its Outstanding Ofsted status and continued to build its reputation as one of the leading state sixth forms in England.

Vice Principal Rachel Jarrold oversees pastoral care, believing that wellbeing is intrinsic to every young person's academic success. She is dedicated to ensuring that emotional and pastoral good health is an integral part of every student's education. This commitment manifests in practical ways throughout the school day, from the therapy dogs who are a regular presence on site to dedicated programmes supporting student mental health.

The atmosphere is focused without being oppressive. Students choose this school specifically because of its STEM specialism, creating a peer group with shared intellectual interests. The relatively small cohort of around 240 students per year group, within a total capacity of 480, allows staff to know each student individually. Teachers describe knowing not just their tutees but every student in the building by name.

The school operates in partnership with Jane Austen College, its humanities-focused sister institution also run by Inspiration Trust. Students selecting arts and humanities subjects attend Jane Austen, while those choosing maths and science remain at Sir Isaac Newton. Uniquely, students may also choose to combine subjects offered at both institutions. This partnership model allows students to pair physics with English literature or chemistry with history, creating flexibility rarely available in standalone sixth forms. The two institutions share an application process and work seamlessly together to deliver this combined offer.

A-level results place Sir Isaac Newton firmly in the upper tier of state sixth forms in England. In 2024, 42% of grades achieved A*-A, with 84% at A*-C and a 99% overall pass rate. Fifteen students achieved A* in every subject they took, while more than half the cohort secured at least one A grade. These figures sit well above the England average for sixth forms.

The school ranks 421st in England for A-level outcomes (FindMySchool ranking based on official data), placing it comfortably within the top 25% of sixth forms in England. Locally, this translates to 4th position among sixth forms in the Norwich area, establishing the school as the leading state option for STEM-focused students in the region. Performance has been consistent over time, with the school maintaining A*-A percentages between 26% and 50% across examined years, excluding the 2020 and 2021 teacher-assessed grades during the pandemic.

The 2025 provisional results continued this trajectory. The school reported that 80% of A-level exams achieved A*-C grades, with a 99.5% overall pass rate. One hundred and sixty-two students confirmed university places on results day, demonstrating the school's effectiveness in converting strong results into competitive destinations.

These results are achieved with students who arrive with minimum requirements of six GCSEs at grade 5 or above including maths, plus grade 4 in English language. Subject-specific requirements are more demanding. Further mathematics requires grade 8 in GCSE maths, and students must also study A-level mathematics alongside it. Physics requires grade 6 in maths plus grade 5 in combined science or separate physics. Chemistry and biology each require higher-tier grade 5 in the relevant science.

The specialist focus on STEM subjects shapes the curriculum and teaching approach. All students must study at least two subjects from the core science and maths group, which includes biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, further mathematics, core maths, computer science, environmental science, and psychology. This requirement ensures that even students combining science with humanities through the Jane Austen partnership maintain their STEM foundation. The school's mission is explicit: to lead in the development of science and mathematics teaching across the UK.

Subject-specific strengths emerge consistently. Chemistry and physics benefit from specialist facilities and expert teaching. Mathematics results routinely meet or exceed expectations, with further mathematics offered to the most capable students. Computer science has grown in popularity, reflecting both curriculum quality and career pathway awareness among students recognising the opportunities in technology sectors.

University progression is a defining feature of the school's offer. According to DfE leavers destinations data for the 2023-24 cohort of 236 students, 59% progressed directly to university, with 5% entering apprenticeships and 21% moving into employment. The 2% entering further education and the remaining students pursuing other pathways complete the picture. When combined with degree apprenticeships, the school reports that 88% of leavers progress to university-level study or equivalent.

The Oxbridge record is particularly strong for a state sixth form. In the measurement period, 29 students applied to Oxford or Cambridge, with 7 receiving offers and 5 securing places. Cambridge dominates the applications, with 22 applications yielding 5 acceptances, a 23% success rate that reflects both strong preparation and realistic targeting of applications. Seven Oxford applications produced no offers that year, a pattern worth noting for students specifically targeting Oxford. The school ranks 193rd in England for combined Oxbridge success and 97th specifically for Cambridge acceptances (FindMySchool ranking). For a non-selective state sixth form outside London, this represents exceptional performance.

Nine students confirmed Oxbridge places in the most recent results cycle, suggesting continued and growing success in competitive applications. Principal Chris Jennings noted that students' hard work and dedication over the past two years has been truly inspiring, reflecting on results day 2024.

Beyond Oxbridge, students progress to Russell Group universities including Imperial College, Durham, Edinburgh, Bristol, and Manchester. The school's STEM specialism creates strong pathways into medicine, engineering, and natural sciences programmes. In 2024, medical and dental school acceptances and veterinary science places demonstrated the school's effectiveness in supporting highly competitive applications.

Apprenticeship pathways receive genuine attention. The 5% entering apprenticeships reflects deliberate careers guidance rather than default options. Degree apprenticeships in engineering and technology offer alternatives to traditional university routes, and the careers team presents these with equal respect to university pathways. Students have excellent support with onward progression, working closely with employers and education providers both locally and nationally to gain experiences that take them beyond the classroom.

The curriculum follows a knowledge-rich approach consistent with Inspiration Trust schools. Every student receives the best possible tuition in whatever subject combination they choose, according to the school's curriculum statement. Teachers specialise in their subjects and maintain high expectations for academic rigour. Class sizes are manageable, allowing for detailed feedback and individual support.

Subject departments are led by experienced specialists with deep institutional knowledge. Adam Jarrett, Assistant Principal for Achievement, began his career teaching physics at the school and helped build the A-level course from inception. He progressed through Head of House, Head of Year, and Director of Teaching and Learning before taking on the challenge of teaching maths as well as physics. This kind of career development within the institution shapes teaching practice across departments, with staff who understand the specific needs of STEM-focused students.

Rob Jackets serves as Assistant Principal for Teaching and Learning, while Trudy Coleman oversees Attendance and Behaviour as Assistant Principal. Graham Colman coordinates Student Engagement, and Jess Gopee provides specialist KS5 leadership. This senior team brings diverse expertise to support students across academic and pastoral dimensions. Stefan Cartledge combines the SENDCo role with psychology teaching, ensuring students with additional needs receive integrated support.

The partnership with Jane Austen College expands curriculum options beyond the core STEM offer. Students may study English literature, history, geography, drama, French, German, Spanish, music, law, philosophy, politics, or sociology at the partner institution while maintaining their primary studies at Sir Isaac Newton. This hybrid model allows broader subject combinations than a standalone STEM sixth form could offer, with timetabling managed across both institutions.

Academic support extends beyond timetabled lessons. The STEP Maths Support Programme prepares students for the challenging Sixth Term Examination Paper required by Cambridge and other selective mathematics programmes. This additional preparation helps students demonstrate their mathematical capability beyond A-level grades.

The Oxbridge Society provides structured preparation for competitive applications throughout the application cycle. Interview practice, personal statement workshops, and realistic expectation-setting feature prominently. Given the school's track record of five Cambridge acceptances in a single measurement period, this society delivers measurable results.

For science students, the Aim Higher Chemistry programme explores content beyond the A-level syllabus through experiments like aspirin synthesis, phosphorescence studies, and polymer investigation. Students train for prestigious competitions including the Royal Society of Chemistry Olympiad, the Cambridge Chemistry Race, and the Schools' Analysts Competition. University visits provide access to high-tech laboratories and direct experience of research environments.

Entry to Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form requires six or more GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including maths. English language must be at grade 4 or above. These represent minimum thresholds; subject-specific requirements are typically higher.

For sciences, the grade requirements are demanding. Mathematics A-level requires GCSE grade 6 or above. Further mathematics requires grade 8 or above in GCSE maths, and students must also study A-level mathematics concurrently. Physics requires higher-tier GCSE grade 5 in physics, or grade 5-5 in combined science, plus GCSE grade 6 in mathematics. Chemistry requires higher-tier grade 5 in chemistry, or 5-5 in combined science. Biology requires higher-tier grade 5 in biology, or 5-5 in combined science, plus grade 5 in English language.

Environmental science requires both biology and chemistry at grade 5, or combined science at 5-5, plus English language at grade 5 and a humanities subject at grade 6. Psychology requires GCSE grade 6 in a humanities subject plus the standard English language requirement. These specific requirements ensure students have the foundation to succeed in demanding A-level courses.

The admissions round for September 2026 entry is open, with applications closing on 31 March 2026. Applications are submitted through the school's online portal, which serves both Sir Isaac Newton and Jane Austen College. Students submit a single application regardless of which subjects they wish to study, simplifying the process for those combining STEM and humanities courses. Subject preferences are indicated in the application, and allocation to the appropriate institution follows automatically.

Open evenings run in October each year, with the next scheduled for Wednesday 8 October 2025. Sessions run from 5:30pm to 8:30pm in two cohorts: 5:30pm to 7:00pm and 7:00pm to 8:30pm. Each session includes a welcome from the Principal, followed by opportunities to explore the school and speak with subject teachers. Booking is required and available through Eventbrite.

The school acknowledges that special circumstances may affect GCSE performance. Flexibility exists for students who can demonstrate potential despite results that fall slightly short of stated criteria. Contact with the admissions team before applying is encouraged in such cases.

The school does not operate a catchment area in the traditional sense. Students travel from across Norfolk and beyond, with the city centre location accessible by bus from most directions. There is no selection by aptitude beyond the published grade requirements. The school welcomes students from all backgrounds, aiming to provide access for students of all backgrounds to the very best in academic and personal development.

Pastoral support is structured around the recognition that academic success depends on emotional wellbeing. Vice Principal Rachel Jarrold leads this area as Designated Safeguarding Lead, with dedicated pastoral mentors including Simon Rogers supporting students throughout their studies.

The school employs therapy dogs as part of its wellbeing provision, providing informal support for students experiencing stress or anxiety. These visits are particularly popular during examination periods, offering stress relief when pressure is highest. The Mood Masters programme teaches students strategies for managing anxiety, while the Talk About programme develops social skills including empathy and communication. These targeted programmes acknowledge that academic ability does not always correlate with social confidence, particularly for students passionate about STEM subjects who may find university applications and interviews challenging.

Safeguarding arrangements were confirmed as effective in the November 2023 Ofsted inspection. Students report feeling very safe in a positive culture of acceptance, with the inspection noting an environment that respects individual learning styles. Students thrive in a highly supportive, ambitious and respectful environment, demonstrating high aspirations to achieve their goals.

The small cohort size means students are known as individuals rather than numbers. Personal tutors track academic progress and pastoral wellbeing, flagging concerns early. Form groups and tutorials provide regular check-ins, while student mentors offer peer support. The school's STEM focus creates a self-selecting community of students with shared interests, which students describe as supportive rather than competitive.

Financial support exists for eligible students. The 16-19 Bursary Fund provides assistance with course-related expenses including clothing, books, equipment, and transportation. This removes barriers for students from lower-income backgrounds who might otherwise struggle with hidden costs of post-16 education.

STEM Enrichment

The F24+ Electric Car project epitomises the school's hands-on approach to STEM enrichment. Last academic year, 20 Year 12 students took on the challenge to build, wire, and race an F24+ electric car from Greenpower. Students applied for positions on the team, with many aspiring to engineering careers through degree or apprenticeship routes.

The 2024 team competed at the Lotus Test Track at Hethel, racing against university engineering departments with significantly larger budgets. Physics teachers Dr North and Mr Drake supervised the project, noting that the team worked incredibly hard over eight months to fundraise, build, develop, and maintain this engineering project. The vehicle performed remarkably well considering the competition, demonstrating what students can achieve with determination and expert guidance.

The Aim Higher Chemistry programme extends learning beyond the syllabus through sophisticated experimental work. Students visit local universities where they learn in high-tech laboratories, gaining invaluable understanding of the steps they can take after completing their studies. Competition success validates this approach. In the Cambridge Chemistry Race, students Leiha Tooke, Max Linford, Fatma Roula, Natasha Almeida-Levy, and Wai Ying Mok competed at the Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry in Cambridge, finishing 23rd among 58 teams.

The school hosts Royal Institution Secondary Mathematics Masterclasses for Year 9 students across Norfolk, running during summer term. This outreach programme, free to attend, exposes younger students to advanced mathematical thinking while demonstrating the sixth form's regional leadership in STEM education. Primary masterclasses run at the Inspiration Trust Centre, extending the pipeline of mathematically engaged students.

The annual INSPIRED event forms part of the Norwich Science Festival, offering a free family STEM day featuring science and mathematics activities with competitions and shows. These outreach programmes reflect the school's mission to promote STEM education across the wider community, not just among its own students.

The Social Hackathon brings technology to community problems. Using robotics and coding, students develop solutions including mobility-supporting robots and environmental monitoring systems. Representatives from Loughborough University and Norfolk Constabulary contribute career insights, connecting classroom learning to real-world applications.

Societies and Academic Support

From the first weeks of Year 12, students are encouraged to engage with electives and societies that interest them, helping achieve goals for their future. The Growing Community initiative partners with a non-profit focused on sustainable agriculture in water-limited environments. Students monitor plant growth in various conditions including seawater, contributing to real research about food security while developing practical biology skills.

The Oxbridge Society prepares students for competitive applications with structured support throughout the application cycle. Given the school's track record of Cambridge success, this society provides proven pathways for ambitious students. Interview practice, personal statement guidance, and realistic target-setting help students present their best case.

Dedicated societies support students pursuing medicine, dentistry, allied health professions, and veterinary careers. Given the competitive nature of these applications, with aptitude tests, interviews, and work experience requirements, structured support is essential. The school's success in placing students in medical and veterinary programmes demonstrates the effectiveness of this provision.

STEP maths support assists students preparing for the challenging Sixth Term Examination Paper required by Cambridge and other selective mathematics programmes. This additional preparation goes beyond A-level content to demonstrate mathematical maturity.

Recreation and Balance

Sports electives include table tennis and football, providing balance to the academic programme. These activities run alongside more academic enrichment, recognising that physical activity supports mental wellbeing and academic performance.

Music lessons are available for interested students. The partnership with Jane Austen College provides access to drama, art, and music courses for students who want creative outlets alongside their STEM studies. This ensures that students need not sacrifice artistic interests when choosing a specialist science and maths pathway.

The school day structure reflects the post-16 focus, with students expected to manage independent study alongside timetabled lessons. Open-plan spaces provide a campus-style environment for self-directed learning. The city centre location means students can access Norwich's cafes, libraries, and other facilities during free periods, preparing them for university-style independence.

The Old Fire Station is located at 30 Bethel Street, in the heart of Norwich. Bus services connect to most parts of the city and surrounding Norfolk. There is no on-site parking for students, but cycle storage is available for those commuting by bicycle. The railway station is approximately 10 minutes' walk, connecting to services across East Anglia.

As a state-funded free school, there are no tuition fees. The 16-19 Bursary Fund is available to support students with education-related costs including transport, equipment, books, and educational visits. This financial support removes potential barriers for students from lower-income households.

The school is part of the Inspiration Trust, a multi-academy trust operating schools across Norfolk and Suffolk. The Trust employs curriculum specialists who work to continuously enhance educational offerings, allowing teachers to access and implement innovative educational practices. Professional development through the Inspiration Teaching School includes leadership training and aspiring headship courses.

STEM specialism is genuine and pervasive. All students must take at least two subjects from the core maths and science group. Students seeking a primarily humanities-focused curriculum would be better served by Jane Austen College or a conventional sixth form. This is a school where science and mathematics dominate conversation and aspiration.

City centre location suits independent learners. The urban environment offers freedom but requires self-discipline. Students need to manage their time effectively during free periods without the structured environment of a traditional school campus. Those who thrive with autonomy will flourish; those who need more structure may find the environment challenging.

Entry requirements are demanding. The minimum GCSE requirements are supplemented by subject-specific thresholds. Students aspiring to mathematics need grade 6; those wanting further mathematics need grade 8. Physics requires grade 6 in maths as well as grade 5 in the science. These requirements are non-negotiable, though flexibility exists for special circumstances.

The school draws from a wide area. Without a local catchment, students travel from across Norfolk and neighbouring counties. Journey times can be significant for those living in rural areas, though the central location and transport links mitigate this.

Cambridge success exceeds Oxford. The school's Oxbridge record strongly favours Cambridge over Oxford. Five Cambridge acceptances versus zero Oxford offers in the measurement period suggests either deliberate targeting or better preparation for Cambridge's requirements. Students specifically targeting Oxford should investigate this pattern.

Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form offers something genuinely distinctive in the English education landscape. The STEM specialism is authentic rather than marketing, creating an environment where students passionate about science and mathematics find their people. Results are consistently strong, with Oxbridge and Russell Group progression rates that match many independent schools while charging no fees whatsoever.

The converted fire station provides character and heritage; the partnership with Jane Austen College provides flexibility and breadth. Students who arrive with strong GCSE profiles and genuine enthusiasm for STEM subjects will find rigorous teaching, specialist facilities, and a clear pathway to competitive universities. The Inspiration Trust backing provides curriculum support and professional development that ensures teaching quality remains high.

Best suited to students with clear STEM ambitions who thrive with independence and high expectations. The school produces the next generation of leaders within STEM industries, as its vision states, but also prepares students for whatever profession they see as their future. Those seeking broader curriculum options, more structured environments, or primarily humanities pathways should consider alternatives.

For the right student, one who loves science and mathematics, who wants rigorous preparation for top universities, and who is ready for the responsibility of managing their own learning, Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form represents one of the strongest state sixth form options in East Anglia and among the leading specialist providers anywhere in England.