‘‘Battle Abbey Sixth Form is a friendly and welcoming community which yields a supportive network of students and staff alike, allowing pupils to thrive both academically and socially. This stage of life is key in maturing and developing into young adults, and Battle Abbey School supplies the perfect environment for this, providing students with independence and responsibility. Our Sixth Form Centre, Martlet House, is well suited to the students’ needs, whether it be for independent studies in the Silent Study Room, or a chance to relax and socialise in the café, common room or spacious garden. The facilities here are almost entirely centred around the Sixth Form experience, with the area also boasting a multi-functional pool table in the common room and a well-equipped gym for students to use at their leisure.
Along with Martlet House, which is situated just over the road from the Abbey, there are also designated spaces within the main school building for Sixth Form students. These include another common room and silent study room which provides students with the liberty to choose where to spend their free time, whether it be in Martlet House, the main school or elsewhere in the town of Battle – providing they sign in and out with their lanyards.
We believe that a well-rounded education extends beyond the classroom, and our Extra-Curricular Program is a vital part of each pupil’s growth. With over 50 clubs offered weekly (completely free of charge) there really is something for everyone. From competitive and social sports such as swimming, football, hockey, and volleyball, to relaxing teddy bear-making or engaging in financial trading simulation games, we cater to a wide range of interests and talents.
Our music and drama departments are equally impressive, running talented choirs, multiple orchestras, and private lessons with incredibly skilled teachers. Sixth Form students regularly participate in concerts, productions, and recitals, with many performing at local events such as the Hastings Music Festival.
Additionally, our top-tier coaches provide specialized training sessions in various sports during lunch breaks, after school, and even before the school day begins, ensuring that students can continuously improve and excel.
For those with a passion for academics, opportunities for intellectual growth exist in the masses. Our academic journal, The Gateway, provides a place to dive deeper into potential degree subjects whilst also improving and demonstrating essay-writing skills. Societies such as the Battle Broadcasting Club (BBC), Philosophy Society, and World Literature Society encourage students to broaden their knowledge and cultivate skills that will help them well beyond their school years.
In Sixth Form, students are offered the opportunity to undertake leadership roles such as: Heads of House, Heads of Boarding, Bronzes (a Prefect equivalent) or Guardians – Battle Abbey’s unique title for Head Boy(s) and Head Girl(s). Bridging the gap between staff and pupils, these roles encourage individuals to develop their leadership skills in a supportive and enriching environment. Providing positive change to the school community, leadership roles emphasise the student voice, enabling individuals within the school community to be listened to and recognised. With the responsibility of guiding younger years as a friendly face, the Sixth Form integrate with the whole school, immersing all pupils into the warm sense of community that Battle Abbey uniquely offers.
Responsibilities include organising the Sixth Form Balls, supporting younger years and spreading enthusiasm throughout the school for the house-based competitions. Representing the school in a variety of events, these leadership roles provide an exciting opportunity to develop communication skills across a wide age range, growing confidence in public speaking and organising events.
Battle Abbey School is a nurturing environment with a strong support system, and the wellbeing, growth and development of each individual is key. The academic staff also enable pupils to further their ability in all subjects as they are committed to providing an excellent education, with extra support sessions always being available if students are struggling.
Additionally, the chefs at Battle Abbey really are the best in the business. They always have biscuits on hand whether you need a sugar boost or are just feeling hungry! When it comes to making your time at Battle Abbey Sixth Form even more enjoyable, Annie, our Chef at Martlet House, never fails to bring joy to your day with her endless supply of sweets treats such as cakes, biscuits or cheese toasties, providing the perfect study snack. She is always introducing interesting new dishes and new cuisines and will cater for all needs.
The community at Battle Abbey School is a fantastic opportunity for students to embrace their individuality whilst still feeling a true sense of belonging. During House Time, Sixth Form students are given the chance to engage and build relationships with younger students in their house, creating a real sense of family throughout. This strong family ethos at Battle ensures that you will always be supported and that someone will always be looking out for you.
We hope to see you in the Abbey in the near future and that you will enjoy your time here as much as we have.”
The Guardians 2024/2025
