By Alexandra Garnier

One of the highlights of a Sixth Form Pangbourne experience is definitely the unique and bespoke Lower Sixth Taking Responsibility Course. It is created and coordinated by the Head of Sixth Form and led in almost all of its elements by staff of the College.

The Course is designed to equip our Year 12 students with the knowledge and skills they need to lead the College in their final year, both as individuals and as a year group. It is also excellent preparation for university, employment, and life beyond. 

The Course includes a healthy mix of cerebral, practical, pastoral, and challenging activities which are designed to develop emotional intelligence, leadership, and teamwork in the year group. It is an inclusive experience and as a result is a very helpful means of enabling every student to know that they matter, to ensure that they feel they belong, and that they have something to contribute.

It takes place in the beautiful extensive grounds of the College and at the Boat Club in the village of Pangbourne. This year, it also included a fun sailing and paddle board experience at nearby Burghfield Reservoir.

There is a Year Group Course Dinner at which students make team presentations. In true Pangbourne style, to motivate and to heighten the experience, it is set within the context of a competition, of course!

In the same week as the Course, the Lower Sixth also have training in preparation for their personal statements for their university (UCAS) applications. They also engage in two community action projects in the villages of Pangbourne and Tidmarsh, as well as on the Englefield Estate.

The week ends with a valuable day in which each student is given practice careers interview experience (this builds on another key Sixth Form experience, the Careers Day held in the Lent Term). Current and past parents, as well as alumni of the College, host these and give generously of their time to further enrich the Sixth Form Pangbourne experience.

For the last 13 years, as Head of Sixth Form, Mr James Bamforth has led the Taking Responsibility Course and this Sixth Form week with style, joie de vivre, and creativity. His wholehearted commitment to ensuring that every Pangbournian is well equipped for the Upper Sixth and life beyond has shone through.