Welcome to Bexley Grammar School!

Joining the Sixth Form at BGS has been an enriching experience in more ways than one.

I joined the Sixth Form at BGS because I saw the IB as a fantastic opportunity to gain a well-rounded education, and I was really impressed by the Induction Day. It gave me a sense of what life would be like at BGS and reassured me that this was the right place for me. The supportive atmosphere and the structure of the courses made it clear that BGS values both academic achievement and personal growth. It was clear to me from the very start that this was an environment where I could challenge myself and grow in many different ways.

One of the first things I noticed about the school itself is the friendly atmosphere amongst both students and staff. It’s the kind of place where people genuinely want to help each other out. Whether you’re looking for directions to a classroom or need help understanding a tricky concept, there’s always someone willing to lend a hand.

Outside the classroom, I’ve been getting involved in the Balkan and Eastern European Society, which has been one of the highlights of my time at BGS so far. This society has helped me develop a deeper cultural understanding and connect with people who share similar backgrounds or simply an interest in this region. It’s amazing how much you can learn through these discussions and activities, and being part of a group like this not only enriches my knowledge but also helps me feel more connected to the BGS community as a whole.

Joining the Sixth Form at BGS has been an enriching experience in more ways than one. The combination of a supportive environment, challenging lessons, and the opportunity to be part of a diverse and engaging community has made this transition smooth and rewarding. If you’re considering joining BGS for Sixth Form studies, I highly recommend it. It's a place that not only values academic excellence but also encourages you to grow as an individual, develop new skills, and find your own path, whilst constantly providing a great variety of extracurricular activities.

Ivan, former Crown Woods School student

I can't recommend BGS more and the IB either.

I can honestly say that I have had so much fun during my first 6 weeks of Sixth Form. This was all kick-started with an awesome escape room style activity on Induction Day in June, which set the tone for the fun, exciting learning environment BGS has to offer. Luckily, it didn't stop there! On the first day in September, we had a great quiz, scavenger hunt and also an inspiring external guest who prepared us for what the Sixth Form might be like. Although, of course, you have to actually experience the lessons to find out what it's really like! IB lessons are very different from GCSE. Firstly, everything you're studying you are interested in, so it is much more engaging, and you have many more opportunities for independent work and research in lessons and occasionally group collaborative work. For example, we currently have a Science Collaborative Project coming up which everyone in the year has to do, and I am lucky to work with people that I haven't before, which is a very important part of the IB. My favourite part of the Sixth Form has to be the study periods. It is so great to have set time for your homework and K1 is the best place to do it. I can't recommend BGS more and the IB either. It teaches you so much outside of the curriculum, and I am so excited about what's to come.

Matilda, former Year 11, Bexley Grammar School student

Everybody is very friendly!

My move from St Columba's to Bexley Grammar has been really easy. I've really enjoyed every moment so far. The teachers and students have made me feel really welcome. Everybody is very friendly, and they have all made joining this school an enjoyable experience. I already feel part of the BGS family.

Marvel, former St Columba's Catholic Boys' School student

Most of my friends I’ve met through lessons or socialising.

My name is Olivia, and I am a new student at Bexley Grammar. On day one, I was so nervous about attending a new school where I didn't know anyone, and talking to people pushed me out of my comfort zone a lot. The school is huge, with random corridors and staircases. However, the school provides students with a map and a lenience for about two weeks or so to find your way around, and you are welcomed with open arms whether you are new or have been here for 5 years. I would suggest the first few study periods to find classes and socialise. Most of my friends I’ve met through lessons or socialising, so carrying around a pack of 'Uno' cards is always handy. The school will also host events such as the 'Get Involved' event or the 'Year 12 BBQ', which allows you to further socialise with people in your year group and helps you to know the school better too.

After the first week, I felt comfortable at BGS and was able to start a club and chat with my teachers freely and when I needed to. The teachers and staff at BGS are all super nice and ready to help, so if you have any questions, just talk to them. Plus, the school does treat you like grown-ups by letting you leave school during lunch and study periods at the end of the day. Ultimately, I suggest getting a locker early and having a great time in the Sixth Form! 

Olivia, former St Catherine’s Catholic School for Girls' student

Theory of Knowledge (ToK) lessons promote new ways of thinking.

My first half-term has been quite lovely. I've really enjoyed not only settling into the IB program but also making new friends that aid in making me feel so welcome that it feels like I've already attended this school for a year. They make this new experience much sweeter, especially the friends I’ve met rehearsing for the school show ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’! The staff are nice, approachable and are willing to help in any way, shape or form. The school layout is an old one but after the first 4 days I knew where I was going, like an existing student. I like to describe my ToK lessons as going down a rabbit hole as it promotes new ways of thinking about any line of knowledge and holds lots of depth to ponder and discuss with people: from friends to family. I do very much enjoy these lessons.

Kieran, former Cleeve Park School student

I am looking forward to my two years at a fresh school.

I think BGS has such a welcoming community. I’ve made so many friends and already have people I trust because of the opportunities the school has given me to meet others! Bexley Grammar has also taught me (in only a few weeks) how to take my education into my own hands. I am looking forward to my two years at a fresh school.

Hana, former Chislehurst & Sidcup Grammar School student 

A good insight into how later life in the working world and university will be for me.

As a returning student to BGS, it's been a pleasure to accommodate new faces to the atmosphere of the school that has been a large part of my life for the past few years. My first term of Year 12 has already presented its own challenges early on with the IB's workload, though I feel that this is a good insight into how later life in the working world and university will be for me.

Jaiden, former Year 11, Bexley Grammar School student

Extracurricular activities are an essential part of our school community and something which I believe is truly special. 

My name is Deya, and I am a student who has carried on from Year 11. Having been at this school since Year 7, I have always believed in the importance of extracurricular activities in our school, but especially in my first term of Sixth Form, taking part in clubs and House activities has truly been the highlight of my experience so far. Meeting new people in Debate Club and the Balkan and Eastern European Society (BEES), as well as Prothero (House) getting third place in House Music, has been so much fun. Also, getting involved in other ways, such as assisting with the Science Club and Science Clinic for younger years has been something I am proud of.  The extremely wide variety of extracurricular activities is an essential part of our school community and something which I believe is truly special.

Deya, former Year 11, Bexley Grammar School student

The IB Diploma at BGS

Students choose one subject from each of the groups 1 - 6 but in group 6 may select a further choice from groups 2, 3 or 4 instead of those offered in group 6. Students will choose three subjects to study at Higher Level and three at Standard Level and their choices should follow their interests and enjoyment of a subject. The IB structure encourages a balanced choice which includes the essential further study of English and Maths, but also the depth required through the Higher Subject.

The journey to university starts here!

Inspiring Careers in STEM

At Bexley Grammar School we are constantly providing opportunities for students to engage with the wider community, particularly regarding careers. There are many things that our students can take part in that are extremely beneficial when deciding which university courses or career paths they are interested in and also to provide excellent material for those all-important UCAS personal statements.

Additionally, a large number of BGS students will go on to study STEM subjects at university. In the 2023 cohort, 59 students accepted their university offers to study a subject such as computer science, medicine, engineering or another directly related STEM course; 34% of all university places offered. If you include those who went on to study the very maths heavy subjects of economics, accounting and finance, this rockets to 47% of all university places.

There are a number of societies available to support Sixth Form students in their university applications. These include the Medicine Society, the Senior Science Society and the Top Universities Group. They are an opportunity to discuss current issues and debates within these fields, as well as prepare for interviews and entrance exams. These support groups are invaluable in preparing for university application processes for both the Oxbridge and Russell Group Universities.

The extracurricular opportunities available to our students  are extensive. For example, Science Leaders and Science Prefects can develop their leadership and communication skills by working with younger students to deliver revision clinics, organise clubs and even take their science clubs out to local primary schools.

Students are able to enter a range of national competitions and events throughout their time at BGS. For example, the Biology Olympiad, the Cambridge Chemistry Race, ICE Civil Engineering Competition and the Quantum Ambassador Programme. British Science Week is also a huge focus of our STEM provision, with workshops and shows in school, and trips organised throughout the week. Sixth formers are invited to attend the ‘In Action’ conferences that week, where they will hear from industry professionals about their work in a range of biology, chemistry and physics fields.

Overall, we are acutely aware that as a society we need more STEM specialists, and we are extremely proud of the number of medics, engineers, mathematicians and scientists whose careers started here with us.

Ms Lusted, STEM coordinator

The IB and Medicine

Typically, medical applicants have taken three
A-levels in Biology, Chemistry and Maths (indeed, this was mainly the case in our school before we switched to a complete IB cohort). In other schools across the country, this continues to be the case as many aspiring medics disregard the IB as a route which is ‘too complicated’ or ‘too much work’. But for me, the IB provided a fantastic opportunity not only to study a wider breadth of subjects, but also to develop the time management and research skills required in such a demanding career.

Were I to take the traditional route to medical school, I would probably not have been able to study a language- an increasingly sought after skill in today’s world. I would also not have had the chance to study anthropology, a subject which has proven crucial in furthering my understanding of the society that our NHS treats. But most of all, the IB has taught me that I can do independent investigations to produce a piece of research that I am proud of; my Extended Essay in Chemistry allowed me to delve into an area that I was really interested in (and is something that will doubtless prove invaluable in an interview setting). So if you’re thinking of applying for medicine, don’t write off the IB at first glance - there’s a reason why more and more students are choosing to study it!

Charlotte

Senior Science Society

The Senior Science Society is a prestigious group of like-minded science fanatics who gather every other week at lunchtime to discuss the current news that relates itself in any way to science or any other factors or topics that one of our members may wish to discuss. Through the course of Year 12 and 13, we have attended many lectures online, mainly from Gresham College, as well as presented works or topics in which we show the most interest, or we feel will benefit other members in enriching their knowledge and their science subjects taken in school. It's great fun and with everyone being involved in different areas of science, we discuss topics from coding and cybersecurity in computer science to quantum physics, so there really is something for everyone. One of my favourite and most recent collections of lectures was on infections presented by Chris Witty, about differentiating modes of transmitting infections as well as some detail on the different viruses themselves. It's great fun and a great addition to studying an area of science at Bexley Grammar!

Maisy

BGS Environmental Action Group (EAG)

The Environmental Action Group (EAG) are a group of keen eco-warriors who aim to shape the school towards becoming more environmentally sustainable. We meet once a week after school with our leader. The only criteria required are a passion for the environment and a desire to change things for the better. As part of the EAG, students can gain a voice to influence decision-making in key school decisions, such as with recycling and the canteen. In the past year, we have campaigned relentlessly for change to our school recycling system, which has resulted in a complete overhaul of how things are done. We have also had meetings with Bexley Council in order to further discuss our schools waste priorities.

Being a member of the EAG is a fun experience that allows us to give back to the school and protect the environment for future generations. It is always great to see changes that have been made due to your action being implemented within the school. It allows us to connect with the school community in a different, yet positive way. I would seriously encourage you to join the EAG to be able to implement change and be in control of protecting the environment at this school.

This year we aim to implement a new policy in the canteen, moving away from plastic plates and cutlery towards trays and metal cutlery, as well as continuing our action with the new recycling regime.

James

Senior Book Club

Over the course of Year 12, there have been numerous texts which the Senior Book Club have enjoyed reading. Each half-term, we read an exhilarating new book and discuss anything that we find thought-provoking. Throughout the year, we have explored a variety of genres - from borderline existentialist books, such as ‘Signs Preceding the End of the World’, to modern classics such as ‘Rebecca’. My current favourite is ‘Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit’ where the author narrates from the perspective of a young girl attempting to make sense of the world, pushing against rigid religious customs and her mother’s almost oppressively ‘traditional’ nature. With the chance to experience a wide range of books from a variety of time periods, anybody could find a book that captivates them - which only made it all the more exciting. I have particularly loved how outlandish the books have been, making sure to include texts that are also important - much like the disturbing nature of ‘Lolita’. The Club continues in September, where new members are always welcome.

Georgia

LGBT Alliance

At the LGBT Alliance, we believe that having a place to be yourself and be accepted for being yourself is one of the most important aspects of building a strong community. Through weekly meetings, we invite people across the entire school to learn about and explore the many aspects of the LGBT community, from its history to the future we want to see. Led by an amazing team of Sixth Formers and the fabulous Miss Hodkin and Mr Diebel, our meetings are full of excitement and celebration while allowing for expression and reflection on everything that makes us who we are.

Everyone is always welcome, there’s space for all!

Samuel

Being a Peer Mentor at BGS

Peer mentors are a pastoral backbone for many students. They learn how to listen and solve problems effectively and also how to deal with their peers disclosing details for which they may need professional help, and how to pass this information on. They deal with a wide variety of problems and are passionate about helping others.

“I love working with the younger students and seeing their  confidence grow!” 

Jenni, Peer Mentor 

Here is what happened on one of our Peer Mentor training days:

Back in March, a few Year 12 students and I attended a peer mentor training day when we learnt a number of different skills that will be beneficial to us as peer mentors. We started by defining what a peer mentor was in our own terms and doing some exercises in listening to others. We then discussed how to effectively listen and respond when talking to students, as well as what not to do. In addition to this, we had interesting discussions about what was important to us and took part in a fun trust exercise!

This training day was not only useful in learning how to be a good peer mentor and getting to know each other, but it was also incredibly important in establishing a safe space to explore personal experiences as well as worries, which will assist us in creating a similar environment for the students that we are going to help. As a whole, the training reinforced my reasons for wanting to become a peer mentor, as everything we learnt demonstrated the importance of having peer mentors and how much we could help people. It also allowed me to become more comfortable talking about issues that may come up during my time as a peer mentor and assisted me in developing my confidence in speaking to others.

Sarah

BGS House System

The House system is particularly important at BGS and this is yet another great opportunity to get to know students throughout the school. Their general responsibilities are to help with the running of the House events, and to advertise these events to members of their House to encourage participation. They will supervise House events during and after school, particularly sport, and are expected to run rehearsals for House Music, Drama and Dance.

What does your role involve?

Prothero - Grace and Molly

Our role involves running and organising events, such as House Sports and House Music, visiting the younger students on a weekly basis and overseeing/delegating roles to the other House captains.

Johnson - Hannah & Katie

We work alongside our other house captains to get as many people involved with the House events as we can, support and help them to practise for the events. At the beginning of the House year, each House Captain is allocated to a form group within their House and every other week, when there isn’t an assembly, we visit our own forms to do activities set by us or Mr Asker and prepare for upcoming events by collecting names for teams etc. This allows each form to have a friendly face which they know they can go to if they need help with anything House related and beyond.

Mabbs - Anna

Being a Senior House Captain or even just a House Captain generally entails a substantial number of responsibilities, duties and commitments that are all in favour of your House. This should never stop or put anybody off from engaging themselves in a role that guarantees an incredible level of satisfaction when seeing all members of your House across the year groups collectively collaborating together towards a common goal. It can be challenging at times, but this is why there is a very trustworthy selection of House Captains and House team members to offer their support and input!

Collins - Olivia

Our role as Senior House Captains involves coordinating a team of captains and students, competing with other Houses in a range of creative and sporting events. We meet with the students weekly to organise representatives and to take part in quizzes and challenges that the other captains put together.

What has been the best part of your role so far?

Prothero - Grace & Molly

For us, the best part is seeing and celebrating the final outcome of our hard work. The feeling of having a finished product is really rewarding, and we love being able to help create experiences for the younger years, which hopefully inspires them to take part in more events in the future.

Johnson - Hannah & Katie

By spending lots of time with other members of Johnson at House events, lots of friendships and connections are formed. It is nice when you see everyone from different years greet each other when walking around school. Also, the annual sports day has to be a highlight. The amount of encouragement and sportsmanship shown is something that makes the role so rewarding.

Mabbs - Anna

I'd say that the best part of my role has definitely been seeing the excitement and the determination that all the students have been channelling towards the House competitions, even during times when circumstances may not be pointing towards our favour; it's truly wonderful to know that the spirit of all our House members is what motivates one another to achieve and persevere, as well as being reminded of the fact that this role is a privilege and an absolute joy to be given.

Collins - Olivia

The best part of the role is definitely the feeling of reward after a House event. Regardless of how we place in the competitions, seeing all of our efforts manifest into an amazing performance or display makes all the time practising worthwhile. It’s not just the captains that get that feeling as well, it’s everyone who gets involved - captains and students alike.

Mark Evison Foundation

All students in Year 12 have a fantastic opportunity to win funding of up to £500 to spend on a “challenge” over the summer before their return in Year 13. The money is awarded by the Mark Evison Foundation, who have built their charity based on the values and character of Lt Mark Evison, who died in 2009 from a gunshot wound while serving as a British army officer in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. The awards granted must be based on these values: challenge, resilience, kindness, innovation, integrity and team support.

This year Bexley Grammar School was granted the most awards of any school in the country! The projects had to be challenging for all members of the team and completed on a strict budget. Over 40 students challenged themselves with hikes in Scotland, writing and recording songs, building a Go-kart from scratch and cycling to Brighton.