The move into sixth form is one of the most important transitions in your child’s education. Suddenly, the familiar rhythm of GCSEs gives way to greater independence, higher expectations and the first real steps towards university and future careers. For students, this period can feel both exhilarating and overwhelming. As a parent, it’s natural to want to offer guidance without overstepping.
With the right support, sixth form can be a time of growth, curiosity and confidence. It’s not just about achieving strong grades, but also about helping your child develop skills and habits that will serve them well beyond school. Here, we share practical ways parents can support their child’s sixth form journey while nurturing independence.
Supporting thoughtful subject choices
Choosing subjects in sixth form is a decision that can shape the next stage of education. Admissions tutors at top universities often value “facilitating subjects” such as maths, sciences, English literature, history and modern languages. These subjects demonstrate intellectual rigour and keep future degree options open.
At the same time, enjoyment should not be overlooked. A student who is genuinely interested in a subject is more likely to engage deeply, read widely beyond the syllabus and develop the curiosity universities look for.
As a parent, you can help by discussing their strengths and long-term aspirations. Encourage your child to research university entry requirements and consider how their subject choices align with potential career paths. For students with particularly high potential, our Gifted & Talented support can provide tailored guidance to ensure their choices are both challenging and strategically advantageous.
Encouraging effective study habits
The step into sixth form brings more independent study and fewer structured lessons. While this is a positive opportunity for growth, it can also be a source of stress if students are unprepared for the responsibility. Helping your child establish effective study habits early can set the tone for the next two years and beyond.
You might support them by:
- Creating a quiet, well-lit study space at home with minimal distractions
- Encouraging the use of a planner or digital calendar to track deadlines and plan sessions
- Establishing small routines, such as reviewing notes each evening or setting aside dedicated revision times
For students who need additional structure or guidance, online tutoring can provide targeted support. Tutors not only reinforce subject knowledge but also help students develop organisational skills, time management and confidence in handling more complex material.
Broadening their horizons
Top universities and competitive career paths look for well-rounded individuals who show curiosity, initiative and resilience. Sixth form offers an excellent opportunity to develop these qualities. Encouraging your child to participate in extracurricular activities, clubs or volunteering projects helps them explore their interests, build new skills and demonstrate commitment outside the classroom.
Parents can guide this exploration by helping children identify activities that complement their academic goals or personal passions, such as:
- Volunteering in a healthcare, community or environmental setting
- Taking on leadership roles in school societies or clubs
- Engaging in creative projects, music or performing arts
- Participating in competitions, workshops or summer schools related to their interests
These experiences not only enrich personal development but also provide compelling material for personal statements and university interviews.
Preparing for university and future ambitions
While the focus of sixth form is often on achieving excellent A Level results, it’s also a time to start thinking about university and longer-term goals. Admissions tutors value evidence of independent learning, intellectual curiosity and initiative. Encouraging your child to read widely, attend lectures or summer schools and engage with current debates or research in their chosen subjects can give them a significant advantage.
Reflecting on these experiences also helps your child develop a sense of purpose and direction. At Dukes, our academic support for university entry helps students strengthen their subject knowledge, refine personal statements and prepare for interviews, all tailored to their unique ambitions.
Supporting balance and wellbeing
Sixth form can be intense, particularly for students aiming for competitive universities or career paths. While ambition is important, wellbeing should never be overlooked. Students who balance study with rest, hobbies, social engagement and physical activity tend to be more resilient, focused, and motivated.
Parents can support this balance by:
- Encouraging regular breaks during study sessions
- Promoting healthy sleep routines and consistent daily schedules
- Supporting downtime away from screens and homework
- Reminding your child that setbacks are a natural part of learning and opportunities to grow
For students who feel under pressure, home tutoring can offer structured support that reduces stress and provides reassurance.
Building confidence and independence
Sixth form is also a time to nurture confidence and independence. Encourage your child to take responsibility for their learning, but offer guidance when needed. Ask them how they are planning their week, what areas they feel uncertain about and where they might benefit from additional support.
By fostering independence in a supportive way, you help your child develop the self-reliance that universities and employers value. Tutors can complement this by offering personalised guidance, helping your child consolidate understanding and approach challenges strategically rather than reactively.
Setting them up for success
Starting sixth form is a milestone that combines excitement, challenge and opportunity. With your support, your child can make the most of this important stage, building habits, skills and experiences that set them up for top universities and future careers.
Dukes Tutoring can provide tailored guidance to support students academically and personally, whether through home tutoring, online tuition or specialist university entry support. By combining parental guidance with expert tuition, your child can approach sixth form with confidence.
We can create a bespoke tutoring programme to support your child’s sixth form journey. Call 020 3488 0754, email info@dukestutoring.com, or complete our online enquiry form.
