Key Stage 5

Head of Key Stage 5 - Ms Canavan

Head of Year 14 - Mrs Sheridan

Head of Year 13 - Mr Majury

Study Supervisors - Mr Gardner & Mrs Geen

At St. Columbanus’ College, our Key Stage 5 provision is dedicated to developing the whole pupil. While academic success is a priority, our broader mission is to empower our students to become the very best versions of themselves. We believe that every young person should leave our College equipped to make a meaningful contribution to society, regardless of the route they take. Success is not defined solely by university entrance; rather, it is about ensuring every student is fully prepared for the specific challenges of their chosen destination.

We are proud to offer access to over 21 A-Level subjects, a breadth of choice made possible through our leadership in collaborative education. We believe that a shared approach to learning is the future of our education system, and we are proud to be a key member of a nationally respected model of collaboration. Through the dedication of our staff and our excellent relationships within the Bangor Learning Partnership, we work alongside our colleagues at Bangor Academy, Bangor Grammar School, Glenlola Collegiate, Strangford College, Glastry College, and Priory College. This partnership allows us to deliver a curriculum that meets the diverse needs of both our own students and those from across the North Down area who choose to study with us.

Since our Sixth Form was established in 2001 with just a handful of students, it has flourished into a vibrant community of over 140 learners. This growth has been accompanied by consistently high success rates at A-Level—an achievement we are incredibly proud of. This track record of excellence ensures that whether our students are engaging in independent study or participating in the community-focused initiatives mentioned previously, they are supported by a legacy of academic and personal achievement.

Further information on subject choices and on the process of choosing your A Level subjects will be included in your personalised Options Book – which will soon be given to pupils. If your child has any questions regarding subject choices they can speak to Mr Mitchell, the Head of Learning and Teaching, or to Ms Canavan, Head of Key Stage 5. Subject Teachers and Heads of Department will also be keen to answer any questions regarding their subject.

The Year 12 Options Day will take place on Monday 16^th February from 11.20am until 1.00pm. This will give students and their parents the opportunity to meet with subject teachers and Heads of Department to discuss pathways for Key Stage 5 study.

We also welcome applications from external pupils. Any external pupil who is interested in visiting the College can contact the College Office to arrange a meeting.

Example Post 16 Options Booklet (from 24/25 Academic Year)

post 16 options booklet 2025.pdf

Head Prefects

At St. Columbanus’ College, we take immense pride in our Head Prefects, who serve as exceptional role models and ambassadors for our entire school community. These dedicated individuals earned their positions through a strenuous and rigorous application procedure, demonstrating the character, leadership, and commitment necessary to lead their peers.

By choosing to take on these pivotal roles, our Head Prefects act as the primary representatives of the College, representing us with distinction at external events and providing a professional welcome to all visitors. Their leadership and integrity exemplify the very best of our student body, and they play a vital role in shaping the positive culture and community spirit of the College.

Enrichment

Enrichment is a cornerstone of the Sixth Form experience at St. Columbanus’ College, providing our senior students with the time and space to grow beyond the classroom. The majority of our Sixth Form pupils have dedicated periods on their timetable which are spent either enhancing their own personal development or actively enhancing our local community.

We place a high value on social responsibility and encourage all pupils to support their local community, whether through organising charity events or participating in our Reading Partnership Lessons with our feeder Primary Schools. These partnerships allow our students to act as mentors, fostering a love of literacy in younger children while developing their own communication and leadership skills.

When they are not involved in community outreach, our students benefit from a balanced environment designed for both productivity and well-being. They can relax and socialise in our state-of-the-art Rec Room or focus on their independent learning in our dedicated Study Centre. In the Study Centre, pupils are expertly supported by our study supervisors, Mrs. Geen and Mr. Gardner, who ensure a focused atmosphere conducive to academic success.

Pathways

Our primary goal is to provide every pupil with the ideal entry point and the essential tools required to succeed in their chosen pathway. We recognise that success looks different for everyone; while many of our students aspire to degree-level study, we believe that university is not the only route to a fulfilling career. Our focus is to ensure that every pupil leaves the College with a clear destination in mind and is fully equipped with the skills and confidence to thrive in that next step, whether it be in higher education, further education, or professional training.

Last year, approximately 80% of our pupils progressed to further or higher education, securing places at a diverse range of institutions across the UK and Ireland. These destinations included:

Belfast Metropolitan College
Liverpool John Moores University
Northumbria University
Queen's University Belfast
South Eastern Regional College
Stranmillis University College
Ulster University
University of Essex

EMA

Ms Canavan - EMA Manager

The Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) is a financial support scheme designed to help students aged 16 to 19 remain in full-time education after their compulsory schooling ends. It provides a regular payment, paid fortnightly directly into the student’s bank account, to help cover everyday costs such as transport, books, and equipment. Eligibility is based on household income and is dependent on the student maintaining excellent attendance and meeting the goals set out in their personal Learning Agreement. In addition to the regular allowance, students may also be eligible for performance-based bonuses throughout the academic year. Applying for EMA does not affect any other household benefits, making it a valuable resource for supporting our pupils as they progress through their post-16 studies.

EMA Guidance for the 26/27 Academic Year will become available during the 2026 Summer Term.

The EMA Guidance Booklet for the 25/26 Academic Year accessed via the image below.

Collaboration

Collaboration is a cornerstone of our Sixth Form provision, ensuring that our students have access to the widest possible range of academic and vocational pathways. Through our vibrant partnerships with local schools and SERC, both our college and our partner institutions can offer an expanded selection of Level 3 subjects, while providing our young people with the invaluable opportunity to meet and work alongside peers from across the wider community. We are particularly proud to serve as the lead school for the teaching of modern, industry-relevant subjects such as Moving Image Arts and Uniformed Protective Services within our local area. In turn, this collaborative framework grants our pupils access to specialised subjects such as A Level Music and A Level Spanish. Comprehensive information on the additional courses available through our partnership with SERC is detailed below.