What is studied in the British Sixth Form?
In the British National Curriculum,the Baccalaureate cycle is called the “Sixth Form”, and comprises Year 12 and Year 13, and represents the culmination of the British educational pathway.
During these two years, students prepare themselves academically, personally and emotionally to make the leap to university or other educational and professional projects, both in Spain and abroad.
At this stage, students design their own academic itinerary by choosing the A-Level (Advanced Level) subjects that best suit their interests, abilities and future goals. This flexibility allows for a personalized education, focused on talent and the development of critical thinking, autonomy and intellectual maturity.
The official A Levels exams will allow you to obtain the British Baccalaureate and the Spanish Baccalaureate, as we are an Official Examination Center.
The complete program in Bachillerato includes the study of AS / A2 subjects along with subjects from the Spanish Curriculum.
As usual:
- AS exams are taken in Year 12.
- A2 exams are held in Year 13.
AS + A2 = A LEVEL
In addition, at the British School Alzira, Xàtiva and Gandia we have agreements for our students to obtain scholarships in other countries (Denmark, Holland, United Kingdom…), as well as access agreements to the most prestigious private Universities in the country, or to the ARA groups (High Academic Performance Groups in the Spanish Public University).
University accessThis offers the possibility of accessing any University in Spain (Public or Private), the United Kingdom, the United States, Europe and the rest of the world.
Sixth Form Subjects (Year 12 and Year 13)
Students can choose from a wide variety of subjects from the British Curriculum, at the same time as subjects from the Spanish Curriculum are prepared for PCE.
The British Curriculum electives that can be taken in our schools are: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, English Language and Literature, French, Italian, Business Studies, Psychology, Art, A Level Spanish and CPE (Cambridge Proficiency in English).
As for the Spanish subjects they can choose to take: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Business and Business Model Design, Art History / Art Fundamentals, Mathematics oriented to Social Sciences (CCSS), Mathematics I/II, Technical Drawing and Geography. In addition, they all take: English PCE and French PCE.
During these two years, students work in depth on their chosen subjects, developing analytical, communicative and research skills that will be key to their university success.
Why study Sixth Form at British Schools of Valencia?
The Sixth Form offered in our BSA and BSX centers is considered one of the best and most prestigious in Europe. At BSG, after 10 years of life, next academic year 2026-27, our students will begin their Baccalaureate stage.
In addition to academic training, Year 12 and Year 13 students receive a complete vocational and university orientation, with the support of specialized tutors and the school’s Guidance Department.
They are guided in the preparation of their applications to Spanish, British, European and American universities, including the UCAS process (UK) and other international pathways.
Our goal is that each student finds his or her own path and has the necessary tools to face the future with security, confidence and enthusiasm.
At the British School Alzira, Xàtiva & Gandia Group, the Baccalaureate is much more than an academic stage: it is the starting point towards our students’ dreams.
How we assess students in Sixth Form
At British Schools we believe that continuous supervision and communication are two key elements for the success of our pedagogical system. For this reason, we make the following monitoring procedures available to parents:
Frequently Asked Questions about the British Sixth Form in British Schools in Valencia
What is the British Sixth Form and how does it work in British schools in Valencia?
The British Sixth Form is the final stage of secondary education within the UK academic system. It offers a more personalised learning experience, allowing students to focus on the subjects and areas that best match their interests and future aspirations.
At British schools in Valencia (Alzira, Xàtiva and Gandía), this stage combines high academic standards with teaching methods that encourage participation, critical thinking and analytical skills. The aim is to help students develop strong subject knowledge and the confidence needed to succeed in higher education and beyond.
As part of an internationally recognised education system, the British Sixth Form provides students with an education aligned with globally respected academic standards.
What is the difference between the British Sixth Form and the Spanish Bachillerato?
The main difference lies in the academic approach. While the Spanish Bachillerato provides a broader and more uniform curriculum for all students, the British Sixth Form allows greater specialisation in specific subject areas.
This enables students to dedicate more time to the subjects that best align with their interests, strengths and university goals. In addition, the British educational model places a strong emphasis on independent thinking, research skills and the practical application of knowledge.
For this reason, many families value the flexibility and personalised nature of the British system.
How long does the British Sixth Form last?
The British Sixth Form lasts for two academic years, known as Year 12 and Year 13. Students typically complete these years between the ages of 16 and 18.
What subjects are studied in the British Sixth Form?
Students in the British Sixth Form can choose from a wide range of subjects based on their interests, strengths and university aspirations. This flexibility allows them to follow a more personalised academic pathway than is typically available in other education systems.
Available subjects include science-based options such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Computer Science, as well as humanities and social science subjects including Business Studies, Psychology, English Language and Literature, French, Italian and Art.
What level of English do students achieve by the end of the British Sixth Form?
Students who complete the British Sixth Form generally achieve a highly advanced level of English, as all subjects are taught in English and the language is used throughout their daily academic life.
This level of proficiency enables students to communicate confidently in both academic and professional environments and helps them access some of the world’s most prestigious universities.
What are AS and A2 examinations?
AS and A2 examinations form part of the traditional structure of A Levels, the most widely recognised qualification within the British education system.
The AS Level is typically studied during the first year of advanced study, while the A2 Level is completed in the second year and involves a greater degree of specialisation in each subject. These assessments evaluate not only subject knowledge but also students’ analytical and critical-thinking abilities.
What is the difference between an AS Level and an A Level?
An AS Level represents the first stage of advanced study in a subject, whereas an A Level covers the full programme completed over the two years of Sixth Form education.
A Levels provide a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of each subject and are the qualifications most commonly considered by universities during the admissions process.
What qualification do students receive upon completing the British Sixth Form?
Upon successful completion of the programme, students are awarded A Levels, one of the most highly respected pre-university qualifications in the world.
A Levels are recognised by universities across the United Kingdom, Europe, North America and many other international destinations, making them an excellent pathway to higher education.
Can students also obtain the Spanish Bachillerato qualification?
Yes. Students following the British Sixth Form can also obtain recognition equivalent to the Spanish Bachillerato, provided they meet the requirements established by the relevant educational authorities.
This allows students to benefit from academic recognition within both the British and Spanish education systems, expanding their future study options.
Does the British Sixth Form provide access to Spanish universities?
Yes. Students who complete the British Sixth Form can apply to both public and private universities in Spain through the procedures established for international qualifications.
Spanish universities recognise A Levels and value the strong academic preparation they provide. Depending on the degree programme, applicants may need to complete specific admission requirements or submit additional documentation.
Thanks to its international recognition and academic specialisation, the British Sixth Form in Valencia is an excellent option for students who wish to pursue higher education in Spain while benefiting from a globally focused education.
Does the British Sixth Form provide access to universities in the United Kingdom, the United States and Europe?
Yes. The British education system is internationally recognised, allowing students to apply to universities in a wide range of countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Ireland, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland and France, among many others.
This international recognition gives students the flexibility to explore higher education opportunities across the world and choose the university destination that best suits their academic and professional ambitions.
