Faith AdeniyiPeter Symonds College
Peter Symonds College is a prestigious sixth form college located in Winchester, Hampshire, England. Established in 1897, the college has grown significantly and has earned a reputation for academic excellence and a supportive learning environment. Originally founded as a boys’ grammar school, it transitioned to a coeducational sixth form college in 1974. Today, Peter Symonds College serves over 4,000 students, offering a diverse range of courses and programs.
The college’s mission is to provide high-quality education that enables students to achieve their full potential. It has consistently received positive reviews for its academic performance, facilities, and student support services. In recent years, Peter Symonds College has achieved impressive results in A-level and vocational qualifications, with a high percentage of students progressing to higher education and employment.
Courses and Study Programs at Peter Symonds College
Peter Symonds College offers a wide variety of courses and study programs designed to cater to the diverse interests and aspirations of its students. These include:
A-Levels
- Accounting
- Ancient History
- Art and Design
- Biology
- Business
- Chemistry
- Classical Civilisation
- Computer Science
- Dance
- Drama and Theatre
- Economics
- English Language
- English Literature
- Environmental Science
- Film Studies
- French
- Geography
- Geology
- German
- Government and Politics
- Graphic Design
- History
- Law
- Mathematics
- Media Studies
- Music
- Philosophy
- Photography
- Physical Education
- Physics
- Psychology
- Religious Studies
- Sociology
- Spanish
- Textiles
Vocational Courses
- Applied Science
- Business
- Health and Social Care
- Information Technology
- Performing Arts
- Sport and Exercise Science
- Travel and Tourism
Foundation Learning
Foundation Learning includes a range of entry-level courses designed to provide a foundation for further study or employment.
Adult Education
Peter Symonds College also offers a comprehensive range of evening and part-time courses for adults, including languages, arts, and professional development programs.
Level of Studies at Peter Symonds College
Peter Symonds College caters primarily to 16-19-year-old students preparing for higher education or employment through its A-level and vocational programs. The college also provides opportunities for adult learners through its evening and part-time courses.
A-Levels
The A-level program at Peter Symonds College is renowned for its academic rigor and high achievement rates. The college offers over 30 A-level subjects, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. The A-level courses are designed to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent learning skills, which are essential for success in higher education and beyond.
Vocational Courses
Vocational courses at Peter Symonds College are designed to provide practical skills and knowledge relevant to specific industries. These courses include BTECs, Cambridge Technicals, and other vocational qualifications. They combine classroom-based learning with hands-on experience, preparing students for both higher education and direct entry into the workforce.
Foundation Learning
Foundation Learning programs are aimed at students who need additional support to progress to higher-level studies or employment. These courses focus on developing essential skills such as literacy, numeracy, and personal development, providing a stepping stone to further education or vocational training.
Adult Education
The college’s Adult Education program offers a wide range of courses for adult learners, including language classes, arts and crafts, and professional development courses. These programs are designed to provide opportunities for personal enrichment and career advancement, catering to the needs of the local community.
Facts about Peter Symonds College
Academic Performance
Peter Symonds College has a strong track record of academic achievement. In 2023, the college reported an A-level pass rate of 98.7%, with 74.5% of students achieving A*-C grades. The college’s vocational courses also boast high success rates, with many students achieving distinctions and merits in their chosen fields.
Student Progression
A significant number of Peter Symonds College students progress to higher education each year. In 2023, over 80% of students secured places at universities, including Russell Group institutions. The college has a dedicated careers team that provides guidance and support for university applications, apprenticeships, and employment opportunities.
Facilities
Peter Symonds College offers excellent facilities to support student learning and development. These include:
- State-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories equipped with modern technology.
- Specialist facilities for subjects such as art, drama, music, and sports.
- Library and study areas with a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and online databases.
- IT suites with the latest software and internet access.
- Sports facilities, including a sports hall, gym, and outdoor playing fields.
Student Support Services
The college provides comprehensive support services to ensure students’ well-being and academic success. These services include:
- Personal Tutors: Each student is assigned a personal tutor who provides guidance and support throughout their time at the college.
- Learning Support: Additional support is available for students with learning difficulties or disabilities.
- Counseling Services: Professional counselors are available to support students with personal issues and mental health concerns.
- Careers Advice: The college has a dedicated careers team that provides information and guidance on career options, university applications, and apprenticeships.
Boarding at Peter Symonds College
Peter Symonds College is unique among state sixth form colleges in the UK for offering boarding accommodation. The college provides 79 boarding places in two co-ed boarding houses located within walking distance of Winchester. Each house is overseen by residential and day houseparents who organize various themed activities on weekends. Boarders reside in either School House, a Victorian mansion featuring spacious one, two, and three-bedded high-ceilinged rooms, or Falkland Lodge, a modern two-storey building with single and twin rooms.
In October 2018, Ofsted rated the boarding facilities as ‘Outstanding’, highlighting that “Boarders live in a supportive and inclusive community which enriches their experiences and positively influences their development. They feel valued and appreciate the opportunities to develop their independence and confidence as they move forward to the next stage of their lives.”
Admission and Fees
For admission to both day and boarding programs, students must complete an application form and participate in an admissions interview, which takes place between October and March. The basic entry requirement is a minimum of five GCSEs at grades 9-4 (or equivalent), including maths and English. Some subjects have additional grade requirements.
The college has a broad intake, welcoming students with varied academic backgrounds. While many students join with high GCSE grades, others have more modest qualifications.
The boarding fees for the 2022/2023 academic year are £15,600 per year for School House and £16,800 per year for Falkland Lodge. Check the school official website for the current fee structures.
Campus and Facilities
Peter Symonds College offers a university-like atmosphere on its vibrant campus located in the heart of Winchester. The campus features a blend of historic and contemporary buildings. Key facilities include:
- Science laboratories
- Media suites
- IT rooms
- Lecture theatres
- Language labs
The college boasts a Learning Resource Centre filled with books, films, podcasts, and documentaries. It offers 600 individual study spaces and access to over 250 PCs and laptops. Social spaces include a large refectory, student common room, and café.
The sports facilities at Peter Symonds College are top-notch, including a well-equipped gym, sports pitches, tennis courts, a sports hall, and a sports pavilion.
Scholarships Offers Availability
Peter Symonds College provides several scholarships and bursaries to support students financially and recognize academic excellence. These include:
- Academic Scholarships: Awarded to students with outstanding GCSE results, providing financial support for educational expenses.
- Music Scholarships: For students with exceptional musical talent, helping cover the costs of music tuition and related expenses.
- Sports Scholarships: Offered to students who excel in sports, providing financial assistance for training and competition expenses.
- Bursaries: Means-tested bursaries available to students from low-income families to help cover travel, meals, and educational materials.
Cost and Financial Aid
Peter Symonds College is a publicly funded institution, so there are no tuition fees for full-time students aged 16-18. However, students may incur some costs related to:
- Travel expenses: Varying based on the distance from the college.
- Course materials: Including textbooks, equipment, and other necessary supplies.
- Trips and activities: Optional extracurricular activities and trips may have additional costs.
Financial aid is available to help manage these costs. In addition to scholarships and bursaries, the college offers:
- 16-19 Bursary Fund: Providing financial assistance to students in need, covering costs such as travel and meals.
- Free School Meals: Available to eligible students.
Peter Symonds College Acceptance Rate
Peter Symonds College is highly regarded and receives a large number of applications annually. The college has an acceptance rate of around 60%, indicative of its selective admissions process. Preference is given to students who meet the entry requirements and demonstrate a strong commitment to their chosen courses.
Peter Symonds College Address and Contact Information
Address:
Peter Symonds College
Owens Road, Winchester
Hampshire, SO22 6RX
United Kingdom
Contact Information:
Phone: +44 (0)1962 857500
Email: info@psc.ac.uk
Website: www.psc.ac.uk
For further inquiries or to schedule a visit, prospective students and parents are encouraged to contact the college directly through the provided phone number or email address.
Concluding Thoughts
Peter Symonds College stands out as a leading institution for sixth form education in the UK. With its extensive range of A-level and vocational courses, outstanding academic performance, and exceptional student support services, the college provides an enriching environment for students to achieve their full potential. The unique boarding facilities, graded as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, offer students a supportive and inclusive community that enhances their personal and academic development. With a broad intake of students and a competitive acceptance rate, Peter Symonds College is a top choice for many aspiring young scholars.
By offering a robust academic program, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive support services, Peter Symonds College ensures that students are well-prepared for their future endeavors. Whether progressing to higher education or entering the workforce, students at Peter Symonds College are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed.
Faith Adeniyi
