Sixth Form (Key Stage 5) Curriculum

Years 12 and 13

At Capital School Bahrain, our Sixth Form builds directly on the strong academic foundations established at Key Stage 4. Following IGCSE and BTEC Level 2 qualifications, students move into a carefully structured Key Stage 5 programme that prepares them for university, vocational training, and future careers.

We offer a flexible and supportive Sixth Form curriculum, allowing students to choose pathways that reflect their strengths, interests, and ambitions — whether academic, vocational, or a combination of both.

From KS4 to Sixth Form: A Clear Progression

The transition from Years 10–11 (KS4) to Years 12–13 (KS5) marks an important step in a student's education.

At KS4

Students develop broad subject knowledge and essential skills through iGCSEs and BTEC Level 2 courses

In Sixth Form

Students specialise further, studying fewer subjects in greater depth

Beyond School

Learning becomes more independent, analytical, and demanding, preparing students for life beyond school

Our Sixth Form pathways are designed to ensure that every student progresses confidently, whether they are aiming for a traditional academic route or a more applied, career-focused programme.

Sixth Form Pathways

Most students begin Sixth Form studying three subjects from A-Levels, BTEC Level 3, or a combination

International A-Levels

10 Subjects Available
  • Biology
  • Business
  • Chemistry
  • Economics
  • English Literature
  • Geography
  • History
  • Mathematics
  • Physics
  • Design & Technology (Product Design)

BTEC International Level 3

5 Subjects Available
  • Applied Science
  • Business
  • Information Technology
  • Sport
  • Travel & Tourism
Pearson Qualifications

All qualifications are delivered through Pearson, ensuring international recognition and strong progression routes to universities worldwide.

A-Levels and BTECs: Understanding the Difference

Parents often ask which pathway is "better". The answer is simple: the best pathway is the one that suits your child.

A-Levels

Academic Excellence

  • More academic and exam-based
  • Focus on subject depth, theory, and extended writing or problem-solving
  • Ideal preparation for university study, particularly for competitive or academic degree courses

BTEC Level 3

Applied Learning

  • More practical and coursework-based
  • Assessed through projects, assignments, presentations, and applied tasks
  • Ideal for students who thrive with continuous assessment and real-world learning
Blended Pathway Option

Many students choose a blended pathway, combining A-Levels with one BTEC, allowing them to balance academic challenge with applied learning and maintain flexibility for future options.

Entry Requirements and Guidance

Entry Requirements

Entry to Sixth Form subjects is based on:

  • GCSE / iGCSE or BTEC Level 2 results
  • Subject-specific grade requirements
  • Teacher recommendations and student suitability

Our Sixth Form team works closely with students and parents to ensure that choices are realistic, ambitious, and well-matched to future goals. Final subject allocations are confirmed after GCSE results and individual guidance discussions.

Supporting Students for the Future

Sixth Form is about more than academic study

Pastoral Support

Strong pastoral support and mentoring throughout the Sixth Form journey

University Guidance

Comprehensive support with university applications, personal statements, and career planning

Leadership Development

Opportunities for leadership, enrichment, and wider participation in school life

Skills Building

Development of independence, resilience, time-management, and critical thinking

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

Students may also choose to complete the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) alongside their main subjects, further strengthening university applications and research skills.

Preparing for University and Beyond

Our Sixth Form pathways support progression to diverse career and education opportunities worldwide

UK & International Universities
Vocational & Applied Degrees
Apprenticeships & Training
Professional Employment

Whether students aim for medicine, engineering, business, humanities, technology, or creative industries, our Sixth Form curriculum is designed to open doors and keep options open.

Curriculum Planning Documents

View our detailed Long Term Plans (LTPs), Medium Term Plans (MTPs), and curriculum overviews for Sixth Form subjects.

View Term Plans

Begin Your University Journey

Discover how our Sixth Form prepares students for top universities and successful careers. Experience our advanced facilities, meet our dedicated teaching team, and see how we support every student's ambitions.