Hills Road Sixth Form College

Choosing where to study after Year 11 isn’t just about the subjects you pick: it’s about the experience you want to have every day.

With more than 36 A level courses, enrichment options, clubs, support and the energy of Cambridge on your doorstep, Hills Road is a place where you can discover what matters to you and grow with confidence.

We are a specialist sixth form college in Cambridge, offering an ambitious and supportive environment where students are encouraged to achieve highly, develop their independence and prepare confidently for their next steps.

With almost 3,000 students aged 16–19 and a choice of 36 A level subjects, Hills Road offers the breadth and flexibility for students to build a programme that reflects their interests, strengths and future ambitions.

Our focus is not only on achieving excellent academic outcomes, but on providing an enriching sixth form experience that helps students grow as individuals. We encourage students to think deeply, challenge what they already know, explore new ideas and develop the confidence to set ambitious goals.

Alongside A levels, students take part in our Future Ready Programme, which brings together tutorials, the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), enrichment and opportunities to develop the skills and experiences needed for life beyond sixth form.

Whether your next step is university, an apprenticeship, employment or another pathway, our aim is to help you achieve the results, skills and confidence you need to reach your chosen destination.

hillsroad.ac.uk/study-with-us/how-to-apply 

Starting sixth form is an exciting step, but we recognise that moving from GCSEs to A levels can also be challenging. At Hills Road, students have access to dedicated academic, practical and wellbeing support throughout their time with us.

Every student is allocated a Progress and Support Tutor, who acts as a key point of contact for the student and their parents or carers. Our wider support provision includes Student Services, wellbeing support, counselling, Study Skills and SEND support, subject-specific support and progress reviews.

Students can also access financial support through the College Bursary Fund where eligible.

Preparing for what comes after Hills Road is an important part of the sixth form experience. Our qualified and experienced Careers Advisers support students considering university, apprenticeships, employment, gap years and other destinations. Careers support includes one-to-one guidance, university and employer talks, application support, mock interviews, CV workshops, work experience support and dedicated activities for students considering particular career pathways.

Our Future Ready Programme further supports students' personal and social development, covering areas including health and wellbeing, community, life skills, study skills and future progression.

Our focus is sixth form education. Students can choose from 36 A level subjects and build a programme suited to their interests and future plans.

Outstanding education

Hills Road was rated Outstanding in all key judgements by Ofsted following its inspection in April 2025.

More than A levels

Every Year 12 student's programme extends beyond their chosen subjects through Future Ready, the Extended Project Qualification and Enrichment.

A culture of independence

Independent Learning periods are built into students' programmes, giving them dedicated time for study, research and extension work and helping them develop the independence required for university, apprenticeships and employment.

Enrichment as part of the College experience

All Year 12 students take part in Enrichment. It provides opportunities to try something new, develop existing interests, build transferable skills and meet students beyond their subject groups. College sports teams, Gold Duke of Edinburgh and auditioned music can also form part of Enrichment.

More than 40 clubs and societies

Students can get involved in a wide range of activities outside their academic programme, providing further opportunities to pursue interests, meet people and contribute to College life.

Support for your next step

Our Careers team provides extensive support for progression, whether students are considering higher education, apprenticeships, employment, a gap year or another route.

A Cambridge location

Our campus is close to Cambridge railway station, Cambridge Leisure Park and the city centre, giving students access to the opportunities and amenities of Cambridge alongside their College experience.

Hills Road Sixth Form College is located on Hills Road in Cambridge and is accessible by train, bus, bicycle and on foot.

Train

Cambridge railway station is approximately a 10-minute walk from the College, providing rail connections from locations across Cambridgeshire and the wider region.

Bus

The Guided Busway connects Cambridge with locations across the county, with the nearest stop at Cambridge Central railway station. A number of other bus services stop close to the College.

Young people under 25 may also be eligible for discounted bus travel through the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Tiger Pass.

Cycling

We encourage sustainable travel and provide cycle parking on campus, including a student cycle park at the rear of the College and bicycle parking facilities on the secured campus site.

Walking

The College is within walking distance of Cambridge railway station, Cambridge Leisure Park and Cambridge city centre.

Financial support for travel

Eligible students may be able to use the College Bursary Fund towards the cost of travelling to and from College. Some public transport operators also offer discounted student travel.

Students and families are encouraged to check current routes, fares and eligibility with the relevant transport provider when planning their journey.

• Student life at Hills Road 
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