I'm currently in year 11 and trying to choose a sixth form. I'm torn between two: the independent school I'm currently at and a state sixth form near me. Both are an equal distance away, and money is not an issue - I would have a full scholarship.
I'm expected at least an A in all nine subjects and I'm planning to do physics, chemistry and further maths at A level. For just AS I'm undecided, I would happily do any two out of: astronomy, electronics, economics, sociology, psychology, science in society, biology, and geology.
I'm planning on doing physics or engineering at university, and I have my eye on Oxford (I know it's unlikely). I would be more than happy at any Russell Group university quite honestly. Although it feels early to be thinking this, if I were to carry on with physics/engineering I'd quite like to go to America to study for a PhD.
The benefits of the state sixth form are; more choice with the courses, a fantastic enrichment program, I'll be prepared to meet new people at uni after, way more freedom, a shorter day, no dress code, and I'll be able to do 5/6 courses. The only downside is I have extremely bad anxiety when it comes to a large amount of people in one area (I had to leave my state school at 13 because of it), but I could just finally get medication for that.
The benefits of the private sixth form are; smaller classes, the extended learning program, it's familiar, has a strong work ethic, I'll get most work done at school, and the lessons will be tailored to us. The downsides are; I'll be there 8-6 (and will only spend about 3/4 hours in lessons per day maximum) and I'll still have work to do in the evenings and weekends, their expectations cause me enormous stress, I can only take 3/4 courses there, and out of the possible AS levels I'd take, they only offer economics, psychology and biology - and although I wouldn't mind them, there are others I'd rather do by far.
I've also heard universities can be biased against private school applicants - how true is this? Is Oxbridge biased? I always just assumed coming from a private sixth form would make you more desirable.
Based on what I've told you, which choice do you think is best for me? congratulations if you read all that!
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