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TechStart 1

What is TechStart?

TechStart is a forward-thinking programme available to SBUA students, delivered in partnership with SBU Sixth Form. It gives selected Year 10 and 11 students access to a Sixth Form learning environment while still at school – an opportunity rarely available at this stage of education.

Students spend one day per week at SBU Sixth Form in Brixton, studying towards a Level 1 or Level 2 Cambridge Technical qualification in Business, Engineering or Health. Taught by sector specialists in professional workshops and classrooms, TechStart helps students build confidence, independence and a clearer sense of direction for the future.

More than an additional qualification, TechStart is designed to ignite ambition, broaden horizons and prepare students for what comes next.

The programme is particularly suitable for students who:

  • Enjoy practical, hands-on learning

  • Are interested in Business, Engineering or Health pathways

  • Would benefit from learning in a specialist technical environment

  • Are considering technical, vocational or applied routes post-16

 

Subjects Available

BUSINESS

Students explore enterprise, finance, marketing and teamwork, developing skills that underpin success in almost every career pathway.

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ENGINEERING

Students engage with engineering principles through hands-on learning, problem-solving and the use of specialist tools and materials in workshop settings.

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HEALTH

Students gain insight into health and care sectors, focusing on communication, professionalism and the foundations of working in people-focused roles.

How does TechStart Work?

Click each section to explore how the programme supports learning, confidence and future progression.

  • A unique learning experience at Key Stage 4

    TechStart allows students to experience technical education in a Sixth Form setting while continuing their GCSEs at SBUA. It is designed to stretch students, build confidence and show what is possible beyond the classroom, all within a carefully supported structure.

    This balance helps students stay grounded in school life while gaining early exposure to post-16 style learning.

  • One day per week at SBU Sixth Form

    Students attend SBU Sixth Form in Brixton one agreed day per week. On this day, they follow a full timetable of lessons and have access to lunchtime facilities, just like Sixth Form students.

    This regular routine helps students develop independence, responsibility and confidence, while still maintaining the consistency of their school week.

  • Subjects and specialist teaching

    Students study one technical pathway: Business, Engineering or Health.

    Lessons are taught by sector specialists with industry experience, in professional workshops and classrooms designed to reflect real working environments. Learning is practical, engaging and closely linked to real-world skills.

  • Qualifications and Outcomes

    As part of TechStart, students work towards a Cambridge Technical qualification at Level 1 or Level 2.

    These qualifications:

    • Form part of the student’s Key Stage 4 outcomes

    • Are recognised and valued by post-16 providers

    • Support progression to BTECs, T Levels, apprenticeships and further technical study

    This means students are gaining both knowledge and meaningful qualifications that support future choices.

  • Preparing students for what comes next

    TechStart is about more than learning a subject. It helps students:

    • Build confidence and self-belief

    • Develop independence and maturity

    • Understand future pathways earlier

    • Make more informed post-16 choices

    By the time students reach the end of Year 11, they are better prepared, more confident and clearer about their next steps.

 

Student Experience

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