Leadership & Service | Sixth Form | Denstone College | Staffordshire

Here at Denstone College, Captains and Prefects play an important role in the leadership and direction of the school, forming a central part of life in the Sixth Form. They foster a positive school environment and represent the student body, setting examples through their behaviour, attitude and dedication to the College’s values.

Gone are the days when Prefects are authoritarians. At Denstone College, they act in the capacity of ‘big brother’ or ‘big sister’ – a listening ear, a friendly face and an important part of the College’s pastoral care and support system. They are carefully selected for their ability to offer guidance, empathy and encouragement.

They represent the College at official functions and are the face of the organisation, but their role goes far beyond this. They serve as mentors for younger students, helping them adjust to school life, resolve challenges and succeed both academically and socially, contributing to a strong culture of pastoral care.

They are expected to embody the values and principles upheld by the school. By demonstrating integrity, respect and responsibility, they inspire others and contribute positively to the wider Sixth Form community.

Captains and Prefects also play a crucial role in promoting unity and inclusivity, helping to create a welcoming environment where all students feel valued. These opportunities are a vital part of developing confidence, responsibility and readiness for future pathways and careers.

Very popular with pupils is The Duke of Edinburgh's Award, which forms a key part of our co-curricular programme and broader Sixth Form journey. It is offered to all pupils, starting in the Third Form with the Bronze Award and progressing through to the prestigious Gold Award in the Sixth Form.

At Bronze level, participants commit to volunteering, physical activity and skill development, alongside an expedition in the Peak District. These experiences build resilience, independence and teamwork, all key elements of personal development and leadership.

The Silver Award, offered in the Fourth Form, develops these skills further through extended commitments and a more challenging expedition. Many students balance this alongside their academic work within the structured Shape of the Week.

The Gold Award begins in the Sixth Form and requires a significant level of commitment, including a four-day expedition and a residential experience. This level of achievement is highly regarded and contributes strongly to university applications and future career opportunities.

Many students combine their Duke of Edinburgh participation with other elements of the College’s co-curricular activities, creating a rich and varied Sixth Form experience.

Another popular option from Fourth Form upwards is the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), a key component of our co-curricular opportunities and an important pathway for leadership development.

As part of the national cadet organisation, the CCF supports personal development through a wide range of activities that build confidence, resilience and teamwork. It offers students a unique dimension to their Sixth Form experience, developing skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

Cadets choose between Army or RAF sections and take part in weekly training, developing practical skills such as navigation, first aid and leadership. As they progress, students can take on increasing responsibility, including Non-Commissioned Officer roles, providing valuable student leadership opportunities.

Training camps, competitions and adventurous activities further enhance this experience, forming part of a broader programme of co-curricular enrichment. Many cadets also combine their involvement with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, demonstrating the interconnected nature of opportunities within the Sixth Form curriculum and co-curricular life.

These experiences contribute significantly to personal development, confidence and future career pathways, particularly for those considering careers in leadership, service or the armed forces.

Chapel forms a key part of the College’s ethos and plays an important role in supporting pastoral care and personal development. It is an integral element of the Shape of the Week, with pupils attending regularly and actively contributing to services.

Each week, pupils take on a variety of roles, including leading prayers, reading and participating in services. These opportunities encourage confidence, reflection and a sense of responsibility, contributing to the broader Sixth Form experience.

Students are also involved in supporting the technical aspects of chapel through the tech team, while others contribute through music, linking closely with the College’s creative and co-curricular activities.

The sacristy team plays an important role in preparing chapel for services, offering further opportunities for responsibility and service within the school community. These roles support the development of organisation, teamwork and commitment.

Pupils are encouraged to give presentations about charities and causes important to them, helping to foster a sense of service, empathy and global awareness. This reflects the College’s commitment to developing well-rounded individuals prepared for life beyond Sixth Form.