Meet Max, in Year 13 at BCS Sixth Form, studying French, Spanish, and English Literature. He is also one of the Heads of School. 

Q: How are you finding your experience at BCS, particularly the Sixth Form? 

A: It’s been really good. I enjoy Sixth Form a lot, especially because it’s quite small—it makes you feel more involved in lessons. That was actually one of the main reasons I decided to stay on; I knew I’d get more one-on-one time with teachers. Since joining in Year 10, I’ve really grown into the school—and into myself. 

Q: What does being a Head of School involve? 

A: It’s about being a good role model, which I try to be—though, of course, no one’s perfect all the time! I also help out at school events, which I really enjoy. It’s a great challenge, and balancing it alongside my studies has been a good learning experience. 

Q: How have you found the career support at BCS? 

A: It’s been great. I’ve applied to Oxford, and that meant working closely with Mr Eberlin. He helped make sure my personal statement was ready and sent off on time, and he’s always available to go through things with me. I also have Miss Wilson, my form tutor, and Mrs Baffos, Head of Languages, who’ve both been incredibly supportive. 

Q: What does a typical day look like for you? 

A: In tutor time this year, we’ve been focusing on personal statements and PSHE lessons—things like budgeting and life skills. Then I have my lessons—French, Spanish, and English Lit—all spread fairly evenly across the week, around 10 hours per subject. 

There’s also time for independent study in the study room or common room. At lunch, I sometimes head out for a picnic, which is something I really enjoy. In the afternoons, there are co-curricular activities, but there’s also the option to go home and study, which gives us flexibility. I think that balance is one of the best parts of Sixth Form life here. 

Q: Have you been involved in any charity or sporting events? 

A: Yes, I took part in the Mud Run back in May, which was a great laugh—even though it was very wet and muddy! It was all for a good cause, raising money for a local charity, and everyone chipped in. I also play for the BCS football team and helped out with sports day. 

Q: What are your plans after Sixth Form? 

A: I’d love to go to Oxford. After that, I’m still deciding—possibly something like joining the Secret Services or working in that kind of field. But I’m also open to continuing with languages, maybe becoming a translator. We’ll see where it takes me! 

Q: How do you manage studying both French and Spanish at the same time? 

A: I started both back in Year 7 and just stuck with them because I really love languages. My goal is to become fluent in both French and Spanish. 

Q: What would you say to someone thinking of joining BCS Sixth Form? 

A: I’d say definitely join! I’ve really enjoyed my time here. The class sizes are small, so you get more personalised support and deeper discussions in lessons. In most of my classes, there are only two or three of us. There’s also a lot of flexibility and a great atmosphere overall—it’s a really positive environment to be in.