NICHE SCHOOLS: ALTERNATIVE ROUTES TO SUCCESS

At the start of the scholastic year, many pupils will be embarking on their GCSE studies. But it’s never too soon to think ahead about choices at 16. Many teenagers will want to stay on at their school’s sixth form with friends, but a burning desire to pursue a passion might win out! Is going to a niche school an option to consider?

Taking this route can tap into a particular talent and provide an excellent foundation for a specific future career. As the name implies, niche schools are few and far between. Let’s take a closer look at some examples of the provision in the Liverpool City region.

University of Liverpool Maths School

If you are top of your class in maths, the University of Liverpool Maths School [https://liverpoolmathsschool.org/] could be an excellent fit for you.

Run by some of the UK’s most prestigious universities, maths schools are specialist schools for 16- to 19-year-old students with a strong interest in the mathematical sciences. They help prepare students for success in high-prestige STEM degree courses at top universities. Many graduates then go on to be the next generation of scientists, engineers and mathematicians.

Through an outreach programme, this Liverpool-based maths school provides the opportunity to get to grips with advanced mathematics while completing GCSEs. Those who go on to attend full-time for sixth form will take a deep dive into problem-solving and analytical thinking.

The Maths School is holding an open evening in October 2025.

Good to know:

• They are one of the highest performing schools in the country!

• The school’s mission is to help prepare students for success in high-prestige STEM degree courses at top universities

• Teachers encourage students to develop different ways to think about things; they don’t teach just one standard method

Life Sciences UTC

This UTC (University Technical College) is based in the Baltic Triangle. It was the first school in the UK to specialise in science and health care for students aged 14 – 19. The sixth form focuses on helping students prepare for a life working in healthcare, science or technology. Their curriculum is supported by state-of-the-art facilities and enviable connections with local employers.

The school has a motto, ‘Every day is an interview’, which OFSTED-recognised as promoting high standards and expectations. In fact, they determined that many students with a previous poor experience of schooling flourish here.

Good to know:

• Strong links with industry and firms like AstraZeneca, independent pharmacies and local NHS trusts

• A range of A-Levels, T-Levels and BTEC qualifications is on offer

• Students are expected to behave professionally, take responsibility for their actions, and show initiative, much like they would in a workplace

LIPA Sixth Form College

The sixth form attached to the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts – also known as ‘Paul McCartney’s Fame School’ – attracts students from far and wide. Their college is literally on a talent hunt! They do not assess suitability to join them based on GCSE subjects but on a student’s potential.

As well as those who want to perform through acting, music and dance, the college prepares those who wish to work behind the scenes. All study programmes are equivalent to three A-Levels and include pathways for musical theatre and design for performance. Many go on to study for a relevant degree at LIPA.

Good to know:

• Famous people who have delivered masterclasses include the late Ozzy Osbourne, Gary Barlow and critically acclaimed local playwright Willy Russell

• The application process includes an audition, or for the design course, you will submit a portfolio of your work

• Page 31 of the current prospectus lays out the six attributes that will give you the best chance of success

Who could benefit?

A more focused education pathway is perfect for students who:

• Have a particular career aspiration and are ready to start building relevant skills

• Wish to explore specific careers in specialist schools, with more focus on their passions and talents

• Will benefit from a more personalised approach to education that can help build confidence and self-esteem

These alternative schools and colleges are one way to lead to future success and often give students the ability to truly shine!

How to get started

Conduct thorough research by attending open days and taster sessions, as well as having discussions with teachers. Application processes and entry criteria vary across these schools, so start with a close look at each one’s online information.