Key Stage 5, also known as Sixth Form, covers the final two years of secondary education (Years 12 and 13). During these years, students specialise in a smaller number of subjects, studying them in greater depth and working towards their A-Level qualifications.
At the British School of Tenerife, we prepare students for their chosen futures, whether they wish to attend universities in the UK, Spain, or elsewhere in the world, or pursue other educational and career pathways.
Sixth Form encourages independent learning, critical thinking, and academic excellence. Students develop deeper expertise in their chosen subjects while receiving personalised guidance on university applications, subject choices, and future careers.
Our goal is to help every student reach their full potential and take the next step with confidence.
Most BST students complete Sixth Form with three or four A-Levels, choosing subjects that reflect their strengths, interests, and university ambitions.
Our A-Level subjects are organised into option blocks. Students can select one subject from each block, allowing them to build a programme suited to their goals. These blocks are reviewed annually to reflect student interests and demand.
A-Level option blocks for 2026–2027
| Option Block | Available Subjects |
|---|---|
| Block 1 | Biology, Computer Science, Art, English Literature |
| Block 2 | Physics, History, Physical Education |
| Block 3 | Chemistry, Business, Drama |
| Block 4 | Mathematics, Psychology, English Language, French, German |
For students with exceptional mathematical ability, we also offer the Further Mathematics A-Level, taken alongside Mathematics.
For 2027-2028, we are planning to swap Chemistry with Biology. This will allow students to choose both Biology and Computer Science.
Our flexible subject choices allow students to pursue a wide range of academic interests and career ambitions. Here are some examples of.
Mathematics and Computing: Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Computer Science, and Physics (or Business) — a strong programme leading into degrees in Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, or related fields.
Science and Medicine: Chemistry, Biology, and Physics — a strong combination for students interested in scientific research or medicine.
Humanities and Arts: English Literature, History, and Drama — suitable for students interested in the humanities, performing arts, and a wide range of creative careers.
These are just examples. Many other combinations are possible, and students receive guidance to help them select the subjects most appropriate for their aspirations.
BST also supports students who wish to continue their education at Spanish universities.
Alongside their A-Levels, students can prepare for the relevant Spanish university entrance examinations, including the PAU (Prueba de Acceso a la Universidad) where applicable.
For students who speak Spanish fluently or intend to study in Spain, we offer additional subject preparation. Students can take the Spanish Language and Literature A-Level and choose some of these options: in Spanish , Biología, Física, Química, Geografía, Filosofía, Matemáticas Aplicadas a las Ciencias Sociales.
This enables students to combine the depth and international recognition of A-Levels with preparation for the specific requirements of Spanish universities.
A student aspiring to study Medicine in Spain might choose Spanish, Chemistry, Biology, and Physics at A-Level, while also preparing for the Spanish examinations in Química and Biología.
This combination provides excellent preparation for medical studies. A-Levels cover advanced scientific concepts, including some material that students encounter during their first years at Spanish universities. As a result, students can begin their university education with a strong foundation in the sciences, while also preparing for the specific entrance requirements of Spanish medical schools.
Throughout Sixth Form, students benefit from personalised guidance and practical opportunities to help them explore their interests, develop their skills, and prepare for life beyond school.
Our support includes:
One-to-one careers guidance, helping students explore career options, choose university courses, and plan their next steps.
University application support, including guidance on entry requirements, applications, and international study opportunities.
Work Experience Programme, giving students opportunities to gain practical experience in professional environments and explore potential career paths.
Career development resources, including a range of tools and access to the school’s extensive network of professional advisors.
Whether their ambitions lie in Spain, the UK, elsewhere in Europe, or further afield, we aim to give our students the academic preparation, practical experience, and confidence to succeed in their next stage of education and beyond.
See also: Future Pathways and Supporting High Achievement.
