Partnerships

Sixth Form

proud partners

At Shireland, we believe in the power of collaboration to create meaningful change in our students’ lives. That’s why we’re proud to work with leading and forward-thinking institutions who share our vision for innovation and want to help you achieve your goals.

These partnerships open the door to exciting experiences across sport, the arts, enterprise, and more. They bring fresh perspectives to your learning, connect you with professionals in a variety of fields, and help you develop the skills, confidence and ambition to shape your future. Whether this be in sports, extra-curricular, innovation, entrepreneurial skills or performing arts; we are always looking for the best opportunities for our young adults.

We also work with top universities to help you raise your aspirations and prepare for life after sixth form. You’ll have access to mentoring, outreach events and guidance to support your academic journey, including university applications.

our partnerships include:

Microsoft Showcase School

Shireland Collegiate Academy has been a successful Microsoft Showcase School for many years. We use EdTech to successfully enhance teaching, reduce workload and create efficiencies, prepare future learners and establish a 21st century learning environment. Developing our learners’ technological literacy is important to creating 21st century learners who can confidently access their digitally rich curriculums. Our work with external EdTech companies, including Microsoft, also creates opportunities for staff development. Many of our teachers have obtained Microsoft’s Educator Expert and Certified Expert accreditations and have become part of a national community of EdTech practitioners.

The Elephant Group

The Elephant Group is a national, headteacher-led education charity dedicated to improving social mobility by helping students from underrepresented backgrounds secure places at leading universities. By working in partnership with schools, universities and employers, the organisation provides students with the guidance, resources, and networks necessary to succeed in higher education and beyond. Their vision is to increase the number of academically gifted non-selective state school students in the UK’s top universities, ultimately driving greater representation in leading professions and positions of influence.

VESPA Academy

VESPA Academy works with schools and colleges to help students develop the key behaviours and mindsets that drive academic success. Based on the five pillars of Vision, Effort, Systems, Practice, and Attitude, the programme uses research-based tools, activities, and coaching to improve motivation, organisation, study skills, and resilience. Through our partnership, students gain the habits and strategies needed to reach their full potential both in their studies and beyond.

Aim a little higher

Aim A Little Higher partners with schools to inspire and equip students with the skills, mindset, and confidence needed for success beyond the classroom. Through dynamic assemblies, workshops, and programmes like My Student Brand, they help students develop self-belief, career awareness, and resilience. Their engaging approach empowers students to aim higher and achieve more, regardless of their circumstances.

City of Birmingham Rockets

City of Birmingham Rockets is a community-focused basketball club offering pathways from grassroots to elite competition. Through partnerships with institutions like Birmingham Metropolitan College, they provide student-athletes with access to up to 19 hours per week of basketball development, including team practices, individual sessions, strength and conditioning, and sports psychology support. Their academy teams compete in top-tier leagues such as the Elite Basketball Academy League (EABL) and the National Basketball League (NBL), fostering both athletic and personal growth.

Aston Villa Foundation

The Aston Villa Foundation is a registered charity delivering the community and outreach work of Aston Villa Football Club. Through our partnership, students will have opportunities to visit Villa and experience its elite facilities, experienced UEFA coaches and competitive opportunities linked to the Foundation’s official club programme. The Foundation’s approach focuses on Delivering, Connecting, and Supporting young people, helping them grow academically, socially and personally. Together, with Shireland Sixth Form, students will receive a rich, whole-student experience and personal development that supports long-term education, employability and life skills.

Birmingham Hippodrome

Our partnership with the Birmingham Hippodrome Educational Network (HEN) provides our students with exclusive opportunities to attend professional performances and engage directly with the cast. This unique experience allows them to explore career pathways within the performing arts industry. Through witnessing world-class theatre first hand, students deepen their understanding of the dedication and teamwork required to succeed - not only as independent artists but also as collaborative professionals. These experiences have boosted their confidence in communicating with peers and industry experts alike, empowering them to pursue ambitious career goals both within the arts and beyond.

The Social mobility foundation

The Social Mobility Foundation is a UK charity dedicated to improving social mobility for young people from low-income backgrounds. Through its flagship Aspiring Professionals Programme, SMF offers Year 12 students free access to mentoring, skills workshops, university application support, and internships with top employers across sectors like law, finance, engineering, and media. The programme aims to bridge the gap for talented students who lack the networks or resources to pursue competitive careers. SMF also campaigns for systemic change and works with employers to create more inclusive opportunities.

Digital Schoolhouse with Nintendo

Digital Schoolhouse, in partnership with Nintendo UK, is an innovative educational initiative that transforms computing education through play-based learning. Delivered by Ukie, the UK games industry trade body, the programme engages students aged 8–18 with interactive workshops and esports tournaments, such as the Splatoon 3 and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate competitions. These events not only enhance digital skills but also provide immersive careers experiences, helping students explore roles in the gaming and tech industries. By integrating gaming with curriculum-based learning, Digital Schoolhouse fosters creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities among learners.

NHS Careers

NHS Careers offers students a range of opportunities to explore diverse roles within the healthcare sector through work experience, apprenticeships, and career workshops. Our partnership enables students to gain first hand insight into NHS professions, develop valuable skills, and make informed choices about their futures in health and care.

PwC

PwC UK offers a range of opportunities for students to explore careers in business, technology, and consulting. Through their Flying Start Degree Programmes, students can earn a degree while gaining paid work experience at PwC. Additionally, PwC provides School and College Leaver programmes, allowing students to begin their careers directly after sixth form with professional training and qualifications. These programmes aim to develop students' skills and prepare them for successful careers in business and professional services.

National Highways

National Highways offers students a range of opportunities to explore careers in infrastructure and transportation. Through their graduate programmes, apprenticeships, and internships, students can gain hands-on experience in roles such as engineering, project management, and digital innovation. These programmes provide valuable insights into the planning, design, and maintenance of England's strategic road network, helping students build skills that are essential for future careers in the sector.

Young Enterprise

Young Enterprise empowers students to develop essential life skills through practical enterprise and financial education programmes. Their flagship Company Programme allows students aged 13–19 to set up and run a real business, supported by business volunteers. Other initiatives, such as Team Programme and 10X Challenge, cater to diverse needs, including students with special educational needs and disabilities. Additionally, Young Money, part of Young Enterprise, provides resources and training for educators teaching financial literacy. These programmes aim to build confidence, teamwork, and employability skills, preparing students for future success.

My Super Curricular

My Super Curricular is a platform designed to support students in enhancing their academic profiles through a wide range of super curricular activities. The platform offers access to thousands of curated resources, including book recommendations, online courses, podcasts, and work experience opportunities, all aimed at nurturing students' intellectual curiosity and preparing them for university applications. Schools can track student engagement and progress, fostering a culture of self-directed learning and academic excellence.

University of Cambridge

University of Cambridge offers a range of outreach initiatives aimed at increasing access to higher education. Through programs like neaco and HE+, Cambridge engages with students, providing opportunities to explore university life, develop academic skills, and receive guidance on the application process.

University of Birmingham

University of Birmingham offers a comprehensive range of outreach and widening participation initiatives aimed at students from Year 12 onwards. Through programmes like Pathways to Birmingham and Routes to the Professions, students gain insights into higher education and various career paths, with tailored support throughout the university application process. These initiatives are designed to support students in making informed decisions about their futures and to encourage applications to higher education.

University of Warwick

University of Warwick offers a range of outreach programmes designed to support students in Year 12 and 13. Initiatives like Warwick Scholars, Pathways to the Professions, and Realising Opportunities provide tailored support, including mentoring, subject-specific workshops, and university visits. These programmes aim to enhance students' understanding of higher education and equip them with the skills needed to succeed in their academic and career aspirations. Additionally, the university offers A level Bootcamps and Lab Experience Days to further support students in their studies.

Aston University

Aston University offers a range of outreach programmes designed to support Year 12 and 13 students in exploring higher education and career pathways. Initiatives such as Pathway to the Professions provide students with opportunities to develop essential skills, gain insights into university life, and receive guidance on various professions.

New Model Institute for Technology & Engineering (NMITE)

NMITE offers innovative outreach programmes that introduce students to the diverse world of engineering and technology. Their initiatives aim to inspire young people by showcasing the real-world applications of engineering and the impact they can have on society. Through these programmes, NMITE promotes an inclusive approach to STEM education, encouraging students from all backgrounds to explore and pursue careers in engineering.