Important Update: Sixth Form Closure
Following a full consultation process with students, families, staff and the wider community, the Department for Education has now formally supported the decision taken by Hailsham Community College Academy Trust (HCCAT) in July 2025 to close Hailsham Academy’s Sixth Form provision.
The Sixth Form will officially close on 31 August 2026.
We understand that this news will be disappointing for many, and we share that sense of sadness. Our priority throughout this transition remains the wellbeing, success and continued support of our current Year 13 students, who will be the final cohort to complete their post‑16 studies at Hailsham Academy.
Our commitment to current students
Although the Sixth Form will not be accepting new students, our commitment to our existing learners remains unchanged. Throughout this final year, students will continue to receive:
- High‑quality teaching and learning
- Regular academic mentoring
- Personalised pastoral support
- Careers guidance and next‑steps planning
- Access to all existing study facilities and resources
Our Head of Sixth Form, Mr Jake Lambert, and Assistant Head of Sixth Form, Mr Chris Jackson, will continue to lead the Sixth Form team and ensure every student feels well supported and prepared for their chosen destination.
If you have any questions or require additional guidance, Mr Lambert and Mr Jackson can be contacted via email or in the Sixth Form Office.
Support for Year 11 students and families
Although we are no longer recruiting for Sixth Form places, we remain fully committed to supporting our Year 11 students as they prepare for their next steps. Senior Leaders will be available at key school events, including Parents’/Carers’ Evenings, to answer questions and provide impartial guidance on post‑16 routes such as:
- local sixth forms and colleges
- apprenticeships
- vocational pathways
- T‑Levels
If you are seeking support with post‑16 planning, please do get in touch.
Pastoral support and safeguarding
Student wellbeing remains central to our ethos. All safeguarding and pastoral support structures continue as normal throughout this transition.
Key contacts:
- Head of Sixth Form: Mr Jake Lambert
- Assistant Head of Sixth Form: Mr Chris Jackson
- Safeguarding Officer: Miss Julie Russell
- Deputy DSL: Miss Emma Pearce
Students are encouraged to speak to their mentor or any member of staff if they have concerns or need support.
A message to our community
This marks the end of an important chapter in Hailsham Academy’s history, and we would like to thank our students, families, staff, and wider community for their understanding, input and support throughout the consultation and decision-making process.
Our focus remains firmly on ensuring every student receives the guidance they need to succeed in the future.
If you have questions or would like to discuss support available, please contact the school office.