Approximately 80% of our students will apply for university, so our systems for supporting students through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions System) are extensive.

During Year 12 students will be using Unifrog, an online platform used throughout the school which allows students to develop their CVs, research various higher education institutions and employment options and, in time, create their Personal Statements. External speakers are often invited in throughout the year to offer students workshops in a particular area of work: recent workshops include Law, Business, Journalism and Scientific research.

At the start of Year 13 all students receive support on the UCAS process. All students have the chance to attend the UCAS Convention and visit a university, as well as receiving specialist advice on completing the online application form, writing Personal Statements and on financial costs. We also run an evening for parents to learn more about the application process.

Tutors and teachers together write the reference for a UCAS application. Tutors will always share the reference with the student, to check that they are happy with the content. The tutor will also work carefully with the student to check their Personal Statement and to recommend any changes if necessary. Once the student is comfortable with their application, they will send their application along with the tutor. It is important that students meet the internal deadlines that are set, to allow time for tutors to process the applications.

Deadlines:

Early Applicants: 30^th September

All Universities: October half term*

*Where students are unsure on their choices for university, it may not be appropriate for them to meet this deadline. Applications will be accepted by UCAS until 15^th January. 

We also run an extensive support programme for Early Applicants throughout Year 12. These are students applying for Cambridge, Oxford, Vet Medicine, Medicine and Dentistry. During these sessions, we ask alumni and Year 13 students to speak about their experiences, and also offer advice on selecting colleges, practice tests and how to write competitive Personal Statements. We encourage students to develop their reading beyond their course and guide them towards articles or MOOCS. All those who apply will receive a mock interview during the November of Year 13.

“The Early Applicant system has been exceptional! The guidance and support offered by the Collegiate team, heads of subjects and specialist teachers is unparalleled; they go through your Personal Statement in detail to create a masterpiece and, once you get interviews, thanks to your outstanding Personal Statement, they will put you through your paces in an interview that is probably harder than your actual medic interview! Without the Early Applicant system, there is no way I would have gained my place at medical school.” Sarah Rees, medical student