Sixth Formers Explore Higher Education

Having completed their AS exams, Year 12 pupils had some time before the end of term to continue contemplating their future plans. This began with a valuable week of work experience, immediately followed by the annual Higher Education Week.

The week, organised by College Housemaster Mr Nick Brown, allowed pupils to explore the options available to them when they leave Shiplake in 12 months time. The Pro-Vice Chancellor from Buckingham Unviersity talked students through the UCAS application process, including offering advice for those considering applying to Oxbridge. Pupils also received lectures about studying abroad in the USA and Holland, working in the hopsitality industry and apprenticeships.

Parents were invited to several sessions to increase their understanding of the process, which is an important stage in all pupils’ lives. There was plenty of time for practical seminars browsing the UCAS course searching website and writing personal statements. Several young members of staff who were at a similar stage themselves not too long ago dropped in to share their experiences and offer advice. Barclays Bank also visited the College to deliver an informative session on 'Life Skills', including money management and insurance.

On the Thursday of the week, the entire Year 12 cohort made the short trip to Reading University to attend their latest open day. This gave a real flavour of university lifestyles, as students attended lectures on their favourite subjects, and got involved in the magnitude of activities organised around the campus. Quidditch, a recent addition to university sport, was particularly popular.

Two Old Vikings, Fran Nutt and George MacPhee, who left in 2011 and 2013 respectively, returned to the College for a question and answer session. Current pupils learned a great deal as they talked about their very different routes into university, the transition from life at school, student finance, and things they would do differently if applying again.

The final talk, entitled ‘A Vision of the Future’ was given by Robert Dempster from Samsung Electronics. Robert is well known to the College as an ex-parent and current Governor. The theme of his talk was the speed of change in technology and how young people need to stay ahead of the game. He urged all pupils to find a unique selling point; to be a specialist in something. He explained that character and commitment are far more important characteristics than where somebody goes to university.

To give pupils some inspiration, Robert ended by highlighting six growth industries where the most exciting career opportunities will be in the short to mid-term future. They are; water, minerals, energy, food, education and technology. We are looking forward to seeing where the year group ends up.