The region’s top provider of A-levels has followed up last year’s outstanding Ofsted report and exceptional exam results with another prestigious achievement: securing fourteen offers from Oxford and Cambridge.
Forty-one students applied, all of whom committed significant amounts of time and energy to the demanding application process, before twenty-three were invited for interview. This means that a majority of those who applied were interviewed, and a majority of those interviewed were offered a place.
“We are incredibly proud of all our students who have embraced the Oxbridge application process this year,” said Dr Mark Anderson, Oxbridge Coordinator. “They have worked extremely hard through all stages of the process, while continuing a trajectory of impressive academic success.”
Preparation for the Oxbridge application process begins in Year 12, with students participating in weekly support sessions from Mark and a small group of colleagues.
“Our focus is on making the process as accessible as possible, widening the opportunity to allow as many young people as possible to apply.”
The successful students are applying to study a range of subjects from archaeology and anthropology, through to history, English and linguistics. Students who have completed the application process have been effusive with their feedback:
“I am eternally grateful for all of the support college has given during the application process, particularly from Mark who has been a constant emotional and logistical guide throughout this whole thing,” said one. “I would not have even considered applying if it wasn’t for his input.”
“The support I have received from the Oxbridge tutors has been exceptional,” said another, “and has allowed me to access resources and opportunities I did not know existed that were key to my success.”
New College has an excellent track record of supporting students and helping them achieve their goals, whether that is an apprenticeship, employment or securing a place at a competitive university. Staff are passionately committed to helping all students develop into successful young adults and are always delighted to celebrate students’ achievements.
“We are incredibly proud of all of the applicants, irrespective of whether they secured a place,” said Vicky Marks, New College Principal. “Having the maturity at such a young age to put yourself forward for a rigorous application process often involving additional exams, followed by external interviews with some of the country’s most successful academics is an amazing achievement, especially when students have been juggling this alongside the rest of their college work. It speaks volumes about their discipline, intelligence and potential.”
