February marked an exciting month for The Access Project as our Year 10 students embarked on their first university trips.
Across the month, almost 500 students from The Access Project programmes were taken on trips to some of the country’s top universities. Our students toured campuses, tried out new subjects, and learned more about student life.
University trips are an important part of our university readiness programme. The trips provide an enriching experience, opening students’ eyes to higher education pathways and showing them where their ambitions could take them.
Our students visited:
- Magdalen College, University of Oxford
- Mansfield College, University of Oxford
- Jesus College, University of Oxford
- Keble College, University of Oxford
- The Queen’s College, University of Oxford
- Clare College, University of Cambridge
- Corpus Christi College, University of Cambridge
- Sidney Sussex College, University of Cambridge
- St Catharine’s College, University of Cambridge
- Queen Mary University of London
- University of York
Reflecting on their trip, one student said: “I’ve always wanted to go to Oxford, but now I really, really, really want to go!”.
Another student said: “The York trip was a very fun and enjoyable experience. I enjoyed the tour and meeting new people, as well as listening to the advice from student ambassadors”.
Our staff also had good things to say about the trips. Susanna Fantom, Senior Tuition and Events Officer at The Access Project, said: “My favourite part of our offer at The Access Project is our trips to prestigious universities. It’s a real privilege to experience the university alongside students and to be a part of the conversations which lead to higher ambitions and more competitive applications”.
Reflecting on the trip to Queen Mary University of London, Suha Mubarrat, Senior University Access Officer at The Access Project said: “The Year 10 trip to QMUL proved to be both educational and enjoyable. Students grasped the opportunity to discuss their queries with current students, gaining insights into their desired courses, for some opening their minds about courses they have not considered. The campus tour allowed them to immerse in a different student life to their day-to-day student life. It was delightful to see their heads constantly turning trying to take it all in. The afternoon English lecture had them grappling with challenging concepts, providing a taste of university-level discussions. It was wonderful to see the students feel honoured to be a part of such discussions”.
The university trips organised by The Access Project expose students to the world of higher education. By breaking down barriers and fostering a culture of aspiration, The Access Project is empowering the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers.
Thank you to all our university partners for hosting our trips!