How Does Brampton College Support Ambitious University and Career Choices?
At Brampton, a top London sixth form college, we are keen to push our students to fulfil their aspirations and to be as ambitious as possible when choosing their universities and careers. Students make decisions about which university to apply for and which career to pursue after careful consultation with their personal tutors.
Who is Encouraged to Apply to Oxford and Cambridge?
Students who are achieving excellent academic results at our leading sixth form, whether through A level scholarships or otherwise, and who are keen to stretch and challenge themselves are encouraged to consider making applications to the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge. They will then be invited to join our Oxbridge forum which meets once per week in the first term of the second year and periodically throughout the first year of A level. The forum is led by our Vice Principal for Science and Mathematics, John Wilson. Himself an Oxbridge graduate, John has worked for many years as an advisor to students applying to Oxford, Cambridge, Medical School and other competitive degree programmes.
Students attending the seminars are encouraged to consider their chosen subjects deeply and differently and are challenged to think quickly and respond to problems and situations that may put them out of their comfort zone. To make a strong application to to Oxford and Cambridge, students need to be able to demonstrate an understanding of their chosen subjects from beyond the school curriculum and to present themselves as passionate and thoughtful learners who will be well-suited to the intense and unique learning environment at these prestigious universities.
How Are Students Prepared for Oxbridge Interviews?
Once the deadline for applications has passed (15 October every year), the focus of the seminar shifts toward preparation for potential interviews. The interview process at Oxbridge is unique and deliberately challenging. It tests for a range of skills and aptitudes that students at Brampton will practice and develop during their time at our weekly forum. Students learn how to present themselves, to defend their personal statements and how to respond in an engaging manner to questions about their subject or to questions that are seemingly unrelated to their subject.
Any student who has consistently demonstrated that they have the academic ability to achieve grades of AAA or higher at A level is encouraged to attend the forum, including those studying through sixth form scholarships.
After what will be six years with the college, our Principal, John Wilson, will be leaving us at the end of the current academic year to take up a new role at a school in Central London. We wish John well and thank him for his exceptional service and contribution to the college and his commitment to our students.