The University of Bedfordshire, Oxford and Cambridge Universities, Cranfield University and Cranfield’s MK:U are working together in ‘Raising Sixth Form Aspirations’ project, which aims to increase the number of young people from across Bedfordshire securing places at some of the country’s leading universities.
The project will improve the chances of students going to both traditional and modern universities, as well as gaining places on top medical and veterinary science courses and higher-level degree apprenticeship schemes.
The three-year project is the brainchild of Professor Lee Hubbard, Head of Academia at Samuel Whitbread Academy in Clifton, which is part of the Bedfordshire Schools Trust (BEST).
Sponsored by the Connolly Foundation – which will be distributing grants of £3,000 per year to schools involved, in order for them to lead on the project in-house – partner institutions include the University of Bedfordshire, Oxford and Cambridge Universities, Cranfield University and Cranfield’s MK:U platform. Further support and resources will be provided by BEST and the Meridian Trust.
Professor Hubbard will be leading on the project alongside Yvonne Ashby, Head of Careers at the Wootton Academy Trust, and Nigel Croft, Education Consultant and formerly Head Teacher of Redborne Upper School.
“The project is based on my work over the last three years at Samuel Whitbread. The aim is to help to raise the aspirations of our young people, improve their personal statements and interview skills, as well as their communication, organisation and problem-solving techniques.”
Twelve Bedfordshire schools have currently signed up to be part of the ground-breaking programme, with a combined total of over 3,000 sixth form students.
