Prospective Oxbridge, Medicine, Veterinary Science and Dentistry students from across the Trust’s four sixth forms joined together at Gordano School on 18 September 2024, for the Lighthouse Schools Partnerships Early Applicant Day. The aim of the event was to provide students with valuable insights and guidance on applying for these prestigious higher education pathways.

Students from Churchill, Gordano, Chew Valley and Backwell Sixth Forms attended the day, which included sessions on creating a Personal Statement, Entrance Interview Preparations, Career Pathways, and an opportunity for a Q&A with speakers and industry professionals. The Early Applicants Day is one of the benefits of each of our Sixth Forms being part of the Lighthouse Schools Partnership; students benefit from collaboration across all four Sixth Forms, working together and learning from like-minded students, with similar interests and aspirations.

Students who are looking to start a career in the medical, veterinary or dental sectors heard from alumni and doctors from University of Bristol. Among those practicing medical professionals was Dr Samuel Chumbley, a Trainee GP from University of Bristol. He commented: “It’s a great way to give back; I had a lot of support when I applied to Medical School, from entrance exams to personal statement help… Students today have been asking great questions, such as the most rewarding aspect of my job, which, for me, is the human interaction.”

Students who are considering applying to either Oxford or Cambridge Universities (often referred to as Oxbridge) enjoyed hearing from Trinity Hall, Cambridge, and alumni. Oxford students and Gordano alumni, James, Megan and Natalia, spoke to students about their experiences applying to Oxford, and about life as an Oxford student. “The application process is the first taste of life at Oxford”, said James, “It’s good to be able to help give an insight into the experience of applying to and getting into a prestigious University.”

Year 13 Backwell student Toby commented, “I’m hoping to get into Oxford, so it’s been helpful to hear interview tips and see other people’s personal statements.”

Sue Jones, Careers Advisor at Gordano School said, “Applying to Oxbridge Universities or Medical/Veterinary Degrees can be very daunting for students, especially as they have to apply early and sit extra entrance tests. Today, students from all our LSP schools were able to talk to staff from Cambridge University, Bristol University School of Medicine and a Vet and Dentist in their final years of study about the application and selection process and what it is that these institutions are looking for. They had some invaluable advice from the people making the decisions and hopefully that will have taken away some of the fear and helped them to realise that this is something they can achieve.”