Aspire Programme

Aug 6, 2020, 08:14 AM

Aspire Programme

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The Aspire programme is a support programme for our students who are intending to apply to the most competitive universities.

The goal of the programme is to enhance and enrich all students by providing stimulating activities to support academic studies and expand knowledge and understanding.

We also aim to inspire and support our most able students to make successful applications to competitive universities.

There are five aspects to this unique and enriching experience:

1. Aspire Lectures

Throughout the academic year, we host eight Aspire lectures at the college. These lectures are delivered by university lecturers/professors and cover as many different subject areas as possible.

2. UCAS Preparation

Year 12 & Year 13 students are provided with a wide range of UCAS/university preparation activities. These include open and guest lectures, trips, conferences and open days. Past students at our other colleges have been involved in the Sussex University Open Lecture Programme, Sutton Trust Summer Schools, Student Shadowing Schemes and University Masterclasses.

3. UCAS Application

All students are supported with their applications, personal statement, entrance tests and interviews to give them the best chance of being offered the university place they want.

4. Competitive University Programme (CUPP)

The top 25 achieving students in year 12 are enrolled onto CUPP. These students are aiming to secure places at the more competitive universities and/or courses like medicine, law, nursing, teaching, dentistry and veterinary medicine. The programme includes a two-hour lesson each week with our Aspire co-ordinator, focusing on student development until January, the EPQ until May, and then UCAS applications until the end of the academic year.

5. Extended Project Qualifications (EPQ)

Students in CUPP are taught and supported through an EPQ (Extended Project Qualification). Students have a two-hour lesson a week over two terms to work on a topic of their choice. At the start of Year 13, students are assigned a subject specialist to support them in finishing their EPQ. The EPQ provides UCAS points, academic skills and great interview evidence.

Our Aspire Programme also includes Nuffield Science Placements, Maths and Science Olympiads, the STEM Academy, Debating Competitions, Sussex Study Experience and the Sport, Visual and Performing Arts Academies.