Oxbridge and Russell Group University Information
Oxbridge and Russell Group University Information
‘Oxbridge’ is a term to describe the UK’s two highest ranking universities, Oxford and Cambridge which are regarded amongst the top universities in the world. Students can apply only to one or the other which involves a stringent interview process and assessment testing. This is just one of the ways in which the ‘Oxbridge’ universities differ in the way they function from other UK universities and to find out more research their websites below.
The Russell Group represents 24 leading UK universities which are committed to maintaining the very best research, an outstanding teaching and learning experience and unrivalled links with business and the public sector. To find out more and which universities are members of the Russell Group click on the link above.
Year 11
In order to make an application to a Russell Group University, Year 11 students need to achieve a minimum of 5 Grade 4 or 5 at GCSE this must include English and Mathematics. These are the minimum entry requirements and each university will differ depending on which course you are applying for. At the end of Year 11, students are supported with applying for places at the summer schools held at Russell Group Universities through July and August.
Students need to research their A Level choices very carefully. It may be surprising to learn that the correct A Level to choose for a particular career path is not always obvious. For example most Russell Group Universities do not require A Level Law to study Law, likewise Economics. We advise our academically able students to consider the most academically rigorous A Level choices such as Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English, History, Geography and Religious Education/Philosophy and Ethics. We also make it clear to students that it is advisable to research the course they are interested in and see what the entry requirements are, prior to opting for their A Level courses. All Russell Group universities have excellent websites and admissions tutors that are able to help students with their enquiries.
Sixth Form
It is important in Year 12 that you start to build up experiences that can enhance your personal statement when you are beginning the process of applying for university. Attending clubs and trips offered by teachers at Bourne Academy can enhance a student’s personal statement along with wider reading and online research projects called MOOCs found at www.futurelearn.com.
In Year 12 students are encouraged to apply for Oxbridge summer schools as well as Sutton Trust summer schools. Cambridge University student union invites a small number of students to apply for a ‘students shadowing opportunity’. Cambridge University also takes a small number of our students on a residential open day event in the summer.
Year 13
A significant amount of support is given to students to assist with:
Personal Statements
Interview techniques – including Mock Interviews
Useful websites include:
Sutton Trust Summer School Opportunities
Informed Choice - Post 16 Education Decisions
What you decide to study post-16 can have a major impact on what you can study at degree level. Whether or not you have an idea of the subject you want to study at university, having the right information now will give you more options when the time comes to make your mind up.
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