At SFX we believe in supporting students to reach their full potential. If you achieve outstanding GCSEs and are hoping to progress to highly-selective universities then this is the programme for you. On this programme you are expected to study at least two facilitating subjects* at A-Level and to attend additional stretch and challenge classes every week. During Year 12 you will also have the option to complete the
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) to develop your critical, reflective and problem-solving skills and to support your application to university.
The HE transition programme will develop your problem-solving, thinking and debating skills and provide you with an insight into the university admissions process. Students will also be given tips, advice and feedback on their personal statements. The programme also includes a range of speakers from universities, placements on university master classes, summer schools and work experience, practice interviews and visits to universities.
SFX has successfully supported a number of students through to top universities and you will always receive advice and mentoring that is tailored to your needs and your application. We have experts in a variety of fields to mentor and guide you through your university application from start to finish:
Humanities focus - Subject specific tips on university applications; members of Parliament and local councillors have hosted talks as well as a variety of university professors; expert support for university applications, with past success in securing places at Oxbridge and other Russell group universities.
Science/Healthcare focus - Medical, dentistry, veterinary and healthcare degrees are some of the most challenging and competitive degree courses. At SFX we support students in applying to these courses by assisting them in securing work experience placements, lecture sessions in universities and running practice interviews.
“The Russell Group has been really useful for me as it has provided support from the beginning of year 12 in encouraging me into higher education, which before joining SFX I was somewhat reluctant to do. The experience has given me the opportunity to become more informed on topics outside of my school subjects, including doing online courses. On top of this the teachers involved have been very helpful throughout the UCAS process helping me to make applications to 5 Russell Group universities.” Year 13 student, Russell Group University Offer Holder
Past talks & visits have included:
- Oxford and Cambridge universities
- King’s university
- Surrey university
- London School of Economics
- St George’s university hospital
- Newcastle university outreach sessions
- University College London Open day
- Cultural trip to London
- Alternatives to Medicine conference
- Humanities and Science trips to the British Museum and Wellcome Collection
- Visiting talks from MPs e.g. Chuka Umunna - MP for Streatham
- Visiting talk from Amnesty International
- Visiting talks from successful former SFX students including medical students.
Selection for the HE programme
Students who fulfil the criteria of an excellent GCSE score and are taking at least two facilitating subjects* at A-level will be invited to join the programme at the start of the Autumn term. Students must maintain outstanding attendance, punctuality and academic excellence throughout the year to remain on the programme.
*The facilitating subjects are: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Further Mathematics, English Literature, Geography, History, Modern and Classical Languages
For further information on the HE programme please contact:
Dr Koursarou (HE Mentor)
d.koursarou@sfx.ac.uk