High-flyers from Leyland's Runshaw College have been getting a few tips before they make the next important step in their lives – getting on the right university course for the job they want to do.
The A-level programme held an information evening for the parents of the academically-able AS students.
The college has identified over 200 students in this category ... the ones likely to be applying to the most prestigious universities including Oxford and Cambridge.
Admissions tutor Jim Smith said: "We held this meeting because we think that we cannot start early enough to encourage students to develop the knowledge and skills they will need to impress staff running the best courses at the best universities in the country. Our Prestigious Universities Programme provides them with information and opportunities to develop the necessary knowledge and skills."
He said that extra sessions for able students in each subject are essential, as well as their A-levels, and are aimed at stretching and challenging the most able.
In addition, all subjects have recommended reading lists for abler students, a structured list with guidance about what and how to read their way through at least some of the recommendations.
He added: "Moreover, we encourage our students to develop the 'cultural capital' which is taken for granted by the academics in prestigious universities.
"With more than 40 of our former students currently studying at Oxford and Cambridge universities, it is not difficult to see that this approach really does work for us here at Runshaw. But we cannot rest on our laurels. Places at top universities, especially on courses like medicine, dentistry, law and veterinary science are intensely competitive and we owe it to our students to give them the best possible preparation. Ensuring that our students receive all the individual attention they need to prepare them for university application and interview has to be our top priority,'' he added.
"This week, for example, our students have a wonderful opportunity to see the play The Caucasian Chalk Circle by Bertolt Brecht. This is a college production, put on by our own students. I can almost guarantee that it will be a sell out performance with our most able students from all subject areas welcoming the opportunity to extend their cultural interests and confidence. Being able to decipher the adjective 'Brechtian' or refer to Brecht in a tough Oxbridge interview is what it's all about."
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