The ASPIRE Programme is a tailored programme of high quality information, advice, guidance and support for our most academic students.
It provides students with the support they need for the most competitive university courses including Oxbridge.
What is the benefit of the ASPIRE Programme?
Students accepted onto the ASPIRE Programme will have specialist support for competitive applications including:
- Guidance on personal statements from within College and from universities including Oxbridge and Russell Group institutions
- Help with UCAS applications
- Mock interview practice with staff in College and guest interviewers from industry and universities
- Support with admissions tests from subject specialists
What does the ASPIRE programme involve?
At key points in the year ASPIRE Programme students are given very tailored support for their applications to competitive courses and careers. These are our Future Planning Days. ASPIRE students are given bespoke mock interviews and they get to attend a range of exciting and invaluable talks about university and careers. For example:
- St Brendan's alumni have talked to students about their experiences of the application process and life at Oxbridge and other universities
- The University of Bristol personal statements session
- Talks on a range of competitive career paths such as architecture, midwifery, medicine, engineering and publishing
- The University of Newcastle medicine day
These are a fantastic opportunity that all ASPIRE Programme students are actively encouraged to apply for and attend.
Students attending summer schools as far and wide as Oxford, Surrey and Edinburgh. These are a great chance to sample university life and explore a subject at a higher level. It gives students a real insight into what they might like to pursue after their time at St Brendan's. There are summer schools especially for students who meet widening participation criteria through the Sutton Trust. This enables those who are the first generation in their family to attend university, or who are from lower income backgrounds to explore the option of attending a top university.
Our Aspire students have the opportunity to attend a wonderful selection of Speakers Programme sessions, designed to enhance students' learning and provide information on a range of careers.
The sessions can include talks from Oxford professors and industry professionals, to authors, actors, medics and business moguls; aiming to get students to thinking about their subjects in new ways, seeing them in real-life contexts and giving students the time to enjoy exploring potential careers.
If you’re aiming for a career in medicine, healthcare, biomedical science or allied health professions, our Biomed Programme can help you get ahead. Alongside your studies, you’ll have access to specialist talks, university and career insights, application support, and opportunities to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for progression into the sector.
Connect with other programme members with a dedicated tutor group.
During enrolment, students who are eligible for joining will be given more information.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Average GCSE grade of 7.0 or higher
(mainly 6-9 grades).
Students with a 6.5+ average may also qualify under
widening participation criteria.
How do I get into the ASPIRE programme?
During enrolment, students who are eligible for joining will be given more information.
