Programme of Excellence

We encourage all our students to have confidence in their potential to make competitive applications and secure places at selective universities.

Our Programme of Excellence enrichment programme will provide additional insights and challenges to complement academic study programmes. Students will be supported to cultivate their ability, to challenge themselves and stretch their academic interests and abilities; opening their minds to a range of subjects and developing their critical thinking.

The Programme of Excellence Enrichment programme supports students with a wide range of interests, including the Arts, Sciences and Humanities. Some students may not immediately recognise themselves as a high achieving student, but for students who are predicted 7 x Grade 7s and above at GCSE the Programme of Excellence should be of interest to them.

Guidance and Support is delivered in weekly sessions across the first year of a two-year programme of study.

Students can take advantage of the following through the enrichment programme, making themselves stand out from other applicants and be successful in their applications:

  • Weekly ‘High Achiever’ Sessions
  • Specialist Oxbridge Advice and Guidance
  • Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) alongside their 3 – 4 A-level programme
  • Mock Interviews
  • University Visits
  • Guest Lecturers
  • Advice on Admissions Tests
  • Debating Society; Vets, Medics and Dentists Group; Law; STEM Club, Duke of Edinburgh Award and much more.
  • Becoming a student ambassador, peer mentor or volunteering in the community
  • Nuanced information, advice and guidance on applying to selective universities and courses
  • Invitations to attend Bristol Universities Pathways Programme (eligibility criteria apply)
  • Curriculum Led Competitions – Biology Olympiad
  • Alumni Insights

We have 300 POE students which is larger than most sixth forms

The majority of POE students gain places at Russell Group/Sutton Trust Universities, of which 90% gain their first choice

Our Medics, Vets, Dentists and Oxbridge candidates consistently secure their first choice of university

Do I need to be studying academic subjects to be part of the Programme of Excellence?

No, High Achievers may come from any sphere of study including the Arts, Sciences, Humanities, Sports etc. Some students may not think they are a High Achieving student, but for students who are predicted Grade 7s and above, the High Achievers Academy will be of interest to them.

What the students say

”High Achievers’ Academy is insightful, it has helped me make choices about the future and covers a broad range of subjects, not just universities but also apprenticeships, work experience and summer programmes. It’s not only about FE, there is also a range of guest speakers that focus on different topics: we even had one on conspiracy theories! We also had the opportunity to visit Oxford University on a trip which was not only helpful for the future but also a really interesting day out. The staff who run High Achievers are always available to answer any questions, and are always supportive of whatever you want to do after college.

Erin
Erin High Achievers
Seb High Achievers

”I am in the high achievers academy. As someone who wishes to progress into higher education and a high level university I think it’s a great boost as it helps to understand what these top level universities look for while also explaining how you could improve your CV and application for them.

Seb

”The High Achievers Academy provides useful information from notable and respected people about a multitude of subjects ranging from university applications to careers in STEM. Moreover, the staff who run the academy are constantly updating us about new programs or websites that we can use to benefit our learning or help us understand what we want to do once we leave college. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who has the grades and is keen to learn more about subjects they’re interested in.

Charlie
Charlie High Achievers
Emma High Achievers

”High Achievers Academy. I have had the opportunity to visit Oxford University for the day and experience a sample lecture and get a feel for what university is like. I have also learnt about the university application process and building a personal statement which has been very helpful.

Emma

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Programme of Excellence

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