University of Oxford Trip

Five Year 12 students attended the Aspire Liverpool residential at St Peter’s College, University of Oxford. During their stay, they took part in academic sessions, admissions workshops, and guided tours of Oxford, giving them a valuable insight into student life at one of the world’s leading universities.

This experience was designed to support aspiring Oxbridge applicants and help them better understand the application process, as well as what it’s like to study at an elite institution.

University of Cambridge Conference

Selected students and staff recently attended a University of Cambridge conference held in the Northwest, gaining valuable insight into the Oxbridge application process. Students took part in a range of engaging sessions, including subject-specific admissions and interview workshops for both Science and Humanities.

They also had the opportunity to participate in a Q&A with current undergraduate students, as well as receive guidance on the new personal statement format and key tips for prospective Cambridge applicants. Our Sixth Form staff also benefited from the event, attending in-depth sessions on interview preparation, writing effective references, and supporting students with their super-curricular development and wider readiness for competitive university applications.

Overall, the conference provided both students and staff with a deeper understanding of what it takes to apply successfully to Cambridge and other highly competitive universities.

Wheelchair Basketball Workshop

Year 12 Sports Leaders recently took part in an inspiring Wheelchair Basketball workshop led by retired Paralympian AJ Jackson. Throughout the day, students were introduced to the fundamentals of the sport and had the opportunity to develop and practise their skills, gaining a deeper understanding of the technique, teamwork, and athleticism required.

Following the workshop, the Sports Leaders applied their learning by planning and delivering two Wheelchair Basketball taster sessions for KS3 Core PE classes and local primary pupils.

As part of their Level 3 Sport Leader qualification, the focus was on creating progressive, safe, and inclusive sessions. Students will now evaluate and reflect on their delivery, marking an important first step in their journey as leaders and independent session facilitators.

These sessions form part of the school’s Disability Sport Awareness Week. Initiatives like this play a vital role in promoting inclusivity, challenging perceptions, and building empathy. By bringing together able-bodied and disabled participants in an engaging environment, students gain a greater appreciation of adaptive sports and the skill, resilience, and teamwork they demand.