Shireland Collegiate Academy hosted a visit from the University of Cambridge as part of a national outreach programme designed to encourage more students to consider applications to leading universities.
Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge is one of the world’s most prestigious universities, with a global reputation for academic excellence and research. It comprises 31 colleges, which act as a student’s home base throughout their degree, providing both academic guidance and pastoral support.
The session, delivered by representatives from Girton College, formed part of a programme of activities involving students from across the trust. Learners from West Bromwich Collegiate Academy, Shireland CBSO Academy and Shireland Biomedical UTC joined Shireland students for the event, which focused on ambition, academic excellence and future progression routes.
Year 11 and year 12 students took part in discussions exploring Oxbridge pathways and the realities of applying to highly competitive universities. Year 11 students were introduced to the range of opportunities available, while year 12 reflected on the level of academic commitment required for success.
The sessions also emphasised the importance of developing academic curiosity, creativity and the ability to question ideas, think independently and adapt to new ways of learning, qualities valued by universities like Oxford and Cambridge.
One year 12 student said the session has reshaped their thinking, adding: “It’s made me realise that top universities are achievable if you’re willing to work hard and push yourself. It’s given me real motivation to aim higher.”
Thomas Daly, Principal at Shireland Collegiate Academy, said: “For us at Shireland, it’s incredibly important that students see places like Cambridge as realistic options, not something beyond their reach. Our focus is on ensuring students develop the confidence and independence to challenge themselves academically and make informed decisions about their futures.
“Sessions like this are powerful because they help students start to see themselves differently, not just in terms of what they achieve now, but in what they might go on to achieve. Ultimately, we want every student to leave us with strong outcomes, but also with the self-belief to pursue ambitious pathways they may not previously have considered.”
Oxbridge Pathways is an external programme delivered by Oxbridge Applications, a specialist organisation that supports students considering applications to the universities of Oxford and Cambridge.
The programme is designed for students aged 14 to 16 who are beginning to explore competitive university routes. It focuses on developing the skills and understanding needed for Oxbridge applications over time, rather than through short-term preparation.
Through structured guidance, students are supported to build subject knowledge, independent thinking and academic confidence, helping them to better understand the expectations of highly selective university courses and make more informed decisions about their future study pathways.
The visit formed part of the Academy’s wider work to demystify the Oxbridge application process and encourage more young people to consider applying to world-leading universities. It also followed a strong period of academic achievement of the Academy’s Sixth Form, during which four students secured Oxford interviews, and one received an offer.
Applications for year 12 entry in September 2026 are now open via Applicaa, the Academy’s online admissions system. Further details about Shireland Sixth Form and how to apply are available on the Academy website.