Students at Shireland Collegiate Academy’s Sixth Form took part in a Pre-Freshers Fair, bringing 27 universities, higher education providers and apprenticeship organisations to the Academy.
The event gave students, predominantly Year 13 alongside some Year 12 students, the chance to speak directly with representatives, ask questions and learn more about the different routes available after sixth form. For many, it was an opportunity to discover subjects, careers and pathways they may not have previously considered.
Head of Sixth Form, Ben Brogan, said: “Sometimes it only takes one conversation to change the way a student sees an option. They might arrive thinking they know what they want to do, only to discover a course, apprenticeship or career they had never considered. Creating those moments for our students is a really important part of what we do, and we were grateful to the organisations who came in and shared their time and experience with them.”
With a wide range of organisations represented, students could compare different routes and get a clearer picture of what each could involve. It also gave them the chance to ask questions that are not always easy to answer through research alone, helping to bring different options to life.
The event formed part of Shireland Collegiate Academy’s broader Sixth Form offer, which extends beyond academic study to give students opportunities to develop their interests, gain wider experience and build the independence they need for life beyond the Academy.
Applications for Year 12 at Shireland Sixth Form starting September 2027 are now open. To find out more and apply visit the Academy website.