Sixth Form Wiki - User contributions [en-gb]

Main Page

2024-05-20T10:35:24Z

Sthe12:

==This week in the Sixth Form (Week 2)==

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;
! 13/05/24 - Monday
! 14/05/24 - Tuesday
! 15/05/24 - Wednesday
! 16/05/24 - Thursday
! 17/05/24 - Friday
|-
|Tutor Time
|Year 12 P1 Study
|Tutor Time
|Tutor Time
|Tutor Time
|}

==Contents==
{| class="wikitable"
!Live
!Academic
!Careers
!Pastoral
!Information
|-style="vertical-align: top;"
|
*[[Microsoft Teams Guides]]
*[[Notices_HoSF|Notices from HoSF]]
*[[SPR_Meetings|SPR Meetings]]
*[[Key Dates 2023-24 tbc]]

|
*[[Academic_Support|Academic Support]]
*[[EPQ|EPQ Information]]
*Featured:[[Year_13 A Level Exam Timetable 2024|Year 13 Mock A Level Timetable 2024]]
*Featured:[[Year_12 FUPG Exam Timetable 2024|Year 12 FUPG Exam Timetable 2024]]
*[https://www.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/page/?title=Examination+Information&pid=61 Exams Information]
*[[Productivity_Resources|Productivity Resources]]
*[[Study Skills]]
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/d/db/Learning_Skills_booklet.docx Learning Skills Booklet]
*[[Subject Pages]]
*[https://www.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/page/?title=A-Level+Subjects%26%23160%3B&pid=131 Subject Specifications]

|
*[[Apprenticeship_Opportunities|Apprenticeship Opportunities]]
*Featured:[[Post 18 Options Handbook]]
*[[Careers_Resources|Careers Resources]]
*Featured:[[Student Finance_Resources|Student Finance Resources]]

*[[UCAS_Guidance|UCAS Guidance]]
*[[Applying to Medical School]]
*[[Your_Personal_Statement|Effective UCAS Personal Statements]]
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/1/1a/2019_-_NC_-_Personal_Statements_%28May_2019%29.pptx Personal Statement Presentation from Post 18 Day]
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/c/c5/Know_before_you_go.pdf Know before you go]
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/2/21/The_Definitive_Guide_to_not_going_to_Uni.ppt The Definitive Guide to not going to Uni]

|
*Featured:[[PSHE|PSHE Resources]]
*[[Pastoral_Resources|Pastoral Resources]]
*[https://issuu.com/healthguidepublishing/docs/shg_-_bgs/ Student Health Guide]
*[https://www.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/page/?title=Bursary+Fund&pid=83 Bursary Fund]
*[[Enrichment|Enrichment Timetable]]
*[[Sixth Form Student Agreement]]

|
*[[BGS_Sixth_Form_A-Z_Guide|A-Z Guide to the Sixth form]]
*[[The_Sixth_Form_Team|The Sixth Form Team]]
*[[Teacher_List|Teacher and Form Tutor list]]
*[https://www.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/page/?title=Sixth+Form+Dress+Guidelines&pid=157 Sixth Form Dress Guidelines]
*[[Duke of Edinburgh's Award]]
*[[Lanyard_System|Lanyard check-in/out guide]]
*[[Site Map|Maps of the School site]]
*[[Cafe|Sixth Form Cafe price list]]
*[[structure|Structure of the School Day]]
*[https://www.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/page/?title=Term+Dates&pid=58 Term Dates]
*[[Societies|Societies]]
*[[Upcoming_Events|Upcoming Events]] (or [https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/4/46/Sixth_Form_Student_Calendar_2019-20.xlsx Sixth Form Student Calendar] the full calendar)

|}

*The Sixth Form intranet is now available outside of school, at [https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/ https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/]. Use your network username and password to connect.

==Downloads==
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/f/f1/Student_Volunteering_Letter_and_Application_Form_2023.docx Student Volunteering Letter and Application Form]
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/7/75/Vol_Placement_Parental_Letter_2023.docx Volunteering Experience Placement Parental Letter]
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/0/03/SF_Open_Evening_Student_Helper_Letter_31.10.23.docx Sixth Form Open Evening Student Helper Letter]

Post 18 Options Handbook

2024-05-20T10:34:21Z

Sthe12: Created page with "[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/8/84/Post_18_Options_handbook.pdf Post 18 Options Handbook]"

[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/8/84/Post_18_Options_handbook.pdf Post 18 Options Handbook]

Guide to Apprenticeships

2024-05-20T10:17:09Z

Sthe12:

[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/index.php?title=File:Post_18_Options_handbook.pdf Post 18 Options Handbook]

File:Post 18 Options handbook.pdf

2024-05-20T10:11:49Z

Sthe12:

Applying to Medical School

2024-05-20T09:36:52Z

Sthe12:

Studying medicine usually involves 5 years of study at university, followed by more training years at the start of your career. So it’s important to make sure that medicine is right for you.

For help and guidance on work experience and preparing for admissions tests and interviews, read the guide below.

== Interested in applying to Medical School? ==

If you are interested in applying to study Medicine at university then there are a number of things that you should consider.

The application process is more complicated than most other degree courses and will take up a significant amount of your time – I often tell students that it is almost like taking an additional A Level for a period of time.

== Questions to ask yourself ==

==== Are my GCSE grades good enough? ====
Medical Schools have minimum grade requirements – especially in English Language, so make sure you check the entry criteria carefully at your chosen universities.

==== Am I going to do well enough in my A-Levels? ====

Standard requirements for MOST medical schools is AAA, although there is some small variation to this. Be honest with yourself and talk to your teachers about whether they think that you can achieve these grades – ideally at the start of Year 12.

== Work Experience ==

Once you have decided to apply then there are things that you need to organise and plan.

Firstly, you will need to have a certain amount of work experience and volunteering that you can talk about and use to show your ‘interest in and understanding of’ the role of a doctor.

Some suggestions for this are:

Formal work experience in a hospital setting. To apply for organised work experience, you will need to apply as follows:

* For opportunities in Lincolnshire: https://www.lincstalentacademy.org.uk/ (follow the link for Work Experience)

* For opportunities in Peterborough and Stamford: e-mail a completed application form to: nikki.martin@pbh-tr.nhs.uk. Click here for the [https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/f/fa/Stamford_and_Peterborough_Application_Form_updated_2016.doc application form]

In addition to spending time in a hospital setting, admission tutors will be looking for some on-going voluntary work – this should ideally be in a health-care setting, but could be in another area as long as you have been doing it for at least 6 months on a regular basis.

You can also try and get some work experience in a GP Practice.
'''
Whatever work experience you do, it’s critical you make it count. Many people think doing the placement is enough. But it’s only step one.'''

''In order to stand out, you must reflect on what you’ve seen. Keep a daily log of what has happened. This can be tiring, especially after a long day of work experience but will be very valuable when you make your university application.''

== What next? ==

Once you have done some work experience and decided that you do definitely want to study Medicine, you will need to start thinking about choosing a Medical School.

There are 48 medical schools in the UK, and no two are exactly alike. Choosing which ones to put down on your UCAS form can be a daunting task. Ultimately, the goal is to find the best fit for you.

As well as where you’d like to study geographically, you need to consider how you’ll be taught. There are 3 main types of Medicine courses – you need to do your research and make sure that you choose the one that best-suits how you learn:

* Traditional courses
* Integrated courses
* Problem-Based Learning (PBL) courses

To some extent your choices will be dictated by how well you do in your UCAT admissions test. You will take this at the local driving test centre in the summer between Year 12 and 13 and the different medical schools score the results differently alongside other parts of your application such as GCSE grades and predicted A level grades. It's important to dedicate several weeks of that summer to preparing for the UCAT.

== Interviews ==
If you are called for interview you will need to do some preparation in advance.

Most Medical Schools use the MMIs method of interview. This stands for Multiple Mini Interviews and consist of a round of stations (usually around 8). Each station will be testing for different qualities. These might involve interacting with patients, tackling ethical scenarios or problem-solving.

It is hard to prepare fully for these types of interviews but there are things you can do.

Set up a Medical Ethics club at school to discuss – amongst other things, the 4 Pillars of Medical Ethics:

* Autonomy — Does it show respect for the patient and their right to make decisions?
* Non-maleficence — Does it harm the patient?
* Justice — Are there consequences in the wider community?
* Beneficence — Does it benefit the patient?

'''You should ALSO read up on both the NHS Core Values and the GMC’s values and make sure that you are familiar with any NHS ‘hot topics’.'''

== A fabulously useful resource: ==

https://www.themedicportal.com/

'''This website, which is free to use, is jam-packed full of hints, tips, guidance and information about applying to study Medicine.
For any further help, please see Mrs Elliot.
'''

Careers Resources

2024-05-20T09:30:13Z

Sthe12:

==Introduction==
The School's Careers Leader is [mailto:helen.elliot@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Mrs Elliot], based in the careers Room located on the ground floor of the Turing Centre.

==General Sites==
*[https://www.unifrog.org Unifrog logon] - Careers advice, MOOCs, UCAS application process
*[https://www.ucas.com UCAS Homepage] -Links to all UK HE institutions and much more.
*[https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Not Going to Uni] - An excellent website which lists current school leaver opportunities
*[https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship Find an Appenticeship] - The Government website for searching for an apprenticeship
*[https://www.prospects.ac.uk Prospects Careers Services] - A range of careers related material and links to other useful sites.
*[https://www.nationalcareers.service.gov.uk National Careers Service] - Provides careers information, advice and guidance at all stages in your career.
*[https://www.russellgroup.ac.uk/media/5272/informedchoices-print.pdf Informed Choices] - Russell Group Uni guide

==Year Out (Gap Year)==
*[https://independentgapadvice.org Independent Gap Advice] - Independent advice on gap years.
*[https://www.coolworks.com CoolWorks] - 75,000 paid and voluntary opportunities in National Parks, ski resorts and ocean and gold resorts in the US.
*[https://www.yearoutgroup.co.uk Year Out Group] - supported by UCAS and the OfEE and has a section on advice.
*[https://www.etrust.org.uk Year in Industry] - Operated by the eTrust, promotes taking a year out in industry

==Studying Abroad==
*[https://www.astarfuture.co.uk A Star Future] - Undergraduate courses taught in English in other countries
*[https://www.britishcouncil.org The British Council]
*[https://ec.europa.eu/ploteus PlotEU] - Portal to learning opportunities in Europe
*[https://www.studycanada.ca StudyCanada] - Information of studying in Canada

==Other useful sites==
*[https://www.opendays.com OpenDays.com] - provides lists of open days and how to get the most out of them.
*[https://discoveruni.gov.uk Discover Uni] - allows you to compare university courses and look at for example student satisfaction and employment after graduating.
*[https://theguardian.com/education/ng-interactive/2023/sep/09/the-guardian-university-guide-2024-the-rankings Guardian University Guide]
*[https://www.push.co.uk Push.co.uk]
*[https://www.slc.co.uk Student Loans Company] - Money for Studying and Advice on Budgeting
*[https://www.nusconnect.org.uk/ The NUS] - National Union of Students

==Other==
*[https://www.newscientist.com/ New Scientist] – provides an important gateway to science career sources
*[https://www.lawcareers.net Lawcareers]– vacation placements, mini-puplilages, etc
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/8/80/Know_before_you_go%2C_helping_you_to_navigate_university_life.pdf Know before you go, helping you navigate university life] - Helping you navigate university life

Careers Resources

2024-05-20T09:29:15Z

Sthe12:

==Introduction==
The School's Careers Leader is [mailto:helen.elliot@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Mrs Elliot], based in the careers Room located on the ground floor of the Turing Centre.

==General Sites==
*[https://www.unifrog.org Unifrog logon] - Careers advice, MOOCs, UCAS application process
*[https://www.ucas.com UCAS Homepage] -Links to all UK HE institutions and much more.
*[https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Not Going to Uni] - An excellent website which lists current school leaver opportunities
*[https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship Find an Appenticeship] - The Government website for searching for an apprenticeship
*[https://www.prospects.ac.uk Prospects Careers Services] - A range of careers related material and links to other useful sites.
*[https://www.nationalcareers.service.gov.uk National Careers Service] - Provides careers information, advice and guidance at all stages in your career.
*[https://www.russellgroup.ac.uk/media/5272/informedchoices-print.pdf Informed Choices] - Russell Group Uni guide

==Year Out (Gap Year)==
*[https://independentgapadvice.org Independent Gap Advice] - Independent advice on gap years.
*[https://www.coolworks.com CoolWorks] - 75,000 paid and voluntary opportunities in National Parks, ski resorts and ocean and gold resorts in the US.
*[https://www.yearoutgroup.co.uk Year Out Group] - supported by UCAS and the OfEE and has a section on advice.
*[https://www.etrust.org.uk Year in Industry] - Operated by the eTrust, promotes taking a year out in industry

==Studying Abroad==
*[https://www.astarfuture.co.uk A Star Future] - Undergraduate courses taught in English in other countries
*[https://www.britishcouncil.org The British Council]
*[https://ec.europa.eu/ploteus PlotEU] - Portal to learning opportunities in Europe
*[https://www.studycanada.ca StudyCanada] - Information of studying in Canada

==Other useful sites==
*[https://www.opendays.com OpenDays.com] - provides lists of open days and how to get the most out of them.
*[https://discoveruni.gov.uk Discover Uni] - allows you to compare university courses and look at for example student satisfaction and employment after graduating.
*[https://theguardian.com/education/ng-interactive/2023/sep/09/the-guardian-university-guide-2024-the-rankings Guardian University Guide]
*[https://www.push.co.uk Push.co.uk]
*[https://www.slc.co.uk Student Loans Company] - Money for Studying and Advice on Budgeting
*[https://www.nusconnect.org.uk/ The NUS] - National Union of Students
*[https://www.palgrave.com/skills4study/ Palgrave Study skills]

==Other==
*[https://www.newscientist.com/ New Scientist] – provides an important gateway to science career sources
*[https://www.lawcareers.net Lawcareers]– vacation placements, mini-puplilages, etc
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/8/80/Know_before_you_go%2C_helping_you_to_navigate_university_life.pdf Know before you go, helping you navigate university life] - Helping you navigate university life

Careers Resources

2024-05-20T09:27:56Z

Sthe12:

==Introduction==
The School's Careers Leader is [mailto:helen.elliot@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Mrs Elliot], based in the careers Room located on the ground floor of the Turing Centre.

==General Sites==
*[https://www.unifrog.org Unifrog logon] - Careers advice, MOOCs, UCAS application process
*[https://www.ucas.com UCAS Homepage] -Links to all UK HE institutions and much more.
*[https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Not Going to Uni] - An excellent website which lists current school leaver opportunities
*[https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship Find an Appenticeship] - The Government website for searching for an apprenticeship
*[https://www.prospects.ac.uk Prospects Careers Services] - A range of careers related material and links to other useful sites.
*[https://www.nationalcareers.service.gov.uk National Careers Service] - Provides careers information, advice and guidance at all stages in your career.
*[https://www.russellgroup.ac.uk/media/5272/informedchoices-print.pdf Informed Choices] - Russell Group Uni guide

==Year Out (Gap Year)==
*[https://independentgapadvice.org Independent Gap Advice] - Independent advice on gap years.
*[https://www.coolworks.com CoolWorks] - 75,000 paid and voluntary opportunities in National Parks, ski resorts and ocean and gold resorts in the US.
*[https://www.yearoutgroup.co.uk Year Out Group] - supported by UCAS and the OfEE and has a section on advice.
*[https://www.etrust.org.uk Year in Industry] - Operated by the eTrust, promotes taking a year out in industry

==Studying Abroad==
*[https://www.astarfuture.co.uk A Star Future] - Undergraduate courses taught in English in other countries
*[https://www.britishcouncil.org The British Council]
*[https://ec.europa.eu/ploteus PlotEU] - Portal to learning opportunities in Europe
*[https://www.studycanada.ca StudyCanada] - Information of studying in Canada

==Other useful sites==
*[https://www.opendays.com OpenDays.com] - provides lists of open days and how to get the most out of them.
*[https://discoveruni.gov.uk Discover Uni] - allows you to compare university courses and look at for example student satisfaction and employment after graduating.
*[https://https://www.theguardian.com/education/ng-interactive/2023/sep/09/the-guardian-university-guide-2024-the-rankings Guardian University Guide]
*[https://www.push.co.uk Push.co.uk]
*[https://www.slc.co.uk Student Loans Company] - Money for Studying and Advice on Budgeting
*[https://www.nusconnect.org.uk/ The NUS] - National Union of Students
*[https://www.palgrave.com/skills4study/ Palgrave Study skills]

==Other==
*[https://www.newscientist.com/ New Scientist] – provides an important gateway to science career sources
*[https://www.lawcareers.net Lawcareers]– vacation placements, mini-puplilages, etc
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/8/80/Know_before_you_go%2C_helping_you_to_navigate_university_life.pdf Know before you go, helping you navigate university life] - Helping you navigate university life

Careers Resources

2024-05-20T09:18:13Z

Sthe12:

==Introduction==
The School's Careers Leader is [mailto:helen.elliot@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Mrs Elliot], based in the careers Room located on the ground floor of the Turing Centre.

==General Sites==
*[https://www.unifrog.org Unifrog logon] - Careers advice, MOOCs, UCAS application process
*[https://www.ucas.com UCAS Homepage] -Links to all UK HE institutions and much more.
*[https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Not Going to Uni] - An excellent website which lists current school leaver opportunities
*[https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship Find an Appenticeship] - The Government website for searching for an apprenticeship
*[https://www.prospects.ac.uk Prospects Careers Services] - A range of careers related material and links to other useful sites.
*[https://www.nationalcareers.service.gov.uk National Careers Service] - Provides careers information, advice and guidance at all stages in your career.
*[https://www.russellgroup.ac.uk/media/5272/informedchoices-print.pdf Informed Choices] - Russell Group Uni guide

==Year Out (Gap Year)==
*[https://independentgapadvice.org Independent Gap Advice] - Independent advice on gap years.
*[https://www.coolworks.com CoolWorks] - 75,000 paid and voluntary opportunities in National Parks, ski resorts and ocean and gold resorts in the US.
*[https://www.yearoutgroup.co.uk Year Out Group] - supported by UCAS and the OfEE and has a section on advice.
*[https://www.etrust.org.uk Year in Industry] - Operated by the eTrust, promotes taking a year out in industry

==Studying Abroad==
*[https://www.astarfuture.co.uk A Star Future] - Undergraduate courses taught in English in other countries
*[https://www.britishcouncil.org The British Council]
*[https://ec.europa.eu/ploteus PlotEU] - Portal to learning opportunities in Europe
*[https://www.studycanada.ca StudyCanada] - Information of studying in Canada

==Other useful sites==
*[https://www.opendays.com OpenDays.com] - provides lists of open days and how to get the most out of them.
*[https://discoveruni.gov.uk Discover Uni] - allows you to compare university courses and look at for example student satisfaction and employment after graduating.
*[https://www.theguardian.com/education/ng-interactive/2018/may/29/university-league-tables-2019 Guardian University Guide]
*[https://www.push.co.uk Push.co.uk]
*[https://www.slc.co.uk Student Loans Company] - Money for Studying and Advice on Budgeting
*[https://www.nusconnect.org.uk/ The NUS] - National Union of Students
*[https://www.palgrave.com/skills4study/ Palgrave Study skills]

==Other==
*[https://www.newscientist.com/ New Scientist] – provides an important gateway to science career sources
*[https://www.lawcareers.net Lawcareers]– vacation placements, mini-puplilages, etc
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/8/80/Know_before_you_go%2C_helping_you_to_navigate_university_life.pdf Know before you go, helping you navigate university life] - Helping you navigate university life

Apprenticeship Opportunities

2024-05-20T09:01:38Z

Sthe12:

==Introduction==
#After your A-Levels, University isn't the only option open to you.
#Based in the Careers Room, [mailto:helen.elliot@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Mrs Elliot] can offer advice on alternative options such as apprenticeships.
#The Government's official [https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/apprenticeshipsearch Apprenticeship Search] website provides details of local options.
#In addition, apprenticeships that are shared with the School are pinned to the noticeboard in the Sixth Form Centre.
#An apprenticeship is a paid job with training and qualifications. Higher and degree apprenticeships are aimed specifically at students with A-levels/equivalent. They give you a higher-education qualification - even a degree - and you can train for a high-skilled role in industries such as engineering, software engineering, public sector, law and healthcare.
#Higher apprenticeships allow you to train for a highly skilled job. Unlike university, you don't have to pay – in fact, you'll get paid a wage by your employer. You'll learn by doing the job you're training for, and study for qualifications along the way – you could even finish with a degree.

==Current Opportunities==
*[https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Not Going to Uni] - An excellent website which lists current apprenticeship opportunities
*[https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship Find an Appenticeship] - The Government website for searching for an apprenticeship
*[https://www.ucas.com/apprenticeships UCAS Apprenticeships] - As well as giving information on applying to university, UCAS now has an excellent section on apprenticeships
==Further Reading==
*[https://amazingapprenticeships.com/ Amazing Apprenticeships] - Apprenticeships explained
*[https://successatschool.org/advice/gap-years SuccessAtSchool] - Gap Year advice
*[https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk NHS Careers] – Careers in the NHS
*[https://getmyfirstjob.co.uk GetMyFirstJob ] - Your first steps into the world of work

Apprenticeship Opportunities

2024-05-20T09:00:20Z

Sthe12:

==Introduction==
#After your A-Levels, University isn't the only option open to you.
#Based in the Careers Room, [mailto:helen.elliot@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Mrs Elliot] can offer advice on alternative options such as apprenticeships.
#The Government's official [https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/apprenticeshipsearch Apprenticeship Search] website provides details of local options.
#In addition, apprenticeships that are shared with the School are pinned to the noticeboard in the Sixth Form Centre.
#An apprenticeship is a paid job with training and qualifications. Higher and degree apprenticeships are aimed specifically at students with A-levels/equivalent. They give you a higher-education qualification - even a degree - and you can train for a high-skilled role in industries such as engineering, software engineering, public sector, law and healthcare.
#Higher apprenticeships allow you to train for a highly skilled job. Unlike university, you don't have to pay – in fact, you'll get paid a wage by your employer. You'll learn by doing the job you're training for, and study for qualifications along the way – you could even finish with a degree.

==Current Opportunities==
*[https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Not Going to Uni] - An excellent website which lists current apprenticeship opportunities
*[https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship Find an Appenticeship] - The Government website for searching for an apprenticeship
*[https://www.ucas.com/apprenticeships] - As well as giving information on applying to university, UCAS now has an excellent section on apprenticeships
==Further Reading==
*[https://amazingapprenticeships.com/ Amazing Apprenticeships] - Apprenticeships explained
*[https://successatschool.org/advice/gap-years SuccessAtSchool] - Gap Year advice
*[https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk NHS Careers] – Careers in the NHS
*[https://getmyfirstjob.co.uk GetMyFirstJob ] - Your first steps into the world of work

Guide to Apprenticeships

2024-05-20T08:27:19Z

Sthe12:

[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/a/a2/Guide_to_Apprenticeships_-_November_2023.docx.pdf Guide to Apprenticeships Nov 2023]

Guide to Apprenticeships

2024-05-20T08:26:38Z

Sthe12:

[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/a/a2/Guide_to_Apprenticeships_-_November_2023.docx.pdf Guide to Apprenticeships Nov 2023]
[[File:Post 18 Options handbook 28.3.24.pdf|thumb]]

File:Post 18 Options handbook 28.3.24.pdf

2024-05-20T08:26:23Z

Sthe12:

Post 18 Options handbook 28.3.24

Student Finance Resources

2022-08-23T11:16:32Z

Sthe12: /* Money Saving */

==Introduction==
*The following resources are designed to help you budget and understand student finance.

==Student Finance==
*[https://studentfinance.campaign.gov.uk/ Student Finance Campaign Information]
*[https://www.facebook.com/SFEngland/ Student Finance England's Facebook page has lots of answers to common questions (FB Account required)]
*[https://www.gov.uk/student-finance/ Student Finance]- Student loans for tuition fees and living costs, extra help, student loan repayments
*[https://www.ucas.com/sfe/ Student Finance in England] - Everything you need to know about student finance from UCAS
*[https://www.slc.co.uk Student Loans Company] - Money for Studying and Advice on Budgeting

==Budgeting==
*[https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/students/student-budgeting-planner/ Student budget planner]- Student budgeting planner from MoneySavingExpert.com
*[https://university.which.co.uk/advice/student-finance/student-finance-budgeting-things-to-remember/ Student budgeting] - 10 things to remember to budget for at university from Which? University

==Money Saving==
*[https://www.thescholarshiphub.org.uk The Scholarship Hub] The Scholarship Hub is a database of scholarships, grants and bursaries.You can search for and apply for financial awards through it.
*[https://www.studentbeans.com/uk Studentbeans] Student discounts – also has an app
*[https://www.totum.com/ Student Discount Card] TOTUM, the new name for the NUS extra card, brings you over 200 UK student discounts
*[https://www.16-25railcard.co.uk/ Young Persons Rail Card] With a 16-25 Railcard you can get 1/3 off rail fares to travel across Britain.

Student Finance Resources

2022-08-23T11:08:35Z

Sthe12: /* Student Finance */

==Introduction==
*The following resources are designed to help you budget and understand student finance.

==Student Finance==
*[https://studentfinance.campaign.gov.uk/ Student Finance Campaign Information]
*[https://www.facebook.com/SFEngland/ Student Finance England's Facebook page has lots of answers to common questions (FB Account required)]
*[https://www.gov.uk/student-finance/ Student Finance]- Student loans for tuition fees and living costs, extra help, student loan repayments
*[https://www.ucas.com/sfe/ Student Finance in England] - Everything you need to know about student finance from UCAS
*[https://www.slc.co.uk Student Loans Company] - Money for Studying and Advice on Budgeting

==Budgeting==
*[https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/students/student-budgeting-planner/ Student budget planner]- Student budgeting planner from MoneySavingExpert.com
*[https://university.which.co.uk/advice/student-finance/student-finance-budgeting-things-to-remember/ Student budgeting] - 10 things to remember to budget for at university from Which? University

==Money Saving==
*[https://www.grantfairy.com/ GrantFairy] Grant Fairy is a scholarship app which matches students with thousands of scholarships and bursaries to help pay university tuition fees and living expenses
*[https://www.studentbeans.com/uk Studentbeans] Student discounts – also has an app
*[https://www.totum.com/ Student Discount Card] TOTUM, the new name for the NUS extra card, brings you over 200 UK student discounts
*[https://www.16-25railcard.co.uk/ Young Persons Rail Card] With a 16-25 Railcard you can get 1/3 off rail fares to travel across Britain.

Student Finance Resources

2022-08-23T11:07:33Z

Sthe12: /* Student Finance */

==Introduction==
*The following resources are designed to help you budget and understand student finance.

==Student Finance==
*[https://studentfinance.campaign.gov.uk/ Student Finance Campaign Information March 2021]
*[https://www.facebook.com/SFEngland/ Student Finance England's Facebook page has lots of answers to common questions (FB Account required)]
*[https://www.gov.uk/student-finance/ Student Finance]- Student loans for tuition fees and living costs, extra help, student loan repayments
*[https://www.ucas.com/sfe/ Student Finance in England] - Everything you need to know about student finance from UCAS
*[https://www.slc.co.uk Student Loans Company] - Money for Studying and Advice on Budgeting

==Budgeting==
*[https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/students/student-budgeting-planner/ Student budget planner]- Student budgeting planner from MoneySavingExpert.com
*[https://university.which.co.uk/advice/student-finance/student-finance-budgeting-things-to-remember/ Student budgeting] - 10 things to remember to budget for at university from Which? University

==Money Saving==
*[https://www.grantfairy.com/ GrantFairy] Grant Fairy is a scholarship app which matches students with thousands of scholarships and bursaries to help pay university tuition fees and living expenses
*[https://www.studentbeans.com/uk Studentbeans] Student discounts – also has an app
*[https://www.totum.com/ Student Discount Card] TOTUM, the new name for the NUS extra card, brings you over 200 UK student discounts
*[https://www.16-25railcard.co.uk/ Young Persons Rail Card] With a 16-25 Railcard you can get 1/3 off rail fares to travel across Britain.

Your Personal Statement

2022-08-23T11:02:36Z

Sthe12: /* Suggested Structure */

==Introduction==
Your personal statement allows you to to demonstrate to the university that you have thoroughly researched the course, you have a passionate interest in the subject and really want to study it. Your personal statement...
#Carries a lot of weight with universities
#Demonstrates your reasons for applying
#Is the first and often only chance to ‘sell yourself’ to your university choices
#An opportunity to create a good impression to Admissions Tutors

==Getting started==
Start by brainstorming all your achievements/strengths that you want to include, then
#Write a draft version and condense it afterwards
#Construct it through key paragraphs
#Keep sentences short and to the point
#Avoid clichés
#Be Original – don’t make them yawn

===What do they want to know===
#That you have already begun to devote yourself to a serious study of your chosen field.
#This subject is the admissions tutor’s life’s work so they want to teach students who are as passionate about the subject as they are.

===How do I make a good impression?===
Show motivation - what extra-curricular reading/activities have you done?
#Be enthusiastic about your chosen course
#Show your enthusiasm for academia and learning generally
#Show what kind of person you are outside academia
#Show your personality, interests, achievement and relevant work experience
#Show that you are a well-rounded individual
#Be careful not to make it specific to one university

===Transferable skills===
Wider life experiences are important. Display transferable skills such as teamwork, leadership, communication, enterprising and organisational skills as well as maturity and dependability. #Think about your part-time work, taking part in sports, being a prefect etc - how have these helped you to be more organised, communicate effectively and prioritise your time? How will these skills help in your chosen course?

===Don’t state, evaluate!===
#What effect has your experience had on you? What did you learn from a particular experience and how will that benefit you in your chosen course?
#Don’t say ‘I was captain of the rugby team’ say ‘My experience as captain of the rugby team has taught me the importance of teamwork as well as leadership, both important skills I will bring to university life’.

===Be Specific===
#Don’t say you’ll make a good doctor if you can’t say why. Don’t say you ‘enjoy history’ – give examples of your knowledge of history and what, in particular, fascinates you - if this is outside the curriculum, then so much the better.
#Research the modules taught on the course (look at the course information page and most especially the entry profiles on the UCAS website) and refer to them in your personal statement - as long as they are common across all of the courses you are applying for.

===Keep it short and to the point===
Remember that by the time it gets to the admissions tutor it is reduced and difficult to read, so don’t feel you have to use up all your word count.

==Suggested Structure==
Write 3 key paragraphs – weight it three quarters about your course choice and why you have made it and one quarter about yourself: Use the Unifrog personal statement tool to provide structure and give useful prompts.
===Opening - Explain your choice of subject===
The most important paragraph you will write - grab the reader’s attention or lose it
#Outline why you are interested in the subject(s). Why does the course appeal to you?
#Does your current study have relevance to your subject choices?
#Demonstrates that you are well motivated and enthusiastic about your chosen subject area

===2 - Suitability===
Describe your suitability for the course – use the entry profiles on the UCAS website extensively here
#What transferable skills have you gained from your current A levels?
#How are these relevant to your chosen degree subject? Unsure? Check out course entry profiles (EP’s) at www.ucas.com
#Has this study sparked your interest or affected your degree course choices?
#What have you particularly enjoyed?
#Detail any work experience or voluntary work, particularly if relevant to your subject choices
#Even if these are broad, include an outline of the field in which you hope to work
#Identify additional skills that you have gained

===3 - The person behind the form===
Why should they admit you? What is special, unique, distinctive and/or impressive about you or your life?
#What makes you different to all the other people who are applying eg Duke of Edinburgh/ Cadets/travel.
#You are a real human being and as such you are interesting
#Describe yourself – your skills, strengths and personality - but don’t just list points
#Outline your academic/social achievements
#Describe your sporting and leisure interests
#Are you planning a gap year? If so, what are you planning to do?

==Top tips==
#Be meticulous
#Type and proof read your statement very carefully.
#Accuracy – spelling and grammar, correct use of language, capitalisation – very important to admissions tutors
#Be clear and concise – pay attention to detail
#Ensure that it is all your own work, UCAS have sophisticated software and check for plagiarism AND similarity
#Don’t repeat yourself
#Use positive and enthusiastic language
#Give examples
#Ask for help - form tutors/Mrs Elliot with editing/redrafting
#Remember you may be called for interview and they may use your personal statement as a basis for the discussion, so be truthful.

==Additional Guidance==
===The role of the Admissions Tutor===
#When you submit your UCAS application for your chosen course at university it will be read by an Admissions Tutor. The Admissions Tutor:
##is a lecturer in the subject
##has been promoted to the position of choosing students for their degree course
##recruits the target number of students to ensure the course is financially viable (jobs can be lost if the target is not reached or even exceeded)
##is a gatekeeper between you and your chosen course can let you pass by giving you an offer (e.g. AAA, BCC, DDE)
##can close the gate by declining to give you an offer
##often starts providing offers as soon as applications are received (though some do wait - but very few!)
#LET YOUR ADMISSIONS TUTORS RECEIVE YOUR APPLICATION EARLY IN THE PROCESS

===Getting an Offer===
#What must you do to get an offer from an admissions tutor? Most importantly, achieve the grades. So...
#don’t miss lessons e.g. attending open days can damage your chances of success if you miss lessons. Instead:
##go on-line to make a virtual tour of a university from the comfort of your computer
##visit a university at the weekend / holidays. You will still get the ‘feel of the place’
#Persuade the admissions tutor you really want to study a particular course.
#Lots of students apply with suitable predicted grades so why offer a place to you? The Admissions Tutor must ensure that you will not drop out once you have started (they lose money if you do) so you must ensure that you impress them with your reasons for wanting that particular course.

===A 'reasonable' personal statement===
#Read the personal statement printed below and underline each experience or key point that appears.
#Count how many experiences or key points have been included in the statement.
#Consider: How might the statement be improved?

Although I enjoy studying Mathematics and Geography, it is Business Studies that I wish to pursue in more depth. I believe a degree in Business will build on my understanding of marketing and financial management. Businesses have to operate within a legal framework and I was lucky enough to shadow a barrister for a day to gain an insight into the legal profession. I hope to study aspects of law as part of my degree.

A range of school opportunities have broadened my experiences. Participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme has been challenging and fulfilling: allowing me to work with a diverse range of people. My voluntary work at Help the Aged proved to be rewarding and gave me a more caring perspective on life. I have also taken part in the ‘Year 7 Friends Scheme’ in which I supported young students during their first
term at school. Taking part in the school drama club as a technician has been fun and has taught me the importance of working to deadlines. I have further pursued my interest in drama and have so far been fortunate to see ‘Twelfth Night’ and ‘Les Miserables’. My role as Deputy Operations Director in the Young Enterprise Scheme has given me an insight into business life. I am interested in the internet and have helped staff redesign the school web site. I hope to learn more about web site design at university. Although no-one could call me a sportsman, I am a keen football player and I regularly visit City of Manchester Stadium to watch Manchester City.

Outside school I belong to the Venture Scouts which has offered opportunities such as gliding and weekend camps to the Peak District. I have managed to balance the demands of my ‘A’ levels with a varied and enjoyable school and social life. I look forward to the opportunities offered at university.

#How many experiences or key points have been included in the statement?
##Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Voluntary work at Help the Aged, Year 7 Friends, Drama club technician, Seen ‘Twelfth Night’ and ‘Les Miserables’, Deputy Operations Director in the Young Enterprise Scheme
##Helped staff redesign the school website, keen football player, Visits Manchester City Football Club, Venture Scouts.
#In all, around ten key points are mentioned.
#How might the statement be improved?
##Far more information needed about why the applicant wishes to read Business Studies at university.
##More detail about relevant experiences such as the Young Enterprise business scheme (e.g. what was the product being marketed? Why did the person enjoy the opportunity? What did the person learn from the experience?)
##Write less of a list of points and provide more depth to a select range of issues
##The applicant could have been more personal about the areas mentioned What did they enjoy and why?
#BUT there are some positive features about the statement...
##Clearly written
##Dealt with choice of course (though not enough)
##Used short sentences, helping it remain grammatically correct
##No spelling errors

===Common pitfalls===
#To find out what mistakes many applicants make read through the following personal statement and attempt the following:
##Put a line through anything that you think should not be included i.e. that does not sell the student.
##Reduce the statement to half the original length.
##Decide why the personal statement does not sell the student

After 12 years of school-study I will be making the most difficult decision and most influential one in my life. Having systematically going through each stage of choosing a suitable degree, I started by choosing a ‘science’ subject rather than an ‘art’ one. Moving on through the field of Physics, relating heavily with Mathematics, I researched the different topics possible in Engineering. With every prospectus I read, I became even more devoted to the course: Mechanical Engineering. The fundamentals of this course can be quite general giving me a wider experience in the Mathematics and Science fields, complying with my eagerness to experience Science and Engineering. The most
intriguing factor of this course, I would say, is what I have always been indulged in; knowing how something operates, moves and to make it better. For me studying the root of our necessities, e.g. electricity, cars and clocks, is fulfilling. Studying in these fields (Mathematics and Physics A-levels) will help me kick-start my degree campaign with enthusiasm and challenge, increasing chances of fitting in well with the course. Aiming to use this study to progress into the world of work with the manner of a fully equipped Engineer, I know that this degree will present myself to the employer as a person of qualities efficient enough to produce upright results from a degree which requires intellectuality, initiative and common sense (in scientific terms). I regard Mechanical Engineering as having a consequential and significant role to play in British industry. Thus, taking a step back I
think that a person to study a degree of this importance to be successful through the 3/4 years should have personal qualities. Working for a multinational company I have had a taste of the responsibilities of these personal qualities; listening to management, working independently to complete the tasks, working to deadlines, using initiative towards problem solving for customer service ... etc. Studying these aspects in the management segment of Business Studies A-level helps me to understand this more clearly, with ways of innovation and motivation for work. Throughout my last 5 school years, using the computer and the Internet has been momentous. From designing
programmes (for I.T. coursework) in Microsoft Access to using the internet to inquire about flight arrangements, and with 40 words-per-minute I have gained sufficient computer skills to use it as a surplus for my future. As a sociable person, I have shown that I can fit into a community new to me (my sixth form). This overlaps the personal qualities aforementioned. I have also worked with children in a nursery, helping teachers. Furthermore, mentoring high school student in preparation for the end of their GCSE’s has given me a differing sensation of tutoring. An important point for a student thinking of entering university is willing to be part of that community. This point will make a difference in the productivity of the student towards the community of the university. For five consecutive years now, I have joined the school football team, playing in most cup and league
matches. Having represented my school in domestic competitions, I have enjoyed the essence of teamwork, winning and losing. More recently, being trained to be a Junior’s coach by the Football
Association has strengthened my management skills. The encouraging factor of sport for me is the social aspect, which I enjoy extensively. An exclusive ubiquity of mine is that I am contented with
mixing my social with my educational life at length making the two important factors in my life none the less unabridged.

#Many students writing their own personal statement repeat some of the problems shown in the statement you have read - though usually, not to the same extent.
#What were the problems?
##Begins like a life story - full of irrelevant information
##Far too long - it will need to be reduced for the on-line application
##Uses language the author clearly doesn’t understand - e.g. in the last line”exclusive ubiquity of mine”. Ubiquitous means ‘everywhere’ so how can it be exclusive?
##Many sentences are too long, making grammatical errors
##Sets out to impress but comes across as arrogant
##Has not been proof read by somebody who could have pointed out many of the problems e.g. many sentences do not make sense.

===Advice from Admissions Tutors===
#The following advice is based on the findings from a survey of over 70 admissions tutors from over 20 subject areas in a wide range of universities.
====How important is the Personal Statement====
#It depends on:
##The Admissions Tutor (some admissions tutors see it as vital, others look at grades alone)
##The nature of the degree (for some courses it is vital, for others it is not)
#The point is, you do not know. So therefore treat it seriously. It can count against you if it is not clearly written.
#It can be important for:
##Selection for an offer (when you apply)
##Selection for an interview
##Asking questions at the interview (make sure you tell the truth: you could be asked about the claims in your statement!)
##Borderline cases (if you are just short of a required grade e.g you need BBB but you are predicted BBC. Remember, though, generally they select those with the grades)
##If you miss the grade in August. (The Admissions Tutor might reconsider you if they have spare places - remember to call them in August if you miss the grade)
#Remember, grades are most important.

====What are Admissions Tutors looking for?====
#Interest in the course (most important)
#No spelling or grammatical mistakes
#Clearly written
#Motivation
#Able to balance studies with non-academic life
#Interesting person
#Work experience (if relevant)
#Wider key skills (e.g. Teamwork)
#Numeracy or Communication (if yet to pass GCSE Maths or English)
#Explanation of unusual degree combinations (should you appear undecided)
#Future career in some cases

====What should you avoid?====
#Waffle
#Swallowing a dictionary
#Statements with no examples or evidence
#Very ordinary interests e.g. going down the pub
#Lying (remember the interview!)
#Becoming somebody you are not
#Rushing
#Thinking you can write it without advice

===Things to do===
#Have a plan of action
#Keep to deadlines
#Find out as much information about the course as possible
#Read advice about writing a personal statement
#Consult books such as Brian Heap’s ‘ Degree Course Offers’
#Read examples of good and bad statements
#Listen to advice but not too much
#Make the most of what you really have done
#Ensure that the person on the page is you
#Give plenty of examples
#Write relatively short sentences
#Expect to draft your statement a number of times (ten drafts is not unreasonable)
#Students who are motivated and interested in the course might be less likely to drop out from university (which could cost the department money in lost revenue) so...
#Try to include some of the following to help you convince an admissions tutor:
##Any relevant books / articles you have read (even writing about a short article in a chapter / journal / a few pages in a book is going to have more of an impact than simply stating you want to study the course)
##Relevant courses you have studied (e.g. why certain AS/A2 or Applied topics interested you. Write about skills you have developed that you believe to be relevant)
##Relevant interviews you have conducted (interviewing somebody who works in your area of interest - e.g. a solicitor, a doctor - talk about specific issues that arose from the interview)
##Experiences that relate to the course (conferences, residential courses, trips, people you have met, something you have read, hobbies, future plans, something you have seen - anything relevant that will convince the admissions tutor that you have given serious thought to the choice of course)
##What interests you about the degree courses? (make sure the areas you focus upon that are taught at university appear on all your choices)

===Things not to do===
#Follow the advice in your hand-out to the letter
#Copy other statements
#Make things up to sound impressive
#Use language that you do not understand
#Many admissions tutors complain of reading statements that appear the same. A response to this problem has been to try to capture the reader’s attention. For example, an applicant for a Law degree wrote: ”Guilty, I confess I want to study Law!” Now this has been used (and published!) you cannot copy it and expect to be original.
#For a Politics degree a student wrote a quote from a former government minister, Dennis Healey, “If we can keep our heads the long-awaited economic miracle is in our grasp.”
#Many admissions tutors now complain that students are copying these ideas and so they are no longer original!
#So how will you write a unique personal statement?
##By writing about why you really wish to study your chosen course (by showing that you know something about the course).
##By writing about the topics you are looking forward to studying on that course in a genuine way.
##By writing a brief account about you (hobbies, experiences)
#Nobody is likely to have all the responses to the above.

Your Personal Statement

2022-08-23T11:01:14Z

Sthe12: /* 4 - The person behind the form */

==Introduction==
Your personal statement allows you to to demonstrate to the university that you have thoroughly researched the course, you have a passionate interest in the subject and really want to study it. Your personal statement...
#Carries a lot of weight with universities
#Demonstrates your reasons for applying
#Is the first and often only chance to ‘sell yourself’ to your university choices
#An opportunity to create a good impression to Admissions Tutors

==Getting started==
Start by brainstorming all your achievements/strengths that you want to include, then
#Write a draft version and condense it afterwards
#Construct it through key paragraphs
#Keep sentences short and to the point
#Avoid clichés
#Be Original – don’t make them yawn

===What do they want to know===
#That you have already begun to devote yourself to a serious study of your chosen field.
#This subject is the admissions tutor’s life’s work so they want to teach students who are as passionate about the subject as they are.

===How do I make a good impression?===
Show motivation - what extra-curricular reading/activities have you done?
#Be enthusiastic about your chosen course
#Show your enthusiasm for academia and learning generally
#Show what kind of person you are outside academia
#Show your personality, interests, achievement and relevant work experience
#Show that you are a well-rounded individual
#Be careful not to make it specific to one university

===Transferable skills===
Wider life experiences are important. Display transferable skills such as teamwork, leadership, communication, enterprising and organisational skills as well as maturity and dependability. #Think about your part-time work, taking part in sports, being a prefect etc - how have these helped you to be more organised, communicate effectively and prioritise your time? How will these skills help in your chosen course?

===Don’t state, evaluate!===
#What effect has your experience had on you? What did you learn from a particular experience and how will that benefit you in your chosen course?
#Don’t say ‘I was captain of the rugby team’ say ‘My experience as captain of the rugby team has taught me the importance of teamwork as well as leadership, both important skills I will bring to university life’.

===Be Specific===
#Don’t say you’ll make a good doctor if you can’t say why. Don’t say you ‘enjoy history’ – give examples of your knowledge of history and what, in particular, fascinates you - if this is outside the curriculum, then so much the better.
#Research the modules taught on the course (look at the course information page and most especially the entry profiles on the UCAS website) and refer to them in your personal statement - as long as they are common across all of the courses you are applying for.

===Keep it short and to the point===
Remember that by the time it gets to the admissions tutor it is reduced and difficult to read, so don’t feel you have to use up all your word count.

==Suggested Structure==
Write 4 key paragraphs – weight it three quarters about your course choice and why you have made it and one quarter about yourself:
===Opening - Explain your choice of subject===
The most important paragraph you will write - grab the reader’s attention or lose it
#Outline why you are interested in the subject(s). Why does the course appeal to you?
#Does your current study have relevance to your subject choices?
#Demonstrates that you are well motivated and enthusiastic about your chosen subject area

===2 - Suitability===
Describe your suitability for the course – use the entry profiles on the UCAS website extensively here
#What transferable skills have you gained from your current A levels?
#How are these relevant to your chosen degree subject? Unsure? Check out course entry profiles (EP’s) at www.ucas.com
#Has this study sparked your interest or affected your degree course choices?
#What have you particularly enjoyed?
#Detail any work experience or voluntary work, particularly if relevant to your subject choices
#Even if these are broad, include an outline of the field in which you hope to work
#Identify additional skills that you have gained

===3 - The person behind the form===
Why should they admit you? What is special, unique, distinctive and/or impressive about you or your life?
#What makes you different to all the other people who are applying eg Duke of Edinburgh/ Cadets/travel.
#You are a real human being and as such you are interesting
#Describe yourself – your skills, strengths and personality - but don’t just list points
#Outline your academic/social achievements
#Describe your sporting and leisure interests
#Are you planning a gap year? If so, what are you planning to do?

==Top tips==
#Be meticulous
#Type and proof read your statement very carefully.
#Accuracy – spelling and grammar, correct use of language, capitalisation – very important to admissions tutors
#Be clear and concise – pay attention to detail
#Ensure that it is all your own work, UCAS have sophisticated software and check for plagiarism AND similarity
#Don’t repeat yourself
#Use positive and enthusiastic language
#Give examples
#Ask for help - form tutors/Mrs Elliot with editing/redrafting
#Remember you may be called for interview and they may use your personal statement as a basis for the discussion, so be truthful.

==Additional Guidance==
===The role of the Admissions Tutor===
#When you submit your UCAS application for your chosen course at university it will be read by an Admissions Tutor. The Admissions Tutor:
##is a lecturer in the subject
##has been promoted to the position of choosing students for their degree course
##recruits the target number of students to ensure the course is financially viable (jobs can be lost if the target is not reached or even exceeded)
##is a gatekeeper between you and your chosen course can let you pass by giving you an offer (e.g. AAA, BCC, DDE)
##can close the gate by declining to give you an offer
##often starts providing offers as soon as applications are received (though some do wait - but very few!)
#LET YOUR ADMISSIONS TUTORS RECEIVE YOUR APPLICATION EARLY IN THE PROCESS

===Getting an Offer===
#What must you do to get an offer from an admissions tutor? Most importantly, achieve the grades. So...
#don’t miss lessons e.g. attending open days can damage your chances of success if you miss lessons. Instead:
##go on-line to make a virtual tour of a university from the comfort of your computer
##visit a university at the weekend / holidays. You will still get the ‘feel of the place’
#Persuade the admissions tutor you really want to study a particular course.
#Lots of students apply with suitable predicted grades so why offer a place to you? The Admissions Tutor must ensure that you will not drop out once you have started (they lose money if you do) so you must ensure that you impress them with your reasons for wanting that particular course.

===A 'reasonable' personal statement===
#Read the personal statement printed below and underline each experience or key point that appears.
#Count how many experiences or key points have been included in the statement.
#Consider: How might the statement be improved?

Although I enjoy studying Mathematics and Geography, it is Business Studies that I wish to pursue in more depth. I believe a degree in Business will build on my understanding of marketing and financial management. Businesses have to operate within a legal framework and I was lucky enough to shadow a barrister for a day to gain an insight into the legal profession. I hope to study aspects of law as part of my degree.

A range of school opportunities have broadened my experiences. Participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme has been challenging and fulfilling: allowing me to work with a diverse range of people. My voluntary work at Help the Aged proved to be rewarding and gave me a more caring perspective on life. I have also taken part in the ‘Year 7 Friends Scheme’ in which I supported young students during their first
term at school. Taking part in the school drama club as a technician has been fun and has taught me the importance of working to deadlines. I have further pursued my interest in drama and have so far been fortunate to see ‘Twelfth Night’ and ‘Les Miserables’. My role as Deputy Operations Director in the Young Enterprise Scheme has given me an insight into business life. I am interested in the internet and have helped staff redesign the school web site. I hope to learn more about web site design at university. Although no-one could call me a sportsman, I am a keen football player and I regularly visit City of Manchester Stadium to watch Manchester City.

Outside school I belong to the Venture Scouts which has offered opportunities such as gliding and weekend camps to the Peak District. I have managed to balance the demands of my ‘A’ levels with a varied and enjoyable school and social life. I look forward to the opportunities offered at university.

#How many experiences or key points have been included in the statement?
##Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Voluntary work at Help the Aged, Year 7 Friends, Drama club technician, Seen ‘Twelfth Night’ and ‘Les Miserables’, Deputy Operations Director in the Young Enterprise Scheme
##Helped staff redesign the school website, keen football player, Visits Manchester City Football Club, Venture Scouts.
#In all, around ten key points are mentioned.
#How might the statement be improved?
##Far more information needed about why the applicant wishes to read Business Studies at university.
##More detail about relevant experiences such as the Young Enterprise business scheme (e.g. what was the product being marketed? Why did the person enjoy the opportunity? What did the person learn from the experience?)
##Write less of a list of points and provide more depth to a select range of issues
##The applicant could have been more personal about the areas mentioned What did they enjoy and why?
#BUT there are some positive features about the statement...
##Clearly written
##Dealt with choice of course (though not enough)
##Used short sentences, helping it remain grammatically correct
##No spelling errors

===Common pitfalls===
#To find out what mistakes many applicants make read through the following personal statement and attempt the following:
##Put a line through anything that you think should not be included i.e. that does not sell the student.
##Reduce the statement to half the original length.
##Decide why the personal statement does not sell the student

After 12 years of school-study I will be making the most difficult decision and most influential one in my life. Having systematically going through each stage of choosing a suitable degree, I started by choosing a ‘science’ subject rather than an ‘art’ one. Moving on through the field of Physics, relating heavily with Mathematics, I researched the different topics possible in Engineering. With every prospectus I read, I became even more devoted to the course: Mechanical Engineering. The fundamentals of this course can be quite general giving me a wider experience in the Mathematics and Science fields, complying with my eagerness to experience Science and Engineering. The most
intriguing factor of this course, I would say, is what I have always been indulged in; knowing how something operates, moves and to make it better. For me studying the root of our necessities, e.g. electricity, cars and clocks, is fulfilling. Studying in these fields (Mathematics and Physics A-levels) will help me kick-start my degree campaign with enthusiasm and challenge, increasing chances of fitting in well with the course. Aiming to use this study to progress into the world of work with the manner of a fully equipped Engineer, I know that this degree will present myself to the employer as a person of qualities efficient enough to produce upright results from a degree which requires intellectuality, initiative and common sense (in scientific terms). I regard Mechanical Engineering as having a consequential and significant role to play in British industry. Thus, taking a step back I
think that a person to study a degree of this importance to be successful through the 3/4 years should have personal qualities. Working for a multinational company I have had a taste of the responsibilities of these personal qualities; listening to management, working independently to complete the tasks, working to deadlines, using initiative towards problem solving for customer service ... etc. Studying these aspects in the management segment of Business Studies A-level helps me to understand this more clearly, with ways of innovation and motivation for work. Throughout my last 5 school years, using the computer and the Internet has been momentous. From designing
programmes (for I.T. coursework) in Microsoft Access to using the internet to inquire about flight arrangements, and with 40 words-per-minute I have gained sufficient computer skills to use it as a surplus for my future. As a sociable person, I have shown that I can fit into a community new to me (my sixth form). This overlaps the personal qualities aforementioned. I have also worked with children in a nursery, helping teachers. Furthermore, mentoring high school student in preparation for the end of their GCSE’s has given me a differing sensation of tutoring. An important point for a student thinking of entering university is willing to be part of that community. This point will make a difference in the productivity of the student towards the community of the university. For five consecutive years now, I have joined the school football team, playing in most cup and league
matches. Having represented my school in domestic competitions, I have enjoyed the essence of teamwork, winning and losing. More recently, being trained to be a Junior’s coach by the Football
Association has strengthened my management skills. The encouraging factor of sport for me is the social aspect, which I enjoy extensively. An exclusive ubiquity of mine is that I am contented with
mixing my social with my educational life at length making the two important factors in my life none the less unabridged.

#Many students writing their own personal statement repeat some of the problems shown in the statement you have read - though usually, not to the same extent.
#What were the problems?
##Begins like a life story - full of irrelevant information
##Far too long - it will need to be reduced for the on-line application
##Uses language the author clearly doesn’t understand - e.g. in the last line”exclusive ubiquity of mine”. Ubiquitous means ‘everywhere’ so how can it be exclusive?
##Many sentences are too long, making grammatical errors
##Sets out to impress but comes across as arrogant
##Has not been proof read by somebody who could have pointed out many of the problems e.g. many sentences do not make sense.

===Advice from Admissions Tutors===
#The following advice is based on the findings from a survey of over 70 admissions tutors from over 20 subject areas in a wide range of universities.
====How important is the Personal Statement====
#It depends on:
##The Admissions Tutor (some admissions tutors see it as vital, others look at grades alone)
##The nature of the degree (for some courses it is vital, for others it is not)
#The point is, you do not know. So therefore treat it seriously. It can count against you if it is not clearly written.
#It can be important for:
##Selection for an offer (when you apply)
##Selection for an interview
##Asking questions at the interview (make sure you tell the truth: you could be asked about the claims in your statement!)
##Borderline cases (if you are just short of a required grade e.g you need BBB but you are predicted BBC. Remember, though, generally they select those with the grades)
##If you miss the grade in August. (The Admissions Tutor might reconsider you if they have spare places - remember to call them in August if you miss the grade)
#Remember, grades are most important.

====What are Admissions Tutors looking for?====
#Interest in the course (most important)
#No spelling or grammatical mistakes
#Clearly written
#Motivation
#Able to balance studies with non-academic life
#Interesting person
#Work experience (if relevant)
#Wider key skills (e.g. Teamwork)
#Numeracy or Communication (if yet to pass GCSE Maths or English)
#Explanation of unusual degree combinations (should you appear undecided)
#Future career in some cases

====What should you avoid?====
#Waffle
#Swallowing a dictionary
#Statements with no examples or evidence
#Very ordinary interests e.g. going down the pub
#Lying (remember the interview!)
#Becoming somebody you are not
#Rushing
#Thinking you can write it without advice

===Things to do===
#Have a plan of action
#Keep to deadlines
#Find out as much information about the course as possible
#Read advice about writing a personal statement
#Consult books such as Brian Heap’s ‘ Degree Course Offers’
#Read examples of good and bad statements
#Listen to advice but not too much
#Make the most of what you really have done
#Ensure that the person on the page is you
#Give plenty of examples
#Write relatively short sentences
#Expect to draft your statement a number of times (ten drafts is not unreasonable)
#Students who are motivated and interested in the course might be less likely to drop out from university (which could cost the department money in lost revenue) so...
#Try to include some of the following to help you convince an admissions tutor:
##Any relevant books / articles you have read (even writing about a short article in a chapter / journal / a few pages in a book is going to have more of an impact than simply stating you want to study the course)
##Relevant courses you have studied (e.g. why certain AS/A2 or Applied topics interested you. Write about skills you have developed that you believe to be relevant)
##Relevant interviews you have conducted (interviewing somebody who works in your area of interest - e.g. a solicitor, a doctor - talk about specific issues that arose from the interview)
##Experiences that relate to the course (conferences, residential courses, trips, people you have met, something you have read, hobbies, future plans, something you have seen - anything relevant that will convince the admissions tutor that you have given serious thought to the choice of course)
##What interests you about the degree courses? (make sure the areas you focus upon that are taught at university appear on all your choices)

===Things not to do===
#Follow the advice in your hand-out to the letter
#Copy other statements
#Make things up to sound impressive
#Use language that you do not understand
#Many admissions tutors complain of reading statements that appear the same. A response to this problem has been to try to capture the reader’s attention. For example, an applicant for a Law degree wrote: ”Guilty, I confess I want to study Law!” Now this has been used (and published!) you cannot copy it and expect to be original.
#For a Politics degree a student wrote a quote from a former government minister, Dennis Healey, “If we can keep our heads the long-awaited economic miracle is in our grasp.”
#Many admissions tutors now complain that students are copying these ideas and so they are no longer original!
#So how will you write a unique personal statement?
##By writing about why you really wish to study your chosen course (by showing that you know something about the course).
##By writing about the topics you are looking forward to studying on that course in a genuine way.
##By writing a brief account about you (hobbies, experiences)
#Nobody is likely to have all the responses to the above.

Your Personal Statement

2022-08-23T11:00:53Z

Sthe12: /* 2 - Suitability */

==Introduction==
Your personal statement allows you to to demonstrate to the university that you have thoroughly researched the course, you have a passionate interest in the subject and really want to study it. Your personal statement...
#Carries a lot of weight with universities
#Demonstrates your reasons for applying
#Is the first and often only chance to ‘sell yourself’ to your university choices
#An opportunity to create a good impression to Admissions Tutors

==Getting started==
Start by brainstorming all your achievements/strengths that you want to include, then
#Write a draft version and condense it afterwards
#Construct it through key paragraphs
#Keep sentences short and to the point
#Avoid clichés
#Be Original – don’t make them yawn

===What do they want to know===
#That you have already begun to devote yourself to a serious study of your chosen field.
#This subject is the admissions tutor’s life’s work so they want to teach students who are as passionate about the subject as they are.

===How do I make a good impression?===
Show motivation - what extra-curricular reading/activities have you done?
#Be enthusiastic about your chosen course
#Show your enthusiasm for academia and learning generally
#Show what kind of person you are outside academia
#Show your personality, interests, achievement and relevant work experience
#Show that you are a well-rounded individual
#Be careful not to make it specific to one university

===Transferable skills===
Wider life experiences are important. Display transferable skills such as teamwork, leadership, communication, enterprising and organisational skills as well as maturity and dependability. #Think about your part-time work, taking part in sports, being a prefect etc - how have these helped you to be more organised, communicate effectively and prioritise your time? How will these skills help in your chosen course?

===Don’t state, evaluate!===
#What effect has your experience had on you? What did you learn from a particular experience and how will that benefit you in your chosen course?
#Don’t say ‘I was captain of the rugby team’ say ‘My experience as captain of the rugby team has taught me the importance of teamwork as well as leadership, both important skills I will bring to university life’.

===Be Specific===
#Don’t say you’ll make a good doctor if you can’t say why. Don’t say you ‘enjoy history’ – give examples of your knowledge of history and what, in particular, fascinates you - if this is outside the curriculum, then so much the better.
#Research the modules taught on the course (look at the course information page and most especially the entry profiles on the UCAS website) and refer to them in your personal statement - as long as they are common across all of the courses you are applying for.

===Keep it short and to the point===
Remember that by the time it gets to the admissions tutor it is reduced and difficult to read, so don’t feel you have to use up all your word count.

==Suggested Structure==
Write 4 key paragraphs – weight it three quarters about your course choice and why you have made it and one quarter about yourself:
===Opening - Explain your choice of subject===
The most important paragraph you will write - grab the reader’s attention or lose it
#Outline why you are interested in the subject(s). Why does the course appeal to you?
#Does your current study have relevance to your subject choices?
#Demonstrates that you are well motivated and enthusiastic about your chosen subject area

===2 - Suitability===
Describe your suitability for the course – use the entry profiles on the UCAS website extensively here
#What transferable skills have you gained from your current A levels?
#How are these relevant to your chosen degree subject? Unsure? Check out course entry profiles (EP’s) at www.ucas.com
#Has this study sparked your interest or affected your degree course choices?
#What have you particularly enjoyed?
#Detail any work experience or voluntary work, particularly if relevant to your subject choices
#Even if these are broad, include an outline of the field in which you hope to work
#Identify additional skills that you have gained

===4 - The person behind the form===
Why should they admit you? What is special, unique, distinctive and/or impressive about you or your life?
#What makes you different to all the other people who are applying eg Duke of Edinburgh/ Cadets/travel.
#You are a real human being and as such you are interesting
#Describe yourself – your skills, strengths and personality - but don’t just list points
#Outline your academic/social achievements
#Describe your sporting and leisure interests
#Are you planning a gap year? If so, what are you planning to do?

==Top tips==
#Be meticulous
#Type and proof read your statement very carefully.
#Accuracy – spelling and grammar, correct use of language, capitalisation – very important to admissions tutors
#Be clear and concise – pay attention to detail
#Ensure that it is all your own work, UCAS have sophisticated software and check for plagiarism AND similarity
#Don’t repeat yourself
#Use positive and enthusiastic language
#Give examples
#Ask for help - form tutors/Mrs Elliot with editing/redrafting
#Remember you may be called for interview and they may use your personal statement as a basis for the discussion, so be truthful.

==Additional Guidance==
===The role of the Admissions Tutor===
#When you submit your UCAS application for your chosen course at university it will be read by an Admissions Tutor. The Admissions Tutor:
##is a lecturer in the subject
##has been promoted to the position of choosing students for their degree course
##recruits the target number of students to ensure the course is financially viable (jobs can be lost if the target is not reached or even exceeded)
##is a gatekeeper between you and your chosen course can let you pass by giving you an offer (e.g. AAA, BCC, DDE)
##can close the gate by declining to give you an offer
##often starts providing offers as soon as applications are received (though some do wait - but very few!)
#LET YOUR ADMISSIONS TUTORS RECEIVE YOUR APPLICATION EARLY IN THE PROCESS

===Getting an Offer===
#What must you do to get an offer from an admissions tutor? Most importantly, achieve the grades. So...
#don’t miss lessons e.g. attending open days can damage your chances of success if you miss lessons. Instead:
##go on-line to make a virtual tour of a university from the comfort of your computer
##visit a university at the weekend / holidays. You will still get the ‘feel of the place’
#Persuade the admissions tutor you really want to study a particular course.
#Lots of students apply with suitable predicted grades so why offer a place to you? The Admissions Tutor must ensure that you will not drop out once you have started (they lose money if you do) so you must ensure that you impress them with your reasons for wanting that particular course.

===A 'reasonable' personal statement===
#Read the personal statement printed below and underline each experience or key point that appears.
#Count how many experiences or key points have been included in the statement.
#Consider: How might the statement be improved?

Although I enjoy studying Mathematics and Geography, it is Business Studies that I wish to pursue in more depth. I believe a degree in Business will build on my understanding of marketing and financial management. Businesses have to operate within a legal framework and I was lucky enough to shadow a barrister for a day to gain an insight into the legal profession. I hope to study aspects of law as part of my degree.

A range of school opportunities have broadened my experiences. Participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme has been challenging and fulfilling: allowing me to work with a diverse range of people. My voluntary work at Help the Aged proved to be rewarding and gave me a more caring perspective on life. I have also taken part in the ‘Year 7 Friends Scheme’ in which I supported young students during their first
term at school. Taking part in the school drama club as a technician has been fun and has taught me the importance of working to deadlines. I have further pursued my interest in drama and have so far been fortunate to see ‘Twelfth Night’ and ‘Les Miserables’. My role as Deputy Operations Director in the Young Enterprise Scheme has given me an insight into business life. I am interested in the internet and have helped staff redesign the school web site. I hope to learn more about web site design at university. Although no-one could call me a sportsman, I am a keen football player and I regularly visit City of Manchester Stadium to watch Manchester City.

Outside school I belong to the Venture Scouts which has offered opportunities such as gliding and weekend camps to the Peak District. I have managed to balance the demands of my ‘A’ levels with a varied and enjoyable school and social life. I look forward to the opportunities offered at university.

#How many experiences or key points have been included in the statement?
##Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Voluntary work at Help the Aged, Year 7 Friends, Drama club technician, Seen ‘Twelfth Night’ and ‘Les Miserables’, Deputy Operations Director in the Young Enterprise Scheme
##Helped staff redesign the school website, keen football player, Visits Manchester City Football Club, Venture Scouts.
#In all, around ten key points are mentioned.
#How might the statement be improved?
##Far more information needed about why the applicant wishes to read Business Studies at university.
##More detail about relevant experiences such as the Young Enterprise business scheme (e.g. what was the product being marketed? Why did the person enjoy the opportunity? What did the person learn from the experience?)
##Write less of a list of points and provide more depth to a select range of issues
##The applicant could have been more personal about the areas mentioned What did they enjoy and why?
#BUT there are some positive features about the statement...
##Clearly written
##Dealt with choice of course (though not enough)
##Used short sentences, helping it remain grammatically correct
##No spelling errors

===Common pitfalls===
#To find out what mistakes many applicants make read through the following personal statement and attempt the following:
##Put a line through anything that you think should not be included i.e. that does not sell the student.
##Reduce the statement to half the original length.
##Decide why the personal statement does not sell the student

After 12 years of school-study I will be making the most difficult decision and most influential one in my life. Having systematically going through each stage of choosing a suitable degree, I started by choosing a ‘science’ subject rather than an ‘art’ one. Moving on through the field of Physics, relating heavily with Mathematics, I researched the different topics possible in Engineering. With every prospectus I read, I became even more devoted to the course: Mechanical Engineering. The fundamentals of this course can be quite general giving me a wider experience in the Mathematics and Science fields, complying with my eagerness to experience Science and Engineering. The most
intriguing factor of this course, I would say, is what I have always been indulged in; knowing how something operates, moves and to make it better. For me studying the root of our necessities, e.g. electricity, cars and clocks, is fulfilling. Studying in these fields (Mathematics and Physics A-levels) will help me kick-start my degree campaign with enthusiasm and challenge, increasing chances of fitting in well with the course. Aiming to use this study to progress into the world of work with the manner of a fully equipped Engineer, I know that this degree will present myself to the employer as a person of qualities efficient enough to produce upright results from a degree which requires intellectuality, initiative and common sense (in scientific terms). I regard Mechanical Engineering as having a consequential and significant role to play in British industry. Thus, taking a step back I
think that a person to study a degree of this importance to be successful through the 3/4 years should have personal qualities. Working for a multinational company I have had a taste of the responsibilities of these personal qualities; listening to management, working independently to complete the tasks, working to deadlines, using initiative towards problem solving for customer service ... etc. Studying these aspects in the management segment of Business Studies A-level helps me to understand this more clearly, with ways of innovation and motivation for work. Throughout my last 5 school years, using the computer and the Internet has been momentous. From designing
programmes (for I.T. coursework) in Microsoft Access to using the internet to inquire about flight arrangements, and with 40 words-per-minute I have gained sufficient computer skills to use it as a surplus for my future. As a sociable person, I have shown that I can fit into a community new to me (my sixth form). This overlaps the personal qualities aforementioned. I have also worked with children in a nursery, helping teachers. Furthermore, mentoring high school student in preparation for the end of their GCSE’s has given me a differing sensation of tutoring. An important point for a student thinking of entering university is willing to be part of that community. This point will make a difference in the productivity of the student towards the community of the university. For five consecutive years now, I have joined the school football team, playing in most cup and league
matches. Having represented my school in domestic competitions, I have enjoyed the essence of teamwork, winning and losing. More recently, being trained to be a Junior’s coach by the Football
Association has strengthened my management skills. The encouraging factor of sport for me is the social aspect, which I enjoy extensively. An exclusive ubiquity of mine is that I am contented with
mixing my social with my educational life at length making the two important factors in my life none the less unabridged.

#Many students writing their own personal statement repeat some of the problems shown in the statement you have read - though usually, not to the same extent.
#What were the problems?
##Begins like a life story - full of irrelevant information
##Far too long - it will need to be reduced for the on-line application
##Uses language the author clearly doesn’t understand - e.g. in the last line”exclusive ubiquity of mine”. Ubiquitous means ‘everywhere’ so how can it be exclusive?
##Many sentences are too long, making grammatical errors
##Sets out to impress but comes across as arrogant
##Has not been proof read by somebody who could have pointed out many of the problems e.g. many sentences do not make sense.

===Advice from Admissions Tutors===
#The following advice is based on the findings from a survey of over 70 admissions tutors from over 20 subject areas in a wide range of universities.
====How important is the Personal Statement====
#It depends on:
##The Admissions Tutor (some admissions tutors see it as vital, others look at grades alone)
##The nature of the degree (for some courses it is vital, for others it is not)
#The point is, you do not know. So therefore treat it seriously. It can count against you if it is not clearly written.
#It can be important for:
##Selection for an offer (when you apply)
##Selection for an interview
##Asking questions at the interview (make sure you tell the truth: you could be asked about the claims in your statement!)
##Borderline cases (if you are just short of a required grade e.g you need BBB but you are predicted BBC. Remember, though, generally they select those with the grades)
##If you miss the grade in August. (The Admissions Tutor might reconsider you if they have spare places - remember to call them in August if you miss the grade)
#Remember, grades are most important.

====What are Admissions Tutors looking for?====
#Interest in the course (most important)
#No spelling or grammatical mistakes
#Clearly written
#Motivation
#Able to balance studies with non-academic life
#Interesting person
#Work experience (if relevant)
#Wider key skills (e.g. Teamwork)
#Numeracy or Communication (if yet to pass GCSE Maths or English)
#Explanation of unusual degree combinations (should you appear undecided)
#Future career in some cases

====What should you avoid?====
#Waffle
#Swallowing a dictionary
#Statements with no examples or evidence
#Very ordinary interests e.g. going down the pub
#Lying (remember the interview!)
#Becoming somebody you are not
#Rushing
#Thinking you can write it without advice

===Things to do===
#Have a plan of action
#Keep to deadlines
#Find out as much information about the course as possible
#Read advice about writing a personal statement
#Consult books such as Brian Heap’s ‘ Degree Course Offers’
#Read examples of good and bad statements
#Listen to advice but not too much
#Make the most of what you really have done
#Ensure that the person on the page is you
#Give plenty of examples
#Write relatively short sentences
#Expect to draft your statement a number of times (ten drafts is not unreasonable)
#Students who are motivated and interested in the course might be less likely to drop out from university (which could cost the department money in lost revenue) so...
#Try to include some of the following to help you convince an admissions tutor:
##Any relevant books / articles you have read (even writing about a short article in a chapter / journal / a few pages in a book is going to have more of an impact than simply stating you want to study the course)
##Relevant courses you have studied (e.g. why certain AS/A2 or Applied topics interested you. Write about skills you have developed that you believe to be relevant)
##Relevant interviews you have conducted (interviewing somebody who works in your area of interest - e.g. a solicitor, a doctor - talk about specific issues that arose from the interview)
##Experiences that relate to the course (conferences, residential courses, trips, people you have met, something you have read, hobbies, future plans, something you have seen - anything relevant that will convince the admissions tutor that you have given serious thought to the choice of course)
##What interests you about the degree courses? (make sure the areas you focus upon that are taught at university appear on all your choices)

===Things not to do===
#Follow the advice in your hand-out to the letter
#Copy other statements
#Make things up to sound impressive
#Use language that you do not understand
#Many admissions tutors complain of reading statements that appear the same. A response to this problem has been to try to capture the reader’s attention. For example, an applicant for a Law degree wrote: ”Guilty, I confess I want to study Law!” Now this has been used (and published!) you cannot copy it and expect to be original.
#For a Politics degree a student wrote a quote from a former government minister, Dennis Healey, “If we can keep our heads the long-awaited economic miracle is in our grasp.”
#Many admissions tutors now complain that students are copying these ideas and so they are no longer original!
#So how will you write a unique personal statement?
##By writing about why you really wish to study your chosen course (by showing that you know something about the course).
##By writing about the topics you are looking forward to studying on that course in a genuine way.
##By writing a brief account about you (hobbies, experiences)
#Nobody is likely to have all the responses to the above.

Your Personal Statement

2022-08-23T11:00:29Z

Sthe12: /* 3 - Longer-term career objectives */

==Introduction==
Your personal statement allows you to to demonstrate to the university that you have thoroughly researched the course, you have a passionate interest in the subject and really want to study it. Your personal statement...
#Carries a lot of weight with universities
#Demonstrates your reasons for applying
#Is the first and often only chance to ‘sell yourself’ to your university choices
#An opportunity to create a good impression to Admissions Tutors

==Getting started==
Start by brainstorming all your achievements/strengths that you want to include, then
#Write a draft version and condense it afterwards
#Construct it through key paragraphs
#Keep sentences short and to the point
#Avoid clichés
#Be Original – don’t make them yawn

===What do they want to know===
#That you have already begun to devote yourself to a serious study of your chosen field.
#This subject is the admissions tutor’s life’s work so they want to teach students who are as passionate about the subject as they are.

===How do I make a good impression?===
Show motivation - what extra-curricular reading/activities have you done?
#Be enthusiastic about your chosen course
#Show your enthusiasm for academia and learning generally
#Show what kind of person you are outside academia
#Show your personality, interests, achievement and relevant work experience
#Show that you are a well-rounded individual
#Be careful not to make it specific to one university

===Transferable skills===
Wider life experiences are important. Display transferable skills such as teamwork, leadership, communication, enterprising and organisational skills as well as maturity and dependability. #Think about your part-time work, taking part in sports, being a prefect etc - how have these helped you to be more organised, communicate effectively and prioritise your time? How will these skills help in your chosen course?

===Don’t state, evaluate!===
#What effect has your experience had on you? What did you learn from a particular experience and how will that benefit you in your chosen course?
#Don’t say ‘I was captain of the rugby team’ say ‘My experience as captain of the rugby team has taught me the importance of teamwork as well as leadership, both important skills I will bring to university life’.

===Be Specific===
#Don’t say you’ll make a good doctor if you can’t say why. Don’t say you ‘enjoy history’ – give examples of your knowledge of history and what, in particular, fascinates you - if this is outside the curriculum, then so much the better.
#Research the modules taught on the course (look at the course information page and most especially the entry profiles on the UCAS website) and refer to them in your personal statement - as long as they are common across all of the courses you are applying for.

===Keep it short and to the point===
Remember that by the time it gets to the admissions tutor it is reduced and difficult to read, so don’t feel you have to use up all your word count.

==Suggested Structure==
Write 4 key paragraphs – weight it three quarters about your course choice and why you have made it and one quarter about yourself:
===Opening - Explain your choice of subject===
The most important paragraph you will write - grab the reader’s attention or lose it
#Outline why you are interested in the subject(s). Why does the course appeal to you?
#Does your current study have relevance to your subject choices?
#Demonstrates that you are well motivated and enthusiastic about your chosen subject area

===2 - Suitability===
Describe your suitability for the course – use the entry profiles on the UCAS website extensively here
#What transferable skills have you gained from your current A levels?
#How are these relevant to your chosen degree subject? Unsure? Check out course entry profiles (EP’s) at www.ucas.com
#Has this study sparked your interest or affected your degree course choices?
#What have you particularly enjoyed?

===4 - The person behind the form===
Why should they admit you? What is special, unique, distinctive and/or impressive about you or your life?
#What makes you different to all the other people who are applying eg Duke of Edinburgh/ Cadets/travel.
#You are a real human being and as such you are interesting
#Describe yourself – your skills, strengths and personality - but don’t just list points
#Outline your academic/social achievements
#Describe your sporting and leisure interests
#Are you planning a gap year? If so, what are you planning to do?

==Top tips==
#Be meticulous
#Type and proof read your statement very carefully.
#Accuracy – spelling and grammar, correct use of language, capitalisation – very important to admissions tutors
#Be clear and concise – pay attention to detail
#Ensure that it is all your own work, UCAS have sophisticated software and check for plagiarism AND similarity
#Don’t repeat yourself
#Use positive and enthusiastic language
#Give examples
#Ask for help - form tutors/Mrs Elliot with editing/redrafting
#Remember you may be called for interview and they may use your personal statement as a basis for the discussion, so be truthful.

==Additional Guidance==
===The role of the Admissions Tutor===
#When you submit your UCAS application for your chosen course at university it will be read by an Admissions Tutor. The Admissions Tutor:
##is a lecturer in the subject
##has been promoted to the position of choosing students for their degree course
##recruits the target number of students to ensure the course is financially viable (jobs can be lost if the target is not reached or even exceeded)
##is a gatekeeper between you and your chosen course can let you pass by giving you an offer (e.g. AAA, BCC, DDE)
##can close the gate by declining to give you an offer
##often starts providing offers as soon as applications are received (though some do wait - but very few!)
#LET YOUR ADMISSIONS TUTORS RECEIVE YOUR APPLICATION EARLY IN THE PROCESS

===Getting an Offer===
#What must you do to get an offer from an admissions tutor? Most importantly, achieve the grades. So...
#don’t miss lessons e.g. attending open days can damage your chances of success if you miss lessons. Instead:
##go on-line to make a virtual tour of a university from the comfort of your computer
##visit a university at the weekend / holidays. You will still get the ‘feel of the place’
#Persuade the admissions tutor you really want to study a particular course.
#Lots of students apply with suitable predicted grades so why offer a place to you? The Admissions Tutor must ensure that you will not drop out once you have started (they lose money if you do) so you must ensure that you impress them with your reasons for wanting that particular course.

===A 'reasonable' personal statement===
#Read the personal statement printed below and underline each experience or key point that appears.
#Count how many experiences or key points have been included in the statement.
#Consider: How might the statement be improved?

Although I enjoy studying Mathematics and Geography, it is Business Studies that I wish to pursue in more depth. I believe a degree in Business will build on my understanding of marketing and financial management. Businesses have to operate within a legal framework and I was lucky enough to shadow a barrister for a day to gain an insight into the legal profession. I hope to study aspects of law as part of my degree.

A range of school opportunities have broadened my experiences. Participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme has been challenging and fulfilling: allowing me to work with a diverse range of people. My voluntary work at Help the Aged proved to be rewarding and gave me a more caring perspective on life. I have also taken part in the ‘Year 7 Friends Scheme’ in which I supported young students during their first
term at school. Taking part in the school drama club as a technician has been fun and has taught me the importance of working to deadlines. I have further pursued my interest in drama and have so far been fortunate to see ‘Twelfth Night’ and ‘Les Miserables’. My role as Deputy Operations Director in the Young Enterprise Scheme has given me an insight into business life. I am interested in the internet and have helped staff redesign the school web site. I hope to learn more about web site design at university. Although no-one could call me a sportsman, I am a keen football player and I regularly visit City of Manchester Stadium to watch Manchester City.

Outside school I belong to the Venture Scouts which has offered opportunities such as gliding and weekend camps to the Peak District. I have managed to balance the demands of my ‘A’ levels with a varied and enjoyable school and social life. I look forward to the opportunities offered at university.

#How many experiences or key points have been included in the statement?
##Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Voluntary work at Help the Aged, Year 7 Friends, Drama club technician, Seen ‘Twelfth Night’ and ‘Les Miserables’, Deputy Operations Director in the Young Enterprise Scheme
##Helped staff redesign the school website, keen football player, Visits Manchester City Football Club, Venture Scouts.
#In all, around ten key points are mentioned.
#How might the statement be improved?
##Far more information needed about why the applicant wishes to read Business Studies at university.
##More detail about relevant experiences such as the Young Enterprise business scheme (e.g. what was the product being marketed? Why did the person enjoy the opportunity? What did the person learn from the experience?)
##Write less of a list of points and provide more depth to a select range of issues
##The applicant could have been more personal about the areas mentioned What did they enjoy and why?
#BUT there are some positive features about the statement...
##Clearly written
##Dealt with choice of course (though not enough)
##Used short sentences, helping it remain grammatically correct
##No spelling errors

===Common pitfalls===
#To find out what mistakes many applicants make read through the following personal statement and attempt the following:
##Put a line through anything that you think should not be included i.e. that does not sell the student.
##Reduce the statement to half the original length.
##Decide why the personal statement does not sell the student

After 12 years of school-study I will be making the most difficult decision and most influential one in my life. Having systematically going through each stage of choosing a suitable degree, I started by choosing a ‘science’ subject rather than an ‘art’ one. Moving on through the field of Physics, relating heavily with Mathematics, I researched the different topics possible in Engineering. With every prospectus I read, I became even more devoted to the course: Mechanical Engineering. The fundamentals of this course can be quite general giving me a wider experience in the Mathematics and Science fields, complying with my eagerness to experience Science and Engineering. The most
intriguing factor of this course, I would say, is what I have always been indulged in; knowing how something operates, moves and to make it better. For me studying the root of our necessities, e.g. electricity, cars and clocks, is fulfilling. Studying in these fields (Mathematics and Physics A-levels) will help me kick-start my degree campaign with enthusiasm and challenge, increasing chances of fitting in well with the course. Aiming to use this study to progress into the world of work with the manner of a fully equipped Engineer, I know that this degree will present myself to the employer as a person of qualities efficient enough to produce upright results from a degree which requires intellectuality, initiative and common sense (in scientific terms). I regard Mechanical Engineering as having a consequential and significant role to play in British industry. Thus, taking a step back I
think that a person to study a degree of this importance to be successful through the 3/4 years should have personal qualities. Working for a multinational company I have had a taste of the responsibilities of these personal qualities; listening to management, working independently to complete the tasks, working to deadlines, using initiative towards problem solving for customer service ... etc. Studying these aspects in the management segment of Business Studies A-level helps me to understand this more clearly, with ways of innovation and motivation for work. Throughout my last 5 school years, using the computer and the Internet has been momentous. From designing
programmes (for I.T. coursework) in Microsoft Access to using the internet to inquire about flight arrangements, and with 40 words-per-minute I have gained sufficient computer skills to use it as a surplus for my future. As a sociable person, I have shown that I can fit into a community new to me (my sixth form). This overlaps the personal qualities aforementioned. I have also worked with children in a nursery, helping teachers. Furthermore, mentoring high school student in preparation for the end of their GCSE’s has given me a differing sensation of tutoring. An important point for a student thinking of entering university is willing to be part of that community. This point will make a difference in the productivity of the student towards the community of the university. For five consecutive years now, I have joined the school football team, playing in most cup and league
matches. Having represented my school in domestic competitions, I have enjoyed the essence of teamwork, winning and losing. More recently, being trained to be a Junior’s coach by the Football
Association has strengthened my management skills. The encouraging factor of sport for me is the social aspect, which I enjoy extensively. An exclusive ubiquity of mine is that I am contented with
mixing my social with my educational life at length making the two important factors in my life none the less unabridged.

#Many students writing their own personal statement repeat some of the problems shown in the statement you have read - though usually, not to the same extent.
#What were the problems?
##Begins like a life story - full of irrelevant information
##Far too long - it will need to be reduced for the on-line application
##Uses language the author clearly doesn’t understand - e.g. in the last line”exclusive ubiquity of mine”. Ubiquitous means ‘everywhere’ so how can it be exclusive?
##Many sentences are too long, making grammatical errors
##Sets out to impress but comes across as arrogant
##Has not been proof read by somebody who could have pointed out many of the problems e.g. many sentences do not make sense.

===Advice from Admissions Tutors===
#The following advice is based on the findings from a survey of over 70 admissions tutors from over 20 subject areas in a wide range of universities.
====How important is the Personal Statement====
#It depends on:
##The Admissions Tutor (some admissions tutors see it as vital, others look at grades alone)
##The nature of the degree (for some courses it is vital, for others it is not)
#The point is, you do not know. So therefore treat it seriously. It can count against you if it is not clearly written.
#It can be important for:
##Selection for an offer (when you apply)
##Selection for an interview
##Asking questions at the interview (make sure you tell the truth: you could be asked about the claims in your statement!)
##Borderline cases (if you are just short of a required grade e.g you need BBB but you are predicted BBC. Remember, though, generally they select those with the grades)
##If you miss the grade in August. (The Admissions Tutor might reconsider you if they have spare places - remember to call them in August if you miss the grade)
#Remember, grades are most important.

====What are Admissions Tutors looking for?====
#Interest in the course (most important)
#No spelling or grammatical mistakes
#Clearly written
#Motivation
#Able to balance studies with non-academic life
#Interesting person
#Work experience (if relevant)
#Wider key skills (e.g. Teamwork)
#Numeracy or Communication (if yet to pass GCSE Maths or English)
#Explanation of unusual degree combinations (should you appear undecided)
#Future career in some cases

====What should you avoid?====
#Waffle
#Swallowing a dictionary
#Statements with no examples or evidence
#Very ordinary interests e.g. going down the pub
#Lying (remember the interview!)
#Becoming somebody you are not
#Rushing
#Thinking you can write it without advice

===Things to do===
#Have a plan of action
#Keep to deadlines
#Find out as much information about the course as possible
#Read advice about writing a personal statement
#Consult books such as Brian Heap’s ‘ Degree Course Offers’
#Read examples of good and bad statements
#Listen to advice but not too much
#Make the most of what you really have done
#Ensure that the person on the page is you
#Give plenty of examples
#Write relatively short sentences
#Expect to draft your statement a number of times (ten drafts is not unreasonable)
#Students who are motivated and interested in the course might be less likely to drop out from university (which could cost the department money in lost revenue) so...
#Try to include some of the following to help you convince an admissions tutor:
##Any relevant books / articles you have read (even writing about a short article in a chapter / journal / a few pages in a book is going to have more of an impact than simply stating you want to study the course)
##Relevant courses you have studied (e.g. why certain AS/A2 or Applied topics interested you. Write about skills you have developed that you believe to be relevant)
##Relevant interviews you have conducted (interviewing somebody who works in your area of interest - e.g. a solicitor, a doctor - talk about specific issues that arose from the interview)
##Experiences that relate to the course (conferences, residential courses, trips, people you have met, something you have read, hobbies, future plans, something you have seen - anything relevant that will convince the admissions tutor that you have given serious thought to the choice of course)
##What interests you about the degree courses? (make sure the areas you focus upon that are taught at university appear on all your choices)

===Things not to do===
#Follow the advice in your hand-out to the letter
#Copy other statements
#Make things up to sound impressive
#Use language that you do not understand
#Many admissions tutors complain of reading statements that appear the same. A response to this problem has been to try to capture the reader’s attention. For example, an applicant for a Law degree wrote: ”Guilty, I confess I want to study Law!” Now this has been used (and published!) you cannot copy it and expect to be original.
#For a Politics degree a student wrote a quote from a former government minister, Dennis Healey, “If we can keep our heads the long-awaited economic miracle is in our grasp.”
#Many admissions tutors now complain that students are copying these ideas and so they are no longer original!
#So how will you write a unique personal statement?
##By writing about why you really wish to study your chosen course (by showing that you know something about the course).
##By writing about the topics you are looking forward to studying on that course in a genuine way.
##By writing a brief account about you (hobbies, experiences)
#Nobody is likely to have all the responses to the above.

Your Personal Statement

2022-08-23T10:56:00Z

Sthe12: /* Top tips */

==Introduction==
Your personal statement allows you to to demonstrate to the university that you have thoroughly researched the course, you have a passionate interest in the subject and really want to study it. Your personal statement...
#Carries a lot of weight with universities
#Demonstrates your reasons for applying
#Is the first and often only chance to ‘sell yourself’ to your university choices
#An opportunity to create a good impression to Admissions Tutors

==Getting started==
Start by brainstorming all your achievements/strengths that you want to include, then
#Write a draft version and condense it afterwards
#Construct it through key paragraphs
#Keep sentences short and to the point
#Avoid clichés
#Be Original – don’t make them yawn

===What do they want to know===
#That you have already begun to devote yourself to a serious study of your chosen field.
#This subject is the admissions tutor’s life’s work so they want to teach students who are as passionate about the subject as they are.

===How do I make a good impression?===
Show motivation - what extra-curricular reading/activities have you done?
#Be enthusiastic about your chosen course
#Show your enthusiasm for academia and learning generally
#Show what kind of person you are outside academia
#Show your personality, interests, achievement and relevant work experience
#Show that you are a well-rounded individual
#Be careful not to make it specific to one university

===Transferable skills===
Wider life experiences are important. Display transferable skills such as teamwork, leadership, communication, enterprising and organisational skills as well as maturity and dependability. #Think about your part-time work, taking part in sports, being a prefect etc - how have these helped you to be more organised, communicate effectively and prioritise your time? How will these skills help in your chosen course?

===Don’t state, evaluate!===
#What effect has your experience had on you? What did you learn from a particular experience and how will that benefit you in your chosen course?
#Don’t say ‘I was captain of the rugby team’ say ‘My experience as captain of the rugby team has taught me the importance of teamwork as well as leadership, both important skills I will bring to university life’.

===Be Specific===
#Don’t say you’ll make a good doctor if you can’t say why. Don’t say you ‘enjoy history’ – give examples of your knowledge of history and what, in particular, fascinates you - if this is outside the curriculum, then so much the better.
#Research the modules taught on the course (look at the course information page and most especially the entry profiles on the UCAS website) and refer to them in your personal statement - as long as they are common across all of the courses you are applying for.

===Keep it short and to the point===
Remember that by the time it gets to the admissions tutor it is reduced and difficult to read, so don’t feel you have to use up all your word count.

==Suggested Structure==
Write 4 key paragraphs – weight it three quarters about your course choice and why you have made it and one quarter about yourself:
===Opening - Explain your choice of subject===
The most important paragraph you will write - grab the reader’s attention or lose it
#Outline why you are interested in the subject(s). Why does the course appeal to you?
#Does your current study have relevance to your subject choices?
#Demonstrates that you are well motivated and enthusiastic about your chosen subject area

===2 - Suitability===
Describe your suitability for the course – use the entry profiles on the UCAS website extensively here
#What transferable skills have you gained from your current A levels?
#How are these relevant to your chosen degree subject? Unsure? Check out course entry profiles (EP’s) at www.ucas.com
#Has this study sparked your interest or affected your degree course choices?
#What have you particularly enjoyed?

===3 - Longer-term career objectives===
#Detail any work experience or voluntary work, particularly if relevant to your subject choices
#Even if these are broad, include an outline of the field in which you hope to work
#Identify additional skills that you have gained

===4 - The person behind the form===
Why should they admit you? What is special, unique, distinctive and/or impressive about you or your life?
#What makes you different to all the other people who are applying eg Duke of Edinburgh/ Cadets/travel.
#You are a real human being and as such you are interesting
#Describe yourself – your skills, strengths and personality - but don’t just list points
#Outline your academic/social achievements
#Describe your sporting and leisure interests
#Are you planning a gap year? If so, what are you planning to do?

==Top tips==
#Be meticulous
#Type and proof read your statement very carefully.
#Accuracy – spelling and grammar, correct use of language, capitalisation – very important to admissions tutors
#Be clear and concise – pay attention to detail
#Ensure that it is all your own work, UCAS have sophisticated software and check for plagiarism AND similarity
#Don’t repeat yourself
#Use positive and enthusiastic language
#Give examples
#Ask for help - form tutors/Mrs Elliot with editing/redrafting
#Remember you may be called for interview and they may use your personal statement as a basis for the discussion, so be truthful.

==Additional Guidance==
===The role of the Admissions Tutor===
#When you submit your UCAS application for your chosen course at university it will be read by an Admissions Tutor. The Admissions Tutor:
##is a lecturer in the subject
##has been promoted to the position of choosing students for their degree course
##recruits the target number of students to ensure the course is financially viable (jobs can be lost if the target is not reached or even exceeded)
##is a gatekeeper between you and your chosen course can let you pass by giving you an offer (e.g. AAA, BCC, DDE)
##can close the gate by declining to give you an offer
##often starts providing offers as soon as applications are received (though some do wait - but very few!)
#LET YOUR ADMISSIONS TUTORS RECEIVE YOUR APPLICATION EARLY IN THE PROCESS

===Getting an Offer===
#What must you do to get an offer from an admissions tutor? Most importantly, achieve the grades. So...
#don’t miss lessons e.g. attending open days can damage your chances of success if you miss lessons. Instead:
##go on-line to make a virtual tour of a university from the comfort of your computer
##visit a university at the weekend / holidays. You will still get the ‘feel of the place’
#Persuade the admissions tutor you really want to study a particular course.
#Lots of students apply with suitable predicted grades so why offer a place to you? The Admissions Tutor must ensure that you will not drop out once you have started (they lose money if you do) so you must ensure that you impress them with your reasons for wanting that particular course.

===A 'reasonable' personal statement===
#Read the personal statement printed below and underline each experience or key point that appears.
#Count how many experiences or key points have been included in the statement.
#Consider: How might the statement be improved?

Although I enjoy studying Mathematics and Geography, it is Business Studies that I wish to pursue in more depth. I believe a degree in Business will build on my understanding of marketing and financial management. Businesses have to operate within a legal framework and I was lucky enough to shadow a barrister for a day to gain an insight into the legal profession. I hope to study aspects of law as part of my degree.

A range of school opportunities have broadened my experiences. Participation in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme has been challenging and fulfilling: allowing me to work with a diverse range of people. My voluntary work at Help the Aged proved to be rewarding and gave me a more caring perspective on life. I have also taken part in the ‘Year 7 Friends Scheme’ in which I supported young students during their first
term at school. Taking part in the school drama club as a technician has been fun and has taught me the importance of working to deadlines. I have further pursued my interest in drama and have so far been fortunate to see ‘Twelfth Night’ and ‘Les Miserables’. My role as Deputy Operations Director in the Young Enterprise Scheme has given me an insight into business life. I am interested in the internet and have helped staff redesign the school web site. I hope to learn more about web site design at university. Although no-one could call me a sportsman, I am a keen football player and I regularly visit City of Manchester Stadium to watch Manchester City.

Outside school I belong to the Venture Scouts which has offered opportunities such as gliding and weekend camps to the Peak District. I have managed to balance the demands of my ‘A’ levels with a varied and enjoyable school and social life. I look forward to the opportunities offered at university.

#How many experiences or key points have been included in the statement?
##Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Voluntary work at Help the Aged, Year 7 Friends, Drama club technician, Seen ‘Twelfth Night’ and ‘Les Miserables’, Deputy Operations Director in the Young Enterprise Scheme
##Helped staff redesign the school website, keen football player, Visits Manchester City Football Club, Venture Scouts.
#In all, around ten key points are mentioned.
#How might the statement be improved?
##Far more information needed about why the applicant wishes to read Business Studies at university.
##More detail about relevant experiences such as the Young Enterprise business scheme (e.g. what was the product being marketed? Why did the person enjoy the opportunity? What did the person learn from the experience?)
##Write less of a list of points and provide more depth to a select range of issues
##The applicant could have been more personal about the areas mentioned What did they enjoy and why?
#BUT there are some positive features about the statement...
##Clearly written
##Dealt with choice of course (though not enough)
##Used short sentences, helping it remain grammatically correct
##No spelling errors

===Common pitfalls===
#To find out what mistakes many applicants make read through the following personal statement and attempt the following:
##Put a line through anything that you think should not be included i.e. that does not sell the student.
##Reduce the statement to half the original length.
##Decide why the personal statement does not sell the student

After 12 years of school-study I will be making the most difficult decision and most influential one in my life. Having systematically going through each stage of choosing a suitable degree, I started by choosing a ‘science’ subject rather than an ‘art’ one. Moving on through the field of Physics, relating heavily with Mathematics, I researched the different topics possible in Engineering. With every prospectus I read, I became even more devoted to the course: Mechanical Engineering. The fundamentals of this course can be quite general giving me a wider experience in the Mathematics and Science fields, complying with my eagerness to experience Science and Engineering. The most
intriguing factor of this course, I would say, is what I have always been indulged in; knowing how something operates, moves and to make it better. For me studying the root of our necessities, e.g. electricity, cars and clocks, is fulfilling. Studying in these fields (Mathematics and Physics A-levels) will help me kick-start my degree campaign with enthusiasm and challenge, increasing chances of fitting in well with the course. Aiming to use this study to progress into the world of work with the manner of a fully equipped Engineer, I know that this degree will present myself to the employer as a person of qualities efficient enough to produce upright results from a degree which requires intellectuality, initiative and common sense (in scientific terms). I regard Mechanical Engineering as having a consequential and significant role to play in British industry. Thus, taking a step back I
think that a person to study a degree of this importance to be successful through the 3/4 years should have personal qualities. Working for a multinational company I have had a taste of the responsibilities of these personal qualities; listening to management, working independently to complete the tasks, working to deadlines, using initiative towards problem solving for customer service ... etc. Studying these aspects in the management segment of Business Studies A-level helps me to understand this more clearly, with ways of innovation and motivation for work. Throughout my last 5 school years, using the computer and the Internet has been momentous. From designing
programmes (for I.T. coursework) in Microsoft Access to using the internet to inquire about flight arrangements, and with 40 words-per-minute I have gained sufficient computer skills to use it as a surplus for my future. As a sociable person, I have shown that I can fit into a community new to me (my sixth form). This overlaps the personal qualities aforementioned. I have also worked with children in a nursery, helping teachers. Furthermore, mentoring high school student in preparation for the end of their GCSE’s has given me a differing sensation of tutoring. An important point for a student thinking of entering university is willing to be part of that community. This point will make a difference in the productivity of the student towards the community of the university. For five consecutive years now, I have joined the school football team, playing in most cup and league
matches. Having represented my school in domestic competitions, I have enjoyed the essence of teamwork, winning and losing. More recently, being trained to be a Junior’s coach by the Football
Association has strengthened my management skills. The encouraging factor of sport for me is the social aspect, which I enjoy extensively. An exclusive ubiquity of mine is that I am contented with
mixing my social with my educational life at length making the two important factors in my life none the less unabridged.

#Many students writing their own personal statement repeat some of the problems shown in the statement you have read - though usually, not to the same extent.
#What were the problems?
##Begins like a life story - full of irrelevant information
##Far too long - it will need to be reduced for the on-line application
##Uses language the author clearly doesn’t understand - e.g. in the last line”exclusive ubiquity of mine”. Ubiquitous means ‘everywhere’ so how can it be exclusive?
##Many sentences are too long, making grammatical errors
##Sets out to impress but comes across as arrogant
##Has not been proof read by somebody who could have pointed out many of the problems e.g. many sentences do not make sense.

===Advice from Admissions Tutors===
#The following advice is based on the findings from a survey of over 70 admissions tutors from over 20 subject areas in a wide range of universities.
====How important is the Personal Statement====
#It depends on:
##The Admissions Tutor (some admissions tutors see it as vital, others look at grades alone)
##The nature of the degree (for some courses it is vital, for others it is not)
#The point is, you do not know. So therefore treat it seriously. It can count against you if it is not clearly written.
#It can be important for:
##Selection for an offer (when you apply)
##Selection for an interview
##Asking questions at the interview (make sure you tell the truth: you could be asked about the claims in your statement!)
##Borderline cases (if you are just short of a required grade e.g you need BBB but you are predicted BBC. Remember, though, generally they select those with the grades)
##If you miss the grade in August. (The Admissions Tutor might reconsider you if they have spare places - remember to call them in August if you miss the grade)
#Remember, grades are most important.

====What are Admissions Tutors looking for?====
#Interest in the course (most important)
#No spelling or grammatical mistakes
#Clearly written
#Motivation
#Able to balance studies with non-academic life
#Interesting person
#Work experience (if relevant)
#Wider key skills (e.g. Teamwork)
#Numeracy or Communication (if yet to pass GCSE Maths or English)
#Explanation of unusual degree combinations (should you appear undecided)
#Future career in some cases

====What should you avoid?====
#Waffle
#Swallowing a dictionary
#Statements with no examples or evidence
#Very ordinary interests e.g. going down the pub
#Lying (remember the interview!)
#Becoming somebody you are not
#Rushing
#Thinking you can write it without advice

===Things to do===
#Have a plan of action
#Keep to deadlines
#Find out as much information about the course as possible
#Read advice about writing a personal statement
#Consult books such as Brian Heap’s ‘ Degree Course Offers’
#Read examples of good and bad statements
#Listen to advice but not too much
#Make the most of what you really have done
#Ensure that the person on the page is you
#Give plenty of examples
#Write relatively short sentences
#Expect to draft your statement a number of times (ten drafts is not unreasonable)
#Students who are motivated and interested in the course might be less likely to drop out from university (which could cost the department money in lost revenue) so...
#Try to include some of the following to help you convince an admissions tutor:
##Any relevant books / articles you have read (even writing about a short article in a chapter / journal / a few pages in a book is going to have more of an impact than simply stating you want to study the course)
##Relevant courses you have studied (e.g. why certain AS/A2 or Applied topics interested you. Write about skills you have developed that you believe to be relevant)
##Relevant interviews you have conducted (interviewing somebody who works in your area of interest - e.g. a solicitor, a doctor - talk about specific issues that arose from the interview)
##Experiences that relate to the course (conferences, residential courses, trips, people you have met, something you have read, hobbies, future plans, something you have seen - anything relevant that will convince the admissions tutor that you have given serious thought to the choice of course)
##What interests you about the degree courses? (make sure the areas you focus upon that are taught at university appear on all your choices)

===Things not to do===
#Follow the advice in your hand-out to the letter
#Copy other statements
#Make things up to sound impressive
#Use language that you do not understand
#Many admissions tutors complain of reading statements that appear the same. A response to this problem has been to try to capture the reader’s attention. For example, an applicant for a Law degree wrote: ”Guilty, I confess I want to study Law!” Now this has been used (and published!) you cannot copy it and expect to be original.
#For a Politics degree a student wrote a quote from a former government minister, Dennis Healey, “If we can keep our heads the long-awaited economic miracle is in our grasp.”
#Many admissions tutors now complain that students are copying these ideas and so they are no longer original!
#So how will you write a unique personal statement?
##By writing about why you really wish to study your chosen course (by showing that you know something about the course).
##By writing about the topics you are looking forward to studying on that course in a genuine way.
##By writing a brief account about you (hobbies, experiences)
#Nobody is likely to have all the responses to the above.

Applying to Medical School

2022-08-23T10:54:50Z

Sthe12: /* A fabulously useful resource: */

Studying medicine usually involves 5 years of study at university, followed by more training years at the start of your career. So it’s important to make sure that medicine is right for you.

For help and guidance on work experience and preparing for admissions tests and interviews, read the guide below.

== Interested in applying to Medical School? ==

If you are interested in applying to study Medicine at university then there are a number of things that you should consider.

The application process is more complicated than most other degree courses and will take up a significant amount of your time – I often tell students that it is almost like taking an additional A Level for a period of time.

== Questions to ask yourself ==

==== Are my GCSE grades good enough? ====
Medical Schools have minimum grade requirements – especially in English Language, so make sure you check the entry criteria carefully at your chosen universities.

==== Am I going to do well enough in my A-Levels? ====

Standard requirements for MOST medical schools is AAA, although there is some small variation to this. Be honest with yourself and talk to your teachers about whether they think that you can achieve these grades – ideally at the start of Year 12.

== Work Experience ==

Once you have decided to apply then there are things that you need to organise and plan.

Firstly, you will need to have a certain amount of work experience and volunteering that you can talk about and use to show your ‘interest in and understanding of’ the role of a doctor.

Some suggestions for this are:

Formal work experience in a hospital setting. To apply for organised work experience, you will need to apply as follows:

* For opportunities in Lincolnshire: https://www.lincstalentacademy.org.uk/ (follow the link for Work Experience)

* For opportunities in Peterborough and Stamford: e-mail a completed application form to: nikki.davis@pbh-tr.nhs.uk. Click here for the [https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/f/fa/Stamford_and_Peterborough_Application_Form_updated_2016.doc application form]

In addition to spending time in a hospital setting, admission tutors will be looking for some on-going voluntary work – this should ideally be in a health-care setting, but could be in another area as long as you have been doing it for at least 6 months on a regular basis.

You can also try and get some work experience in a GP Practice.
'''
Whatever work experience you do, it’s critical you make it count. Many people think doing the placement is enough. But it’s only step one.'''

''In order to stand out, you must reflect on what you’ve seen. Keep a daily log of what has happened. This can be tiring, especially after a long day of work experience but will be very valuable when you make your university application.''

== What next? ==

Once you have done some work experience and decided that you do definitely want to study Medicine, you will need to start thinking about choosing a Medical School.

There are 33 medical schools in the UK, and no two are exactly alike. Choosing which ones to put down on your UCAS form can be a daunting task. Ultimately, the goal is to find the best fit for you.

As well as where you’d like to study geographically, you need to consider how you’ll be taught. There are 3 main types of Medicine courses – you need to do your research and make sure that you choose the one that best-suits how you learn:

* Traditional courses
* Integrated courses
* Problem-Based Learning (PBL) courses

Once you have decided, then you need to think about entrance tests and which you’d rather do – or if you want to do both. There are 2 entrance tests and you need to do some research to decide which is better-suited to you. These are:

* UCAT
* BMAT

Both will require a certain amount of preparation. BMAT is taken in school and the UCAT is taken at Test Centres in the local area.

Once you have decided where to study, which entrance tests to take and have undertaken work experience and voluntary work you should be ready to submit your application.

== Interviews ==
If you are called for interview you will need to do some preparation in advance.

Most Medical Schools use the MMIs method of interview. This stands for Multiple Mini Interviews and consist of a round of stations (usually around 8). Each station will be testing for different qualities. These might involve interacting with patients, tackling ethical scenarios or problem-solving.

It is hard to prepare fully for these types of interviews but there are things you can do.

Set up a Medical Ethics club at school to discuss – amongst other things, the 4 Pillars of Medical Ethics:

* Autonomy — Does it show respect for the patient and their right to make decisions?
* Non-maleficence — Does it harm the patient?
* Justice — Are there consequences in the wider community?
* Beneficence — Does it benefit the patient?

'''You should ALSO read up on both the NHS Core Values and the GMC’s values and make sure that you are familiar with any NHS ‘hot topics’.'''

== A fabulously useful resource: ==

https://www.themedicportal.com/

'''This website, which is free to use, is jam-packed full of hints, tips, guidance and information about applying to study Medicine.
For any further help, please see Mrs Elliot.
'''

The Application Process

2022-08-23T10:52:37Z

Sthe12: /* Clearing */

==What is UCAS?==
UCAS stands for 'Universities and Colleges Admissions Service'. It is a one-stop website for everything to do with applying to university or college, including a centralised application processing service using an online application form and a complete course search with course details and entry requirements.

==Key dates==
*5 September - first applications may be sent to UCAS
*15 October – UCAS deadline for medicine/vet med/dentistry/Oxbridge
*25 January – UCAS deadline for all applications (except Art & Design courses with a 24 March deadline)
*25 February – UCAS Extra opens (for late applicants, those with no offers or those who have changed their minds)
*24 March – UCAS closing date for all remaining Art & Design courses
*31 March – majority of decisions will now have been made by universities
*4 May – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 31 March
*5 May – If you applied by 15 January then all unis will make a decision on your application by today
*8 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 10 May
*22 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 8 June
*30 June – last day for late applications – any applications received after this date will be entered into the clearing system.

==Applying==
#On the [https://www.ucas.com/students/apply UCAS website]: The UCAS Huub in which you complete your application is accessible from any internet linked computer. There are 6 key sections of the application for you to complete online. You can complete them in any order and make changes at any time before the application is sent to UCAS. For the Education section you will need all your exam boards and achieved grades from your GCSE certificates. Mrs Elliot and your form tutor will review your Personal Statement with you. You have 5 course choices, but you can apply for more than one course at the same university (with the exception of Oxford and Cambridge).
#'''You do NOT need to have all 5 choices on your application in order to submit it. You just need one and can then add other choices as and when you are ready to do so'''.
#When completed, you must make an appointment to see Mrs Elliot who will finalise the reference section and then submit your application.
#Your username, password and UCAS ID No. will be used throughout the coming year – write them down!
#UCAS use email and text messages to contact you about the progress of your application so keep your personal details up to date with UCAS if they change. Make sure that you verify your e mail address when asked to do so.

==Decisions==
After your application is sent to UCAS you will be able to see the decisions from your choices in the Hub.

The decision will be one of the following three possibilities:
#*Conditional offer: The University is prepared to offer you a place on the course, subject to your getting the required grades and meeting any additional requirements
#*Unconditional offer: You have already met the all the entry requirements of the course, and are offered a place without the need for further examination results etc. (This is usually if you apply after A-Level results)
#*Unsuccessful: No offer is made, either because you do not meet the requirements of the course or there are sufficient other better qualified applicants
#Occasionally a university will make you an offer of an alternative course. Be aware of this and decide whether it is really what you want to do.
#Offers will be made in terms of grades (BBB) or points (120 points)

{| class='wikitable'
!Grade
!A-Level points
|-
|A*
|56
|-
|A
|48
|-
|B
|40
|-
|C
|32
|-
|D
|24
|-
|E
|16
|}

==Acceptance==
#Once you have received all your offers you have until early June to reply. You must choose ‘firm’ (1st choice) and ‘insurance’ (2nd choice) offers. Your FIRM choice should always be your FIRST choice.

==UCAS Extra==
#If you have used all 5 choices and have been unsuccessful you can enter another application using Extra. This button automatically appears in the Hub if you are eligible. See Mrs Elliot for help with this.
#You can also use Extra if you have changed your mind about your course, although you will have to turn down any offers you have already received in order to do so.

==Clearing==
#On results day, the first thing to do is check on the UCAS Hub whether you have a place at your firm or insurance choice. Even if you do not get the grades they have asked for they may still accept you.
#If you have not met the terms of your firm or insurance offers, and they haven’t given you the place, then you will go into Clearing. This is the matching process between students and available courses and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
#You will need to find a course – all clearing places are shown on the [https://www.ucas.com/ UCAS website] and then telephone (NOT email) the university.
#Be prepared to persevere as it may take some time to get through!

==Top Tips==
#Make informed choices – do your research thoroughly
#Read all instructions carefully
#Be aware of key dates
#Print a finished copy of your application for future reference
#Don’t be afraid to contact universities/UCAS with questions – try FAQ’s and the customer service helpline.

The Application Process

2022-08-23T10:51:51Z

Sthe12: /* UCAS Extra */

==What is UCAS?==
UCAS stands for 'Universities and Colleges Admissions Service'. It is a one-stop website for everything to do with applying to university or college, including a centralised application processing service using an online application form and a complete course search with course details and entry requirements.

==Key dates==
*5 September - first applications may be sent to UCAS
*15 October – UCAS deadline for medicine/vet med/dentistry/Oxbridge
*25 January – UCAS deadline for all applications (except Art & Design courses with a 24 March deadline)
*25 February – UCAS Extra opens (for late applicants, those with no offers or those who have changed their minds)
*24 March – UCAS closing date for all remaining Art & Design courses
*31 March – majority of decisions will now have been made by universities
*4 May – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 31 March
*5 May – If you applied by 15 January then all unis will make a decision on your application by today
*8 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 10 May
*22 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 8 June
*30 June – last day for late applications – any applications received after this date will be entered into the clearing system.

==Applying==
#On the [https://www.ucas.com/students/apply UCAS website]: The UCAS Huub in which you complete your application is accessible from any internet linked computer. There are 6 key sections of the application for you to complete online. You can complete them in any order and make changes at any time before the application is sent to UCAS. For the Education section you will need all your exam boards and achieved grades from your GCSE certificates. Mrs Elliot and your form tutor will review your Personal Statement with you. You have 5 course choices, but you can apply for more than one course at the same university (with the exception of Oxford and Cambridge).
#'''You do NOT need to have all 5 choices on your application in order to submit it. You just need one and can then add other choices as and when you are ready to do so'''.
#When completed, you must make an appointment to see Mrs Elliot who will finalise the reference section and then submit your application.
#Your username, password and UCAS ID No. will be used throughout the coming year – write them down!
#UCAS use email and text messages to contact you about the progress of your application so keep your personal details up to date with UCAS if they change. Make sure that you verify your e mail address when asked to do so.

==Decisions==
After your application is sent to UCAS you will be able to see the decisions from your choices in the Hub.

The decision will be one of the following three possibilities:
#*Conditional offer: The University is prepared to offer you a place on the course, subject to your getting the required grades and meeting any additional requirements
#*Unconditional offer: You have already met the all the entry requirements of the course, and are offered a place without the need for further examination results etc. (This is usually if you apply after A-Level results)
#*Unsuccessful: No offer is made, either because you do not meet the requirements of the course or there are sufficient other better qualified applicants
#Occasionally a university will make you an offer of an alternative course. Be aware of this and decide whether it is really what you want to do.
#Offers will be made in terms of grades (BBB) or points (120 points)

{| class='wikitable'
!Grade
!A-Level points
|-
|A*
|56
|-
|A
|48
|-
|B
|40
|-
|C
|32
|-
|D
|24
|-
|E
|16
|}

==Acceptance==
#Once you have received all your offers you have until early June to reply. You must choose ‘firm’ (1st choice) and ‘insurance’ (2nd choice) offers. Your FIRM choice should always be your FIRST choice.

==UCAS Extra==
#If you have used all 5 choices and have been unsuccessful you can enter another application using Extra. This button automatically appears in the Hub if you are eligible. See Mrs Elliot for help with this.
#You can also use Extra if you have changed your mind about your course, although you will have to turn down any offers you have already received in order to do so.

==Clearing==
#On results day, the first thing to do is check on Track whether you have a place at your firm or insurance choice. Even if you do not get the grades they have asked for they may still accept you.
#If you have not met the terms of your firm or insurance offers, and they haven’t given you the place, then you will go into Clearing. This is the matching process between students and available courses and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
#You will need to find a course – all clearing places are shown on the [https://www.ucas.com/ UCAS website] and then telephone (NOT email) the university.
#Be prepared to persevere as it may take some time to get through!

==Top Tips==
#Make informed choices – do your research thoroughly
#Read all instructions carefully
#Be aware of key dates
#Print a finished copy of your application for future reference
#Don’t be afraid to contact universities/UCAS with questions – try FAQ’s and the customer service helpline.

The Application Process

2022-08-23T10:51:11Z

Sthe12: /* Acceptance */

==What is UCAS?==
UCAS stands for 'Universities and Colleges Admissions Service'. It is a one-stop website for everything to do with applying to university or college, including a centralised application processing service using an online application form and a complete course search with course details and entry requirements.

==Key dates==
*5 September - first applications may be sent to UCAS
*15 October – UCAS deadline for medicine/vet med/dentistry/Oxbridge
*25 January – UCAS deadline for all applications (except Art & Design courses with a 24 March deadline)
*25 February – UCAS Extra opens (for late applicants, those with no offers or those who have changed their minds)
*24 March – UCAS closing date for all remaining Art & Design courses
*31 March – majority of decisions will now have been made by universities
*4 May – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 31 March
*5 May – If you applied by 15 January then all unis will make a decision on your application by today
*8 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 10 May
*22 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 8 June
*30 June – last day for late applications – any applications received after this date will be entered into the clearing system.

==Applying==
#On the [https://www.ucas.com/students/apply UCAS website]: The UCAS Huub in which you complete your application is accessible from any internet linked computer. There are 6 key sections of the application for you to complete online. You can complete them in any order and make changes at any time before the application is sent to UCAS. For the Education section you will need all your exam boards and achieved grades from your GCSE certificates. Mrs Elliot and your form tutor will review your Personal Statement with you. You have 5 course choices, but you can apply for more than one course at the same university (with the exception of Oxford and Cambridge).
#'''You do NOT need to have all 5 choices on your application in order to submit it. You just need one and can then add other choices as and when you are ready to do so'''.
#When completed, you must make an appointment to see Mrs Elliot who will finalise the reference section and then submit your application.
#Your username, password and UCAS ID No. will be used throughout the coming year – write them down!
#UCAS use email and text messages to contact you about the progress of your application so keep your personal details up to date with UCAS if they change. Make sure that you verify your e mail address when asked to do so.

==Decisions==
After your application is sent to UCAS you will be able to see the decisions from your choices in the Hub.

The decision will be one of the following three possibilities:
#*Conditional offer: The University is prepared to offer you a place on the course, subject to your getting the required grades and meeting any additional requirements
#*Unconditional offer: You have already met the all the entry requirements of the course, and are offered a place without the need for further examination results etc. (This is usually if you apply after A-Level results)
#*Unsuccessful: No offer is made, either because you do not meet the requirements of the course or there are sufficient other better qualified applicants
#Occasionally a university will make you an offer of an alternative course. Be aware of this and decide whether it is really what you want to do.
#Offers will be made in terms of grades (BBB) or points (120 points)

{| class='wikitable'
!Grade
!A-Level points
|-
|A*
|56
|-
|A
|48
|-
|B
|40
|-
|C
|32
|-
|D
|24
|-
|E
|16
|}

==Acceptance==
#Once you have received all your offers you have until early June to reply. You must choose ‘firm’ (1st choice) and ‘insurance’ (2nd choice) offers. Your FIRM choice should always be your FIRST choice.

==UCAS Extra==
#If you have used all 5 choices and have been unsuccessful you can enter another application using Extra. This button automatically appears on Track if you are eligible. See Mrs Hawkins for help with this.
#You can also use Extra if you have changed your mind about your course, although you will have to turn down any offers you have already received in order to do so.

==Clearing==
#On results day, the first thing to do is check on Track whether you have a place at your firm or insurance choice. Even if you do not get the grades they have asked for they may still accept you.
#If you have not met the terms of your firm or insurance offers, and they haven’t given you the place, then you will go into Clearing. This is the matching process between students and available courses and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
#You will need to find a course – all clearing places are shown on the [https://www.ucas.com/ UCAS website] and then telephone (NOT email) the university.
#Be prepared to persevere as it may take some time to get through!

==Top Tips==
#Make informed choices – do your research thoroughly
#Read all instructions carefully
#Be aware of key dates
#Print a finished copy of your application for future reference
#Don’t be afraid to contact universities/UCAS with questions – try FAQ’s and the customer service helpline.

The Application Process

2022-08-23T10:50:12Z

Sthe12: /* Decisions and Offers */

==What is UCAS?==
UCAS stands for 'Universities and Colleges Admissions Service'. It is a one-stop website for everything to do with applying to university or college, including a centralised application processing service using an online application form and a complete course search with course details and entry requirements.

==Key dates==
*5 September - first applications may be sent to UCAS
*15 October – UCAS deadline for medicine/vet med/dentistry/Oxbridge
*25 January – UCAS deadline for all applications (except Art & Design courses with a 24 March deadline)
*25 February – UCAS Extra opens (for late applicants, those with no offers or those who have changed their minds)
*24 March – UCAS closing date for all remaining Art & Design courses
*31 March – majority of decisions will now have been made by universities
*4 May – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 31 March
*5 May – If you applied by 15 January then all unis will make a decision on your application by today
*8 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 10 May
*22 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 8 June
*30 June – last day for late applications – any applications received after this date will be entered into the clearing system.

==Applying==
#On the [https://www.ucas.com/students/apply UCAS website]: The UCAS Huub in which you complete your application is accessible from any internet linked computer. There are 6 key sections of the application for you to complete online. You can complete them in any order and make changes at any time before the application is sent to UCAS. For the Education section you will need all your exam boards and achieved grades from your GCSE certificates. Mrs Elliot and your form tutor will review your Personal Statement with you. You have 5 course choices, but you can apply for more than one course at the same university (with the exception of Oxford and Cambridge).
#'''You do NOT need to have all 5 choices on your application in order to submit it. You just need one and can then add other choices as and when you are ready to do so'''.
#When completed, you must make an appointment to see Mrs Elliot who will finalise the reference section and then submit your application.
#Your username, password and UCAS ID No. will be used throughout the coming year – write them down!
#UCAS use email and text messages to contact you about the progress of your application so keep your personal details up to date with UCAS if they change. Make sure that you verify your e mail address when asked to do so.

==Decisions==
After your application is sent to UCAS you will be able to see the decisions from your choices in the Hub.

The decision will be one of the following three possibilities:
#*Conditional offer: The University is prepared to offer you a place on the course, subject to your getting the required grades and meeting any additional requirements
#*Unconditional offer: You have already met the all the entry requirements of the course, and are offered a place without the need for further examination results etc. (This is usually if you apply after A-Level results)
#*Unsuccessful: No offer is made, either because you do not meet the requirements of the course or there are sufficient other better qualified applicants
#Occasionally a university will make you an offer of an alternative course. Be aware of this and decide whether it is really what you want to do.
#Offers will be made in terms of grades (BBB) or points (120 points)

{| class='wikitable'
!Grade
!A-Level points
|-
|A*
|56
|-
|A
|48
|-
|B
|40
|-
|C
|32
|-
|D
|24
|-
|E
|16
|}

==Acceptance==
#Once you have received all your offers you have until early May to reply. You must choose ‘firm’ (1st choice) and ‘insurance’ (2nd choice) offers. Your FIRM choice should always be your FIRST choice.
#You have now entered into a contractual agreement with these universities and if you change your mind you will need to ask them to release you from that agreement. (In practice this is a phone call/letter – it’s not in their interests to try to enforce an agreement with a student who doesn’t want to be there).

==UCAS Extra==
#If you have used all 5 choices and have been unsuccessful you can enter another application using Extra. This button automatically appears on Track if you are eligible. See Mrs Hawkins for help with this.
#You can also use Extra if you have changed your mind about your course, although you will have to turn down any offers you have already received in order to do so.

==Clearing==
#On results day, the first thing to do is check on Track whether you have a place at your firm or insurance choice. Even if you do not get the grades they have asked for they may still accept you.
#If you have not met the terms of your firm or insurance offers, and they haven’t given you the place, then you will go into Clearing. This is the matching process between students and available courses and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
#You will need to find a course – all clearing places are shown on the [https://www.ucas.com/ UCAS website] and then telephone (NOT email) the university.
#Be prepared to persevere as it may take some time to get through!

==Top Tips==
#Make informed choices – do your research thoroughly
#Read all instructions carefully
#Be aware of key dates
#Print a finished copy of your application for future reference
#Don’t be afraid to contact universities/UCAS with questions – try FAQ’s and the customer service helpline.

The Application Process

2022-08-23T10:49:23Z

Sthe12: /* Track */

==What is UCAS?==
UCAS stands for 'Universities and Colleges Admissions Service'. It is a one-stop website for everything to do with applying to university or college, including a centralised application processing service using an online application form and a complete course search with course details and entry requirements.

==Key dates==
*5 September - first applications may be sent to UCAS
*15 October – UCAS deadline for medicine/vet med/dentistry/Oxbridge
*25 January – UCAS deadline for all applications (except Art & Design courses with a 24 March deadline)
*25 February – UCAS Extra opens (for late applicants, those with no offers or those who have changed their minds)
*24 March – UCAS closing date for all remaining Art & Design courses
*31 March – majority of decisions will now have been made by universities
*4 May – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 31 March
*5 May – If you applied by 15 January then all unis will make a decision on your application by today
*8 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 10 May
*22 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 8 June
*30 June – last day for late applications – any applications received after this date will be entered into the clearing system.

==Applying==
#On the [https://www.ucas.com/students/apply UCAS website]: The UCAS Huub in which you complete your application is accessible from any internet linked computer. There are 6 key sections of the application for you to complete online. You can complete them in any order and make changes at any time before the application is sent to UCAS. For the Education section you will need all your exam boards and achieved grades from your GCSE certificates. Mrs Elliot and your form tutor will review your Personal Statement with you. You have 5 course choices, but you can apply for more than one course at the same university (with the exception of Oxford and Cambridge).
#'''You do NOT need to have all 5 choices on your application in order to submit it. You just need one and can then add other choices as and when you are ready to do so'''.
#When completed, you must make an appointment to see Mrs Elliot who will finalise the reference section and then submit your application.
#Your username, password and UCAS ID No. will be used throughout the coming year – write them down!
#UCAS use email and text messages to contact you about the progress of your application so keep your personal details up to date with UCAS if they change. Make sure that you verify your e mail address when asked to do so.

==Decisions==
After your application is sent to UCAS you will be able to see the decisions from your choices in the Hub.

==Decisions and Offers==
#Universities also use Track to inform you of their decisions. The decision will be one of the following three possibilities:
#*Conditional offer: The University is prepared to offer you a place on the course, subject to your getting the required grades and meeting any additional requirements
#*Unconditional offer: You have already met the all the entry requirements of the course, and are offered a place without the need for further examination results etc. (This is usually if you apply after A-Level results)
#*Unsuccessful: No offer is made, either because you do not meet the requirements of the course or there are sufficient other better qualified applicants
#Occasionally a university will make you an offer of an alternative course. Be aware of this and decide whether it is really what you want to do.
#Offers will be made in terms of grades (BBB) or points (120 points)

{| class='wikitable'
!Grade
!A-Level points
|-
|A*
|56
|-
|A
|48
|-
|B
|40
|-
|C
|32
|-
|D
|24
|-
|E
|16
|}

==Acceptance==
#Once you have received all your offers you have until early May to reply. You must choose ‘firm’ (1st choice) and ‘insurance’ (2nd choice) offers. Your FIRM choice should always be your FIRST choice.
#You have now entered into a contractual agreement with these universities and if you change your mind you will need to ask them to release you from that agreement. (In practice this is a phone call/letter – it’s not in their interests to try to enforce an agreement with a student who doesn’t want to be there).

==UCAS Extra==
#If you have used all 5 choices and have been unsuccessful you can enter another application using Extra. This button automatically appears on Track if you are eligible. See Mrs Hawkins for help with this.
#You can also use Extra if you have changed your mind about your course, although you will have to turn down any offers you have already received in order to do so.

==Clearing==
#On results day, the first thing to do is check on Track whether you have a place at your firm or insurance choice. Even if you do not get the grades they have asked for they may still accept you.
#If you have not met the terms of your firm or insurance offers, and they haven’t given you the place, then you will go into Clearing. This is the matching process between students and available courses and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
#You will need to find a course – all clearing places are shown on the [https://www.ucas.com/ UCAS website] and then telephone (NOT email) the university.
#Be prepared to persevere as it may take some time to get through!

==Top Tips==
#Make informed choices – do your research thoroughly
#Read all instructions carefully
#Be aware of key dates
#Print a finished copy of your application for future reference
#Don’t be afraid to contact universities/UCAS with questions – try FAQ’s and the customer service helpline.

The Application Process

2022-08-23T10:48:22Z

Sthe12: /* Applying */

==What is UCAS?==
UCAS stands for 'Universities and Colleges Admissions Service'. It is a one-stop website for everything to do with applying to university or college, including a centralised application processing service using an online application form and a complete course search with course details and entry requirements.

==Key dates==
*5 September - first applications may be sent to UCAS
*15 October – UCAS deadline for medicine/vet med/dentistry/Oxbridge
*25 January – UCAS deadline for all applications (except Art & Design courses with a 24 March deadline)
*25 February – UCAS Extra opens (for late applicants, those with no offers or those who have changed their minds)
*24 March – UCAS closing date for all remaining Art & Design courses
*31 March – majority of decisions will now have been made by universities
*4 May – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 31 March
*5 May – If you applied by 15 January then all unis will make a decision on your application by today
*8 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 10 May
*22 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 8 June
*30 June – last day for late applications – any applications received after this date will be entered into the clearing system.

==Applying==
#On the [https://www.ucas.com/students/apply UCAS website]: The UCAS Huub in which you complete your application is accessible from any internet linked computer. There are 6 key sections of the application for you to complete online. You can complete them in any order and make changes at any time before the application is sent to UCAS. For the Education section you will need all your exam boards and achieved grades from your GCSE certificates. Mrs Elliot and your form tutor will review your Personal Statement with you. You have 5 course choices, but you can apply for more than one course at the same university (with the exception of Oxford and Cambridge).
#'''You do NOT need to have all 5 choices on your application in order to submit it. You just need one and can then add other choices as and when you are ready to do so'''.
#When completed, you must make an appointment to see Mrs Elliot who will finalise the reference section and then submit your application.
#Your username, password and UCAS ID No. will be used throughout the coming year – write them down!
#UCAS use email and text messages to contact you about the progress of your application so keep your personal details up to date with UCAS if they change. Make sure that you verify your e mail address when asked to do so.

==Track==
After your application is sent to UCAS you will receive a UCAS ID number – you will need this in any contact/correspondence with UCAS and with your universities. Track shows details of and the current status of your application at each university. Universities will also use Track to invite you for interview and will expect you to reply to them by email from Track. If you don’t you are unlikely to get an offer.

==Decisions and Offers==
#Universities also use Track to inform you of their decisions. The decision will be one of the following three possibilities:
#*Conditional offer: The University is prepared to offer you a place on the course, subject to your getting the required grades and meeting any additional requirements
#*Unconditional offer: You have already met the all the entry requirements of the course, and are offered a place without the need for further examination results etc. (This is usually if you apply after A-Level results)
#*Unsuccessful: No offer is made, either because you do not meet the requirements of the course or there are sufficient other better qualified applicants
#Occasionally a university will make you an offer of an alternative course. Be aware of this and decide whether it is really what you want to do.
#Offers will be made in terms of grades (BBB) or points (120 points)

{| class='wikitable'
!Grade
!A-Level points
|-
|A*
|56
|-
|A
|48
|-
|B
|40
|-
|C
|32
|-
|D
|24
|-
|E
|16
|}

==Acceptance==
#Once you have received all your offers you have until early May to reply. You must choose ‘firm’ (1st choice) and ‘insurance’ (2nd choice) offers. Your FIRM choice should always be your FIRST choice.
#You have now entered into a contractual agreement with these universities and if you change your mind you will need to ask them to release you from that agreement. (In practice this is a phone call/letter – it’s not in their interests to try to enforce an agreement with a student who doesn’t want to be there).

==UCAS Extra==
#If you have used all 5 choices and have been unsuccessful you can enter another application using Extra. This button automatically appears on Track if you are eligible. See Mrs Hawkins for help with this.
#You can also use Extra if you have changed your mind about your course, although you will have to turn down any offers you have already received in order to do so.

==Clearing==
#On results day, the first thing to do is check on Track whether you have a place at your firm or insurance choice. Even if you do not get the grades they have asked for they may still accept you.
#If you have not met the terms of your firm or insurance offers, and they haven’t given you the place, then you will go into Clearing. This is the matching process between students and available courses and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
#You will need to find a course – all clearing places are shown on the [https://www.ucas.com/ UCAS website] and then telephone (NOT email) the university.
#Be prepared to persevere as it may take some time to get through!

==Top Tips==
#Make informed choices – do your research thoroughly
#Read all instructions carefully
#Be aware of key dates
#Print a finished copy of your application for future reference
#Don’t be afraid to contact universities/UCAS with questions – try FAQ’s and the customer service helpline.

The Application Process

2022-08-23T10:47:30Z

Sthe12: /* Applying */

==What is UCAS?==
UCAS stands for 'Universities and Colleges Admissions Service'. It is a one-stop website for everything to do with applying to university or college, including a centralised application processing service using an online application form and a complete course search with course details and entry requirements.

==Key dates==
*5 September - first applications may be sent to UCAS
*15 October – UCAS deadline for medicine/vet med/dentistry/Oxbridge
*25 January – UCAS deadline for all applications (except Art & Design courses with a 24 March deadline)
*25 February – UCAS Extra opens (for late applicants, those with no offers or those who have changed their minds)
*24 March – UCAS closing date for all remaining Art & Design courses
*31 March – majority of decisions will now have been made by universities
*4 May – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 31 March
*5 May – If you applied by 15 January then all unis will make a decision on your application by today
*8 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 10 May
*22 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 8 June
*30 June – last day for late applications – any applications received after this date will be entered into the clearing system.

==Applying==
#On the [https://www.ucas.com/students/apply UCAS website]: Apply is accessible from any internet linked computer. There are 6 key sections of the application for you to complete online. You can complete them in any order and make changes at any time before the application is sent to UCAS. For the Education section you will need all your exam boards and achieved grades from your GCSE certificates. Mrs Elliot and your form tutor will review your Personal Statement with you. You have 5 course choices, but you can apply for more than one course at the same university (with the exception of Oxford and Cambridge).
#'''You do NOT need to have all 5 choices on your application in order to submit it. You just need one and can then add other choices as and when you are ready to do so'''.
#When completed, you must make an appointment to see Mrs Elliot who will finalise the reference section and then submit your application.
#Your username, password and UCAS ID No. will be used throughout the coming year – write them down!
#UCAS use email and text messages to contact you about the progress of your application so keep your personal details up to date with UCAS if they change. Make sure that you verify your e mail address when asked to do so.

==Track==
After your application is sent to UCAS you will receive a UCAS ID number – you will need this in any contact/correspondence with UCAS and with your universities. Track shows details of and the current status of your application at each university. Universities will also use Track to invite you for interview and will expect you to reply to them by email from Track. If you don’t you are unlikely to get an offer.

==Decisions and Offers==
#Universities also use Track to inform you of their decisions. The decision will be one of the following three possibilities:
#*Conditional offer: The University is prepared to offer you a place on the course, subject to your getting the required grades and meeting any additional requirements
#*Unconditional offer: You have already met the all the entry requirements of the course, and are offered a place without the need for further examination results etc. (This is usually if you apply after A-Level results)
#*Unsuccessful: No offer is made, either because you do not meet the requirements of the course or there are sufficient other better qualified applicants
#Occasionally a university will make you an offer of an alternative course. Be aware of this and decide whether it is really what you want to do.
#Offers will be made in terms of grades (BBB) or points (120 points)

{| class='wikitable'
!Grade
!A-Level points
|-
|A*
|56
|-
|A
|48
|-
|B
|40
|-
|C
|32
|-
|D
|24
|-
|E
|16
|}

==Acceptance==
#Once you have received all your offers you have until early May to reply. You must choose ‘firm’ (1st choice) and ‘insurance’ (2nd choice) offers. Your FIRM choice should always be your FIRST choice.
#You have now entered into a contractual agreement with these universities and if you change your mind you will need to ask them to release you from that agreement. (In practice this is a phone call/letter – it’s not in their interests to try to enforce an agreement with a student who doesn’t want to be there).

==UCAS Extra==
#If you have used all 5 choices and have been unsuccessful you can enter another application using Extra. This button automatically appears on Track if you are eligible. See Mrs Hawkins for help with this.
#You can also use Extra if you have changed your mind about your course, although you will have to turn down any offers you have already received in order to do so.

==Clearing==
#On results day, the first thing to do is check on Track whether you have a place at your firm or insurance choice. Even if you do not get the grades they have asked for they may still accept you.
#If you have not met the terms of your firm or insurance offers, and they haven’t given you the place, then you will go into Clearing. This is the matching process between students and available courses and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
#You will need to find a course – all clearing places are shown on the [https://www.ucas.com/ UCAS website] and then telephone (NOT email) the university.
#Be prepared to persevere as it may take some time to get through!

==Top Tips==
#Make informed choices – do your research thoroughly
#Read all instructions carefully
#Be aware of key dates
#Print a finished copy of your application for future reference
#Don’t be afraid to contact universities/UCAS with questions – try FAQ’s and the customer service helpline.

The Application Process

2022-08-23T10:46:23Z

Sthe12: /* Key dates */

==What is UCAS?==
UCAS stands for 'Universities and Colleges Admissions Service'. It is a one-stop website for everything to do with applying to university or college, including a centralised application processing service using an online application form and a complete course search with course details and entry requirements.

==Key dates==
*5 September - first applications may be sent to UCAS
*15 October – UCAS deadline for medicine/vet med/dentistry/Oxbridge
*25 January – UCAS deadline for all applications (except Art & Design courses with a 24 March deadline)
*25 February – UCAS Extra opens (for late applicants, those with no offers or those who have changed their minds)
*24 March – UCAS closing date for all remaining Art & Design courses
*31 March – majority of decisions will now have been made by universities
*4 May – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 31 March
*5 May – If you applied by 15 January then all unis will make a decision on your application by today
*8 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 10 May
*22 June – last day for students to reply to offers if all decisions received by 8 June
*30 June – last day for late applications – any applications received after this date will be entered into the clearing system.

==Applying==
#On the [https://www.ucas.com/students/apply UCAS website]: Apply is accessible from any internet linked computer. There are 6 key sections of the application for you to complete online. You can complete them in any order and make changes at any time before the application is sent to UCAS. For the Education section you will need all your exam boards and achieved grades from your GCSE certificates. Mrs Hawkins and your form tutor will review your Personal Statement with you. You have 5 course choices, but you can apply for more than one course at the same university (with the exception of Oxford and Cambridge).
#'''You do NOT need to have all 5 choices on your application in order to submit it. You just need one and can then add other choices as and when you are ready to do so'''.
#When completed, you must make an appointment to see Mrs Hawkins who will finalise the reference section and then submit your application to Mr Maddox, as your referee. Once he has reviewed your application Mrs Hawkins will send it to UCAS.
#Your username, password and UCAS ID No. will be used throughout the coming year – write them down!
#UCAS use email and text messages to contact you about the progress of your application so keep your personal details up to date with UCAS if they change. Make sure that you verify your e mail address when asked to do so.

==Track==
After your application is sent to UCAS you will receive a UCAS ID number – you will need this in any contact/correspondence with UCAS and with your universities. Track shows details of and the current status of your application at each university. Universities will also use Track to invite you for interview and will expect you to reply to them by email from Track. If you don’t you are unlikely to get an offer.

==Decisions and Offers==
#Universities also use Track to inform you of their decisions. The decision will be one of the following three possibilities:
#*Conditional offer: The University is prepared to offer you a place on the course, subject to your getting the required grades and meeting any additional requirements
#*Unconditional offer: You have already met the all the entry requirements of the course, and are offered a place without the need for further examination results etc. (This is usually if you apply after A-Level results)
#*Unsuccessful: No offer is made, either because you do not meet the requirements of the course or there are sufficient other better qualified applicants
#Occasionally a university will make you an offer of an alternative course. Be aware of this and decide whether it is really what you want to do.
#Offers will be made in terms of grades (BBB) or points (120 points)

{| class='wikitable'
!Grade
!A-Level points
|-
|A*
|56
|-
|A
|48
|-
|B
|40
|-
|C
|32
|-
|D
|24
|-
|E
|16
|}

==Acceptance==
#Once you have received all your offers you have until early May to reply. You must choose ‘firm’ (1st choice) and ‘insurance’ (2nd choice) offers. Your FIRM choice should always be your FIRST choice.
#You have now entered into a contractual agreement with these universities and if you change your mind you will need to ask them to release you from that agreement. (In practice this is a phone call/letter – it’s not in their interests to try to enforce an agreement with a student who doesn’t want to be there).

==UCAS Extra==
#If you have used all 5 choices and have been unsuccessful you can enter another application using Extra. This button automatically appears on Track if you are eligible. See Mrs Hawkins for help with this.
#You can also use Extra if you have changed your mind about your course, although you will have to turn down any offers you have already received in order to do so.

==Clearing==
#On results day, the first thing to do is check on Track whether you have a place at your firm or insurance choice. Even if you do not get the grades they have asked for they may still accept you.
#If you have not met the terms of your firm or insurance offers, and they haven’t given you the place, then you will go into Clearing. This is the matching process between students and available courses and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
#You will need to find a course – all clearing places are shown on the [https://www.ucas.com/ UCAS website] and then telephone (NOT email) the university.
#Be prepared to persevere as it may take some time to get through!

==Top Tips==
#Make informed choices – do your research thoroughly
#Read all instructions carefully
#Be aware of key dates
#Print a finished copy of your application for future reference
#Don’t be afraid to contact universities/UCAS with questions – try FAQ’s and the customer service helpline.

Which University?

2022-08-23T10:45:02Z

Sthe12: /* Research */

==Introduction==
Students and parents always ask the same question: 'Which is the best university?'. You might as well ask 'which is the best restaurant in town?' as the answer will depend upon what you want. You need to ask yourself some basic questions first: Town or city, rural or urban, campus or city-centre. You also need to consider the grades that you are hoping to get. Going to a university with a 'good name' is no guarantee of post-uni employment. This will depend on you and not where you went. Some employers may be impressed if you have been to a 'good' university as you will have had to have achieved 'good' A-Levels to get in, but all will look at many other factors when deciding whether to offer you a job.

==The Best University==
#Don’t rely on [https://www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk/league-tables/rankings league tables]. These are produced using data from the universities and need to be interpreted rather than read as gospel truth.
#Always do your own research. Some reasons why students and parents often consider a university to be good are:
#*It’s old and established
#*It’s located in/near an attractive town or city
#*Your teacher went there and recommends it (they probably went a long tine ago and things change!)
#*Students already there recommend it (remember they don’t have anything to compare it to!)
#*Because a lot of your friends are applying. Learn to make your own decisions!
#You need to look at how your subject is presented in each different university as they can be presented in a variety of ways:
#*[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bachelor%27s_degree#United_Kingdom Single Honours degree] courses — you will graduate in one subject
#*[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joint_honours_degree Joint Honours degree] — involve the study of 2 different subjects
#*Major/Minor courses — students choose 2 subjects, one is studied in more depth usually 75%/25%
#*[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandwich_degree Sandwich courses] — alternating periods of study and paid work related experience (up to a year). Often called a placement or year in industry.
#*Some universities also use Modularisation — a system of teaching which allows students to study a range of subjects (some necessary to your final degree and some not). This allows for broad study but your degree will still be awarded in your main subject area.

==Research==
When doing your research these are some questions that you can ask admissions tutors and existing students (you can also use [https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/ The Student Room] online):
#What are the facilities like - are they up-to-date? Do you have to pay for materials? Are the libraries well-stocked? Are they open all hours? Are there plenty of areas for silent study? Are facilities over-crowded?
#What is the quality of the teaching? Are the staff enthusiastic? Are they approachable? Do they mark the work and how often?
#Teaching style - lots of lectures? Tutorials? How often? How much independent work is expected? Will you have to attend field courses and do you have to pay for them?
#Will you be taught transferable skills? Is the course accredited eg if it's a psychology degree is it accredited by the British Psychological Society?
#Accommodation - what types are on offer? Is there a first year guarantee of hall-based accommodation?
#Does the university permit students to work part-time? What opportunities are there locally for part-time work? Does the university offer scholarships/bursaries? Do any firms sponsor students on your course?

Which University?

2022-08-23T10:43:52Z

Sthe12: /* The Best University */

==Introduction==
Students and parents always ask the same question: 'Which is the best university?'. You might as well ask 'which is the best restaurant in town?' as the answer will depend upon what you want. You need to ask yourself some basic questions first: Town or city, rural or urban, campus or city-centre. You also need to consider the grades that you are hoping to get. Going to a university with a 'good name' is no guarantee of post-uni employment. This will depend on you and not where you went. Some employers may be impressed if you have been to a 'good' university as you will have had to have achieved 'good' A-Levels to get in, but all will look at many other factors when deciding whether to offer you a job.

==The Best University==
#Don’t rely on [https://www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk/league-tables/rankings league tables]. These are produced using data from the universities and need to be interpreted rather than read as gospel truth.
#Always do your own research. Some reasons why students and parents often consider a university to be good are:
#*It’s old and established
#*It’s located in/near an attractive town or city
#*Your teacher went there and recommends it (they probably went a long tine ago and things change!)
#*Students already there recommend it (remember they don’t have anything to compare it to!)
#*Because a lot of your friends are applying. Learn to make your own decisions!
#You need to look at how your subject is presented in each different university as they can be presented in a variety of ways:
#*[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bachelor%27s_degree#United_Kingdom Single Honours degree] courses — you will graduate in one subject
#*[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joint_honours_degree Joint Honours degree] — involve the study of 2 different subjects
#*Major/Minor courses — students choose 2 subjects, one is studied in more depth usually 75%/25%
#*[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandwich_degree Sandwich courses] — alternating periods of study and paid work related experience (up to a year). Often called a placement or year in industry.
#*Some universities also use Modularisation — a system of teaching which allows students to study a range of subjects (some necessary to your final degree and some not). This allows for broad study but your degree will still be awarded in your main subject area.

==Research==
When doing your research these are some questions that you can ask admissions tutors and existing students (you can also use [https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/ The Student Room] online):
#What are the facilities like - are they up-to-date? Do you have to pay for materials? Are the libraries well-stocked? Are they open all hours? Are there plenty of areas for silent study? Are facilities over-crowded?
#What is the quality of the teaching? Are the staff enthusiastic? Are they approachable? Do they mark the work and how often?
#Teaching style - lots of lectures? Tutorials? How often? How much independent work is expected? Will you have to attend field courses and do you have to pay for them?
#Will you be taught transferable skills?
#Accommodation - what types are on offer? Is there a first year guarantee of hall-based accommodation?
#Does the university permit students to work part-time? What opportunities are there locally for part-time work? Does the university offer scholarships/bursaries? Do any firms sponsor students on your course?

UCAS Timeline

2022-08-23T10:41:37Z

Sthe12:

==Summer Term==
*Start researching and choosing your course
*Write the first draft of your personal statement
*Register with UCAS and begin your online application

==September==
*Applications open
*Your teachers and Tutor write your School Reference

==15 October==
*Admissions deadline for Oxbridge, Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary

==October to November==
*Admissions Tests (where relevant). Make sure you register with Mrs Elliot in early September if you need to take one of these tests.

==October to March==
*Interviews start
*Offers: Conditional, unconditional or unsuccessful

==January==
*25 January is the on-time deadline for UCAS applications, other than some Art and Design courses

==February==
*UCAS Extra opens

==March==
*Deadline for some Art and Design courses
*Apply for Student Finance

==May to June==
*A-Level exams

==August==
*Exam results
*Clearing

==September to October==
*University (or gap year) begins

UCAS Timeline

2022-08-23T10:40:31Z

Sthe12:

==Summer Term==
*Start researching and choosing your course
*Write the first draft of your personal statement
*Register with UCAS and begin your online application

==September==
*Applications open — Aim to send yours off by the end of September
*Your teachers and Tutor write your School Reference

==15 October==
*Admissions deadline for Oxbridge, Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary

==October to November==
*Admissions Tests (where relevant). Make sure you register with Mrs Hawkins if you need to take one of these tests.

==October to March==
*Interviews start
*Offers: Conditional, unconditional or unsuccessful

==January==
*25 January is the on-time deadline for UCAS applications, other than some Art and Design courses

==February==
*UCAS Extra opens

==March==
*Deadline for some Art and Design courses
*Apply for Student Finance

==May to June==
*A-Level exams

==August==
*Exam results
*Clearing

==September to October==
*University (or gap year) begins

Careers Resources

2022-08-23T10:39:04Z

Sthe12:

==Introduction==
The School's Careers Leader is [mailto:helen.elliot@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Mrs Elliot], based in the careers Room located on the ground floor of the Turing Centre.

==General Sites==
*[https://www.unifrog.org Unifrog logon] - Careers advice, MOOCs, UCAS application process
*[https://www.ucas.com UCAS Homepage] -Links to all UK HE institutions and much more.
*[https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Not Going to Uni] - An excellent website which lists current school leaver opportunities
*[https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship Find an Appenticeship] - The Government website for searching for an apprenticeship
*[https://www.prospects.ac.uk Prospects Careers Services] - A range of careers related material and links to other useful sites.
*[https://www.direct.gov.uk Direct.gov] - Government Gateway portal
*[https://www.russellgroup.ac.uk/media/5272/informedchoices-print.pdf Informed Choices] - Russell Group Uni guide

==Year Out (Gap Year)==
*[https://independentgapadvice.org Independent Gap Advice] - Independent advice on gap years.
*[https://www.coolworks.com CoolWorks] - 75,000 paid and voluntary opportunities in National Parks, ski resorts and ocean and gold resorts in the US.
*[https://www.yearoutgroup.co.uk Year Out Group] - supported by UCAS and the OfEE and has a section on advice.
*[https://www.etrust.org.uk Year in Industry] - Operated by the eTrust, promotes taking a year out in industry

==Studying Abroad==
*[https://www.astarfuture.co.uk A Star Future] - Undergraduate courses taught in English in other countries
*[https://www.britishcouncil.org The British Council]
*[https://ec.europa.eu/ploteus PlotEU] - Portal to learning opportunities in Europe
*[https://www.studycanada.ca StudyCanada] - Information of studying in Canada

==Other useful sites==
*[https://www.opendays.com OpenDays.com] - provides lists of open days and how to get the most out of them.
*[https://discoveruni.gov.uk Discover Uni] - allows you to compare university courses and look at for example student satisfaction and employment after graduating.
*[https://www.theguardian.com/education/ng-interactive/2018/may/29/university-league-tables-2019 Guardian University Guide]
*[https://www.push.co.uk Push.co.uk]
*[https://www.slc.co.uk Student Loans Company] - Money for Studying and Advice on Budgeting
*[https://www.nusconnect.org.uk/ The NUS] - National Union of Students
*[https://www.palgrave.com/skills4study/ Palgrave Study skills]

==Other==
*[https://www.newscientist.com/ New Scientist] – provides an important gateway to science career sources
*[https://www.lawcareers.net Lawcareers]– vacation placements, mini-puplilages, etc
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/8/80/Know_before_you_go%2C_helping_you_to_navigate_university_life.pdf Know before you go, helping you navigate university life] - Helping you navigate university life

Careers Resources

2022-08-23T10:37:30Z

Sthe12:

==Introduction==
The School's Careers Leader is [mailto:helen.elliot@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Mrs Elliot], based in the careers Room located on the ground floor of the Turing Centre.

==General Sites==
*[https://www.unifrog.org Unifrog logon] - Careers advice, MOOCs, UCAS application process
*[https://www.ucas.com UCAS Homepage] -Links to all UK HE institutions and much more.
*[https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Not Going to Uni] - An excellent website which lists current school leaver opportunities
*[https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship Find an Appenticeship] - The Government website for searching for an apprenticeship
*[https://www.prospects.co.uk Prospects Careers Services] - A range of careers related material and links to other useful sites.
*[https://www.direct.gov.uk Direct.gov] - Government Gateway portal
*[https://www.russellgroup.ac.uk/media/5272/informedchoices-print.pdf Informed Choices] - Russell Group Uni guide

==Year Out (Gap Year)==
*[https://independentgapadvice.org Independent Gap Advice] - Independent advice on gap years.
*[https://www.coolworks.com CoolWorks] - 75,000 paid and voluntary opportunities in National Parks, ski resorts and ocean and gold resorts in the US.
*[https://www.yearoutgroup.co.uk Year Out Group] - supported by UCAS and the OfEE and has a section on advice.
*[https://www.etrust.org.uk Year in Industry] - Operated by the eTrust, promotes taking a year out in industry

==Studying Abroad==
*[https://www.astarfuture.co.uk A Star Future] - Undergraduate courses taught in English in other countries
*[https://www.britishcouncil.org The British Council]
*[https://ec.europa.eu/ploteus PlotEU] - Portal to learning opportunities in Europe
*[https://www.studycanada.ca StudyCanada] - Information of studying in Canada

==Other useful sites==
*[https://www.opendays.com OpenDays.com] - provides lists of open days and how to get the most out of them.
*[https://discoveruni.gov.uk Discover Uni] - allows you to compare university courses and look at for example student satisfaction and employment after graduating.
*[https://www.theguardian.com/education/ng-interactive/2018/may/29/university-league-tables-2019 Guardian University Guide]
*[https://www.push.co.uk Push.co.uk]
*[https://www.slc.co.uk Student Loans Company] - Money for Studying and Advice on Budgeting
*[https://www.nusconnect.org.uk/ The NUS] - National Union of Students
*[https://www.palgrave.com/skills4study/ Palgrave Study skills]

==Other==
*[https://www.newscientist.com/ New Scientist] – provides an important gateway to science career sources
*[https://www.lawcareers.net Lawcareers]– vacation placements, mini-puplilages, etc
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/8/80/Know_before_you_go%2C_helping_you_to_navigate_university_life.pdf Know before you go, helping you navigate university life] - Helping you navigate university life

Careers Resources

2022-08-23T10:04:39Z

Sthe12:

==Introduction==
The School's Careers Leader is [mailto:helen.elliot@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Mrs Elliot], based in the careers Room located on the ground floor of the Turing Centre.

==General Sites==
*[https://www.unifrog.org Unifrog logon] - Careers advice, MOOCs, UCAS application process
*[https://www.ucas.com UCAS Homepage] -Links to all UK HE institutions and much more.
*[https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Not Going to Uni] - An excellent website which lists current school leaver opportunities
*[https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship Find an Appenticeship] - The Government website for searching for an apprenticeship
*[https://www.prospects.co.uk Prospects Careers Services] - A range of careers related material and links to other useful sites.
*[https://www.direct.gov.uk Direct.gov] - Government Gateway portal
*[https://www.russellgroup.ac.uk/media/5272/informedchoices-print.pdf Informed Choices] - Russell Group Uni guide

==Year Out (Gap Year)==
*[https://independentgapadvice.org Independent Gap Advice] - Independent advice on gap years.
*[https://www.coolworks.com CoolWorks] - 75,000 paid and voluntary opportunities in National Parks, ski resorts and ocean and gold resorts in the US.
*[https://www.yearoutgroup.co.uk Year Out Group] - supported by UCAS and the OfEE and has a section on advice.
*[https://www.etrust.org.uk Year in Industry] - Operated by the eTrust, promotes taking a year out in industry

==Studying Abroad==
*[https://www.astarfuture.co.uk A Star Future] - Undergraduate courses taught in English in other countries
*[https://www.britishcouncil.org The British Council]
*[https://ec.europa.eu/ploteus PlotEU] - Portal to learning opportunities in Europe
*[https://www.eurodesk.org.uk EuroDesk]
*[https://www.studycanada.ca StudyCanada] - Information of studying in Canada
*[https://www.hotcourses.com HotCourses.com] - enables the applicant to develop a personalised league table by matching their personal profile and extra-curricular interests to a list of universities and colleges.
*[https://www.ukcoursefinder.com UKCourseFinder] - (developed by the Morrisby Organisation) for students who do not know what they want to study or where. The online questionnaire enables the integration of students’ study interests with their exam subjects for a search of an HE database to find those courses best suited to them. The service is free.
*[https://www.opendays.com OpenDays.com] - provides lists of open days and how to get the most out of them.
*[https://www.theguardian.com/education/ng-interactive/2018/may/29/university-league-tables-2019 Guardian University Guide]
*[https://www.push.co.uk Push.co.uk]
*[https://www.slc.co.uk Student Loans Company] - Money for Studying and Advice on Budgeting
*[https://www.nusconnect.org.uk/ The NUS] - National Union of Students
*[https://www.palgrave.com/skills4study/ Palgrave Study skills]

==Other==
*[https://www.newscientist.com/ New Scientist] – provides an important gateway to science career sources
*[https://www.lawcareers.net Lawcareers]– vacation placements, mini-puplilages, etc
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/8/80/Know_before_you_go%2C_helping_you_to_navigate_university_life.pdf Know before you go, helping you navigate university life] - Helping you navigate university life

Careers Resources

2022-08-23T09:57:04Z

Sthe12:

==Introduction==
The School's Careers Leader is [mailto:helen.elliot@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Mrs Elliot], based in the careers Room located on the ground floor of the Turing Centre.

==General Sites==
*[https://www.unifrog.org Unifrog logon] - Careers advice, MOOCs, UCAS application process
*[https://www.ucas.com UCAS Homepage] -Links to all UK HE institutions and much more.
*[https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Not Going to Uni] - An excellent website which lists current school leaver opportunities
*[https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship Find an Appenticeship] - The Government website for searching for an apprenticeship
*[https://www.prospects.co.uk Prospects Careers Services] - A range of careers related material and links to other useful sites.
*[https://www.direct.gov.uk Direct.gov] - Government Gateway portal
*[https://www.russellgroup.ac.uk/media/5272/informedchoices-print.pdf Informed Choices] - Russell Group Uni guide

==Year Out (Gap Year)==
*[https://www.lattitude.org.uk Lattitude] - International Gap-year projects.
*[https://www.coolworks.com CoolWorks] - 75,000 paid and voluntary opportunities in National Parks, ski resorts and ocean and gold resorts in the US.
*[https://www.gap-year.com Gap-year.com] - Gap year job-site.
*[https://www.yearoutgroup.co.uk Year Out Group] - supported by UCAS and the OfEE and has a section on advice.
*[https://www.yini.org.uk Yini.org.uk] - Operated by the eTrust, promotes taking a year out in industry

==Studying Abroad==
*[https://www.astarfuture.co.uk A Star Future] - Undergraduate courses taught in English in other countries
*[https://www.britishcouncil.org The British Council]
*[https://ec.europa.eu/ploteus PlotEU] - Portal to learning opportunities in Europe
*[https://www.eurodesk.org.uk EuroDesk]
*[https://www.studycanada.ca StudyCanada] - Information of studying in Canada
*[https://www.hotcourses.com HotCourses.com] - enables the applicant to develop a personalised league table by matching their personal profile and extra-curricular interests to a list of universities and colleges.
*[https://www.ukcoursefinder.com UKCourseFinder] - (developed by the Morrisby Organisation) for students who do not know what they want to study or where. The online questionnaire enables the integration of students’ study interests with their exam subjects for a search of an HE database to find those courses best suited to them. The service is free.
*[https://www.opendays.com OpenDays.com] - provides lists of open days and how to get the most out of them.
*[https://www.theguardian.com/education/ng-interactive/2018/may/29/university-league-tables-2019 Guardian University Guide]
*[https://www.push.co.uk Push.co.uk]
*[https://www.slc.co.uk Student Loans Company] - Money for Studying and Advice on Budgeting
*[https://www.nusconnect.org.uk/ The NUS] - National Union of Students
*[https://www.palgrave.com/skills4study/ Palgrave Study skills]

==Other==
*[https://www.newscientist.com/ New Scientist] – provides an important gateway to science career sources
*[https://www.lawcareers.net Lawcareers]– vacation placements, mini-puplilages, etc
*[https://sixthform.bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk/images/8/80/Know_before_you_go%2C_helping_you_to_navigate_university_life.pdf Know before you go, helping you navigate university life] - Helping you navigate university life

Apprenticeship Opportunities

2022-08-23T09:55:11Z

Sthe12:

==Introduction==
#After your A-Levels, University isn't the only option open to you.
#Based in the Careers Room, [mailto:helen.elliot@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Mrs Elliot] can offer advice on alternative options such as apprenticeships.
#The Government's official [https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/apprenticeshipsearch Apprenticeship Search] website provides details of local options.
#In addition, apprenticeships that are shared with the School are pinned to the noticeboard in the Sixth Form Centre.
#An apprenticeship is a paid job with training and qualifications. Higher and degree apprenticeships are aimed specifically at students with A-levels/equivalent. They give you a higher-education qualification - even a degree - and you can train for a high-skilled role in industries such as engineering, software engineering, public sector, law and healthcare.
#Higher apprenticeships allow you to train for a highly skilled job. Unlike university, you don't have to pay – in fact, you'll get paid a wage by your employer. You'll learn by doing the job you're training for, and study for qualifications along the way – you could even finish with a degree.

==Current Opportunities==
*[https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Not Going to Uni] - An excellent website which lists current apprenticeship opportunities
*[https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship Find an Appenticeship] - The Government website for searching for an apprenticeship

==Further Reading==
*[https://amazingapprenticeships.com/ Amazing Apprenticeships] - Apprenticeships explained
*[https://successatschool.org/advice/gap-years SuccessAtSchool] - Gap Year advice
*[https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk NHS Careers] – Careers in the NHS
*[https://getmyfirstjob.co.uk GetMyFirstJob ] - Your first steps into the world of work

Apprenticeship Opportunities

2022-08-23T09:53:56Z

Sthe12:

==Introduction==
#After your A-Levels, University isn't the only option open to you.
#Based in the Careers Room, [mailto:helen.elliot@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Mrs Elliot] can offer advice on alternative options such as apprenticeships.
#The Government's official [https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/apprenticeshipsearch Apprenticeship Search] website provides details of local options.
#In addition, apprenticeships that are shared with the School are pinned to the noticeboard in the Sixth Form Centre.
#An apprenticeship is a paid job with training and qualifications. Higher and degree apprenticeships are aimed specifically at students with A-levels/equivalent. They give you a higher-education qualification - even a degree - and you can train for a high-skilled role in industries such as engineering, software engineering, public sector, law and healthcare.
#Higher apprenticeships allow you to train for a highly skilled job. Unlike university, you don't have to pay – in fact, you'll get paid a wage by your employer. You'll learn by doing the job you're training for, and study for qualifications along the way – you could even finish with a degree.

==Current Opportunities==
*[https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Not Going to Uni] - An excellent website which lists current apprenticeship opportunities
*[https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship Find an Appenticeship] - The Government website for searching for an apprenticeship

==Further Reading==
*[https://amazingapprenticeships.com/ Amazing Apprenticeships] - Apprenticeships explained
*[https://successatschool.org/advice/gap-years SuccessAtSchool] - Gap Year advice
*[https://www.healthcarecareers.nhs.uk NHS Careers] – Careers in the NHS
*[https://getmyfirstjob.co.uk GetMyFirstJob ] - Your first steps into the world of work

Apprenticeship Opportunities

2022-08-23T09:51:25Z

Sthe12:

==Introduction==
#After your A-Levels, University isn't the only option open to you.
#Based in the Careers Room, [mailto:helen.elliot@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Mrs Elliot] can offer advice on alternative options such as apprenticeships.
#The Government's official [https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/apprenticeshipsearch Apprenticeship Search] website provides details of local options.
#In addition, apprenticeships that are shared with the School are pinned to the noticeboard in the Sixth Form Centre.
#An apprenticeship is a paid job with training and qualifications. Higher and degree apprenticeships are aimed specifically at students with A-levels/equivalent. They give you a higher-education qualification - even a degree - and you can train for a high-skilled role in industries such as engineering, software engineering, public sector, law and healthcare.
#Higher apprenticeships allow you to train for a highly skilled job. Unlike university, you don't have to pay – in fact, you'll get paid a wage by your employer. You'll learn by doing the job you're training for, and study for qualifications along the way – you could even finish with a degree.

==Current Opportunities==
*[https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Not Going to Uni] - An excellent website which lists current apprenticeship opportunities
*[https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship Find an Appenticeship] - The Government website for searching for an apprenticeship

==Further Reading==
*[https://amazingapprenticeships.com/ Amazing Apprenticeships] - Apprenticeships explained
*[https://successatschool.org/advice/gap-years SuccessAtSchool] - Gap Year advice
*[https://www.nhs.uk/careers NHS Careers] – Careers in the NHS
*[https://getmyfirstjob.co.uk GetMyFirstJob ] - Your first steps into the world of work

Apprenticeship Opportunities

2022-08-23T09:48:41Z

Sthe12:

==Introduction==
#After your A-Levels, University isn't the only option open to you.
#Based in the Careers Room, [mailto:helen.elliot@bourne-grammar.lincs.sch.uk Mrs Elliot] can offer advice on alternative options such as apprenticeships.
#The Government's official [https://www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk/apprenticeshipsearch Apprenticeship Search] website provides details of local options.
#In addition, apprenticeships that are shared with the School are pinned to the noticeboard in the Sixth Form Centre.
#An apprenticeship is a paid job with training and qualifications. Higher and degree apprenticeships are aimed specifically at students with A-levels/equivalent. They give you a higher-education qualification - even a degree - and you can train for a high-skilled role in industries such as engineering, software engineering, public sector, law and healthcare.
#Higher apprenticeships allow you to train for a highly skilled job. Unlike university, you don't have to pay – in fact, you'll get paid a wage by your employer. You'll learn by doing the job you're training for, and study for qualifications along the way – you could even finish with a degree.

==Current Opportunities==
*[https://www.notgoingtouni.co.uk Not Going to Uni] - An excellent website which lists current apprenticeship opportunities
*[https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship Find an Appenticeship] - The Government website for searching for an apprenticeship

==Further Reading==
*[https://amazingapprenticeships.com/ Amazing Apprenticeships] - Apprenticeships explained
*[https://successatschool.org/advice/gap-years SuccessAtSchool] - Gap Year advice
*[https://www.shell-livewire.org Shell LiveWire]– site of the organisation which helps 16 -30 year olds start and develop their own business and gives advice
*[https://www.nhs.uk/careers NHS Careers] – Careers in the NHS
*[https://getmyfirstjob.co.uk GetMyFirstJob ] - Your first steps into the world of work