In February, 48 Year 11 students were given a fantastic opportunity to visit New College, Oxford, as part of their Step-Up Programme experience. The programme, which has been supporting state school students since its launch in 2017/18, is designed to ensure that students from all backgrounds can see Oxford as a realistic and achievable goal for their future.

New College’s Step-Up Programme is a sustained contact initiative that spans three years, supporting students throughout Years 11, 12, and 13.  The aim is to equip students with everything they need to make a competitive application to one of the world’s most prestigious universities. Throughout the three years, the Outreach team provides ongoing support and guidance, ensuring that students feel prepared and confident every step of the way.

For this group of Year 11 students, the visit was a day to remember. After arriving at the college, the students were treated to an excellent lunch in the stunning New College Hall, a location famous for its appearance in the Harry Potter films. They then embarked on a tour of the college, learning about its history, traditions and the wide range of academic opportunities available.

One of the highlights of the day was the chance to speak with three current New College students, who are studying both arts and sciences. The Year 11s were particularly excited to hear about the work / life balance of Oxford undergraduates, the extensive extracurricular activities available and what life at the university is really like. The students also participated in academic exercises designed to give them a taste of the intellectual rigor they can expect during Oxford’s unique tutorial system.

Looking ahead, the next phase of the Step-Up Programme for this group of Year 11 students will focus on the application and admission process, helping them navigate the complexities of applying to Oxford and making the most of their potential.

New College’s Step-Up Programme is fully funded, minimizing costs for schools involved and ensuring that the support provided is accessible to all students, regardless of their financial background. The programme continues to have a lasting impact on students, empowering them to reach for the stars and consider the possibility of studying at one of the world’s top universities.