Encounters with further and higher education
All pupils should understand the full range of learning opportunities that are available to them. This includes both academic and vocational routes and learning in schools, colleges, universities and in the workplace.
Pupils within our secondary school will often have encounters with further and higher education as they progress through their academic journey. These encounters take many different forms and can have a significant impact on the pupils' future education and career prospects.
One of the most common ways that pupils encounter further and higher education is through careers guidance and advice. Our careers advisors can provide guidance on the different educational pathways available, including further education colleges and universities. This advice can help pupils to make informed decisions about their future education and can encourage them to explore the options available to them.
Another way that pupils encounter further and higher education is through programmes run by colleges and universities. These programmes often involve representatives from further education colleges and universities visiting our school to provide information about their courses, facilities, and opportunities. This can help pupils to understand what further education and higher education are like, and can give them an insight into the different courses and career paths that are available.
Pupils within our school will have encounters with further and higher education in a variety of ways. These encounters can help to shape their understanding of the educational opportunities available to them and can encourage them to explore their options and make informed decisions about their future education and career goals.
Our pupils have had the following encounters with further and higher education establishments:
St. John Rigby College
Winstanley College
Wigan & Leigh College
Bolton Sixth Form
St. John Rigby College Sampling Day 2024
Year 10 pupils enjoyed an engaging and insightful sampling day at St. John Rigby College, where they had the opportunity to explore a variety of subjects offered at the sixth form college. Throughout the day, the pupils attended sample lessons in different disciplines, allowing them to experience firsthand the academic environment and teaching styles at the college. This immersive experience provided valuable insights into potential subjects they could pursue in the future, helping them make informed decisions about their educational paths. The day was filled with interactive activities and discussions, making it a dynamic and enriching experience that left the pupils excited about their academic prospects.
Wigan and Leigh College 2024
Year 10 pupils participated in a dynamic and informative sampling day at the various campuses of Wigan and Leigh College, exploring a wide array of academic and vocational pathways. The day was meticulously planned to give students a comprehensive understanding of the options available for their post-16 education. Pupils had the unique opportunity to experience a variety of A Levels, where they engaged in stimulating lessons that mirrored the college's rigorous academic standards. They delved into subjects ranging from the sciences and humanities to languages and arts, gaining valuable insights into the depth and breadth of A Level studies.
Instead of A Levels, the pupils could sample Vocational Qualifications, which offered a hands-on approach to learning. These sessions showcased practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge in fields such as business, health and social care, and media. This exposure highlighted the practical applications of their studies and illustrated potential career pathways. The pupils were particularly impressed with the interactive and applied nature of the vocational courses.
Another possibility was specialised sessions in Vocational Qualifications for Construction and Engineering, where students were introduced to the technical and practical skills required in these industries. They toured workshops and engaged in activities that demonstrated the real-world applications of their learning. From bricklaying and carpentry to electrical engineering and CAD design, these sessions provided a glimpse into the rewarding careers within construction and engineering.
Finally, the pupils could explore the Sports programs, where they participated in physical training sessions and learned about the theoretical aspects of sports science and coaching. These activities underscored the importance of physical fitness, teamwork, and strategic thinking in sports careers. The day was rounded off with reflections and discussions, allowing the pupils to ask questions and seek advice from current students and faculty. This engaging and insightful day left the pupils well-informed and inspired, equipped with the knowledge to make confident decisions about their future educational pathways.
Winstanley College Sampling Day 2024
Year 10 pupils attended Winstanley College for a stimulating sampling day, having pre-selected three subjects they were interested in exploring. This opportunity allowed them to experience Level 3 qualifications firsthand and understand the teaching methods employed at the college. Throughout the day, the pupils attended engaging lessons in their chosen subjects, offering them a taste of the academic rigour and depth characteristic of A Level studies.
The sampling day also provided a unique chance for the pupils to collaborate with peers from other schools. Working in diverse groups, they participated in interactive activities and discussions, fostering new friendships and enhancing their learning experience. This exposure not only broadened their academic horizons but also helped them develop essential social and teamwork skills.
By the end of the day, the Year 10 pupils had gained valuable insights into the demands and rewards of Level 3 qualifications. They left Winstanley College with a clearer understanding of their academic interests and a greater sense of confidence in their ability to succeed in a more advanced educational setting.
Cambridge University Presentation
In a much-anticipated event, our Year 11 students were treated to a remarkable assembly featuring Maria Kazani, the School Liaison Officer from Sidney Sussex College at Cambridge University. The 30-minute presentation was designed to ignite the flames of curiosity and ambition in our students as they approach the pivotal juncture of considering their post-16 options and venturing into the exciting realm of higher education.
Maria Kazani's engaging presentation was a window into the world of possibilities that higher education can offer. Her insights and expertise painted a vivid picture of what it means to pursue an advanced academic journey at one of the most prestigious institutions in the world, Cambridge University. The assembly was not just an informative session; it was a source of inspiration that encouraged our Year 11 students to explore their full potential and to aspire for the extraordinary.
The impact of this assembly extends far beyond its duration. As our students listened to Maria Kazani's words, they were challenged to dream bigger, aim higher, and take ownership of their future. The presentation has sown the seeds of ambition in our Year 11 students, motivating them to strive for academic excellence and consider higher education as a viable and exciting path towards their future goals.
Manchester Metropolitan University
In an illuminating session, students had the privilege of receiving a presentation from Manchester Metropolitan University that delved into the crucial decision-making process of choosing what and where to study after leaving school. This session, which spanned the benefits of higher education (HE) and life as a university student, was a significant step in helping our students envision their future educational paths.
The presentation offered a comprehensive guide to navigating the maze of post-school education choices. It wasn't just about highlighting the university itself but also about empowering our students with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about their academic and career journeys. Manchester Metropolitan University served as a guiding light, illustrating the wide array of programs, courses, and opportunities available in higher education, and the rich tapestry of student life that awaited them.
The benefits of higher education were articulated with clarity and enthusiasm, inspiring our students to aim higher and dream bigger. The session emphasized not just the academic advantages of pursuing higher education but also the personal growth, networking opportunities, and life experiences that come with it. Students left the presentation not only with a deeper understanding of their future educational choices but also with a renewed sense of motivation to embark on this exciting journey. As they begin to chart their courses for the future, they now have the insights and confidence to make well-informed decisions about what and where to study, embracing the boundless horizons of higher education.
Edge Hill University
Our Year 9 students had the amazing opportunity to visit Edge Hill University. The day typically unfolds with an engaging 'Introduction to Higher Education' session followed by a captivating campus tour. It's a day full of discovery and dreams, tailored to providing our young learners with a tantalizing glimpse into university life.
The primary goal of this visit is to offer our Year 9 students a firsthand experience of what university life entails and how a campus university, like Edge Hill, operates. The 'Introduction to Higher Education' session provides a comprehensive overview of what lies ahead in their academic journeys. It opens doors to a world of knowledge, learning, and personal growth, demonstrating the immense potential and opportunities that higher education can provide. Our students have the chance to engage with university staff, asking questions, seeking advice, and discovering how they can turn their aspirations into reality.
The campus tour is a step into the heart of the university, where our Year 9 students have the unique opportunity to explore the facilities, libraries, lecture halls, and vibrant student life that they could one day be a part of. This immersive experience is not just about understanding the physical layout of a campus but also about envisioning themselves as university students, where learning and discovery become their daily routine. Edge Hill University becomes more than a place; it becomes a destination of dreams and possibilities.
It's a day that sparks imaginations, encouraging them to contemplate the boundless potential that awaits them in higher education. As they explore the campus, ask questions, and engage with the university community, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and aspiration, laying the foundation for their future academic endeavors. It's an experience that reminds them that the world is vast, full of opportunities, and with the right mindset and education, they can achieve their dreams.
Winstanley College Sampling Day 2023
In an exciting and enlightening event, our Year 10 students embarked on a memorable sampling day at Winstanley College Sixth Form. The entire day was designed to offer these young minds a unique opportunity to explore a diverse array of subjects, fostering inspiration and providing a glimpse into the world of higher education. This experience is a crucial stepping stone in helping them make informed decisions about their academic and career paths.
The students were greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere as they arrived at Winstanley College. The day kicked off with an orientation session that introduced them to the college's facilities and resources. From state-of-the-art laboratories to well-equipped classrooms, the students got a taste of the exceptional learning environment awaiting them at the college.
Throughout the day, our Year 10 students participated in interactive sessions across a range of subjects, including mathematics, science, humanities, and the arts. This hands-on approach allowed them to experience the nuances of each discipline, engaging with passionate teachers who shared their expertise and insights.
The sampling day at Winstanley College Sixth Form was not just about exposure to different subjects; it was about igniting a spark of curiosity and inspiration within each student. The experience undoubtedly left them with a greater understanding of the academic world and helped them make more informed decisions about their future educational and career paths. With this event serving as a stepping stone, these Year 10 students are now better equipped to shape their academic journey and pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
Wigan and Leigh College Sampling Day 2023
An exciting day unfolded as our Year 10 students embarked on a visit to Wigan and Leigh College, where they had the unique opportunity to explore a wide range of post-16 educational options. The main objective of this visit was to provide our students with an immersive experience, enabling them to step into the shoes of college students and gain insight into the diverse educational pathways available after their GCSEs.
Upon arrival at Wigan and Leigh College, our students were welcomed by an atmosphere of enthusiasm and anticipation. The day's itinerary was thoughtfully crafted to encompass an array of post-16 options, ranging from A-Levels and vocational routes to construction-related programs. This comprehensive approach aimed to cater to the diverse interests and aspirations of our young learners.
Throughout the day, students actively participated in classes and activities relevant to their chosen pathways. They engaged in lively discussions in A-Level classrooms, got hands-on experience in vocational workshops, and experienced the practical challenges and teamwork required in construction-related activities. The interactive nature of these experiences allowed our Year 10 students to glimpse the expectations and responsibilities that come with life as a further education student.
By the end of this enlightening day at Wigan and Leigh College, our students were not only better informed about their post-16 options but were also inspired to envision their academic and career paths. The visit served as a pivotal moment in their educational journey, helping them make well-informed decisions and igniting the motivation to pursue their dreams with confidence as they step into the world of further education.
Winstanley College Open Evenings
If you are interested in attending Winstanley College as your next step in your education these are the dates of their open evenings:
Dates to be confirmed...
St. John Rigby College
If you are interested in attending St. john Rigby College as your next step in your education these are the dates of their open evenings:
Dates to be confirmed...
Bolton Sixth Form
The Sixth Form Bolton have published their opening eveings and timeline for application:
The university of Manchester
Manchester live webinar series
Hear from our staff and current students about all things relating to Manchester and studying at university. Browse and book upcoming Manchester Live events or stream sessions to catch up on important topics at a time that suits you.
https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/manchester-live/
Subject specific webinar series
Hear from our staff and current students about all things relating to your subject of interest at Manchester.
https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/manchester-live/subject-webinars/
Virtual campus tour
Part 1:https://youtu.be/kkLUneUgiI8
Part 2:https://youtu.be/1vvjpumzm0Q