A group of students from Years 10 and 12 at Highsted Grammar School was recently treated to an inspiring visit to Queens’ College, Cambridge, encouraging high aspirations in their future university applications.  Queens’ is one of the oldest Cambridge colleges, having been started in 1448 by Margaret of Anjou, queen of Henry VI, and re-founded in 1465 by Elizabeth Woodville, queen of Edward IV.

Over the centuries its distinguished alumni have included the sixteenth century humanist Erasmus, the Elizabethan Archbishop of Canterbury John Whitgift and, in recent years, the broadcaster Stephen Fry, NASA astronaut Michael Foale and BBC newsreader Emily Maitlis. Among the highlights of the trip was an opportunity to view parts of the college not often open to visitors, including the Old Library, built in 1448.  The girls were also able to visit the university’s world-famous Fitzwilliam Museum of art and antiquities.

Discussion with current Queens’ undergraduates enabled the students to think about what goes into an Oxbridge application and find out what they can do now to make gaining a place a real possibility. Year 10 student Chloe H recalled: “We met with a second-year student currently studying natural sciences at Queens’ College who guided us around the college campus and the many facilities that are available to students. She also gave us an overview of life at Cambridge, such as the different clubs and some of the exciting events that are held.” After the tour Maria McElroy, the College’s School Liaison Officer, explained about the admissions process, including the importance of GCSEs and what makes a successful Cambridge applicant.  She also gave the girls an overview of the different subjects and courses offered at the college.

Chloe added: “One of the most important things I found was that in order to be considered for the university, you have to show some outside interest in the subject you are thinking of taking. For example, someone interested in science could show their passion for the subject by spending a few hours a week reading science journals such as the ‘New Scientist’, or meeting with others interested in the same field to discuss views and opinions. Maria also encouraged us to do research into our subject areas and look at MOOCS (massive open online courses) offered by some of the leading universities to get a wider base of knowledge.”

Sixth form student Amber M, who is studying biology, chemistry, English and history and has just completed an extended project on antibiotic resistance, commented: “I found the tour of the campus extremely inspiring, especially exploring the heritage and traditions which make Cambridge unique. As the tour was given by a current student it provided a helpful view on life at Queens’. Obviously Cambridge is very competitive, so gaining an insider’s perspective of what the university looks for in an applicant was very relevant, as I’m now at the point where I need to start my applications.”

Hayley S, a fellow Year 12 student, said: “Visiting Cambridge was truly inspirational. It was very encouraging to witness how supportive and committed the teachers are to motivating students both to pursue their passions and to achieve their full potential.  I was surprised by the university’s natural beauty and placid atmosphere along with its strong historical heritage.”  She added: “Despite the fact that Oxbridge is highly competitive, I realised that with determination and tenacity to succeed and follow my goals it is achievable. With my passion for biology and chemistry, if given the opportunity I would love to study science in the future and hopefully take a route into healthcare or research.”