This week saw Y12s attend the UCAS Higher Education Exhibition at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) as part of our Raising Aspirations programme’s preparations for the university and apprenticeship applications process.

The exhibition saw the university route take centre stage and included extensive guidance on the UCAS form and website, student finance, life on and off campus, long-term career routes and so much more.

The range of exhibitors at the fair was representative of the increasing desire by many sixth formers to move into higher level apprenticeships or degree courses where strong links to the business world guarantee graduate employment with large public limited companies. In addition, alternative options were presented including gap years, volunteer work and career opportunities within the armed forces.

Carrie Cain, Assistant Headteacher, said: “There have never been more options for Sixth Formers as they look to post-school life and we recognise that we have a vital role in making sure our students are well-informed and ready to make the best possible choice for them and their family.”