University Applications
At Padworth, the UCAS process commences at the start of Year 12, with the main activity commencing in the Spring Term and continuing through the Summer and Autumn (in Year 13).
The focus in Year 12 is on choosing universities and courses, with key activities including:
- Allocating time in tutorials for students to research careers and degree choices (from September) – e.g., utilising resources in library
- Arranging visit to the SI-UK UK Universities Fair in London (March)
- Helping students develop strategies for selecting their 5 choices, ensuring a balance of aspiration, main and ‘safety’.
- Encouraging students to contact Padworth alumni who have attended target universities.
- Encouraging students to utilise Student Ambassador links on university websites – to make contact with current/former students from their own country.
- Organising career related talks at Padworth and with external providers – e.g., PWC.
- Participating in the University of Reading Open Day (June).
- Supporting students interested in pursuing opportunities for work experience (during the summer holidays).
Towards the end of Year 12 and during the Autumn Term in Year 13, the focus turns to UCAS applications. Key activities include:
- Providing ongoing support in relation to developing the Personal Statement.
- Scheduling 1:1 sessions with Director of Studies and Principal to further develop the Personal Statement.
- Supporting students in completing the UCAS application – e.g., during the Autumn Term, one hour of tutor time is allocated to the UCAS application each week.
Medical School Preparation
Becoming a successful doctor requires many skills, as well as strength in academia and admissions staff at universities will evaluate predicted or actual grades, performance in specialist tests, school references, the Personal Statement and performance at interview, before a candidate is offered a place or rejected.
Against this background, Padworth College’s Medical School Preparation Programme includes the following:
- Support in securing work experience or internship opportunities during the holidays in Year 12. Recent students have completed work experience at hospitals in the UK and overseas, including virtual internships.
- Expert tuition to prepare for specialist tests, namely the UKCAT and BMAT.
- Dedicated lecture series, with visiting speakers delivering a series of lectures during the Autumn Term. Recent lecture topics have included ‘Careers in Medicine and Dentistry’ and ‘How do I shine in my application to Medical School’
- Support with UCAS applications, including Personal Statement preparation, as part of the College’s regular weekend clinics.
- Interview practice.
The Programme is also suitable for students applying to read Dentistry or Veterinary Medicine at university.
Oxbridge Preparation
Preparation for entry to Oxford and Cambridge universities is also provided and includes:
- Expert tuition to prepare for specialist tests, such as the BMAT, CAT, ELAT, LNAT, STEP, TSA Cambridge and the Cambridge Law Test.
- Support with UCAS applications, including Personal Statement preparation, as part of the College’s regular weekend clinics.
- Interview practice.
Padworth College has an excellent track record of placing students in leading universities, especially in the UK and is committed to giving every possible assistance to students in its care and former students should they require further assistance. The university destinations of Padworth’s students are outlined below.
