Ten outstanding students from Xaverian College have received offers to study at the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge.
Following months of intensive preparation, students recently received the news that they had gained offers of places at universities which have been repeatedly ranked first and second in the UK, and both are currently in the top 10 universities in the world.
Gaining their places was the culmination of significant additional work over two years by the students, who were all part of the College’s specialist ‘Oxbridge Programme’, a unique and tailored programme that prepares students to apply to these universities.
Jake McMeekin, who is currently studying A Levels in Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics and Politics, said: “The College has been so supportive! Through the Oxbridge Programme, I have had access to specialist advice, guidance and tutors, and in particular, Mr Gibson, who has helped me with practice admissions papers, mock interviews, and so much more.” Jake completed his GCSEs at Chorlton High School and plans to progress to the University of Oxford to study Mathematics and Philosophy later this year.
Laila Al-Terawi, former Albion Academy student, plans to join her brother, and Xaverian Alumni, Tawfik, who is currently studying Medicine at the University of Oxford, later this year to study Biochemistry. Commenting on her experience of applying to Oxbridge, she said: “I did lots of research into the Oxbridge admissions process but ultimately it was the support of the College’s Oxbridge Programme that guided me through it. Our weekly lectures and keep-in-touch meetings helped me further understand what the universities were looking for and how to write and structure my personal statement. I was given lots of advice to pursue extracurricular activities linked to the subject I wanted to study, which helped me demonstrate genuine interest and passion. There wasn’t a moment when I couldn’t access the support I needed – the College was there every step of the way!”
All students were delighted to receive their offers and are excited about the prospect of meeting new people passionate about their subjects and learning from the universities’ expert lecturers.
Syed Hussain and Hamza Hagi, who are studying A Levels in Chemistry, Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Physics, both received offers to study Engineering Science at the University of Oxford, commented: “We’re really looking forward to moving to a new city, meeting other like-minded people and immersing ourselves in the exciting innovation currently taking place with the Engineering Science department.”
Other students with offers to study at the University of Oxford include:
- Gulliver Hubbard, English and French
- Annabeth Brown, History
- Amelia Chapman-Nisar, Classics
- Bradley Williams, Chemistry
Two of the ten students, James Allen and Ciara Avis, have successfully gained offers to study at the University of Cambridge.
James’ decision to apply to the University of Cambridge came about after he had the chance to see the University’s Colleges on Open Day and he saw how friendly and welcoming the staff and lecturers were and how enthusiastically they promoted their subjects. James is following his passion for writing and directing for theatre and film by applying for a Degree in English. James said: “Xaverian has a fantastic reputation, especially the Music and Drama & Theatre departments, and that’s what attracted me to apply. I have always loved drama and the opportunities to perform at College are endless. I help to run a theatre company, Kitsch Theatre, outside of College that I have become really passionate about, which is what led me to apply to study English at Cambridge.”
Former Loreto High School student, Ciara, chose A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Maths and has taken advantage of the enrichment opportunities offered by the College to pursue her passion for music and art. Ciara commented: “I love studying my A Levels but taking part in enrichment allows me to explore my interests outside of science to meet other like-minded people to produce art and perform music. You can perform with almost all types of instruments and singing styles, and you even get to take part in College music concerts at the Royal Northern College of Music. There is a really inspiring and supportive community at Xaverian and I have to say my experience has been complete!”
Tony Knowles, Principal, said: “It’s such an exciting time of year, as our students’ offers start to come in and once again they have done incredibly well to secure such highly competitive offers on such a diverse range of courses. The College encourages all students to realise their full potential, and the dedication and ambition of our students is exceptional. We are all incredibly proud.”
As one of the largest providers of post-16 education in the region, Xaverian College offers exciting opportunities to over 2800 students. To find out more, visit Xaverian.ac.uk – Discover Your Future!
