University Applications
At Merchant Taylors’, a high proportion of our Sixth Form students go on to study competitive courses at prestigious universities.
We provide a structured and detailed programme of preparation and support for application to university through UCAS, which administers all UK higher education applications. Our aim is to help students to make informed decisions for themselves regarding the next step in their academic careers.
Lower Sixth
During Lower Sixth, students receive dedicated sessions offering detailed guidance on researching and choosing higher education courses, allowing them to make informed decisions about their future.
In the Spring and Summer terms, Lower Sixth students may be invited to a guidance interview with our Head of UCAS and Head of Careers so that we may offer them individually tailored support and advice where necessary. This session helps students to understand the recommended work, voluntary experience, research or relevant courses that can make a huge difference when making applications to Russell Group universities and other competitive institutions.
Students usually visit the Merseyside Higher Education Conference, where they have opportunity to discuss courses with representatives from a wide range of universities. Students who are considering options other than university are referred to experts within the Careers Department, where bespoke advice is given about career routes.
We also hold an information evening for parents, after which an intensive preparation period follows, where students work closely with subject and form tutors to prepare personal statements, a crucial element of their application.
Upper Sixth
Support continues throughout the application process in Upper Sixth, with completion of applications, interview preparation and practice, as well as continuation of a mentoring programme designed to meet the specific needs of applicants to Oxford and Cambridge.
Our aim is to ensure that each and every student makes the right decision about his future direction and is well-equipped to pursue it.
International Universities
For those who choose to study at international universities, the same level of assistance is provided. Throughout Lower and Upper Sixth, UCAS clinics offer individuals the chance to discuss any aspect of application for degree level study and they are encouraged to talk through their plans from an early stage in their A Level studies.
Oxbridge
Students are guided and supported throughout the Sixth Form in their application to Oxford or Cambridge. Initially within School, sessions focus on outlining what an Oxbridge application involves, the characteristics that Oxford and Cambridge look for in potential students and advice in order to prepare for an application.
In the Spring Term, Lower Sixth students are invited to attend the Oxbridge Regional Conference. This provides them with an excellent opportunity to hear from the Admissions Teams, tutors and current students at both universities and gain advice on course choice and the wider application process.
Once a student has made the decision to apply at the start of the Upper Sixth, support becomes more individually tailored. Subject mentors guide students in extending their subject knowledge, preparing for entrance tests and interviews.
The annual Oxbridge Symposium is an important opportunity for applicants to gain experience of discussing their subject in an academic setting, both exploring and defending their ideas: valuable experience when it comes to the rigorous interview process.