Oxbridge Aspirations Take Shape

This week our aspiring Oxbridge applicants in Year 12 were given a valuable insight into the world of Oxford admissions, as we welcomed Holly, the Outreach and Schools Liaison Coordinator from Brasenose College, Oxford, to Charters School.

Holly’s engaging and practical session focused on how students can refine their applications, offering guidance that was both encouraging and insightful. Although many students have already completed the first draft of their personal statements, Holly challenged them to think deeper about how they communicate their passion for their chosen subject.

One key takeaway was the 90/10 split: 90% of their personal statement should focus on super-curricular activities (those that stretch beyond the classroom), while 10% can cover extra-curricular achievements. Holly also encouraged students to keep a reflective log of their academic interests – noting what they read, watched or attended, how it challenged or inspired them, and what they plan to explore next. It’s this curiosity and genuine subject enthusiasm, she explained, that sets Oxbridge candidates apart.

The session also shed light on the interview process, with Holly demystifying what is often seen as one of the most daunting stages of the application. She reminded students to book their admissions tests early and to treat every stage of the process as an opportunity to showcase their potential.

At Charters, we’re incredibly proud of the growing relationship we’ve built with colleges at both Oxford and Cambridge. This year alone, two of our Year 13 students received offers from Cambridge, and three from Oxford – a testament to the hard work and ambition of our students and staff.

Mrs Palmer-Garrett, who plans and implements the school's Potential High Achievers programme said, "We are grateful to Holly for her time, her expertise, and for inspiring our students to aim high and believe in themselves. With support like this and determination to match, we know many of today’s attendees will go on to achieve great things".