Wigan & Leigh College’s A Level students visit Oxford University

First year A Level students from Wigan & Leigh College were recently invited to Oxford University to experience life as a student at the prestigious University.

Lectures and seminars, delivered by leading academics from the university, provided students with an insight into different subjects and a taste of what careers their successful alumni have gone on to do. A tour of the college by Oxford undergraduates proved to be a very inspiring experience for the students who are turning their dream into a very tangible reality.  

The students made the most of this amazing opportunity and had discussions with researchers from a wide range of disciplines including medicine, physical sciences, and humanities and computing. 

During the visit, the students experienced collegiate life with a residential stay which included a fine dining experience in the banquet hall of Oxford University’s Mansfield College.

The applications are not based on students’ UCAS applications alone and the A Level Professional Honours Programme at Wigan & Leigh is unique in that it offers a weekly Professional Development day (PDD). Over the course of the year, students will build up their portfolio of extra academic qualifications, charity fundraising, a related work placement, and the opportunity to take practice interviews.

Jack Knott, who studies the Applied Medical pathway which includes A-level Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Psychology, as well as a weekly Professional Development, found the visit to Oxford University inspiring. He said, “My aim is study medicine and it is my ambition to become a doctor.” Jack, who carried out his work placement at Halliwell Doctors Surgery, is part of the College’s Medical Society and has also received a £2000 scholarship from the College.

Wigan & Leigh College Principal, Anna Dawe said, “The prestigious university visits help to inform students’ choices ahead of completing their applications in the autumn for undergraduate study. We are giving students the best possible chance of getting their offers by providing them with a wealth of extra-curricular activities which Russell Group universities are looking for.”