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Top Universities Trip to Oxford Inspires Kingsley Sixth Form Students

An ambitious group of Kingsley Sixth Formers recently embarked on a two-day immersive experience in Oxford as part of the school’s renowned Top Universities Programme. Designed to broaden horizons and raise aspirations, the visit offered students a rare opportunity to explore one of the world’s leading academic institutions and gain practical insight into the Oxbridge application process.

Led by Headteacher Mr Rob Pavis, the group toured historic Oxford colleges, engaged in academic seminars, and participated in Q&A sessions with current undergraduates and admissions specialists. The visit was both eye-opening and energising, reinforcing the personalised academic support that students receive throughout their time at Kingsley.

This trip is about broadening horizons, demystifying the Oxbridge experience, and encouraging our students to aim high,” said Mr Pavis. “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and it's clear that experiences like this make a lasting impact—not just on academic ambition, but on self-belief.

Learning First-Hand from the Best

Throughout the two days, students explored the traditions and daily life of Oxford’s academic community. From walking through grand courtyards to attending bespoke UCAS preparation sessions at Christ Church and Greene’s College Oxford, they gained practical tools for personal statement writing, interview techniques, and subject-specific preparation.

"It was an invaluable experience,” said Leo, Year 12. “It reinforced the work we do in school to prepare for top universities and made the whole application process feel more real and achievable".

Summer called the trip “so fun” and “super helpful”: “I learned so much about the university and really enjoyed exploring the city. The talks and sessions were also super informative. I'm so glad I had this experience with Kingsley".

Mia described the trip as “inspiring and motivational”
“The Oxford trip gave me so much insight into what it takes to apply to a top university. I now feel far more confident about writing my personal statement and going into interviews".

"Walking through the colleges and talking to current students made it all feel possible. It opened my eyes to what I could achieve. It helped me gain real insight into the Oxbridge application process and how to craft a strong personal statement for a competitive university".

A Pathway to the Top

The Oxford visit is one of many standout experiences offered through Kingsley’s Top Universities Programme, a structured pathway for high-achieving Sixth Form students. The Programme includes:

Weekly mentoring and academic stretch sessions
1:1 support for Oxbridge and UCAS applications
Interview preparation, mock panels, and subject-specific guidance
Access to workshops and partnerships with institutions like Greene’s College Oxford

The goal is clear: to give students the belief, confidence, and skills to aim for—and secure—places at the UK’s leading universities.

Proven Results

The success of our students is clear. Among the 2024–2025 Sixth Form cohort:

One third of all A-Level grades were awarded A or A*.
BTEC students averaged a Distinction, significantly outperforming national averages for non-selective schools.

These outcomes speak to Kingsley’s holistic approach: one that balances academic ambition with strong pastoral care, small class sizes, and a curriculum that stretches across disciplines—from STEM and the Arts to Outdoor Education, surfing and Environmentalism.

Join Us – Sixth Form Open Evening

Our next Sixth Form Open Evening on the 16th Ocotber is the perfect opportunity to:

Meet our subject specialists and current Sixth Formers.
Learn about our Top Universities Programme, bespoke academic pathways, and our unique, expansive curriculum.
Tour our campus and explore facilities including the Kingsley Surf Academy, Earth Centre, and Creative Arts spaces.
Discover how we nurture confidence, academic rigour, and ambition in every student.