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Aspire Programme
DESIGNED TO SUPPORT AND MAXIMISE THE POTENTIAL OF GIFTED AND TALENTED STUDENTS, PREPARING THEM FOR THE TOP UNIVERSITIES AND THE BEST FUTURE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES.
The Henley College Aspire programme is designed for students who typically achieve Grade 7s or above at GCSE. Students on an A level pathway will be enrolled on the Extended Project: Qualification and will attend designated tutor groups. Alongside the core PPD programme, these sessions will have an additional focus on preparing students for Sutton 30, Russell Group and Oxbridge applications, as well as competitive Degree Apprenticeships. Students on the Aspire programme will have the chance to work closely with our dedicated Aspire and Oxbridge Co-Ordinators, and receive tailored support and advice from our expert Careers Team. PPD sessions will also identify and develop relevant knowledge and experience to enhance students' university applications, and we will also work with students to master higher-level skills within the national Skills Builder framework.
Aspire students will also be encouraged to join the Student Ambassador and Leadership enrichments which will allow them to play a vital role in representing the student voice, shaping College policy, and will prepare them for running for Student Union in their second year.
A range of Aspire events and enrichments are available to all aspirational students at the College, including:
- Specialist university talks and careers events
- Subject masterclasses
- Expert support with university applications through the Aspire and Oxbridge
Co-Ordinators - Support with national competitions such as essay, public speaking and STEM competitions
- Mastering skills workshops in communication, collaboration and creativity
Applicants who have a GCSE profile of Grade 8s and 9s can apply for a four A level pathway at The Henley College. However, it is worth bearing in mind that competitive universities (including Oxford and Cambridge), still expect offer-holders to achieve top grades (A/A*) in three A level subjects although a similar grade in a fourth A Level subject, particularly in a contrasting subject-area, can demonstrate commendable academic breadth. Another option for our Aspire eligible applicants, to support their three A Level subjects, is to gain an extra AS qualification in their first year (the EPQ). If you have any questions regarding a four A level pathway or the EPQ, please contact Eleanor Witcher, the Aspire Co-Ordinator.
aspire@henleycol.ac.uk
A levels
The Henley College offers over 40 A levels on a wide range of subjects, including Ancient History, Business, Classics , Engineering, English, Languages, Law, Philosophy, Politics and Religious studies.
See the full list of our A levels
The Extended Project
The Extended Project is a distinctive and highly regarded qualification, designed to develop a range of transferable skills such as planning, research, analysis and evaluation. This course consists of a taught element, which includes an introduction to research methods and evaluation skills, as well as learning how to give a good spoken presentation, together with the actual completion of the Project.
Find out more about The Extended Project
Student Leadership Enrichment
It’s important to give our students a voice within the College and allow them to play a vital role in shaping the College from the inside, while also being an ambassador for the College in the wider community. The Student Leadership enrichment programme helps students develop the ability to listen to each other’s views, demonstrate tolerance and respect as well as building their own self-worth and self-esteem through having their opinions and ideas heard.