Super-Curricular
MOOCs
Students are encouraged to complete a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) of their choice during the summer break. Courses cover a wide variety of specialised topics which develop a student’s understanding of the subject area. A large number of them are written and accredited by universities. The completion of a MOOC demonstrates an impressive commitment to personal and academic development, and this will be recognised within the reference that the school will write for students. The following website details a range of excellent courses on offer FutureLearn.
TED Talks
TED Talks are influential videos featuring expert speakers from various fields such as education, business, science and creativity. These talks focus on sharing valuable knowledge, innovative research and ‘ideas worth spreading’. The are available with subtitles in over 100 languages and can be streamed or downloaded for free. click here.
Super-Curricular
Please see below list of external opportunities for students looking to further their study or future career prospects.
| Opportunity | Details | Date / Location / Sign Up |
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Women Unlocked Mentoring Programme |
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Application deadline: Friday 10th April 2026 Click here for application form |
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Murray Edwards College, University of Cambridge STEP Summer School for year 12 women and non-binary students hoping to study Maths at Cambridge |
The summer school is entirely free for participants. It is four days of targeted Sixth Term Examination Paper coaching as well as admissions advice and insight into university life. What is STEP?Students hoping to study Mathematics at certain top universities must undertake an additional entrance examination known as the STEP paper. This exam requires special preparation as the question style and answer format are very different to A Level exams. Students who attend the summer school leave feeling much more confident in their mathematical ability; with a greater understanding of the STEP paper; and as part of a community of like-minded female mathematicians. |
26 - 28 August The summer school is completely free: the meals and accommodation are provided by the College. Application form deadline is Friday 24th April 2026 Click here for the form |
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Introduction to UCL Virtual Session |
Students are invited to join a member of the Student Recruitment team and a current UCL students for a virtual information session. These events are an informal opportunity for attendees to learn more about UCL, living in London and making a competitive application. |
Wednesday 18 March 5-6pm |
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The Sutton Trust Summer Schools |
The Sutton Trust Summer Schools offer free, week‑long university experiences for Year 12 students across the UK. Participants explore over 40 subjects through academic taster sessions, attend undergraduate‑level teaching, live in university accommodation, and receive expert guidance on UCAS, personal statements, and student finance. The programme helps students build confidence, develop key skills, and connect with peers and current undergraduates. It’s an inspiring chance to experience real university life and boost future applications. |
Use the link here to find out more about the programme. |
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Open University |
The traditional university route isn’t for everyone, but that doesn’t mean your School’ ambitions to achieve a degree need to be hindered. At The Open University, our more flexible university experience allows students to study without the pressure to compromise on what’s important to them. So, whether students want to learn from home or fit studying around work or travel, they can. |
Access The Open University Guide here. |
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Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge Subject Focussed Events and Taster Days |
Subject-Focussed Events and Taster Days Offering a wide range of subject focused events and taster days providing opportunity for students to gain an insight into a subject they’re interested in applying for at university. Giving opportunity to explore specific subject areas in more depth. |
Click here to view the Supracurricular Exploration Guide |
