On Monday 8 December, Bedford School was delighted to host more than 300 pupils and parents from seven schools across the borough for a specialised Oxbridge Information Evening. The event provided invaluable guidance on the application process for Oxford and Cambridge, helping students understand what the two universities look for and how best to prepare.
We were honoured to welcome Mike Nicholson, Director of Recruitment, Admissions and Participation at the University of Cambridge, as our keynote speaker. Mike leads the team responsible for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions, student recruitment and marketing, scholarships and funding, and widening access. With extensive experience at Cambridge, Oxford, Bath and Essex, Mike offered a detailed and practical insight into the application process, helping students assess whether Oxbridge is the right choice for them and what steps are required to succeed.
The evening also featured contributions from Old Bedfordians:
- Oliver Burridge Dean (10-20), who read Land Economy at St John’s College, Cambridge University
- Ruben Glenville (20-22), in his final year reading Engineering at Homerton College, Cambridge University
Both shared their experiences of applying and life as Cambridge students.
Current Upper Sixth student James spoke about his own experience applying to Cambridge this year, while Hamish Whiteman (15-25), who has just completed his first term reading Philosophy at Trinity College, Cambridge, joined for networking at the end.
Pupils from Bedford Academy, Bedford Free School, Bedford Girls’ School, Biddenham, Goldington Academy, Kempston Academy and Wixams Academy attended the event, which concluded with a Q&A session and networking opportunities.
One Bedford School Fifth Former reflected, “The biggest thing I learned is to keep my options open. I’m now going to refine my EPQ question to focus on a course I want to pursue and make sure I’m doing as much as I can to strengthen my application.”
A Bedford Academy student told us, “Just hearing about the application process and listening to students who have already been through it was really helpful. I’m now going to focus on completing my Sixth Form application and broaden my horizons.”
This collaborative event was a fantastic opportunity for pupils across the borough to gain expert advice and inspiration for their future academic journeys.
