During the visit they were taken on a tour of the site where they learnt about the fascinating history, famous alumni and quirky traditions of this college since its founding in 1264. Jenny, the schools liaison officer, took them into the beautiful chapel where they were treated to an impromptu organ recital, before walking along the old city walls to the stone table where Tolkien would often sit writing on fine days in the years between 1945, when he became Merton's Professor of English, and 1954, when Lord Of The Rings was first published. Other highlights included the oldest quad in Oxford, the stunning gardens (complete with wi-fi for students to study in the sunshine), and the Harry Potter-esque Great Hall where meals are served each day.
Later, in the T. S. Eliot theatre building, students were given a detailed introduction to life and learning at Oxford and Cambridge, and how this is different from other universities. They were also treated to a very useful session on Oxbridge interviews which covered how to prepare and answer potential questions while also emphasising that the selection process is based on the personal statement, assessment tests, marked work and the reference as well. The day was an inspiring taste of what it would be like to attend this prestigious institution as a student and an important first step for our students on the journey of their aspirational university applications.
As part of the Sixth Form university application programme, Year 12 will also be attending a Southampton University visit, and will start the UCAS process officially on Future Directions Day, later this term.
