Students from Alsager and Malbank 6th Forms joined peers from other local colleges for a conference designed to challenge, motivate and support those considering competitive university pathways. The conference placed a strong emphasis on student voice through “Hot Topic Presentations.” Each attendee delivered a short presentation to a small group, followed by questions and discussion. This provided a valuable opportunity to practise public speaking, share academic interests, and receive constructive feedback. Students also rotated through a range of thought-provoking topics. This fast-paced activity encouraged them to articulate ideas confidently, listen actively, and engage with a variety of perspectives. They then took part in an unseen reading activity, analysing a stimulus text in small groups and developing their critical thinking and discussion skills.
The day also covered what makes a strong university application, with input from ex-students and current Oxbridge undergraduates. Our students gained useful guidance on preparing for pre-admission tests, making effective use of past papers, approaching the new personal statement format, and building meaningful super-curricular and work experience profiles.
Overall, the conference was a huge success, which our students found very beneficial. My thanks to the 6th form teams at both of our schools who were involved.
Richard Middlebrook
