Post-16

Aspire+ is a supplement to RSFC’s academic provision, aimed at equipping students with skills in wider independent reading, debating, and critical thinking.

The programme is designed to prepare students for the rigorous admissions processes required for entry to Oxbridge; Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science; and competitive courses at Sutton 30 universities.

More than ever, universities expect applicants to demonstrate a strong repertoire of core skills, essential not only for success at undergraduate level but also for adaptability within an evolving twenty-first century workplace. Aspire+ is therefore designed to build confidence and develop students as autonomous scholars.

As part of Aspire+

Students study a range of modules including science and nature, philosophy, and popular culture, and participate in debates, presentations, and seminars
Have the opportunity to complete the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Receive individualised preparation and support for applications to competitive university courses, including Oxbridge, Sutton 30 universities, Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science
Benefit from additional one-to-one ‘stretch and challenge’ work with subject teachers
Participate in access programmes with universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Manchester
Attend organised visits and conferences, including trips to leading universities
Engage with specialised talks delivered by guest academic speakers
Access academic resources and electronic texts within university libraries

Students participate in seminars, presentations, and debates, developing confidence in articulating complex ideas.

Through the School of Maths and School of Humanities, they engage in subject-specific extension alongside interdisciplinary learning. Students complete independent research, with many undertaking an EPQ. They access university visits, academic lectures, and specialist programmes with institutions including Oxford and Cambridge, alongside personalised support for competitive applications and targeted academic stretch, building the skills and mindset required for success at leading universities.

Students join Aspire+ through tutor groups or nomination, based on strong GCSE performance (average grade 7+). The programme begins in January of Year 1 and runs alongside A Level study, combining taught sessions, enrichment, and personalised support, with clear progression pathways aligned to higher education ambitions.

Oxbridge

RSFC has established strong links with Oxford and Cambridge, with staff from both universities visiting the college. Students interested in applying benefit from specialist one-to-one guidance on the application process, alongside opportunities to visit one or both institutions.

The college also participates in the Oxnet, and Cambridge HE+ programmes, enabling students to attend taster sessions and visit the University of Oxford and University of Cambridge in preparation for future study.

These developments form part of the wider Atom Valley Education Challenge Consortium (AVECC). The consortium aims to build a talent pipeline in Rochdale, addressing the underrepresentation of local students at Oxbridge. In partnership with the Rochdale Development Agency, it also seeks to create career pathways offering higher incomes for high-achieving students, encouraging them to return to the Atom Valley area after university. This supports innovation in local businesses and contributes to regional economic growth.

Aspire challenge Achieve

As part of Aspire+

Oxbridge

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