By Mrs Yeomans (Oxbridge Coordinator and EPQ Coordinator)

On Tuesday 13th January, we welcomed back alumna Emily Fordham (BGS 2022) to speak to our Oxbridge cohort about her journey through the Cambridge application process. Coincidentally occurring on the day Oxford offers were released, students heard about the preparation, challenges and success of Emily's story.

It was interesting to hear from Emily that stellar grades are often not enough for Oxbridge. Critical thinking, interview skills and performing well in the rigorous admissions tests are all essential, and candidates must excel in each area before achieving an offer and then, of course, the grades come next.

The experience of studying at Oxbridge is unlike many other universities. Emily explained her workload, the college system and the demanding work expectations as well as representing the University in Lacrosse and Hockey.  She estimated that she spends 30 hours a week on this aspect alone, a testament to the values and discipline instilled from her time at BGS representing the school at various sports.

At the end, it was pleasing to hear so many thoughtful questions from our 2027 Oxbridge cohort: are some colleges more academic than others? How many supervisions will I have in a week? All sensible considerations which we have begun to unpick in our sessions.

Emily is in her final year at Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge and will soon be off to work in London in her chosen specialism of sports law.  Where will our BGS Oxbridge candidates be in the future? ...I for one, can't wait to find out!