The Sixth Form team will make sure that you are informed about the huge range of opportunities that can give you a taster of university life. Many universities run prestigious ‘widening access’ programmes and summer residentials which will help you decide which course and university is right for you, as well as sometimes giving you priority for related work experience sessions or contextual offers.

Exeter Scholars

Exeter Scholars is a free programme giving students the opportunity to find out more about university, develop a passion for a chosen subject, and gain first-hand experience of student life at the University of Exeter. It will provide you with: 

• An understanding of university life and an opportunity to hear directly from current university students about their experiences 
• First-hand experience of a leading university and advice from world-class academics who are passionate about the subjects they teach
• An exciting insight into the type of research carried out by universities and the impact it can have on our everyday lives
• The opportunity to explore a subject of your choice through fully funded residential events and regular trips to one of our campuses
• Development of experience and knowledge to help you decide if university is right for you, and, if so, boost your university application
• A pathway to studying at the University of Exeter and access to the Exeter Scholars benefits packages

The programme supports participants through to the end of Year 13. All pathways include exciting face-to-face events, as well as continued support and online activities to complete in your own time. Click on this link to find out more information about Exeter Scholars.

Somerset, Devon and Cornwall Residential Programme

This unique opportunity is offered by Exeter College, Oxford, our link college at Oxford University. The programme is designed for Year 12 students from under-represented backgrounds and aims to give them a taste of life at Oxford and raise their confidence for an application to an elite university. The programme includes:

• Three online workshops introducing students to Oxford and offering guidance on the application process.
• A research essay assignment, where students will receive tutorial-style feedback.
• A residential stay at Exeter College featuring academic taster sessions across various subjects.

Find out more here

The Sutton Trust

In partnership with universities and employers, The Sutton Trust run engaging programmes that give students practical advice and leave them feeling inspired and more confident about their future.

Our programmes are completely free to attend. All costs – including travel, accommodation, food and activities – are paid for by the Trust and our partners.

Find out more about their programmes here