Swanwick Hall School

Ambition is a free, two-year scheme for Year 12 students and is run by the University of Nottingham. It takes place online although there may be an opportunity to visit campus during the programme. The activities are designed to support progression and application to any university. Examples of past activities include subject taster sessions with university academics, Q&As with current students, information on how to choose a course and university, student finance and accommodation, and advice and guidance on university selection processes.

The EPQ is a research-based course and relies on students being able to motivate themselves to work independently. Students design a research question related to their interests, studies or future career ambitions. They then produce a report based on their research and present this to an audience of their peers and teachers. The EPQ is recognised by universities as helping to develop the skills required for university study. It is worth the equivalent of an AS qualification in terms of UCAS points. This option is available to students who achieve an average GCSE grade of 7 or above.

This year’s Y12 students are heading off to Yorkshire to complete their fieldwork, but next year there may also be a wonderful trip to study the Geography of Iceland.