Oxbridge

Each year between ten and 20 Marlburians are offered places at Oxford or Cambridge University. Chosen courses range from Engineering, Biomedical Sciences and Psychology to English, Modern Languages, History, History of Art and Music.

Preparation for the application process begins long before the Upper Sixth, with a range of enrichment opportunities in the Lower School, at the forefront of which is our academic scholar programme of weekly meetings. We run an annual trip to Oxford, open to Remove pupils, where we meet Old Marlburian undergraduates and small groups of pupils spend time with them in their colleges. In addition, we offer a number of other subject-specific trips and talks given by visiting academics.

The first term in the Sixth Form enables pupils to form an idea of where their interests lie, and those considering Oxbridge are encouraged to be involved in the societies and other enrichment opportunities each department offers, and to seek advice and reading lists from their beaks.

In the Lent Term, the Futures team holds individual consultations with all the Lower Sixth, and anyone interested in an Oxbridge application meets the Head of Oxbridge to discuss the details of their chosen course. They are assigned a mentor (usually the Head of Department in their subject). Towards the end of term, a talk is given by an Oxford or Cambridge don for all Lower Sixth pupils interested in applying to Oxbridge, with a question-and-answer session at the end. A further meeting at the end of the Summer Term gives pupils more information on what they should be doing over the summer holidays to further increase their chances. Our successful Upper Sixth Oxbridge applicants attend this meeting and talk to pupils about their experiences and to offer advice.

Interview and test preparation sessions take place in the Upper Sixth, helping to ensure applicants are confident and well prepared.

We stay in touch with all Old Marlburians currently at Oxbridge and find that they are extremely helpful and happy to be contacted by prospective applicants.