News Archive February 2009

OXBRIDGE SUCCESS

Congratulations to Liam Finn and Anna Sonley, who have both won places to continue their studies at Oxbridge.

Liam has been offered a place to read Law at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, whilst Anna has been offered a place to read Experimental Psychology at St Anne’s College, Oxford.

Liam said: ‘My offer from Cambridge owes a huge amount to the dedication of the staff of St Mary’s. I have been supported with my UCAS application since June last year when I was introduced to the application system and encouraged to begin researching suitable universities. When I was writing my personal statement in September, my tutors and subject teachers dedicated a lot of time to helping me improve my work and meet the early Oxbridge deadline.

Currently, there are many university law degrees which require the LNAT (Law National Admissions Test). With this in mind, I attended a conference held by Durham University in order to prepare for sitting the test. This was of substantial assistance, as the test is very unlike the standard academic assessments in schools.

When I received notification of invitation to interview at Cambridge, there was a very supportive response from St Mary’s from many different teachers and students. I was supported in my preparation by discussing the interview objectives and procedures with my Directors of Learning and I also underwent a mock interview.

I have received a lot of support from staff and students in my application so far and hope to repay their faith with my results in August!’

Anna added: ‘My overall experience at St Mary’s has been very positive. I have really appreciated the culture in the College, which makes it clear that everyone is valued and that students are to be treated as adults. I have found I was able to study an interesting range of subjects led by a group of able, friendly and supportive teachers. This environment has fostered resourcefulness and independence, providing a great environment from which to embark on university life.

In preparing for my university applications I’ve really appreciated the high level of support that staff at St Mary’s have provided. Visits were arranged to Oxford and Cambridge and guidance given on choosing my degree, writing my personal statement and preparing for interviews.

I’m really looking forward to studying Psychology at degree level. I find it a fascinating subject, and the prospect of spending time with some of the leading Psychology researchers in the world is fantastic.’