Sixth Form University Guidance

Applying to University

From the start of their Sixth Form journey through to receiving their A-Level results, our team supports students throughout the university application process. For many, the ambition is to become the first in their family to earn a degree, so we provide clear guidance and tailored support to help them achieve the best possible outcomes.

In Year 12, students are guided through the UCAS process, with dedicated sessions focused on choosing the right university and course, as well as writing a strong personal statement. One-to-one support is also readily available whenever additional guidance is needed.

In the autumn of Year 13, the application process begins for students applying to Oxbridge or pursuing Medicine. Due to the competitive nature of these courses, applicants work towards an earlier deadline and receive additional support with interview preparation and any other entry requirements.

All remaining applicants work towards the November deadline, allowing our advisors to provide individual feedback on every personal statement. By January, applications will have been submitted, and students will have clear targets to work towards during the final push in the spring term.

Alongside this, students take part in sessions designed to prepare them for university life. These include guidance from internal and external speakers on key topics such as independent living and managing student finances.

Apprenticeships

While we encourage all students to consider applying to university, we also recognise that apprenticeships offer a valuable alternative route to further education and career development. At Ernest Bevin Academy, we actively support students in exploring the pathway that best aligns with their interests, strengths and future ambitions.

Our Careers Officer works closely with students interested in apprenticeships, providing personalised guidance throughout the application process. This includes support with identifying suitable opportunities, preparing applications, developing interview skills and understanding what employers are looking for. Through this guidance, we aim to equip every student with the confidence, knowledge and practical skills needed to take their next steps towards a successful future.

Business Collaborations

Alongside our internal careers guidance, our Sixth Form regularly welcomes guest speakers who provide valuable insight into the wide range of opportunities available to students after their education. From university representatives to professionals working in the Civil Service and technology industry, our visitors share their experiences, offer practical advice and help students explore different career paths and future possibilities.

We are always keen to build new connections with businesses, industry professionals and educational organisations that can support our students’ development. If you represent a business or educational organisation and would like to contribute an afternoon to our Sixth Form, we would love to hear from you. Please get in touch, and we will work with you to arrange a suitable opportunity to visit, share your expertise and inspire our students as they plan their next steps.

Student Destinations

Our objective for every student leaving Sixth Form is to ensure they have the academic qualifications and skills to open doors to their future aspirations. While the journey through A-Levels is just as important as the final results, we are proud of the diverse range of destinations achieved by Ernest Bevin students each year.

Our 2025/26 university placements highlight the opportunities available to your son or daughter after Sixth Form. Our standout achievers include:

• Taha: Studying Aerospace Engineering at Queen Mary University of London

• Fadumo: Studying Biomedical Science at the University of Southampton

• Ace: Studying The Art of Computer Animation at Escape Studios

• Shay: Studying Psychology at the University of Manchester

• Ahmed: Studying Medicine at Queen Mary University of London

Follow the link below to explore a full breakdown of our results and student destinations over recent years.

Alumni Network

Building a strong network of connections is vital to students’ success beyond university. At Ernest Bevin Academy, we are proud to have a community of hundreds of industry professionals who can help open doors to future opportunities.

As students begin their journey into the workplace, we encourage them to engage with our wider network to access work experience placements and job opportunities that help kickstart their careers. Looking ahead, we hope to see our alumni pass the torch on to future generations, sharing their experience, offering guidance and helping the next cohort of Ernest Bevin students succeed.