Record offers for Cherwell students at Oxford and Cambridge

22 Cherwell students have received offers from Oxford and Cambridge in a diverse and eclectic range of subjects, from engineering and natural sciences to Japanese and music. 

Students in the sixth form are encouraged to participate in our academic enrichment ‘Beyond Cherwell’ programme, a bespoke programme designed to develop students’ thinking beyond the curriculum, introduce new ideas and provide a supportive environment for structured reflections, debate and personal development. Students take part in masterclasses, talks, team projects, forums and trips. Students are guided by a team of supporters including staff, former students and visitors from the local universities and community. The ‘Beyond Cherwell’ programme is led by a team of specialist teachers with years of experience guiding students through applications and we are privileged to make use of our location in Oxford to draw on academics to deliver masterclasses and talks. Whether students go on to university, apprenticeships or gap years, we are proud that they leave the school suited to the demands of their future environments.

22 students have received offers to study at Oxford and Cambridge:

Asian and Middle Eastern Studies (Chinese) - Cambridge

Biology - Oxford

Economics and Management - Oxford

Engineering - Cambridge

Geography - Cambridge

Geography - Oxford

History - Cambridge

Human, Social and Political Science - Cambridge

Japanese - Oxford

Law - Oxford

Mathematics - Cambridge

Modern Languages - Cambridge

Music - Oxford

Music - Cambridge

Natural Sciences (Chemistry) - Cambridge 

Natural Sciences (Physics) - Cambridge

Sabraan, who studies Economics, Maths, Further Maths and History, said: “When I told my parents I got into Oxford my mum wept with joy while my dad said ‘cheers’ and hung up the phone. My own initial reaction was simply just shock but studying Law at Oxford is an opportunity I get more and more excited about as the days go on. I can’t wait to put forward my ideas and engage in intense discussions with some of the best professors in the world - and of course challenge them with my wild ideas.”

Mae, who studies A Levels in English Literature, French and Spanish and received an offer to study Modern Languages at Cambridge, said: “The ‘Beyond Cherwell’ programme inspired me to start actively thinking about my next steps and encouraged me to try new things. Participating in the challenges and attending lectures opened my mind, helped me discover what I wanted to do in the future and allowed me to learn a lot of new things on the way.”

During Year 12 and Year 13, students were encouraged and supported by a team of former Cherwell students who now study at universities across the country. 

Songhwi, now in her first year studying English Literature at the University of Cambridge, shared her inspiring route with current students. She arrived at Cherwell in Year 11 with little English and had to rapidly adjust to a new country, new subjects and a new education system. Songhwi said: “At first I didn’t even consider the prospect of applying to Oxford or Cambridge but my growing love for English literature throughout A Levels inspired me to have a shot at it - because why not?! All the myths about Cambridge being exclusively for prodigies and geniuses are wrong. With genuine enthusiasm, motivation and love for your subject, you already have more than a chance! Just believe in yourself.”

Arthur, now in his third year studying Mathematics at the University of Cambridge, supported students by sharing his experiences, introducing new mathematical problems and mentoring students. Arthur said: "I was very impressed with the range of ideas the students had on unconventional interview problems. It was a pleasure to work with them and I wish them the best of luck for the end of this year!"

English teacher and Academic Enrichment Coordinator, Charlotte Richer, said: “We congratulate all the students who put themselves forward, took risks and embraced challenge and, regardless of the outcome of their university applications, we know they will go from strength to strength in all their next steps beyond Cherwell.”

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For more about our ‘Beyond Cherwell’ academic enrichment programme: https://sites.google.com/cherwellschool.org/6th-form-virtual-open-evening/BCAEP.