Westwood go! Oxford calls for trio
THREE Westwood College Sixth Form students have secured places to study at Oxford University.
And for Emily Cook, Lauryn Deaville and Libby Nicholls, the journey has been memorable.
Libby, who will be studying English Language and Literature, held aspirations in lower school where she dreamed of being able to read ‘wonderful’ books at university.
Those dreams were realised in the sixth form by ‘natural ability’ but also ‘sheer hard work and encouragement.’
Libby said: “Applying to Oxford demands firstly shaking off unhelpful, stereotypes about ‘posh’ students.
“I was fully supported at home and by all my teachers at Westwood.”
Emily, who will be studying mathematics, also felt she also had the backing of the college.
“I gave six teachers a copy of my personal statement,” she said. “I was worried about being a nuisance but instead, each teacher gave me valuable feedback.
“They we honest and open with me - and it helped me make a personal statement that I was really proud of.”
Lauryn’s decision to apply to Oxford was less straightforward as she had been set to apply to other top universities.
At the time, she didn’t feel the traditions with some Oxford college swere quite for her.
However, a late look at a more modern college prompted her last minute application – just two days before the deadline.
“I thought I’d left it too late,” she reflected, “but I needn’t have worried as everyone was behind me.
“I am now thrilled to read biochemistry at one of Oxford’s very progressive colleges.”
A college spokesperson said: “As a college community we are delighted with the success of three Westwood students who will be taking up their places at the University of Oxford this autumn.
“As a fully inclusive establishment, we take pride in supporting all our students, whatever their ability.
“As able young people, they were always ambitious to pursue higher study beyond Westwood.
“However, during the sixth form, a degree at Oxford University became a reality.”
Westwood have features in place such as the Step Up programme where they work in partnership with New College, Oxford to encourage able students.
Daniel Powell, the university’s Next Step coordinator, will be visiting Westwood in November to motivate a group of year 12 students to break the stereotypes that surround Oxford.
Recently, year 11 have just returned from a great trip to the Oxford University open day.
Pupil Beck Bromley said: important to see places like this.” “It’s