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Exeter College

Hele Road, Exeter. EX4 4JS.
Tel: 0845 111 6000.

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The Reach Academy @ Exeter College The Reach Academy is sponsored by The Met Office 42! The Reach Academy @ Exeter College The Reach Academy is supported by Simpkins Edwards 42! 42! The Reach Academy Logo

Reach Academy

The Reach Programme is a new initiative at Exeter College starting in 2009. The aim is to encourage participants to stretch themselves academically and to aim high in their university and career ambitions as well as enjoy some extra-curricular activities. The academy is unique in being supported by the Met Office who will also be working with a group of high flying science students from the academy on a scientific project which will enhance their academic learning and give real work experience.

  • You will have a programme of extra-curricular activities designed around your needs which will challenge and inspire you to aim high and achieve more
  • You will receive regular one to one help and advice and mentoring about your university and career choices.
  • You will take part in a selective university preparation programme e.g. Oxford and Cambridge, science and medicine, and the very competitive Russell Group.
  • You will participate in inspiring master classes and lectures from a wide range of professionals at the top of their field (see the programme for the current speaker list).
  • You will learn public speaking and presentation techniques which will help build your self-confidence.

What sort of activities could be available in the Reach Academy?

  • A lecture and seminar programme with inspirational speakers.
  • E-mentoring, conferences, master classes.
  • Access to the Young Gifted and Talented (YG&T) academy including on-line resources, master classes and subject focus days
  • Residential summer schools and events.
  • Scholarships and competitions – ie young engineers for Britain, Daily telegraph Science Writer, BBC new talent scheme, SKY young journalists award.
  • Debates and discussions to improve your analytical, critical thinking and public-speaking skills
  • Oxbridge and Russell Group University open events and visits.
  • Selective organisations’ work experience programme e.g.Year in Industry etc.

Why will this be useful to me?

You will get:

  • The information, skills and advice you need to access a top university.
  • The opportunity to learn with and from other academically gifted students.
  • Improved self-confidence in your skills, talents and abilities.
  • The encouragement and confidence to achieve to your highest potential.

Entry Criteria?

  • You will need to achieve mainly A grades in your GCSEs* and show a strong motivation to develop yourself.
  • You will be expected to commit an additional 60 hours a year to activities supported by the Programme – this is the equivalent to about 2 hours a week.

* If you do not have these grades you may be able to join the programme by special arrangement with the Gifted and Talented Co-ordinator, depending on individual circumstances.

How much does it cost?

The Programme is free but there will be charges for some events and activities. Some financial support may be available where there are costs involved.

What do I do next?

  • Complete the Reach Academy application form - Please click here for a downloadable version, or you can get one direct from your school or by coming into the college in person.
  • You will be selected for the Programme based on your academic qualifications and through your interview with the gifted and talented coordinator.

Please click here to see the Reach Academy programme.

Please click here to view our latest Reach Academy newsletter which has been written by current Reach students.

How do I find out more?

Contact the Exeter College gifted and talented coordinator, Judith Betney, for information and advice:
Email: Judithbetney@exe-coll.ac.uk
Telephone: 01392 205330

Progression office
Greystone House
Hele Road
Exeter
EX4 4JS