College’s work with top students goes even more XL

A TAMESIDE sixth form college has rebranded its programme for its highest performing students to build on previous success.

Ashton Sixth Form College is now home to the XL Academy after more than 12 years as the plain old XL Programme.

That means more support for those aiming to meet and surpass the demanding entry requirements of Oxbridge, Russell Group Universities and premium degree apprenticeships.

After 100 students in the very first cohort, it is now enrolling over 500 consistently.

One notable success story is the Allott brothers who after studying at Ashton Sixth Form College all went on to Russell Group Universities.

Youngest Vernon left college this summer after achieving A*A*A*AA in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).

He is now going to study Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge while Vincent is now working in medicine following his study at Oxford and Victor is completing his master’s degree at Exeter University.

Lisa Richards, Centre Principal at Ashton Sixth Form College said: “At ASFC we pride ourselves on meeting the needs of all our students, and the most able cohort (those who come to us with outstanding GCSE grades) are no exception.

Vernon (left) on A-Level results day

“Our XL provision is in place to do just that.

“Students with high prior attainment need specific support to enable them to stand out in the often highly competitive fields they wish to progress on to, whether this is university or a degree apprenticeship.

“The number of students in our XL cohort has expanded significantly over the past four years and we want to do even more for them, which is why we have elevated our provision from the XL tutorial programme to the full XL Academy.

“With our highly trained and committed team of experts and a carefully designed programme of events, I can say with some confidence that our XL cohort are in excellent hands.”

Underpinning the programme is the Oxbridge pathway, which offers specific support and guidance on making a competitive Oxbridge application, from initial interest to entrance examinations and interviews.

Students receive a wrap-around approach that gives them access to experiences, skills and knowledge to stand out.

Many XL students combine their A Level studies with additional programmes, such as Core Maths, Realising Aspirations and EPQ breaking down barriers, making elite universities accessible and giving students the edge.

In the last seven years, the college has seen 50 students go on to study at either Oxford or Cambridge universities and a further 70 per cent on to Russell Group universities and prestigious careers in areas like medicine and veterinary science.

If you’re interested at studying at Ashton Sixth Form College and standing out at the best performing college in the area, you can make your application now at www.asfc.ac.uk/apply.