Coleg Gwent learners gave Oxbridge students of the future a helping hand on Tuesday 19 April when they took part in the Islwyn Partnership High Achievers’ Programme.
Crosskeys Campus hosted 35 year 10 pupils from Islwyn schools who have been identified as potential high academic achievers. The pupils took part in a tea dance, led by double world junior dancing champions Bethan and Cerys Jones of Blackwood who study A-levels at Coleg Gwent, after enjoying a Glyndebourne-style picnic prepared by catering students, complemented by musical entertainment from campus music students.
More academic activities included a choice of workshops, guest speakers and presentations from ex-Coleg Gwent students currently at universities, including Oxford, who shared their own experiences with the school pupils.
The event formed part of the partnership’s yearlong programme of activities for the school pupils that will develop the candidates’ skills, build their confidence and raise their aspirations. The College has worked in partnership with the six schools in Islwyn – Blackwood, Risca, Oakdale, Cwmcarn, Pontllanfraith and Newbridge – to deliver the programme for the last two years.
The programme is co-ordinated by Coleg Gwent. A-level tutor Terri-Anne Matthews explains more: “Students of this calibre need a variety of experiences to support their academic endeavours in order to produce an outstanding CV and personal statement for university or job interviews and entrance examinations. By offering opportunities to mix with peers and take part in stimulating workshops and social activities, it is hoped this programme will contribute to their future success.
“The conference allows the school pupils opportunities to practise the life skills learnt this year at the other events, for example, having the confidence to interact with strangers in a formal and social setting.”
