Careers Bulletin 13 February 2026
Here is this week’s edition of the weekly Careers Bulletin; it will only be useful if students are proactive!
Please take a look at the opportunities that are of interest to you. If you need any help, please pop into the Careers Office which is in the Business Block or simply drop me an email: ewooller@littleheath.org.uk
Useful Information
Eclips
This is an excellent site with accurate information on over 1400 jobs including live labour market information and a wealth of impartial advice on education and employment choices, eCLIPS helps young people to make informed study and career decisions.
www.eclips-online.co.uk - Login using password: naisti27
Berkshire Opportunities https://www.berkshireopportunities.co.uk/employers-and-educators/opportunities-for-you-to-share/
Student Finance – Martin Lewis
The five things students need to know.
https://blog.moneysavingexpert.com/2025/09/five-student-need-to-knows/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR61KGBkvS3ccXcmQGniCe31MoRTEE9-gdQ3BGt8NXiGfyFJD1X_38vvP7lmgQ_aem_uEv1UD4IPEVMmNG99I-12w
Medics & Lawyers
The Medic Portal is a renowned resource for aspiring medical students, offering comprehensive preparation for UCAT, BMAT, and medical school interviews. It's recognized for its quality support and proven track record, having assisted thousands of applicants each year. With a wide array of courses, tutoring, and free resources, The Medic Portal is dedicated to helping students navigate the challenging journey of medical school admissions.
https://www.themedicportal.com/
The Lawyer Portal is a comprehensive resource for individuals considering a career in law. It offers a wide range of information and services, including guides on different pathways into the legal profession, workshops, and events like mock trials and summer schools. The portal is in partnership with key legal institutions such as the Law Society, the Bar Council, and CILEx, and is supported by The University of Law. It's designed to assist aspiring legal professionals at every stage, from students to practicing lawyers, providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed in the legal field.
https://www.thelawyerportal.com/
Employment
Higher & Degree Apprenticeships – January issue
Shell Apprenticeships Open
We are reaching out to share two exciting degree‑level apprenticeship opportunities at Shell that are now open for applications. These programmes are ideal for school leavers looking to start their careers while earning a fully funded degree and gaining real industry experience.
Our apprenticeship programme is designed to provide opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds to develop new skills and contribute to the future of energy.
Key Highlights of the Degrees on Offer:
Leadership & Management Degree Apprenticeship
A great first step for students ready to build skills employers truly value. This programme helps young people develop their leadership, communication and digital skills while earning a salary. They’ll learn how organisations work, how to lead teams and how to make confident decisions using financial and digital insight.
Apprentices will gain hands‑on experience in one of Shell’s commercial teams, primarily in learning how major global operations run and growing their confidence in a professional environment.
Find out more on the Leadership and Management Degree here : https://shell.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/ShellCareers/job/London---Shell-Centre/Leadership-and-Management-Degree-Apprenticeship_R197267?source=APPLICANT_SOURCE_NGTU&utm_campaign=3044162_Shell%20-%20Careers%20Advisor%20email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Not%20Going%20to%20Uni%20Limited&dm_i=4CV9,1T8W2,127B1P,8JF23,1,0,0,0
Digital Leadership Degree Apprenticeship
Perfect for students who are curious about technology and excited by innovation. No prior tech experience is required — just ambition and a passion for problem solving. This programme builds a broad set of digital skills across software engineering, data & analytics, cyber security, digital product development, and cloud/IT operations.
Apprentices will work directly with Shell’s Information & Digital Technology (IDT) teams, gaining real experience in the digital functions that power Shell’s global operations.
Find out more on the Digital Leadership Degree here: https://shell.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/ShellCareers/job/London---Shell-Centre/Digital-and-Technology-Solutions-Degree-Apprenticeship_R197258?source=APPLICANT_SOURCE_NGTU&utm_campaign=3044162_Shell%20-%20Careers%20Advisor%20email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Not%20Going%20to%20Uni%20Limited&dm_i=4CV9,1T8W2,127B1P,8JF23,1,0,0,0
Why promote Shell Apprenticeship Opportunities?
- We offer “earn while you learn” structure
- Apprentices gain real work experience within global organisation
- We provide strong support network & development opportunities to help apprentices succeed
How can students learn more and apply?
We would be grateful if you could promote these opportunities through your student network. All the details and application links can be found here: https://www.shell.co.uk/about-us/careers/shell-uk-apprenticeship-programme.html?utm_campaign=3044162_Shell%20-%20Careers%20Advisor%20email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Not%20Going%20to%20Uni%20Limited&dm_i=4CV9,1T8W2,127B1P,8J5XT,1,0,0,0
Forbury Group of Nurseries – Applications Open
We're very pleased to let you know that our Apprenticeship Applications for September 2026 are now OPEN! If you know of any students in Year 11 or Year 13 who might be interested in the Early years careers pathway please do give them my email address so that I can share information with them about how they can apply for a stay and play interview session with us to get a feel for what the role will involve and give them an opportunity to see the day in action.
We'd love to hear from them! Please see attached flyer
Paid NHS Placement for one Year – Finance Role
I am writing to share details of an exciting opportunity for students in the South East who are considering a future career in finance, but who may not be considering university. The NHS Finance Insights Placement Scheme is now open for applications for new entrants starting this September. We would be grateful for your support in promoting this social mobility initiative within your school or college community.
About the Scheme
This award-winning scheme offers paid (NHS Band 2, approx. £24k), full-time, 12-month work placements within the NHS. It is specifically designed for individuals at the start of their career journey who may face barriers to traditional entry routes.
- No previous experience required.
- No degree required.
- Full training and mentorship provided including practical technical and personal skills.
Eligibility Criteria - To apply, candidates must meet the following three criteria:
- Right to work: You have the right to work in the UK.
- Education: You have not attended university and are not planning to attend.
- Background: You have been eligible for Free School Meals at any point in the last 6 years OR the main income earner in your household is in a role categorised as a lower socio-economic background.
Locations & Trusts
There are 5 Trusts participating in the South East this year. While some home working is possible, candidates must be able to travel to the office of their chosen trust regularly.
Crawley: South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (Nexus House)
Reading OR Windsor: Thames Valley Integrated Care Board (Bath Road or King Edward VII Hospital)
Hastings: East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust (Conquest Hospital)
Ascot: Frimley Health NHS Foundation Trust (Heatherwood Hospital)
Worthing: University Hospital Sussex NHS Foundation Trust (Worthing Hospital)
National Webinar: 4th March
We are hosting a webinar for interested students to learn more. Details on how to register are in the attached flyer.
More Information - fleckney@nhs.net
YP: Apprenticeships in Business & Finance
Explore careers across multiple industries, gain insights from professionals, and learn how you can start your career through an apprenticeship.
Network Rail
Looking for an apprenticeship that pays you from day one?
Come aboard as a Network Rail apprentice and you’ll earn while you learn – no tuition fees, no debt.
You’ll gain hands-on skills, achieve real qualifications and get nationally recognised experience under your belt. And you’ll go to work each day knowing you’re a vital part of the team that keeps Britain running.
Get paid. Get skilled. Get started. With roles available across the UK, discover where a Network Rail apprenticeship could take you…
https://www.earlycareers.networkrail.co.uk/programme/apprenticeships/
Transport for London Apprenticeships
I just wanted to reach out to share with you some exciting apprenticeship vacancies from Level 2 to Level 4 across Business, Engineering and London Underground that are currently open with Transport for London (TfL), in case they may be of interest to your Year 13 students and their families. The apprenticeships are all based in London due to start in September 2026 and range from:
Business
- Level 4 - Procurement and Commercial
Engineering
- Level 3 - Trams Engineering
- Level 3 - Highways & Traffic
London Underground
- Level 2 - London Underground Track
- Level 3 - London Underground Escalators
- Level 3 London Underground Rail Engineering Workshop
- Level 3 London Underground Signals
- Level 3 - London Underground Low Voltage Cables
- Level 3 - London Underground Service Control
- Level 3 London Underground Power
- Level 3 - London Underground Pumps
- Level 4 - London Underground Construction Site Supervisor
Starting salaries are in the region of £27,000 and students will find details about the roles and entry requirements using the links above, although these are largely 2 GCSEs A*-C/grade 4 or above (including Maths and English Language). All applicants will also need to be 18+ at the time of starting the apprenticeship.
TfL close applications once they have enough applications through, so we would kindly encourage any interested students to apply as soon as possible.
INSIGHT EVENTS & WORK EXPERIENCE
Exploring Apprenticeships in Investment Management – Fidelity International
If you’re a Year 13, Year 12 student or school leaver exploring apprenticeships and beginning to think about your next steps, this session is for you. We’re inviting students and their parents or carers to join an exclusive webinar with Fidelity International, offering a clear and honest insight into careers within the investment management industry.
This session is designed to help students and parents/carers feel informed, confident, and supported when making important early-career decisions.
What you’ll gain from attending
- Gain a realistic insight into careers within the investment management industry
- Learn about Fidelity International’s apprenticeship programmes, including how they work, the qualifications gained and long-term career pathways
- Hear directly from Fidelity’s Head of Early Careers about what they look for in applicants
- Listen to current apprentices share their experiences, day-to-day responsibilities and honest advice
- Understand the application process, key stages and what to expect at each step
Parents and carers are encouraged to attend, as the session will also provide reassurance and practical guidance on how best to support students as they make early career choices.
Who are Fidelity International?
Fidelity International is a global investment management company helping people plan for their financial futures. Founded in 1969, Fidelity operates across multiple countries and supports millions of individuals with saving, investing and long-term financial planning. As a privately owned organisation, Fidelity places strong emphasis on long-term thinking, development and career progression. Fidelity International is responsible for total client assets of USD $862.0 billion and over 2.9 million clients across Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, South America, and Canada. With a global footprint in over 25 countries.
Event details
- 📅 Date: Wednesday 18th February
- ⏰ Time: 6pm – 7pm
- 📍 Location: Online via Zoom (joining link shared after registration)
Please register using the link below to confirm your attendance:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Fidelity_Virtual
We’re really looking forward to welcoming you to an informative, practical, and confidence-building session.
NESO – Engineering - Virtual Work Experience
Are you interested in an exciting career in engineering and energy systems? Join us for a Virtual STEM work experience with National Energy System Operator (NESO) to discover opportunities in the engineering and energy sector and learn how you can help shape the future of sustainable energy.
NESO is part of the UK Government, so it is publicly owned and has a core responsibility for the entire distribution of the UK’s electricity and gas supply.
Event Details:
- Date: Tuesday 17th February
- Time: 10:00am - 2:30pm
- Location: Virtual via Zoom (Link provided upon registration)
- Who Can Attend? Year 11,12 and 13 and university students
Why This Event Matters
The National Energy System Operator plays a crucial role in shaping the UK’s energy landscape, ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy supply. By attending this event, you’ll gain valuable insights into how engineering is driving the energy transition and how you can be part of this vital work
This is a fantastic opportunity to:
- Learn About Engineering Roles: Gain insight into the innovative work of the National Energy System Operator to balance supply and demand across the UK’s energy grid.
- Explore Career Pathways: Discover opportunities for school-leavers and graduates and meet current and former apprentices/graduates working towards a sustainable future.
- Hear From Experts: Meet engineers working at the forefront of the energy transition, tackling real-world challenges to create a greener and more sustainable future.
Ask Your Questions: Participate in a live Q&A session to get tailored advice about the skills, qualifications, and experiences needed to succeed in this field.
Register Here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NESO_Engineering
BP Castrol Pangbourne Work Experience
Castrol is a global leader in advanced lubricants, helping power everything from cars and motorbikes to wind turbines, electric vehicles, and even space technology. Our work sits at the forefront of science and engineering, developing high‑performance fluids that keep the world moving. Whether supporting motorsport teams, enabling cleaner and more efficient transport, or creating specialist fluids for future technologies, Castrol is constantly pushing innovation forward.
Our Pangbourne Technology Centre is one of our key global research hubs, where scientists, technologists, and engineers come together to create, test, and refine the products that power everything from road travel to renewable energy.
- 📅Dates: 22nd- 26th June 2026
- ⏰Timings: 9:00am-3:00pm daily
- 📍 Location: Pangbourne Technology Centre, Pangbourne, Reading
- 👥Who can apply: Students ages 14-16 with an interest in STEM
- 🎟️ Spaces available: Up to 12 placements
Throughout the week, students will have the opportunity to engage with a variety of teams from across the Pangbourne site. They will gain insight into the science, technology and innovation that underpin our work, learning how different departments contribute to the development and testing of our products. Students will take part in hands-on activities, including blending and testing their very own oils, giving them real laboratory experience and a deeper understanding of the chemistry and processes involved.
If you have students who may be interested, please share the attached application form with them. Completed applications should be returned to me at grace_rose.conroy@bp.com by the 7th March. We would be grateful if you could circulate this opportunity to relevant students, parents, and teachers.
KPMG – Employability Support
We are thrilled to announce that our ‘Career Essentials Employability Booster virtual Series’ is now live! Ready to level up your skills? Hosted by our Student Recruitment Team, we are offering multiple sessions across the following months to boost your employability skills!
Employability Booster - Interview Skills - Tuesday 17 February; 4pm – 4.45pm.
Employability Booster- Personal Brand- Thursday 5 March; 4pm – 4.45pm
Employability Booster - Resilience- Thursday 16 April; 4pm- 4.30pm
KPMG – Social Mobility Event
Join us at our virtual Come as you are - KPMG Social Mobility Event and gain an insight into life at KPMG. You’ll have the chance to hear more from our people about their personal experiences of breaking down barriers, developing skills for life and bringing their whole selves to work each day.
You will hear from banking graduate and content creator, Adam Razzaq, as part of our panel Q&A and you’ll also discover more about what we’re doing as a firm to support those from lower socio-economic backgrounds to thrive and reach their full potential.
Time: Tuesday 10th February 2026, 16:30 to 17:30
https://forms.rmp-connect.com/form/l2WTU7qjIlmRwr3GiDkUuHJnKv/ainiNb8BKIVUPcz5I7iQ
Careers in Racing: Careers Advice
The British Horseracing Authority’s Careers in Racing team implements recruitment, training, education and community initiatives for the horseracing industry. There are a number of different opportunities available with a wide range of training courses from Apprenticeships to degree courses. https://careersinracing.com/
RCGP: GP Work Experience
School and college pupils aged 16+ who are interested in studying medicine can find top tips for obtaining GP work experience and how to make the most of a work experience placement in general practice. Also links to Observe GP, an online alternative to work experience for aspiring
medics aged 16 and over, who are living in the UK. It is a free interactive video platform providing insights into the role of a GP and the wider primary care team.
https://www.rcgp.org.uk/your-career/work-experience
Pre Med Projects: London Work Experience
Immerse yourself in the heart of UK healthcare. This programme includes:
- Exposure to world-class hospitals
- Lectures by practising UK doctors
- Workshops at prestigious London medical schools
- Engaging in clinical skills sessions
- Valuable volunteering opportunities
https://www.premedprojects.co.uk/medicine-work-experience
Renishaw: Work Experience
Engineering
- Learn about Renishaw's product development process
- Gain a greater understanding of what a career in engineering entails
- Work alongside our engineers
Software
- Develop an application as part of a team
- Improve your coding skills and learn how to apply them to a real project
- Design and test your software against a brief
- Utilise the scrum methodology to plan and achieve your goals
https://www.renishaw.com/en/work-experience-weeks--42171
Grant Thornton
We're excited to offer you a remarkable opportunity to step into the vibrant and ever-changing world of accounting, tax, consulting, and business services. Join us at the Grant Thornton offices at four different locations (Cardiff, Bristol, Oxford and Edinburgh) for an unparalleled opportunity to network and discover what it's really like to be part of a leading accounting firm. These events are for school students and offer opportunities to learn about internships, work experience, and apprenticeships at a global firm.
You will have the chance to participate in workshops and network with the firm's service lines and their teams. You will meet partners, managers and trainees across all their core business service areas, so you can find out which part of Grant Thornton is the right fit for you.
Who are Grant Thornton?
Grant Thornton is one of the largest accounting firms in the world, with over 5,000 people in the UK, and a presence in 150 global markets. They are on an ambitious journey from great to exceptional and need the best people to help them reach their potential. Providing audit, tax and advisory services, they empower clients through strategic insight, curiosity, and genuine partnership. They empower their people with real opportunity, an inclusive culture and work-life balance.
Event Experience:
This evening promises an exciting journey into the world of accounting, tax, consulting, and business services. During this event, you’ll have the chance to build your network and connect with senior professionals and trainees from Grant Thornton, who will provide invaluable insights into the professional services industry.
Event Details:
Bristol - Wednesday 11th March - 4:30pm - 6pm https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GT_Bristol
Oxford - Friday 13th March - 5pm - 6:30pm https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GT_Oxford
Medicine & Dentistry Opportunities
This year, I’m excited to offer exclusive invitations to a series of events designed specifically to provide an insight into medicine and dentistry for students in Yr 9 - Yr12
- New Virtual Medical Work Experience - Obstetrics & Gynaecology
- New Virtual Dental Work Experience - Paediatric & Dental Surgery
- Virtual Medical Society Webinar - Medical School Life & Transitions
- Virtual Dental Society Webinar - Teamwork & Leadership in Dentistry
- Free Virtual Get Into Medicine conference
- Free Virtual Get Into Dentistry conference
To access these experiences, students need to register for one of the upcoming Get Into conferences.
For aspiring Doctors: FREE LIVE VIRTUAL Get Into Medicine conference dates:
- Sunday 22nd February, 9am - 1:30pm
- Saturday 28th February, 9am - 1:30pm
- Saturday 7th March, 9am - 1:30pm
https://medicmentor.org/get-into-medicine-university-conference/
For aspiring Dentists: FREE LIVE VIRTUAL Get Into Dentistry conference dates: - Sunday 1st March, 9am - 1:30pm https://dental-mentor.org/get-into-dentistry-university-conference/
There are many paths to explore in Medicine and Dentistry, and Dr. Scarlett and I are here to provide guidance. From gaining work experience to joining extracurricular activities, we’re here to help your students make confident career decisions whilst gaining insights into these fields.
During the conference, students can:
- Interact with doctors/dentists LIVE and hear from current medical or dental students
- Gain insight into medically/dentally inclined extracurricular activities to enhance their skills
- Learn where and how to secure valuable work experience
- Updates to the UCAT Entrance Exam
- Strategically selecting universities
- Crafting compelling personal statements
- Navigating the medical and dental school interview process
- Curating extra and supra-curricular activities that are directly related to medicine or dentistry
- Applying for scholarships to study medicine or dentistry at university
Medical Registration Link: https://medicmentor.org/get-into_medicine_conference_signup
Dental Registration Link: https://dental-mentor.org/get-into-dentistry-conference-sign-up
If you have any questions at all, please feel free to drop me an email education@medicmentorfamily.org.
College Information
Please see attached for all local college open days and contact details.
Universities
What Career? What University? 27 & 28 February NEC Birmingham
Learn more about the full range of school leaver options. Chat to leading universities & top employers, get one-to-one advice from careers experts, watch inspiring talks & much more.
https://www.whatcareerlive.co.uk/events/birmingham/
Oxford University – Guide to Admissions Tests
To assist students with their application planning, the University of Oxford has provided a
comprehensive guide to undergraduate admissions tests, detailing which assessments are required for specific courses along with essential registration and preparation information.
Cambridge University
To assist students with their application planning, the University of Oxford has provided a
comprehensive guide to undergraduate admissions tests, detailing which assessments are required for specific courses along with essential registration and preparation information.
https://www.undergraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/events-listing
Oxford Brookes – Architecture Taster Day
At this Architecture Taster Day, you will have the opportunity to:
- take part in lectures and interactive academic sessions
- experience practical work and engage in discussion on the topics
- discover the facilities and student life during a Campus Tour hear about the career potential of the courses on offer
https://www.brookes.ac.uk/outreach/post-16/subject-taster-days
University of Reading: BA English Literature Webinar
Join Dr Neil Cocks for this interactive webinar where he will offer a brief and student-centred introduction to ‘The Gaze’ in Critical and Literary Theory. The experience of the gaze is often that moment where it can seem as though a character is looking directly at you. Spooky. Drawing on his experience of teaching Children’s Literature as an academic subject, Dr Neil Cocks will lead discussions of the song ‘Let it Go’ from Frozen, the cover art to The Gruffalo, and the ending of Edith Nesbit’s The Railway Children.
https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/5271979487921300576?source=unitaster
Royal Holloway: Psychology Taster Day
Explore Psychology at Royal Holloway - Experience what it’s like to study psychology at Royal Holloway by attending interactive taster sessions led by expert academics and discover the cutting-edge research happening in the Psychology department.
Have lunch with current students and get an insider’s perspective on life at Royal Holloway. Explore the beautiful campus and get a feel for student life. Guided tours are led by friendly Student Ambassadors.
EDT: Materials Science Summer School at University of Oxford
This course at the University of Oxford aims to give an insight into Materials Science, or Materials Engineering as it is also known.
You will
- Attend lectures covering a range of Materials topics
- Tackle a range of problems often presented to current undergraduates
- Participate in laboratory sessions aimed not only at giving a general idea about Materials Science, but also conduct experiments similar to those performed by undergraduates
- Visit one of the UK's major centres of research, where scientists from across the world use nuclear fusion, neutron beam or synchrotron light source to carry out experiments of international importance
- Participate in a group-based competitive project aimed at simulating the commercial aspects of scientific research
https://www.etrust.org.uk/materialsscienceatuniversityofoxford
Brighton University: Studying pharmacy: a case study on asthma
Using asthma as a case study, find out what pharmacy students do, including the importance of developing practical skills, such as how to formulate drug solutions, measure lung function, and teach patients how to properly use inhalers. You’ll discover how studying pharmacy at Brighton
prepares you for your future role as healthcare professional.
The University of Law: Real World Lecture: Perfectionism - What Are The Hidden Costs of High Achievement in Sport?
Striving for excellence can drive success—but when does it become harmful? The lecture examines how perfectionism can contribute to athlete burnout, emotional distress, and vulnerability to depression. It will challenge common myths around perfectionism, clarifying how even so-
called adaptive forms can become harmful under certain conditions. Using research and real-world examples, you’ll discover how certain approaches can help reduce perfectionism.
https://www.law.ac.uk/events/event-booking/?id=fcbddb3c-c9d5-f011-8543-7ced8db8043c
University Centre Sparsholt - Open Event 7th March
University Centre Sparsholt is one of the leading providers of undergraduate courses for the land, environment, and conservation.
Registrations are now open for University Centre Sparsholt’s next open event on Saturday 7 March 2026, (timings for the event will be confirmed when students book a place). To attend, your students will need to register for the event as soon as possible by visiting:
https://www.ucsparsholt.ac.uk/events/
Register Now as our events do fill up quickly!
Your students can find out more about us on our website (University Centre Sparsholt - Advancing Futures) and by viewing our Higher Education 2026 Prospectus online:
https://www.sparsholt.ac.uk/prospectuses/
Summer Schools
The Debate Chamber: Physics Summer School
The Physics Summer School offers a perfect opportunity for able students to explore some of the most exciting and challenging ideas in contemporary physics. Each online course is designed to engage you in active discovery. Through guided discussions, problem-solving exercises, and thought experiments, you will grapple with concepts such as black holes, time travel, and the search for exoplanets. Rather than simply learning about physics, you will learn to think like physicists – applying mathematical reasoning, analyzing complex ideas, and exploring the unknown.
https://debatechamber.com/project/physics-summer-school/
The Debate Chamber: Economics Summer School
Designed for students studying Economics, this course deepens your understanding of the subject through real-world case studies, interactive simulations, and engaging discussions.
Whether you plan to study economics at university or want to see how it connects with fields like politics and social sciences, this Summer School provides a strong foundation for future studies and career ambitions.
In 2026, the Summer School will tackle key economic challenges, from sustainable development to crisis management, combining theoretical analysis with practical policy discussions. The emphasis throughout will be on active and critical engagement with the material, so come prepared to have your say!
https://debatechamber.com/project/economics-summer-school-in-person/
The Sutton Trust Summer Schools
We are delighted to announce that applications are now open for the Sutton Trust summer schools, delivered in partnership with thirteen leading UK universities.
In this email, you’ll find information about what the summer schools offer, the impact of attending, resources to help you promote the programmes, and the types of students we encourage to apply. For those familiar with our programme, we also include updates and changes for 2026 and guidance on where to direct students with questions.
Thank you in advance for your support spreading the word with your students. Students can apply here : https://ukss.suttontrust.com/ and find out more via our website: https://summerschools.suttontrust.com/
What are the summer school programmes?
The Sutton Trust Summer School programmes offer students the opportunity to immerse themselves in university life. They will walk away with the confidence and skills needed to choose where to apply and what to study, be a competitive applicant wherever that is, and find support with a network of like-minded peers.
All costs including travel, accommodation, food and activities are covered by the Trust and our partners which means it is completely free of charge for students to attend.
On the programme, students will:
- Experience university life - spending up to a week at one of our partner universities attending lectures, living on campus, making friends, and taking part in social and academic activities.
- Explore their future subject - students can choose from over 40 different courses, from History to Engineering. With over 15 hours of teaching, they will get the chance to explore the subjects that they are passionate about. It will also look great on their university application, should they apply.
- Make new friends - they will meet with other students from similar backgrounds to them who share similar passions throughout their week at University.
- Access university application support - our Sutton Trust Online programme will provide expert and personalised support throughout the university and apprenticeship application process, so their Sutton Trust experience does not end in the summer.
- Students can apply here: https://ukss.suttontrust.com/
- Eligibility: https://summerschools.suttontrust.com/eligibility/
- Course Options: https://summerschools.suttontrust.com/browse-courses/
Applications are now open and the deadline is Thursday 5 March 2026 at midday*. We are unable
to accept any late submissions.
*Applications for a place at The University of Cambridge will close on Thursday 12 February 2026.
Bristol University - Virtual Summer School 2026
We're excited to announce that applications for our Virtual Summer School 2026 are now open! The Virtual Summer School is open to Year 12 students and offers many of the benefits of an in-person program but is accessed online, meaning students can access it from home or another place of study.
The three-day program comprises academic talks, social sessions, and information, advice and guidance to help you make informed choices about your future options in Higher Education. Student Ambassadors are on hand to answer questions about what it's like to study at Bristol.
Take a look at our website for further information and the link to the application form.
https://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/outreach/post-16/virtual-summer-school/
Winchester Summer School
30th June - 2nd July 2026 – Please apply on the link below:
Outreach Summer School Programmes 2026
For students in Year 9 to Year 12 interested in STEM
Are you in Years 9-12? Interested in STEM and keen to explore university and life at Imperial? Applications for our free residential and non-residential summer programmes are now open.
Visit our Summer Schools webpage to learn more about the programmes, eligibility criteria, and how to apply.
- Year 9 Girls Engineering Summer School: 4 - 7 August
- Year 10 Insights Summer School: 29 July - 1 August (Residential)
- Year 11 Online STEM Challenge: 23 - 26 June
- Year 12 Sutton Trust Summer School Week 1: 14 - 17 July (Residential)
- Year 12 Sutton Trust Summer School Week 2: 21 - 24 July (Residential)
- Year 12 Work Experience Programme: 29 June - 3 July
Applications close in March 2026. Please check individual programme web pages for specific closing dates. For any queries email outreach.scienceactivities@imperial.ac.uk
Dentistry Summer School
Interacting with staff and students from Queen Mary University of London and Kings College London, this summer school gives Year 12 students an opportunity to find out what it is like to study dentistry, the realities of being a dentist and the skills needed to succeed.
The summer school activities will be focused on the following key areas:
- Gaining an insight into life as a dental student studying at university
- Knowledge of the dental application process
- Alternatives to studying dentistry and how to utilise their 5th choice.
https://www.qmul.ac.uk/outreach/students/medicine-and-dentistry-/dentistry-summer-school-progamme/