More young people than ever before are heading for university from Chase High School.
This year, more than 50 students from the school’s sixth form, in Westcliff, have applied to study at university or work for a higher degree apprenticeship.
Over the last four years, between just 25 and 33 students each year have aspired to achieve degree level qualifications.
Of the 54 students with their sights set on university this year, many are the first in their family to be taking the step – including Andra Bobitiu who will study criminology and psychology at Portsmouth University; Aleyna Osman will study biochemistry at University of East Anglia; Sydney Mifsud will study a business degree apprenticeship in London; and Mason North will study television production at Bournemouth University.
Other students this year have applied to study biochemistry, teaching degrees, fashion photography, sport, nutrition and nursing.
James Tape, head of sixth form, said student aspirations have been raised as a result of the regular opportunities they are given to explore different pathways and make informed choices about their futures.
He said: “It is inspirational to see the number of students continuing their studies at university increase as this demonstrates to the students lower down the school that if they work hard enough, they too can be successful.
“Students are our future leaders; their aspirations and dedication to their learning journey will ensure they are part of leading our society into a progressive future. We recognise the challenges that all students face; juggling exams, their learning, and all the other activities they participate in every day.
“We are incredibly proud of all the students’ and teachers’ hard work and dedication that allows Chase High Sixth Form students to successfully complete their studies and ensure their onward journey reflects their aspiration and commitment to their further education/careers.”
The number of students leaving the sixth form and going onto higher apprenticeships has also increased.
Wendy Krusche, head of careers and pastoral support, said: “There is now a whole school approach to raising aspirations for our students.
“Our career programme is within the curriculum and supported throughout the school by teachers, tutors and partners and suppliers of careers education, information, advice and guidance; which enable us to deliver the very best provision to our students.
“The programme combines career planning lessons, skills workshops, one-to-one independent careers guidance, mentoring, online career information resources and a wide range of events and activities, including sector career talks, employer visits, a careers fair, inspirational speaker, enterprise activities, career advice evening and work experience.
“Our students are the future of the nation. They are our pride; a pride that needs to be encouraged to achieve more and more. When our students receive their offers, either conditionally or unconditionally, from universities or gain higher apprenticeships, the enormous amount of joy between students and staff is apparent and becomes an achievement for all.
“That is why Chase High School ensures students become adults who can go on to make a real difference locally, nationally and globally.”
