PRIESTLEY students looking to secure a place at Oxford recently visited the city and university to see what life could be like studying there.

Among those on the trip was former Weaverham High School pupil Ruby McCarrick who is on Priestley’s High Achievers’ Programme.

She said: “Getting to participate in the various Oxford college tours is something that all applicants should try as it only inspires new sparks of motivation and willingness to make your future happen.”

Each year around 500 students from Priestley choose to go to university and secure hundreds of offers from Russell Group institutions – some of the most competitive in the country.

The High Achievers’ Programme helps students like Ruby to prepare for applying to places such as Oxford as well as giving them vital skills to succeed when they get there.

As well as visiting the university the recent trip was a chance to explore the city and its architecture.

However, for Ruby there was a clear highlight.

“What I found most engaging was the mock interview between a Tutor and the students, as it helped to decrease the fear of the most intimidating aspect of applying for such a prestigious university,” she said.

“Overall, the trip was enlightening, especially for those wanting to go, but also a simply enjoyable experience being with friends and meeting new people.”