UNIVERSITIES

There is a plethora of information available to parents and students to help begin to make decisions about both the institutions and courses that are most suited to the students.

1. League tables: these can be used to classify universities by quality and reputation. They can be compiled either on a university-wide basis or, more helpfully, on a subject basis.

The most commonly used are those compiled by The Times and The Guardian newspapers who update these annually.

2. Student-authored guides: these give the unofficial view of universities. The most common of these are the Virgin Guide and Push Guide.

3. University Prospectuses: these can be acquired free of charge from the university.

4. University Websites: these are often far more comprehensive than the paper-based versions.

Some guides are available in the Careers section of the Tait Library, although the Unifrog platform is now a rich source of easily accessible and up to date information.

Russell Group Universities

This group is considered by some to be like the US ‘Ivy League’ of the most prestigious universities in the UK. There are twenty-four universities in the group but they do not necessarily make the ‘Top 20’ as ranked annually by either The Times or The Guardian newspapers. They are:

• Birmingham • Bristol • Cambridge • Cardiff • Durham • Edinburgh • Exeter • Glasgow • Imperial College, London • King’s College, London • Leeds • Liverpool • London School of Economics (LSE) • Manchester • Newcastle • Nottingham • Oxford • Queen’s, Belfast • Queen Mary’s, London • Sheffield • Southampton • University College, London (UCL) • Warwick • York

It is important to note that although these universities are very highly regarded, students should look very carefully at the course content at these and be aware that there are also other alternative institutions whose courses and teaching styles may be more suited and appealing to them. Careful consideration should also be given with regards to the typical entry profile and offer for students, ensuring that both are well-matched and attainable for the individual.

If any student is interested in applying to overseas universities, they should look to meet with Mr Alderson as soon as possible during Year 12 so that a plan can be made to support their application. An appointment can be booked via Mrs Tompkins, Sixth Form Administrator.