Outreach is a very important part of being OUSoc.
There is a vast amount we can contribute to our local schools in very simple ways.
Our aim is to raise the aspiration of the able young people in our community who would never think of applying to Oxford and similar universities, as well as to help them along this way if we can.
Two ways in which we have already started outreach:
Mock Oxbridge Interviews
For schoolchildren, just being put on the spot by someone they do not know is a valuable experience. We have conducted a number of mock interviews at local schools, and they turned out very helpful for children. One Bristol state school recently wrote:
“I thought I would let you know that <…>, with whom you did a mock interview, has been successful in his application to Oxford to study Medicine! He has to get A*AA grades but I think that’s within his reach. He asked me specifically to thank you for your support. It really helped his preparation. Thank you from me too – it was much appreciated!”
Speaking at School Assemblies
We have spoken to children at local schools, sharing with them our own experiences of get ting into, and being at, Oxford. The final years at primary schools are a very formative time for young people and such speeches can be a major influence on them.
Bianca Ambrose-Oji (Wolfson, Forestry) addressed the Year 5 and Year 6 Assembly at Bridge Farm Primary School, Whitchurch, Bristol, describing her career from her early days in Bristol into a career in forestry which takes her around the world, and how her days in Oxford opened up a whole new world for her.
Matt Stannard, Deputy Headteacher, wrote: “… a well received motivational talk which raised aspirations and showed how university and further education is the key to success. Dr Ambrose was thoroughly engaging and the pupils were very impressed. I would recommend these talks without reservation and welcome any further opportunities from your members”.
If you are interested in contributing to our Outreach programme, please do get in touch.
Oxford University Bristol & Bath Alumni 