Students from Shireland Collegiate Academy visited the University of Oxford as part of a higher education enrichment experience designed to support aspiration and informed progression choices at post-16 and post-18 level.
Year 11 students joined the Academy’s Sixth Form for a visit, which included Keble College and Oriel College. The trip featured an introductory talk, a question-and-answer session with current Oxford students and guided tours of both colleges.
School Principal, Thomas Daly, said: “Aspirational visits are an important part of our wider curriculum because they help students connect classroom learning with real university environments. For both our year 11 and post-16 students, this makes studying at higher education feel more tangible and helps them understand the steps needed to reach it.
“At Shireland, we are committed to ensuring students leave us with the qualifications, confidence and clarity to aim high and pursue their ambitions. Opportunities like this support that by turning aspiration into informed next steps.”
Keble College is one of the largest colleges within the University of Oxford, with more than 800 students. Founded in 1870, it has developed a reputation for encouraging open academic debate and independent thinking. The College brings together students from a wide range of backgrounds and supports a broad student experience that includes academic study alongside participation in music, drama and sport.
Oriel College is a constituent college of the University of Oxford, located in Oriel Square. Founded in 1326 by royal charter, it is the oldest royal foundation in Oxford. Today, it provides a learning environment focused on academic and personal development, supported by a dedicated welfare team and a range of student activities. It is known for its historic buildings and a strong sense of community among students.
The visit followed a strong period of academic achievement within the Academy’s Sixth Form, where four students had secured Oxford interviews and one had received an offer.
The Academy said the trip formed part of its wider provision aimed at supporting students in making informed decisions about their future pathways and encouraging engagement with competitive higher education routes.
Applications for year 12 entry in September 2026 are now open via Applicaa, the Academy’s online admissions system. Further details about Shireland Sixth Form and how to apply are available on the Academy website.
