Super-Curricular
MOOCs
Students are encouraged to complete a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) of their choice during the summer break. Courses cover a wide variety of specialised topics which develop a student’s understanding of the subject area. A large number of them are written and accredited by universities. The completion of a MOOC demonstrates an impressive commitment to personal and academic development, and this will be recognised within the reference that the school will write for students. The following website details a range of excellent courses on offer FutureLearn.
TED Talks
TED Talks are influential videos featuring expert speakers from various fields such as education, business, science and creativity. These talks focus on sharing valuable knowledge, innovative research and ‘ideas worth spreading’. The are available with subtitles in over 100 languages and can be streamed or downloaded for free. click here.
Super-Curricular
Please see below list of external opportunities for students looking to further their study or future career prospects.
| Opportunity | Details | Date / Location / Sign Up |
|
Ambition Nottingham with the University of Nottingham |
A free two-year programme for all Year 12/ Year 1 vocational students from anywhere in the UK. We offer support and guidance to students through various online sessions, which include:
*Dependent on meeting additional eligibility criteria and dependent on subject. Bursary criteria and amounts are reviewed each year and details will be available on our webpages from the September in the year before entry. |
More information, the application form and the full entry criteria can all be found on our website. Applications are now open until Sunday 7th December 2025. |
|
Open University |
The traditional university route isn’t for everyone, but that doesn’t mean your School’ ambitions to achieve a degree need to be hindered. At The Open University, our more flexible university experience allows students to study without the pressure to compromise on what’s important to them. So, whether students want to learn from home or fit studying around work or travel, they can. |
Access The Open University Guide here. |
|
Social Mobility Foundation Aspiring Professionals Programme |
The Aspiring Professionals Programme supports students from Year 12, propelling brilliant young people into university and professional life. Mentoring, Skills and career workshops, University application support, Internships. Eligibility criteria applies. |
Click here to find out more. |
|
Lucy Cavendish College, University of Cambridge Subject Focussed Events and Taster Days |
Subject-Focussed Events and Taster Days Offering a wide range of subject focused events and taster days providing opportunity for students to gain an insight into a subject they’re interested in applying for at university. Giving opportunity to explore specific subject areas in more depth. |
Click here to view the Supracurricular Exploration Guide |










