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 |
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Free summer schools for Medicine & Dentistry Funded by NHS England For students in Yrs 11 & 12 |
Funded by NHS England, the Medical Schools Council and Dental Schools Council will be running several summer schools across England. With over 500 free places available, these summer schools are a great chance to learn more about studying medicine or dentistry and how to apply. Who can apply?These summer schools are for students in Years 11 and 12 in England from underrepresented backgrounds, particularly those from areas with limited outreach to medical schools. There are different options available, including residential, commuter, and online places. What will you experience?
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Application windows for summer schools running in 2026:
All decisions about applications to the MSC Summer school programme will be communicated to applicants by Friday 23 January 2026. Register here |
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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. |
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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. |
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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 |
