Despite a slightly soggy start to the day, Year 12 students from Coombe Dean set off for the University of Exeter with undampened enthusiasm, embarking on a day designed to inspire and inform their thinking about life after sixth form. The visit was part of our ongoing commitment to helping students explore their post-18 options and consider whether university might be the right path for them.

Exeter, a prestigious Russell Group university known for its beautiful campus and academic excellence, provided the perfect setting for this exploration. From the moment we arrived, students were engaged, curious, and a credit to the school.

The day began with a campus tour, giving students a chance to take in the stunning surroundings and get a feel for university life. After a warm welcome and introductions, the group took part in a lecture/seminar: “Choosing a Course and a University.” This session encouraged students to reflect on their interests, strengths, and aspirations, how these might align with different university courses and institutions and how they might go about choosing the right place for their next steps.

Following a relaxed lunch break in the Forum and outdoor spaces, students reconvened and split into breakout rooms for a second workshop: “Design Your Own Research Project.” This interactive session challenged students to think like university researchers, developing their own ideas and presenting them to their peers.

The day concluded with feedback from the Exeter University ambassadors on our students' work. It was clear from their feedback that the experience had sparked new ideas and opened up exciting possibilities for the future.

We are incredibly proud of how our students represented Coombe Dean and grateful to the University of Exeter for hosting an informative and inspiring day.