On Thursday 23rd January our Young Leader students from Basildon Academy and Eastbury Secondary School had the opportunity to visit Cambridge University to see what a day in the life of a university student entails. 

The students arrived at St John's College in the morning greeted by Cambridge University Ambassadors and headed to the Old Divinity School to receive an educational presentation from Admissions Tutor, Dr. Helen Watson. Dr. Watson highlighted key aspects of student life at Cambridge and what St. John's College had to offer. 

The students had the opportunity to ask four current St. John’s College students questions about things pertaining to university life, how they came to choosing Cambridge, and the application process as a whole. Our Young Leaders learnt that university is open to anyone who puts their mind to it and that they should all aspire to higher education and a better future. 

The Young Leaders were given a tour of the prestigious college and saw where first year students reside, a typical dining hall, and the iconic King’s College Chapel.

The afternoon was filled with more fun as the Young Leaders met with Cambridge Varsity players from both the mens and womens rugby teams where a mini rugby tournament took place. 

Oliver, age 14 stated "I have autism and I never thought about university before today. Listening to the students here really inspired me. Now I know that you don’t need to be the best to come to university, you just have to try your best. I definitely want to return!"

We would like to thank St. John’s College for their wonderful hospitality and our incredible sponsors, The Varsity Match and Pentland Brands for making this day possible!

#InspiretoAspire