FE colleges can do more to boost aspiration

I have just retired from an FE college where I taught many energetic and talented students. Unlike 6th form colleges which often only teach A levels, FE colleges teach young people and adults of all abilities in both academic and vocational subjects.

Several years ago, I started running Oxbridge classes for anyone thinking of applying to those two universities and there were many successful students who went on to a variety of courses at both institutions.

The college has an above average percentage of young people on free school meals and most of my Oxbridge candidates came from homes where parents had not been to university or where there was any expectation of getting in to university, let alone to Oxford or Cambridge. For many it was right outside their family’s experience.

However, if bright students, whatever their background, are encouraged to aspire and apply, with preparation and encouragement, they can get there.

I found Oxbridge admissions tutors very helpful and they would willingly travel several hours to address our students and dispel some of the myths of collegiate life. For many students this was a turning point.

These activities do need support, however, from all college and school staff to encourage and ‘approve’ of applying. Students are sensitive and if they detect disapproval or lack of sympathy for applying they can be put off or absorb the idea that it’s not for them. It’s a relief to know that for many young people a teacher’s opinion is valuable, but this comes, as we know, with significant responsibilities.

If staff think Oxbridge or other top universities (including American universities) are elitist, that should remain a private reservation.

I was in an FE college where there was excellent teaching in the A level team but most staff had little knowledge or experience of Oxford or Cambridge: prejudice can easily develop.

In the end, teachers have an opportunity help shift the balance between independent and state schooled young people at top institutions and we need Oxbridge graduates in FE colleges to pass on their experience and encourage others to apply.

The culture of a school or college is very important and we need to make sure that nurturing academic excellence is not clashing with an ideology of supporting students at the other end of the spectrum.

But our brightest students should go to the best universities.