North Cambridge Academy hosts education and careers exploration days

Each day includes workshops on apprenticeships, FE courses, financial support for students, an introduction to university, and the chance to meet student ambassadors from both universities and ask them questions.

The aim of the day is to help young people find out more about the opportunities available to them in their home city, so that they can make well-informed choices about their post-16 options.

Matt Diston, HE Partnerships Co-ordinator for the University of Cambridge, said “Working together on this event has given us a chance to show young people in Cambridge the great range of fantastic opportunities they have on their doorstep. I’m hoping to bust a few myths about higher education, and set a few minds at rest about tuition fees and the fear of debt.”

Erica Palmer, Schools' Liaison Co-ordinator at Cambridge Regional College, said: "We are delighted to be part of these innovative careers and education workshops which will show young people the very wide range of options open to them, whether it is becoming an apprentice, learning practical skills in college or going on to university. Together we are working to raise the aspirations of all pupils."

Rachael Cole, Outreach & Recruitment Officer for Anglia Ruskin University, said "It's really important that  Anglia Ruskin University works closely with its local schools.

"North Cambridge Academy is a  new relationship for us which we are very much looking forward to moving forward.

"Over two days North Cambridge Academy have very kindly allowed myself and 3 of my Student Ambassadors access to the entire year 10 and 11 group. In their session with me and my ambassadors, the students will have covered student life and planning their future. We are hoping that with some help from the school the students will be able to revisit their planning in Year 11 future work and see if their plans have remained the same. Working with year 10s is crucial, we are very happy to be a part of this crucial time in their lives."

Martin Campbell, Principal of North Cambridge Academy, said: “We at NCA are working hard to raise the prospects and aspirations of all young people and this well organised and interactive event helps to pupils to explore and aspire. 

“For me this is about opening minds and giving pupils at NCA the chance to speak with undergraduates and explore routes post 16 from three local providers.  We hope pupils will leave thinking about their futures and dreaming about what can be.”