Cambridge delivers masterclass for Yorkshire students

Cambridge University has provided the sessions to pupils from the Yorkshire Consortium of schools which comprise Greenhead College, in Huddersfield, Heckmondwike Grammar, New College, Huddersfield, St John Fisher High in Dewsbury, Rastrick High and Brighouse High.

The event took place yesterday at Greenhead with 10 visiting academics from Cambridge’s Selwyn College delivering masterclasses in subjects ranging from maths to modern languages.

Students were encouraged to think beyond their A-level curriculum and introduced to new ideas and concepts as well as finding familiar material approached from new angles.

It is part of a new Cambridge University project called HE+ being piloted in several parts of the UK. Local schools and colleges and a Cambridge College work together to ensure that students and their teachers receive the support they need to compete for places at highly selective universities. The university provides materials for extension classes, which are developed by teachers from participating schools and supported by masterclasses and workshops led by Cambridge academics and admissions tutors. Students can also visit Cambridge.

HE+ Consortium Co-ordinator. Dave Davies of Greenhead College said: “We got involved because we saw an opportunity to make a real difference for our students. By working together with other schools and colleges, and with Selwyn College’s help, we share expertise and develop best practice.” he said.

“The input from Cambridge has been practical and inspirational. The masterclasses and extension classes give students who want to stretch themselves a structure to work with and the motivation to be ambitious. It’s very motivating for our students to feel that Cambridge is reaching out to work with and welcome them.”

The event follows the visit to Yorkshire by Cambridge University’s vice chancellor Prof Sir Leszek Borysiewicz who took part in an interview masterclass for sixth formers for Leeds and Wakefield at Notre Dame sixth- form college in Leeds.

Mike Sewell, admissions tutor for Selwyn College, said: “We value our local relationships and were delighted to be asked to be part of this HE+ pilot.”