Monday saw Cranleigh’s inaugural UCAS Day. The Lower Sixth was released from lessons in order to spend time giving shape to their ideas about the future. They heard from OCs, current parents, outside speakers and even the Headmaster about topics ranging from the minutiae of the university admissions process to studying abroad and CV building.
Dr Dan Hogg began the day with an oversight of the university process. Martin Reader then entertained and informed everyone in a slot about the feared Personal Statement. We heard a current student at the University of Surrey describe her life in and outside the lecture theatre, and the consultants E2W told us about the Government’s latest initiative, apprenticeship-based degrees.
After break came the centrepiece of the day, speed-dating. Twenty OCs (and Tom Leeke) whizzed round Gatley’s tables packed with pupils, giving them their Cranleighan perspective on life at university, on Gap years and even as an airline pilot. In the afternoon, current parents kindly spoke to various breakout groups about careers, interview technique, and what it takes to succeed. In the evening, Dan Hogg and Martin Reader filled parents in about the current state of Higher Education and how Cranleigh supports current students and OCs. Parents were also introduced to the Cranleigh Network.
On behalf of the pupils, we would like to thank all the OCs, parents and guests who gave up their time – and in one case, Japanese Daruma dolls – to come and speak to our pupils. Thanks too to all the catering staff and staff helpers, especially Tom Leeke. Special thanks must be reserved, however, to Amanda Reader, who did so much to make the day happen.
Dr Dan Hogg
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