Selwyn College hosts Huddersfield HE+ masterclass

The visit was part of a new collaborative project called HE+, developed by the University of Cambridge and being piloted in several parts of the UK, including Yorkshire.

HE+, which aims to encourage and prepare talented academic students to compete for places at top universities, is part of the university’s commitment to seek out students from all backgrounds and encourage them aim high in their university ambitions.

Within each HE+ project consortium, local schools and colleges and the Cambridge College linked with that area work together to ensure that students and their teachers receive the support they need to better compete for places at highly selective universities including the University of Cambridge.

The Yorkshire consortium, led by Greenhead College, is now in its third year.  The other members of the consortium are Heckmondwike Grammar School; New College, Huddersfield; St John Fisher High School, Dewsbury; Rastrick High School; Calder High School and Brighouse High School.

Elaine Maynard, of Greenhead College, is the HE+ Consortium Co-ordinator. “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.”

Mike Sewell, Admissions Tutor for Selwyn College, said: “We value our local relationships and were delighted to be asked to be part of HE+. The programme is showing great promise in bringing together Yorkshire’s brightest students and encouraging them to challenge themselves and each other. We hope this scheme will encourage and prepare more of Yorkshire’s top students to apply to top universities, including Cambridge.”