From 4-9 July, 13 KAN students from the 2018, 2019, and 2020 cohorts travelled to Cambridge to attend a six-day residential based at Queens’ College, Cambridge.
The week was a fantastic opportunity for students to meet with their mentors, socialise with peers, and explore a broad range of higher education opportunities. Students enjoyed activities including:
- Talks and seminars on academic subjects and higher education
- Behind-the-scenes access to some of Cambridge’s excellent museums
- Punting and escape rooms
- A debating workshop provided by Debate Mate
- College tours and The University of Cambridge open day
- A formal dinner at Fitzwilliam College
We were delighted to collaborate with Queens and Fitzwilliam Colleges, University of Cambridge; Anglia Ruskin University; University of Cambridge Museums; and Debate Mate who all facilitated insightful and inspiring sessions for the KAN pupils.
The students, as ever, made the most of the week and all the opportunities it provided. Huge thanks go to the excellent mentor team who worked tirelessly to make the week a success.
A support network outside of school that genuinely want the best for you. I feel safe and reassured that I can do whatever I want to and there’s always people who can help or try their best to do anything that will aid or put your mind at ease about the future.
Student, 2019 cohort
Feedback Summative Review
13 students attended the week and 10 of them filled out a feedback survey, as well as 11 mentors, teachers, and external contributors. When asked what the best thing about the week was, most people’s answers related to the wide range of new experiences on offer; opportunities to socialise and explore the city; and the range and quality of higher education information and advice available. All students who responded to the survey agreed or strongly agreed that:
- The residential exposed them to new ideas
- The sessions were interesting and well-delivered
- They know what they would need to do to apply for university
- They feel part of a KAN network of students and mentors
- They feel supported by their KAN network
Comments from contributors (including external providers) were overwhelmingly positive. Most focused on how courteous, mature, ambitious, engaged, and intelligent they found the KAN students who they met. One new mentor wrote:
The students were so eager to learn and well-behaved, and the other mentors were amazing, encouraging the students to take part in activities and discuss their aspirations for higher education. I’m really proud to be part of such an amazing initiative.
