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UCAS International Teachers & Advisers Conference

Posted: 9th June 2017

Earlier this week, our Head of Careers, Miss. Bendle and Careers Coordinator, Dr. Foster attended the UCAS International Teachers’ and Advisers’ Conference at The Principal Hotel in Manchester.

The two-day conference aims to help teachers, advisers and agents to improve upon their ability to assist non-UK applicants in their journey throughout the UK higher education system. Attendees have the opportunity to listen to expert speakers and network with UK universities; colleges; UCAS; sponsor organisations and key stakeholders, in addition to the opportunity to discover more about the resources available to support them in advising international applicants.

Over the course of the two days, Dr. Foster and Miss. Bendle participated in a number of informative sessions. One of the most useful sessions was hosted by Caitriona Woolhouse, Head of Student Recruitment for the University of Oxford, alongside Dr. Sam Lucy, Director of Admissions for Cambridge Colleges at the University of Cambridge. This course sought to clarify the meanings of the various acronyms (UKCAT, LNAT, BMAT, HAT and PAT) used to refer to UK university admissions tests, while also providing guidance on how to support students throughout the registration process and in preparing for the tests.

The session on work experience for medical students was of particular relevance to CSFC, being as many of our students wish to study medicine at university. Held by Angela Kubacki, Associate Dean for Admissions at St George’s, University of London, and Dr. Joanna Shearer, College Counselor for ACS International School, this class provided an excellent overview of what medical schools expect from students in terms of ‘work experience’, with consideration of what can realistically be achieved. The session also included a focus on how to advise students about the best way to reflect upon their experiences when it comes to writing their personal statements.

On Monday evening, Miss. Bendle and Dr. Foster took part in a speed networking session and sat down to enjoy a Gala Dinner with key staff from top UK universities, including admissions representatives from the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, in addition to professors from Imperial College London, the University of Exeter and the University of Bath, to name just a few.

Speaking about how the information shared during the conference will assist CSFC’s Careers team, Miss. Bendle commented:

“Having the ability to be able to meet and network with key stakeholders from top UK universities has been a priceless experience. We strive to develop strong working relationships with a growing number of contacts from varying departments in Russell Group universities, all in support of our students’ applications to their institutions. The conferences are also fruitful opportunities to meet alike careers counsellors from other international institutions worldwide, which provide us the occasion to share best practice and knowledge of international application procedures.”

Our Careers team will look forward to using their newfound knowledge and skills to assist our international students in applying to top UK universities.

Categories: News