UCAS Exhibition

Mr Jackson

On Wednesday 26 April, Year 12 travelled to the 2023 UCAS Discovery Exhibition in Newport which hosted over 130 exhibitors from universities and employers from all over the UK. A selection of talks were available for pupils to help them make future career decisions and to aid them with the UCAS application process. UCAS is the University and Colleges Admissions Service and provides pupils with advice on their educational progression, as well as the service to enable them to apply to universities in the UK. At Malvern St James pupils receive bespoke support from a highly experienced higher education team throughout the application process, though the groundwork is begun a lot earlier and ranges from tailored careers advice, Unifrog tracking, work experience and a community of working professionals who are always willing to come in and share their experiences. Several pupils commented on the range of universities that were present at the exhibition, many of which were previously unknown to them. One of the top tips from the UCAS Application talk was to make your application stand out by demonstrating a thorough interest in your chosen course and its subject material. There were plenty of other takeaways from the day, not forgetting the freebies which left everyone leaving with a smile!

The UCAS exhibition has been very useful to me as I am aspiring to study a medicine related course at university. I gained a lot of information about studying medicine careers from different universities, even from universities I have never thought about. The event gave me a clear vision on what I should achieve in the near future and in my A-level studies and what I should do more of to increase the strength of my personal statement.

KATRINA, YEAR 12

This trip got me thinking; what other things could university possibly give me - apart from their brilliant academic courses - as I would love to maximise my 3 years of experience before entering the world of unknown.

CHLOE, YEAR 12

Outgoing Prefect Supper

Jemima, Year 13

On the evening of Wednesday 3 May, the outgoing prefect team gathered together for one final celebration. An enjoyable evening was had by all, filled with laughter, stories of our best memories at MSJ, and delicious food. A quiz about the school was prepared for the event, and really tested our knowledge on all things MSJ. Who knew there were 1002 steps in the main school buildings! Conversation ranged from the Met Gala to Geography trips, and from pets to potential Ships competitions, and it was a lovely opportunity to reflect on our time together and celebrate our achievements as a prefect team and a year group.

Finding Your Future

Nicole, Year 12

Approaching the end of Year 12, it is the time when the new cycle of the UCAS application starts. On 10 May, all Year 12 pupils were given a talk, “Finding your Future” by our Sixth Form mentors. The talk initially focused on the steps involved in UCAS application and possible apprenticeship pathways we might be able to take. We were then introduced to the structuring of our personal statement. Our current Year 13, who were soon starting their A-levels, also kindly shared their tips and advice to Year 12 pupils during the session. Their suggestions have enabled us to reflect on our mindset and approaches. Wrapping up, we all found it extremely helpful and reassuring that we had the support from mentors and teachers at such an early start. This was helpful in terms of giving us chance to gather our thoughts after immersing ourselves in a busy year as Year 12 pupils.

veterans and their families. Both teachers and pupils attended and it was lovely have everyone together again for the first main whole school charity event prior to Covid. We had paint extinguishers, handheld bottles of paint, plastic pouches as well as LOTS of refills, to help decorate participants much to the runners, and marshals delight! It was received greatly by all, from prep to sixth form: a unique experience that raised money for a great cause. Everyone had lots of fun and the sunglasses were put to good use, especially due to the sunny weather condition! Many thanks to all who took part with such enthusiasm to add to the wonderful riot of colour!