Cambridge Edition November 2021 - Newsletter

EDUCAT ION

THE LAST THING WE WANT TO DO IS REGISTER A STUDENT TO A PROGRAMME THAT DOES NOT FIT

they’re already halfway to achieving the goals they have set for themselves.” One thing Robin is keen to stress is that students shouldn’t be selecting subjects based on what their peers are planning to study. As much as they might want to spend more time with friends, they need to focus on their own individual path – plus, there will be plenty of time to see pals at break time and after college. Tom Caston, principal at MPW, advises visiting a range of schools and colleges, and seeking advice from those delivering different options. “At MPW, we are able to chat through a student’s academic profile and find a sensible, correct match to a suitable programme,” he explains. “The last thing we want to do is register a student to a programme that does not fit them perfectly.” An important consideration is how much support a sixth form offers, especially when things aren’t going well. Unfortunately, the pandemic created a perfect storm for mental health issues – and while most of us have felt the strain at one point or another, increasing evidence points to the fact that children

78 NOVEMBER 2021 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK

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