Students PROUDLY Take Part in Queen Mary Outreach Programme

A group of ambitious Year 12 students recently took part in the prestigious Queen Mary University of London Outreach Programme, an enriching initiative designed to open the doors of higher education to young people from a wide range of backgrounds. Over a four-week period, the students explored university life through subject-specific lectures, interactive sessions, and personal interactions with academic staff and undergraduates.

The programme offered students a chance to visit Queen Mary’s Mile End campus, meet like-minded individuals from other schools and colleges, and gain an authentic taste of university learning. For many, it was a life-changing experience. Mohammed, one of the participating students, described it as a: “unique experience”, a sentiment echoed by many others.

The Outreach Programme spanned a variety of disciplines, including astrophysics, social sciences, medicine, and dentistry. Students attended sample lectures that were both challenging and engaging, helping them broaden their academic horizons. Lecturers from different departments welcomed questions and encouraged active participation, making the sessions dynamic and accessible. Tamara reflected on the learning experience: “It was insightful. I enjoyed the interactive session on interviews.” This practical session gave students the opportunity to develop skills that will be vital for their future academic and professional journeys. Simona highlighted the importance of the social aspect of the programme, saying: “I enjoyed the welcome talks and getting to know other people.” Building connections with peers and Queen Mary staff helped foster a sense of community and belonging among participants.

The programme was also an eye-opener for students exploring new fields. Eniola remarked: “It was very good. I learned about neutrophils, which is something I didn't know about.” For many, learning something completely new sparked fresh interests and inspired further study.

Support throughout the programme was a key part of its success. Raffie, another student, shared: “Very useful and helpful,” highlighting how the programme was carefully designed to support and guide students at every step. Whether it was learning about cutting-edge scientific research, developing interview skills, or simply connecting with others who share their ambitions, students came away from the experience feeling more informed, more inspired, and above all, PROUD of what they had achieved.

The Queen Mary Outreach Programme continues to be a beacon of opportunity for young people. This cohort of students has not only taken their first steps into university life — they have done so with curiosity and confidence. We are PROUD of their accomplishments.