Find out more about UCL's partnerships with five east London schools, allowing UCL to work closer than ever with our east London neighbours.
In 2023 UCL forged long-term partnerships with five east London schools spanning Hackney, Newham, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest. These partnerships involve UCL working closely with the schools on an individual basis to develop programmes in support of their needs, with the overarching aim of having a positive impact on students’ experiences.
The partner schools are:
• Bobby Moore Academy (Newham)
• Chobham Academy (Newham)
• Oaklands School (Tower Hamlets)
• The Excelsior Academy (Hackney)
• The Urswick School (Hackney)
Each of the five partner schools benefits from tailored support from UCL East Schools Engagement, who leverage resources and expertise across UCL to co-design engagement activities which support schools' needs and enrich their curriculum. Schools take part in workshops and lectures with UCL academics and students, alongside visits to UCL’s campuses in Stratford and Bloomsbury. Each school has a range of unique programmes, from subject-specific support and intervention, to academic skills sessions and general advice, guidance and support with Higher Education pathways. Activities support students’ wellbeing and increase their knowledge of available opportunities, equipping them with the skills to access these.
Experience across the HE access sector shows young people gain greatest benefit where engagement with a university is on a sustained basis; these partnerships, spanning a minimum of three years, represent a long-term commitment on behalf of both the schools and UCL.
UCL East Schools Engagement Manager, Celine West, said:
“This is an exciting step for UCL as part of our vision to be a valued neighbour in east London, making a positive impact on educational outcomes for local young people and building relationships with the community. We’re looking forward to expanding on the wide-ranging work already undertaken across UCL. From this, we recognise that schools have different priorities, challenges and capacities for engagement, and we will be working closely with them to deliver multifaceted programmes.”
Richard Brown, Headteacher of The Urswick School:
“The Urswick School is delighted to be working in partnership with UCL. The school’s mission statement is ‘Believe and Achieve’. We believe young people can be successful and although success looks different for each learner, for some of our students, success will mean being the first member of their family to attend university. This partnership will create opportunities for young people to be supported by UCL, and having direct contact with a highly successful university will raise aspirations and motivate young people to work hard at school. We will also enhance the skills of our teachers by giving them the chance to work alongside colleagues at UCL.”
Ashae Mederick, Careers Lead at The Excelsior Academy (formerly Petchey Academy):
“This collaboration marks an exciting milestone for The Petchey Academy as we strive to provide our students with the highest quality education and opportunities for growth. By joining forces with UCL, we aim to enhance our educational programmes and enrich the learning experiences of our students, creating a seamless transition from school to higher education. Together, we will foster a vibrant academic environment that nurtures curiosity, critical thinking, and a passion for lifelong learning. We are confident that this partnership will open new doors for our students, inspiring them to become the leaders and change-makers of tomorrow.”
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