Everyone has good grades, so what sets your child apart? In a world where every applicant looks impressive on paper, top universities seek those who think critically, lead confidently, and adapt quickly to new challenges. That’s where a great school makes the difference. When learning includes hands-on projects, mentorship, and real-world experience, pupils learn to turn knowledge into impact. They gain the kind of edge that others are still trying to build.
At Bishop’s Stortford College, that edge gets built early. The Futures Programme, which starts form Year 9, empowers pupils with the knowledge, skills and confidence to make informed decisions about their next steps. Comprehensive, expert-led, and personalised, the programme helps every student navigate every opportunity available to them.
“The amazing Futures team is absolutely fantastic in supporting your chosen path if you know what you want to do, and help you meet the criteria universities are looking for,” says one Sixth Form student. “Even if you don’t know what you want to do in the future, they are here to help you find your element and explore a field you will thrive and enjoy working in.”
The best fit that offers the best future
Located in the historic market town of the same name, just 23 miles south of Cambridge and 27 miles north of London, Bishop’s Stortford College is a day and boarding school that epitomises “The Modern Face of Independent Education.” It is a dynamic, forward-thinking, vibrant all-through school that drives global educational development and prepares pupils for the future in an ever-evolving world.
The goal here is to deliver academic excellence and equip pupils with the skills and character necessary for future success. To this end, it has succeeded. The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) describes the College’s curriculum as “broad” and “enables pupils to develop their skills across a range of subjects and make connections between them.”
With such foundations, the College has maintained a first-rate track record of landing graduates in leading universities in the UK and around the world. These include the University of Cambridge, University College London, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Technical University of Delft, Berklee College of Music, and many more. Many others choose professional pathways, such as Henry M., who secured a Higher Apprenticeship in Wealth Management at Schroders.
The Futures Programme further enhances this preparation. Access to one-to-one career guidance tailored to pupil’s goals, whether that’s university, degree apprenticeships, or other alternatives, is unlimited. There’s even an entire department dedicated to this. They work with pupils every step of the way, from exploring options and writing personal statements to preparing job applications and sourcing valuable interview and work experience.
The Futures Programme equips students with the confidence, skills, and knowledge to make informed decisions and succeed. Source: Bishop’s Stortford College
Where Sixth Formers shape their own future
At Bishop’s Stortford College, Sixth Formers answer the question “What next?” with confidence. At this stage of their journey here, everything they’ve learned comes together as they refine their goals and take practical steps toward them. Every possible pathway is explored — from applying to Oxbridge, medicine, veterinary science, and dentistry courses to international universities, apprenticeships, and traineeships.
The Futures teams runs a curated calendar of events that enrich the key decision-making points of a Sixth Former here. These include university and careers fairs, Business Breakfast Meetings, and guest speaker sessions featuring alumni, parents, and industry professionals. During Futures Week, pupils can take part in mock interviews, assessment centre activities, and personal branding workshops — all designed to build confidence and readiness for what comes next. Work experience is a big part of that preparation, too. It’s a compulsory component in Year 10, with further opportunities facilitated in Year 11 and Year 12.
As the Independent Schools Inspectorate (2024) affirms, the College’s career provision offers “clear and effective guidance,” one that sets pupils up for university, work, and the world beyond.
Learn more about Bishop’s Stortford College.
Follow Bishop’s Stortford College on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube
