STUDENTS at state schools and colleges have seen the successful launch of the 2021 HE+ Programme, run by Cambridge University with Peter Symonds College acting as a regional hub.

The HE+ Programme is designed to challenge talented Year 12 students to raise their academic aspirations through a series of lectures, workshops and events offered by Cambridge University.

More than 500 Year 12 students will take part in the HE+ Programme, which due to Covid-19 restrictions will be online. Students from Peter Symonds will work with those from Bitterne Park School, Andover/Sparsholt College, Bay House, Brockenhurst College, Itchen College, Oaklands Catholic School, Portsmouth College, HSDC in Alton and Havant/South Downs, Ringwood, Richard Taunton College and St Anne’s Catholic School for the extension programme involving university-style lectures and additional support offered by Trinity College, Cambridge.

Hampshire is one of 22 hubs running the HE+ project which brings together lower sixth students with a range of science or humanity evening lectures and events. The scheme’s common aim is to stimulate the students to think beyond their A level curriculum and be introduced to new ideas and concepts using a range of extension activities and materials.