A Wickersley Year 11 Scholar, who is due to join Wickersley Sixth Form in September, had the opportunity to attend a Materials Science Open Day at the University of Oxford during the February half term. The visit provided an excellent insight into studying Materials Science at university level, as well as experiencing life at one of the world’s leading universities.
The day began with a presentation at Oxford’s Department of Materials, introducing students to the subject of Materials Science and how it combines chemistry, physics, engineering and mathematics. Attendees also learned more about the course itself, why students choose to study it, and the A-level subjects required for future applicants.
Following the presentation, students took part in a practical session in the teaching laboratories, where they examined the structures of metals and alloys using metallurgical microscopes. They were then given a tour of the department’s specialist laboratories, where they saw advanced equipment including scanning electron microscopes, transmission electron microscopes and an atom probe. The visit also included a tour of the department’s library facilities.
At lunchtime, students visited Mansfield College, one of the colleges that accepts Materials Science students, where they enjoyed lunch before taking part in a guided tour of the college. This gave students a greater understanding of Oxford’s unique college system, including accommodation, libraries and common rooms, and how university life at Oxford differs from other universities.
The afternoon included a fascinating taster lecture exploring the use of ceramic composites in space travel and the manufacturing processes involved in producing them. Students then attended a presentation explaining Oxford’s application process for Materials Science, followed by a Q&A session with current undergraduate students. This provided useful advice on preparing strong applications, writing personal statements and understanding what studying at Oxford is really like.
Around 50 Year 11 and Year 12 students attended the open day, and the experience proved both inspiring and informative for Wickersley’s Scholar student, helping them gain a clearer understanding of Materials Science as a potential university pathway.
Our Wickersley Scholar was able to access this opportunity through our Scholars Programme, and due to our links with Oxford University. Our Wickersley Scholars programme aims to enable those who are looking at Oxbridge and other top universities to experience them in more depth, and gives them the support they need with their applications, coursework and exams.
Overall, the open day was an incredibly valuable experience and a fantastic opportunity for the student to explore both Materials Science and life at Oxford first-hand.
