Trinity College has today (18/01) announced a new access programme in partnership with Target Oxbridge for Black African and Caribbean state school students, and mixed race students with Black heritage, in Year 10.

The free programme will consist of four webinars held between April and July, giving pupils the opportunity to hear from Black students currently studying at the University and to ask them about their experiences.

Reacting to today’s announcement, Elizabeth Beevers, the Trinity College Students’ Union Access Officer, praised the access project, which she believes “signals a milestone in the college’s commitment to increasing diversity”.

The sessions will provide advice on A-level subject choices and careers, and will include a mini lecture given by a Cambridge academic.

A statement on the Trinity College website says that the initiative will give these students "the opportunity to gain an early insight into life at Cambridge and how to secure a Cambridge place." 

 To qualify, students must study at a state school or be on a full scholarship at an independent school.

Applicants should also have been predicted at least three GCSEs at grade 7, or must “have the potential to achieve these grades but be in need of additional motivation and inspiration.”

“Both the BME Officer and I have worked closely this year to encourage more black students to apply to Trinity; by providing access to information about Oxbridge from the age of fourteen, informed decisions can be made about further education,” Beevers told Varsity.

She continued: “We are thrilled with today’s announcement and are certain that this project will shape lives, level the playing field and encourage students, regardless of where they come from, to dream big.”

Target Oxbridge, with whom Trinity is running the project, has helped over 200 students secure Oxbridge offers since its launch in 2012.

Applications for this year’s programme close on 7th February.