BRIDGWATER College’s gifted and talented programme organised a visit to Oxford University for year nine and ten pupils from the town’s four secondary schools.

The day aimed to give the pupils from Robert Blake Science College, Chilton Trinity, Haygrove School and Bridgwater College Academy an insight into university life, raise their aspirations and inspire them to think about their future choices.

The programme included a talk about life as a student at Oxford, a tour around the grounds and an academic taster session.

The 40 students also had a traditional fish and chip lunch in the Hogwarts-like refectory.

Susanne Williams, programme manager for critical thinking and gifted and talented, said: “This trip was the final activity of the various gifted and talented events that the college has offered to year nine, ten and 11 students and their parents throughout the academic year.

“We wanted to convey the message that we all need to work together to support the students to progress onto college and university.

“One of the most important things is to think carefully about their subject choices, develop a passion for their subjects and get involved in useful extra activities that may spark ideas for future careers.

“Hopefully, having dipped their toes into what lies beyond their GCSEs has inspired them to aim high!”

The day was funded by Bridgwater Education Trust, who received funds from Magnox, a management and operations contractor responsible for ten nuclear sites and one hydroelectric plant in the UK.