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Three Year 12 students at Westminster City School have secured places on the London School of Economics Thrive Programme, which is a 10-month widening participation initiative designed to support students of Black heritage who are interested in applying to LSE and other highly competitive universities.

‘LSE Thrive is a free, sustained programme that supports students living in or near London by helping them build the skills, confidence and knowledge needed to make strong university applications. Participants gain first-hand experience of studying at a world-leading university, working closely with current LSE students and academic staff.’

The programme is delivered through a combination of on-campus days at LSE and online sessions. Students take part in information, advice and guidance sessions covering university choices, student finance, applications and wellbeing, as well as ‘tailored personal statement support, including individual appointments from LSE admissions team’.

Amirah, a Year 12 student who joined Westminster City School’s Sixth Form after completing her post-16 education at Notre Dame Roman Catholic Girls’ School, spoke about why she applied:

“I first heard about the programme when our Sixth Form team shared the opportunity with us. I was really intrigued and applied because I think it’s important to take advantage of everything that’s available to us, especially being educated in the heart of London. As part of the application process, they looked at our GCSE results and also required a reference from the school.”

Reflecting on what she is most looking forward to, Amirah added:

“Being part of LSE Thrive means I’ll be mentored by a student at LSE and I'll also  gain a real understanding of university life. I really value being around other high-achieving students, and the support with personal statements will be incredibly helpful. Getting feedback on my work will help me improve and feel more confident when applying to different universities.”

Amirah hopes to study Law and Philosophy at university and plans to pursue a career as a barrister, with aspirations to become a judge in the future.

James, who has also secured a place on the programme, said:

“LSE Thrive will help me to personally have a better understanding of what university is really like and which courses are best suited to what I want to do in the future. It’s also a great opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and make connections with other like-minded students.”

Congratulations and well done to all three sixth form students on securing places on this highly competitive programme.