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Community and public benefit

Brent-Eton Summer School

Read more about this project in the HMC publication "Independent and Innovative" (John Catt Educational Limited, 2006)
 

Project description

The Brent-Eton Summer School, which began in 1994, offers 40-50 young people from Brent, who are just completing Year 11, a one-week programme, free of charge, designed to bridge the gap between GCSE and A level. It has been very successful in raising the ambition of those taking part and has encouraged many to continue to higher education.

The week is full of challenge and activity. As well as A level taster sessions, there is a programme of cultural activities including workshops in silverwork, art and music technology, as well as visiting College Library. Afternoon activities include a variety of sporting activities using Eton's facilities: dragon-boating on the Thames, teamwork and leadership practice on the assault course, and coaching by young GB athletes.

Small groups meet daily with a personal tutor and discuss a variety of topics like presentation and study skills, as well as raising any personal concerns. A daily "magazine", written and edited by the students is published and uploaded to a website, facilitating contact with friends and family.

Benefits

More than 500 young people from the London Borough of Brent have now attended BESS. Broadened horizons and the awareness of educational possibilities, together with growth in confidence are what most have taken from it. Some return at the end of Year 12 to attend the Eton Universities Summer School. Eton staff and young Old Etonians enjoy their work on the scheme. Similar projects are now being discussed with Tower Hamlets and Westminster City Council.

 

School

Eton College

Contact

George Fussey

Email

g.fussey@etoncollege.org.uk