Medical Stream

Introduction

MPW has been preparing students for entrance to medical, dental and veterinary school since the formation of our Science School in 1977.

Interview Practice Sessions

At MPW we have particular experience of the difficulties faced by students who are applying for some of the more competitive university course such as Oxbridge, Medicine, Veterinary Science or Law. We liaise with admissions tutors both before and after the publication of examination results and therefore have developed links with many of the departments attended by MPW students in the past.

We offer a Practice Interview service for our own students and for students from other colleges. We do not attempt to 'train' applicants, but aim to subject them to university-style questions and encourage mature thinking. We test applicants' presentation skills and observe their body language, whilst testing their general knowledge, subject knowledge and lateral thinking. We look for signs of genuine interest and enthusiasm for a chosen course.

The mock interview sessions are conducted by two members of staff; one taking the role of Admissions Tutor, the other (where possible) being a subject specialist. The process has three stages: the mock interview followed by a 'debriefing/feedback' session and then a full written report. Students can book two interview sessions with a suitable gap (say two to three weeks) between them so that there is time between the sessions for applicants to follow any advice given on 'brushing up' their interview skills.

Interview Practice sessions can be arranged by contacting Lesley Flitton, College Administrator, by telephoning 01223 350158 or by email.

Choice of Courses

Students who wish to join MPW have an interview with the Principal or one of the Directors of Studies in order to work out the most suitable study programme. For retake students, this is to a large extent dictated by the previous grades but could well involve changes of board or even a change of subject. Detailed advice is given about the feasibility and advantages of carrying over individual modular results or practical grades. We will normally suggest that students meet our Heads of Department after the interview to discuss the syllabus in more detail.

Chemistry is a requirement for entry to all medical, dental and veterinary schools.

UCAS Advice

Admissions tutors decide if a student will be called for interview (or made a new offer) on the basis of the information contained on the UCAS form. Clearly, a good deal of preparation is needed in order to make a medical, dental or veterinary application convincing. Precise strategies are needed in order to maximise each student's chance of securing an interview and, for this reason, work on the UCAS form begins on the first day of term, if not before. Particular attention is paid to helping students prepare personal statements which demonstrate their personal qualities and their individuality.

Retake students have to take extra care in the preparation of the UCAS form. The chances of success are improved considerably if there has been a previous offer and enhanced further if there are documented reasons for failing to achieve the necessary grades. Covering letters, references and work experience all have an important part to play.