Students at West Bromwich Collegiate Academy have joined the Scholars Programme, a national initiative run by The Brilliant Club that gives young people a taste of university-style learning.   

The programme brings together ambitious learners who will work with PhD tutors over the coming weeks, exploring thought-provoking topics, developing critical thinking skills, and completing a final assignment of 1,500-2,000 words. The assignment allows students to demonstrate their subject knowledge, written communication and critical thinking skills they have developed throughout the programme. This is then assessed and moderated to university standards.  

Students expressed excitement at the challenge and opportunity to immerse themselves in life as prospective university students. One participant commented: “I am looking forward to the experience, which can have such a big impact on my future.” 

George Faux, Executive Principal at West Bromwich Collegiate Academy, said: “The Scholars Programme is a fantastic opportunity for our students to challenge themselves, discover their potential, and experience what higher education could be like.  

“This is more than an academic exercise; it’s about encouraging students to ask questions, think critically, and realise they can tackle challenges with confidence. These are the moments that help shape not only their knowledge, but their curiosity, ambition and self-belief.” 

The Scholar Programme, led nationally by The Brilliant Club, aims to inspire a love of learning in students aged 8-18, helping them develop knowledge, skills and confidence to secure a place at a competitive university and build the essential skills to succeed in the next stages of their education.  

Available to non-selective state schools across England, the programme is structured around seven tutorials. Upon completion, students attend a Graduation Event at a partner university, where they meet current undergraduates and learn more about university life, helping them make informed choices about their future.  

The Brilliant Club works across the UK, empowering PhD researchers to support less advantaged students in accessing the most competitive universities and thriving once they get there. The charity supports social mobility through a range of initiatives, including the Scholars Programme, helping over 20,000 students develop their knowledge, skills and confidence to access higher education annually by 2026.  

Participating in the Scholars Programme reflects the West Bromwich Collegiate Academy’s commitment to academic excellence and its dedication to preparing students for successful futures in post-secondary education and beyond.