Medical Pathway at LVS Ascot

This is an incredibly challenging career choice that needs early preparation. At LVS Ascot, we aim to encourage and support students who are willing to dedicate themselves to this pathway. The aim of this programme is to aid students as they prepare for applications for Medicine, Veterinary Sciences or Dentistry. The preparation process involves practicing and training for the challenging tests involved with applications, such as BMAT and UKCAT, and they will be delivered as teacher-led sessions as a part of the co-curricular provision. Alongside this, we hold discussion groups to broaden students’ knowledge and understanding of the key matters involved, for example; ethics, financial considerations and current affairs.

Students who are dedicated will demonstrate continuous reading of newspaper articles and relevant journals, such as the student BMJ. In addition, they will be motivated to broaden their subject knowledge beyond the syllabus in their science subjects by reading and reflecting on areas of interest.

Students should be arranging a variety of short work-experiences and tasters throughout their holidays. The Medical Pathways co-ordinator will be supervising the students throughout this process. A medical professional with extensive experience in the recruitment of medical students also offers their expertise in preparation and personal statements.

• During terms 1 and 2 of Year 12, students are briefed on the requirements for Medicine and discussion sessions begin around extra reading. Visiting speakers form an important part of the programme and students are encouraged to attend the many University Open Days in July. Heads of Department, particularly Chemistry, play an important role in identifying and supporting the potential candidates academically.
• From June of Year 12, students are given support and guidance with their personal statements and help with completing the UCAS form to meet the early deadline of October 15th. A rigorous schedule of test preparation and practice interviews, with a variety of interviewers both from LVS Ascot and from outside (including an medical interview workshop) ensures candidates are well prepared for this part of the process.
• Students are also offered a weekly session in the summer term of Year 12 and at the start of Year 13 to assist in preparation for applications and the world of medicine/veterinary science.
• Students are strongly encouraged to use Meducators for workshops and mock interviews.

Top grades

It is important to understand that medicine, veterinary and dentistry courses are some of the most sought-after places in the UK. Therefore, high grades are essential for any pupil interested in these courses. The exact grade requirements will vary depending on the university and the course you choose. A typical example would be the following:

• GCSE Grade 6 in English and Maths or a combination of grades 6–9 especially in science subjects. These should all really be at 9 and 8.
• A levels – AAA (as a minimum) including Chemistry and sometimes Biology, plus one other.

Work experience

This needs to be in both a medical (often known as “shadowing”) and a hands-on environment, such as a care setting. What’s important is not the knowledge picked up but the reflection on observation, experiences, or conversations. It will be vital to keep a journal (Microsoft’s OneNote is excellent for this) of your observations and reflections, how they shaped your thinking, actions or made you feel. Medical schools do not generally support or encourage overseas clinical work experience. They are looking for applicants who have an understanding of the UK health service.

Wider interests

Most medical schools will expect a student to show that they have a life outside of studying. These interests can also provide evidence of other skills and attributes, such as working with others, good time management and being able to relax away from study. These non-academic interests do not have to be ‘high-powered’. Not every medical student has to have been captain of a sports team, for example. However, students should be able to demonstrate what they have gained from their non-academic activities.