Student Life
University Life
At Archbishop Beck Catholic College, we are dedicated to helping our students explore and understand university life. In Year 13, we proudly support our students by covering the cost of their UCAS application fees. We believe in providing opportunities that empower students to make informed decisions about their future. On this page, you will find a comprehensive list of helpful resources and links designed to support both students and families in navigating the university decision-making process.
University Rankings
Whether you’re in Year 7 or 13, it’s important you research universities and she how they compare against each other. You can search for graduate outcomes, employment prospects and how universities rank for each subject.
Sunday Times University Ranking
This website provides prospective students with a comprehensive overview of the best universities in the UK, helping you make informed choices about your higher education. The rankings also highlight strengths in specific subjects and feature insights into campus life, facilities, and employability outcomes. As one of the most authoritative university league tables, it serves as a valuable resource for students, parents, and educators alike.
Russell Group Universities
The Russell Group is an association of 24 prestigious research-intensive universities in the UK, known for their world-class research, high academic standards, and strong industry connections.
At Archbishop Beck, we encourage our students to strive for excellence and achieve the best possible outcomes. As part of this commitment, we provide opportunities for students to visit Russell Group universities, helping them explore world-class institutions and ambitious academic pathways.
University Course Search
To search for a university course using UCAS, start by visiting the UCAS website and navigate to the “Search for Courses” section. Here, you can enter keywords related to your subject of interest, such as “Business Management” or “Computer Science.” Use filters to refine your search by location, university, entry requirements, and course type (full-time, part-time, or foundation year).
University Open Days
At Archbishop Beck Catholic College, we provide all students with the opportunity to find out more about university.
University Open Days are a crucial opportunity for prospective students to explore campuses, meet lecturers and get a feel for student life before applying. UCAS provides a dedicated tool to help students find and register for open days across the UK.
Oxbridge
Oxbridge refers to the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge, the two oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK.
As a school, we are committed to encouraging our students to aspire to Oxbridge. We organise visits to both universities, giving you the chance to experience the academic environment firsthand.
University Destinations
Congratulations to our Sixth Form students who, over the last 6 years, have gained places at the following universities:
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- Liverpool John Moores University: 157 places
- University of Liverpool: 62 places
- Edge Hill University: 128 places
- Liverpool Hope University: 39 places
- Other UK and international universities: 119 places
Durham University
LJMU
Kingston University
LJMU
Student Destinations at Archbishop Beck Catholic College
Activity Survey 2024 leavers
Activity Survey 2023 leavers
Activity Survey 2022 leavers
International Opportunities
Many students in our Sports Coaching Programme can spend extended periods abroad in locations such as the USA, Tenerife, Sri Lanka, and the UAE.
Our Basketball Programme attracts students from across the Northwest and is an integral part of our sixth form. Over the past few years, several students have secured coaching roles and scholarships to universities and junior colleges in the USA.
Apprenticeships
Our strong apprenticeship partnerships with organisations such as Hill Dickinson, Santander, and the NHS provide valuable opportunities for our students.
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- 2022 – Archbishop Beck Catholic College achieved double the national average in supporting students into apprenticeships at the end of KS4.
- 2022 – 7% of our sixth-form students secured high-quality apprenticeships (compared to the national average of 5%), while a further 22% entered employment.
- 2021 – 12% of our sixth-form students successfully gained apprenticeships, nearly double the national average.
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Russell Group Universities
In 2024, a significant number of our students are progressing to Russell Group universities, with one student securing admission to Oxford University.
We maintain an excellent relationship with the University of Liverpool, and as part of Gatsby Benchmark 7, all Year 12 students participate in a visit to the university.
LTSB Programme
LTSB (Leadership Through Sport & Business) is a registered charity that helps young people transition into the workplace by offering guaranteed interviews and career support.
We recognise that university is not the preferred path for all students, and some require additional support in accessing quality apprenticeships. In 2024, one of our students, successfully secured a placement at RSM.
LTSB support includes:
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- Tailored one-to-one support
- CV workshops
- Interview skills training
- Mock interviews
- Team-building activities
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The King’s Trust
Through our exclusive partnership with The King’s Trust, we support students with SEND and those who need additional help in building confidence and preparing for the workplace.
This six-week summer programme focuses on teamwork, employability skills, water sports and outdoor activities to help students transition successfully into employment. The King’s Trust continues to provide ongoing support to students beyond the programme.
Self-Employment
We actively encourage students to explore entrepreneurial opportunities in sectors such as:
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- Travel agencies
- Party planning
- Construction
- Football and sports coaching
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Our commitment to diverse career pathways ensures that every student at Archbishop Beck Catholic College is supported in achieving their ambitions, whether through university, apprenticeships, or self-employment.
SIXTH FORM WORK EXPERIENCE
In 2024, our Sixth Formers enjoyed our wide and varied Work Experience programme, gaining great insight into the world of work. This form of work experience, typically involves completing given tasks whilst working alongside seasoned professionals. This provides students the knowledge they need to see what jobs are available to them. The following, shows a selection of placements that our students explored:
Aintree Hospital
Astra Zeneca
Bedford Primary School
Biograd
Cobalt Housing
Florence Melly Primary School
Hill Dickinson
Jaguar
John Lewis
LFC Foundation
Liverpool City Council
Mando Digital Media
Merseytravel
MGL World
MMT Media
Rice Lane Primary School
Royal Liverpool Hospital
Santander
Simonswood Riding Academy
Smiling Wolf
St Francis De Sales Primary School
The Liverpool Womens Hospital
The Walton Centre
Titanic Hotel
We Are With You
Weightmans
