International Prospectus 2021/2022
London | Birmingham | Cambridge
www.mpw.ac.uk Welcome to MPW
Founded in 1973 by three University of Cambridge graduates, MPW is now one of the best-known and well-respected independent college groups in the UK.
Our colleges, in the heart of London, Birmingham and Cambridge, oer a wide range of opportunities for you to join us. We oer a very individualised approach, with a maximum of nine students in our A level and GCSE classes. Extensive high-quality tutorial provision supports our students’ welfare and preparation for university applications. Our students progress to prestigious universities in the UK and beyond; in 2020, 70% of MPW students’ UK university placements were at Russell Group, specialist universities and other University of London colleges.
We hope that you’ll join us and follow in the footsteps of our alumni from around the world in succeeding with MPW in 2021.
Contents Specialist preparation for: Law 04 London 24 Pre-programme 06 Birmingham 25 Easter Revision A levels, GCSE, University Maximum nine students in Foundation, Easter Revision A level classes Medicine 08 Cambridge 26 Enrichment and 10 Results and Destinations Extracurricular Oxbridge 12 A levels 28 Accommodation 14 Oxbridge 30 How to Apply Economics 15 Medicine 31 Fees Top grades in government 70% UK and 30% inspection reports international students 16 Foundation (IFP) Art 18 Foundation (NCUK) 20 Foundation (UFP) Architecture 22 GCSE Supervised accommodation Personal tutor system, 23 Art Portfolio Programme within walking distance of supervising welfare and Engineering each college academic progress
2 International Prospectus 2021/2022 | 3 MPW London
MPW London is located in South Kensington (Zone 1), one of the most exclusive and af uent parts of the capital. MPW London is just a few minutes’ walk from Hyde Park, Imperial College and many world-famous museums, including the Science Museum, the Natural History Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum.
• GCSE • MPW University • A level Foundation Programme • University of London • Pre-programme International Foundation • Art Portfolio Preparation Programme Programme • Easter Revision
e teachers were caring, and the art department was great at encouraging us to reach our potential, they are patient and they care! Clementina, from Spain. Achieved A*A*A* at A level. Now reading Theatre Design at Wimbledon College of Arts. John read Engineering at Inspection Reports the University of Leicester HYDE PARK and subsequently gained an MPW London, Excellent MSc in Defence Technology November 2013 (ISI) THE SERPENTINE from the Cran eld Institute KENSINGTON 10 DOWNING “The quality of the students’ GARDENS STREET of Technology. Prior to spiritual, moral, social and ROYAL ST. JAMES’S taking up his current cultural development is excellent. COLLEGE PARK In line with the aims of the OF ART ROYAL COLLEGE position he was Director BUCKINGHAM BIG BEN OF MUSIC HARRODS BELGRAVE college, students are encouraged SQUARE GARDEN PALACE of Co-curriculum at The IMPERIAL COLLEGE LONDON PALACE OF to develop con dence, self-belief WESTMINSTER Perse School, Principal of SCIENCE MUSEUM and self-discipline.” e Principal Lansdowne College and NATURAL HISTORY John Southworth then Vice Principal of GLOUCESTER MUSEUM ROAD STATION MPW London. John is a SOUTH KENSINGTON member of the Independent 100% STATION Schools Association MPW Executive Council. SAATCHI GALLERY TATE BRITAIN
KSS LIGHTFOOT HALL
4 International Prospectus 2021/2022 | 5 MPW Birmingham
Home to ve universities and two university colleges, Birmingham is the UK’s second largest student city. With a mixture of new architecture and historic Victorian buildings, Birmingham is an energetic and evolving city, with nearly 40% of the population under 25. MPW Birmingham is situated on Green eld Crescent, in the leafy suburb of Edgbaston. The college is a short walk from Five Ways train station and is close to the city centre and the University of Birmingham campus. MPW students have easy access to the full range of world class facilities that Birmingham has to offer.
• GCSE • Easter Revision • A level • Pre-programme I received great support from my tutors. e • NCUK International weekly Timed Assignments were excellent in helping Foundation Year me track my progress and ensuring that I consistently pushed myself to get the grades I needed. Harjan, from the UK. Achieved A*AA at A level. Now reading Medicine at the University of Nottingham. Mark read International Inspection Reports Business and French at the MPW Birmingham, SUMMERFIELD University of Westminster PARK before obtaining a Outstanding BIRMINGHAM ARENA MUSEUM & ART PGCE at the Institute of February 2018 (OFSTED) EDGBASTON BIRMINGHAM GALLERY RESERVOIR Education and an MA in “Pupils have extremely positive Educational Leadership. attitudes to learning due to CINEMA He was Pastoral Director the high quality of teaching KSS GREENFIELD CRESCENT at Saint Charles Sixth and individual support they FIVE WAYS Form College in London receive. They work hard and RAVENHURST STATION are determined to succeed. PLAYING FIELDS MPW e Principal and Head of Sixth Form Behaviour in lessons and around Mark Shingleton at Cokethorpe School in the school is exemplary.” Oxfordshire before taking over as Principal of MPW Birmingham in 2009. 100%
BIRMINGHAM HOSPITAL UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM
6 International Prospectus 2021/2022 | 7 MPW Cambridge
Cambridge is steeped in history – home to many beautiful museums and art galleries as well as the world-famous University of Cambridge (founded in 1209). MPW Cambridge is located in the heart of the city, next door to the University of Cambridge Botanic Gardens as well as the University’s Engineering and Chemistry faculties. MPW is within a few minutes’ walk of many world famous university buildings, including King’s College and The Fitzwilliam Museum.
• GCSE • Pre-programme • A level • Easter Revision • NCUK International Foundation Year Outstanding was how I would describe the reaction of MPW to the Covid-19 lockdown. Even though the exams were cancelled, the high teaching quality and the challenging assessments helped me to continue improving. Paul, from Italy. Achieved A*A*A* at A level. Now reading Mathematics at the University of Warwick. Tom read Geography at Inspection Reports the University of Exeter TRINITY COLLEGE and subsequently gained MPW Cambridge, an MSc in Managing Outstanding UNIVERSITY OF EMMANUEL November 2019 (OFSTED) CAMBRIDGE School Improvement from COLLEGE the University of Reading. “Pupils and sixth-form students GRAND ARCADE He worked in investment say that MPW is ‘amazing’ and a NEWNHAM SHOPPING PARKER’S COLLEGE PIECE banking before starting his great place to study. They know DOWNING teaching career at Shiplake what they want to get out of their COLLEGE studies and are exceptionally well College in 1999. Prior THE FITZWILLIAM MUSEUM e Principal to joining MPW he held motivated to learn.” WOLFSON COLLEGE Tom Caston senior posts in a number of CAMBRIDGE UNI ENGINEERING DEPT. independent schools, most recently a Deputy Headship KSS MALTA at Framlingham College. 100% MPW ROAD CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY CAMBRIDGE STATION PEMBROKE COLLEGE BOTANIC GARDEN SPORTS GROUND LEISURE PARK
KSS TRIPOS COURT
8 International Prospectus 2021/2022 | 9 UK universities Results and made offers to Destinations 2020 All top 20 MPW STUDENTS
Over 2 /3 of offers from MPW has a highly consistent record of exam results over many years and across all three of our colleges. This year, once again the most commonly RUSSELL GROUP, achieved A level result across the whole of MPW is A*/A. In 2020, 25% of UNIVERSITY OF LONDON UK placements were at top 10 universities*. and specialist universities
A levels GCSE 9-7 (A* - A) Oxbridge, Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary A* - A School Placements 52% 57% 5
5 MPW students who progressed to top 10 UK universities* A* - B 80% 7 25% 80%80% 70% Students who progressed to Russell Group, UoL and specialist 41 universities
*2021 Times Higher Education UK University Rankings
10 International Prospectus 2021/2022 | 11 A Levels
MPW offers the most comprehensive choice of A level options of any academic institution in the UK. Subjects are offered with no restrictions on combination or course length. Students normally take three subjects to A level, with the option of also taking the Extended Project Quali cation (EPQ). • Two-year A level (September start) • 18-month A level (January start) • One-year A level courses (September)
A Level Subjects Ancient History Further Mathematics Philosophy Art Geography Photography Biology German Physics Business Graphic Communication Politics Ceramics Greek Portuguese Chemistry History Psychology Chinese History of Art Religious Studies Classical Civilisation Italian Russian Computer Science Latin Sociology Economics Law Spanish English Language Mandarin Textile Design English Literature Mathematics Theatre Studies Film Studies Media Studies French Music Quick facts Please check website for full listings. Age: 15+ Maximum Start dates: class size: 9 September (two-year) – 5.5. IELTS January (18-month) – 5.5 / 6.0 IELTS Academic Entry Requirements September (one-year) – 6.0 IELTS Six GCSE passes at grade C or above or equivalent
12 Oxbridge Programme Medicine
Oxford and Cambridge are two of the best universities in the world, Becoming a doctor is an incredibly popular career choice and with with an international reputation for academic excellence. Winning a around ten applications made for every university place, competition place to study there is a comprehensive and competitive process. is tougher than ever. It’s not enough to have top A level grades and evidence of work experience – to be in with a chance you Around 6,600 undergraduates start their rst years at Oxford or Cambridge need a sound knowledge of current medical issues and be able to every year and with a lot of hard work and preparation you can give yourself demonstrate true commitment to a career in medicine. the best chance of being one of them. Aspiring medical students are provided with additional support in At MPW, in addition to our world-class tuition and personal tutor system, four main areas: we offer help to prospective Oxbridge candidates in four main areas:
Personal Interview practice Details of what studying How to write an effective statement review at an Oxbridge college is UCAS application, including really like sample personal statements
Expert tuition to prepare Additional lecture series Preparing for and making Case studies from students for specialist tests to cover topical issues a great impression at who have been through the interview Oxbridge application process Aspiring medics at MPW are automatically enrolled onto our preparation programme free of charge.
Medical School Placements 2020 41
If you are prepared to show commitment, MPW will support you all the way. Attention to the individual, rigorous teaching and genuinely good pastoral care. Rebecca, from Australia. Now studying Medicine at the University of Leicester.
Every year, Adam Cross (MPW Birmingham Vice Principal) and Emily Lucas (MPW Birmingham Director of Supplementary and University Applications) publish Getting into Medical School. This guide is packed with essential advice and useful tips to help land a place at the medical school of your choice, giving you everything you need to embark on your dream career.
14 International Prospectus 2021/2022 | 15 Available at MPW London University of London Results and Destinations 2020 Distinctions and merits Russell group and UoL placements International Foundation Programme 85% 75%
The International Foundation Programme provides an ideal route to studying degree programmes at leading universities in London, or many Sample destinations from 2020 include: other universities both in the UK and around the world. Name Grade Nationality University Subjects By successfully completing the programme you will meet the academic City, University of standard equivalent to UK A levels and therefore have access to a wide range Ivans Merit Latvia Journalism of degree courses. The prestigious nature and academic rigour of this course London allows much greater opportunity to secure places at high ranking institutions Philosophy, Politics and Sing Distinction Hong Kong Durham University and is more exible than a pathway foundation linked to just one university. Economics Queen Mary, University Economics, Finance Thao Distinction Vietnam of London and Management Mathematics and Quick facts Natalia Distinction Colombia University of Warwick Statistics Age: 17+ Maximum Start date: Mathematics, class size: 14 September Olha Distinction Ukraine University of Warwick Operational Research, Statistics, Economics
Programme Course hours: length: 2 semesters 30 hours (Sep-Apr) per week e teachers were so supportive and committed, and the school oers Academic Entry Requirements so many resources, making it easy Four GCSEs grade C or above or international for us to do well. equivalent (12 years of schooling completed Soh from Japan. Achieved a Distinction, now studying with good grades and strong school report) Mathematics with Management and Finance at English Language level: IELTS 6.0 (minimum 6.0 King’s College London in writing, with no other elements less than 5.5)
16 International Prospectus 2021/2022 | 17 Available at MPW Birmingham and MPW Cambridge Results and Destinations 2020
Grades A*- C Grades A*-B in humanities and NCUK International science pathways Foundation Year 92% 100%
The NCUK International Foundation Year is a modular programme that will prepare you for rst-year entry to undergraduate degree courses. Destination universities for 2020 included: NCUK is a consortium of leading UK universities dedicated to help international students achieve a place on a UK degree programme, and MPW is proud to Name Grades Nationality University Degree be one of its largest providers. With the NCUK guarantee, you will get at least two conditional offers and – on successful completion of the programme – will Darren A*A*A*- A Indonesian King’s College London Economics and Management be guaranteed a place at university. Rwandan/ Sybel A*A* A - A Birmingham Civil Engineering Nigerian Quick facts Ebanehita A*A* B - A* Nigerian Shef eld Chemical Engineering
Age: 17+ Maximum Start date: Jin A*AA - A Japanese Southampton Computer Science class size: 14 September or January Mirano AAA - A Japanese Bristol Anthropology
Programme Course hours: Programme Zhaokun AA*B - A Hong Kong Leeds Law and Globalisation length: 21 or 28 hours routes: per week 2 or 3 terms Business Royal College of Surgeons Ojuolape BAA - B Nigerian Medicine in Ireland Programme Programme Programme routes: routes: routes: Engineering Humanities Science e small number of students in each class made it easier to engage with the teachers and with each other. e teachers Partner Universities are very dedicated and supportive. • Aston University, Birmingham • Manchester Metropolitan University Eseose, from Nigeria. Achieved A*BA*-A*, now studying • University of Birmingham • Queen Mary, University of London Computer Systems Engineering at the University of Shef eld • University of Bradford • University of Salford, Manchester • University of Bristol • University of Shef eld Academic Entry Requirements • University of Hudders eld • Shef eld Hallam University Completion of 12 years of schooling (or local equivalent to meet • Leeds Beckett University • University of Kent the same standard) with good grades • Liverpool John Moores University • Kingston University London English Language Level (September start): IELTS 5.5 or equivalent • University of Manchester • University of Leeds (with no less than 5.0 in any single band) English Language Level (January start): IELTS 6.0 or equivalent (with no less than 5.5 in any single band) Validating Body: Northern Consortium of UK Universities (NCUK)
18 International Prospectus 2021/2022 | 19 Available at MPW London
Russell Group and University Foundation UoL placements Programme 55%
The MPW University Foundation Programme is your ideal route to Distinctions and commendations studying a degree at leading universities across the UK and internationally. Upon successful completion of the programme, you will achieve an academic 77% standard similar to A levels. In addition, you will have gained essential English language and independent learning skills giving you the perfect platform for success at university and beyond. The programme offers Business or Destinations include: Engineering pathways and is available in a two or three term format, depending • City, University of London on prior quali cations. • Durham University • Royal Holloway, University of London
Quick facts
Age: 17+ Maximum Start dates: class size: 14 September or January
Programme Course hours: Programme length: 21 hours routes: University of Aberdeen 2 or 3 terms per week Business University of Dundee
Programme Heriot Watt University routes: Engineering
Durham University
Lancaster University University of York University of Leeds
Academic Entry Requirements University of Liverpool
Successful completion of local high school (either 11 or 12 year system) Nottingham Trent University University Progression University of Leicester University of with good grades Aston University East Anglia There are a wide range of universities that University of Birmingham Coventry University English language level: have agreements in place to accept students University of Essex • January two-term programme 5.5 • September three-term programme who have successfully completed the University of Swansea London University Universities University of Bristol of Kent University Foundation Programme including University of Reading IELTS or equivalent (with no less 5.0 IELTS or equivalent (with no University of Surrey University than 5.0 in any single band) less than 4.5 in any single band) but not limited to those on the map. Bournemouth University University of of Sussex Southampton University of Brighton
20 International Prospectus 2021/2022 | 21 GCSE Art Portfolio Preparation Programme GCSE students at MPW may, depending upon their age and circumstances, choose either two-year courses or a one-year course.
Students come to MPW for GCSE courses primarily because of our average of MPW has been offering creative arts courses for 46 years and has built up six students per class and absolute guaranteed maximum of nine. Combined an enviable reputation for the quality of teaching and of our students’ work. with an outstanding programme of pastoral support, we ensure students This one-year programme is the ideal route for students who aim to study art, receive that extra level of personal attention they require for success. design, fashion or photography at foundation level at university in the UK. Taken alongside two creative arts courses at A level, the programme develops your skills and focuses on portfolio development, a key entry requirement Quick facts for most specialist art schools and universities. Through weekly workshops, you will build a body of work to demonstrate your creativity and the ability to Age: 15+ Maximum Start dates: develop your ideas into coherent and nished pieces. class size: 9 September (two-year) – 5.5. IELTS January (18-month) – 5.5 / 6.0 IELTS September (one-year) – 6.0 IELTS Creative Arts Subjects Complementary Subjects Art and Design Business Studies* Ceramics Film Studies GCSE Subjects Fine Art History of Art Art German Religious Studies Graphic Design Mathematics or Physics** Biology Graphic Design Russian Photography Media Studies Science Double Award Business Studies History Textiles/Fashion Theatre Studies (Biology) Science Double Award *if you are aiming for a degree subject such as Fashion Marketing Chemistry Italian **for students applying for Architecture (Chemistry) Science Double Award Computer Science Latin (Physics) Academic Entry Requirements • Successful completion of local Drama Mandarin Sociology high school (either 11 or 12 year Economics Mathematics Spanish system) with good grades • English Language Level: IELTS English Language Music Textiles 5.5 or equivalent (with no less English Literature Photography Three Dimensional Design than 5.0 in any single band) French Physics Geography Psychology
Other subjects may be available from time to time.
22 International Prospectus 2021/2022 | 23 Pre-programme Easter Revision
This programme is designed to give students the academic and English skills they need before starting A levels or a university foundation course. ere’s a lot of focus placed on past papers which really In addition to improving their English language skills, they will also gain helps you prepare and understand how the exams work. knowledge in their chosen subjects, as well as learning more about Anna, Psychology A level student, Easter Revision MPW London studying and living in the UK. After completing the programme, students will bene t from: • Increased con dence to progress to formal academic programmes MPW offers a broad range of courses and intensive, exam-oriented tuition. • Improved pro ciency in written and spoken English It is this expertise which forms the basis of our Easter Revision courses. • Enhanced subject knowledge Our tutors are all highly quali ed graduates with considerable teaching experience. Many are GCSE or A level examiners and are therefore very knowledgeable of the requirements and approaches demanded by the various At a Glance examining boards. • Preparation for A level or university foundation • 2 or 3 term programme Small classes are essential in order to provide the close attention which each student requires. There is an absolute maximum of nine students in a group, • Study split - approximately 60% English language (IELTS) and 40% with the average usually ve or six. subject-speci c • Access to a wide choice of subjects such as Maths, Biology and Business We focus on the following aspects which, in our experience, are central to • Assessed through internal testing only students’ con dence and academic performance:
Courses are board-and Intensive revision of Entry Requirements syllabus-speci c core topics • Age 16+ • An IELTS score of 4.5 or above Emphasis on understanding Development of appropriate rather than learning question-answering techniques
Improvement of study and revision skills
Dates for 2022 Week 1: 28 March - 1 April Week 2: 4 - 8 April Week 3: 11 -15 April
24 International Prospectus 2021/2022 | 25 Enrichment and Extracurricular
MPW students can choose to take full advantage of a wide range of extracurricular activities and projects on offer at all three colleges. These activities will help to develop your intellectual, sporting and cultural interests – and to make new friends outside the classroom. Whether you are interested in sport, the arts, music or wellbeing, there will be an activity for you. Plus, there are valuable opportunities throughout the academic year to help you prepare for university and beyond.
*Clubs/societies may vary between colleges
Sport Arts/Drama
• Badminton • Modern Jazz Dance • Ceramics • Basketball • PE • Drama Club • Cricket • Rugby • Drawing • Football • Running • Photography • Golf • Tennis • Gym • Yoga University Clubs/Activities and Careers
• Beginners Guitar • Extended Project • Gap Year Fair • Chess Club Quali cation (EPQ) • Getting into • Chinese / Mandarin • Mindfulness & Wellbeing Medical School • Community Service • Science Club • Oxbridge Preparation • Creative Writing • Social Enterprise Group • Principal’s Lectures • Debating Club • Spanish • UCAS week • Duke of Edinburgh Award • Student Council • Educational Trips / Visits • Travel Scholarships • Ethics Club • Young Film Academy
26 International Prospectus 2021/2022 | 27 London Lightfoot Hall Based in Chelsea and next to King’s Road, one of the most desirable residential areas in London, accommodation within the 10 storey building consists of self-contained studio ats that have their own kitchenette and en-suite bathroom.
Birmingham Green eld Crescent Situated next door to MPW Birmingham, Green eld Crescent lies in the heart of the newly regenerated Edgbaston Village, close to many cafés, shops, restaurants and leisure facilities.
Edgbaston Studios Settle into student life at Edgbaston Studios with local cafés and green space and Birmingham’s shops, bars and restaurants a stone’s throw away.
Cambridge Malta Road and Beechwood House Accommodation Comprising ve terraced houses, Malta Road provides a homely atmosphere, with its own gardens, laundry facilities and bike storage. Next door is Beechwood House offering MPW students can choose from a range of accommodation options. superb ats. Most popular are the fully-supervised student residences, provided by Both are in a highly desirable area, close Kensington Student Services (KSS), a wholly owned subsidiary of MPW. to vibrant Mill Road, home of artisan Within walking distance of the colleges, students have the choice of single coffee shops, international restaurants and studio rooms, single en-suite or rooms with shared bathrooms. independent stores.
Live-in resident assistants and houseparents provide 24-hour support and Tripos Court supervision throughout term time. Located near to the Cambridge Leisure Park All our accommodation has breakfast served daily as part of the room and Cambridge Station, Tripos Court offers a package. To encourage independent living, guidance on cooking and healthy gated community with single en-suite rooms eating is provided. Our optional evening meal plan is served daily and prepared and large communal kitchen/diners. and served by our caterers or on site chefs. Discover more at www.kss.co.uk
28 How to Apply Annual Fees
e Admissions Procedure MPW MPW MPW London Birmingham Cambridge 1. Complete application form and return 6. If the student requires a visa, a with supporting documentation, below: Con rmation of Acceptance for Studies • Copy of passport and previous UK visa(s) (CAS) will be issued once the deposit has A levels (2-year course) £32,400 £23,400 £26,400 • Copy of any English language been received (we are not able to issue quali cations a CAS more than six months before the A levels (1-year course) £33,900 £25,200 £29,700 • Copies of previous school course start date). GCSE £32,400 £23,400 £26,400 quali cations/reports/transcripts Please send all applications to your interviewer Pre-programmes £32,400 £23,400 £26,400 2. Attend an interview with a senior member or [email protected] of MPW staff and sit an entrance test if Art Portfolio Preparation Programme £25,800 – – required. During the interview we will offer Visas and Immigration NCUK International Foundation Year – £18,900 £20,850 expert and honest advice on programme/ If you require a visa to study in the UK, please subject selection and making a competitive NCUK International Foundation Year ensure you provide all of the requested – £18,900 – university application. A student may be January start documents with your application so they can required to sit an English or Maths test International Foundation Programme £22,500 – – be assessed by the International Admissions depending on their quali cations and the Of cer. If anything is missing, we will contact MPW University Foundation Programme £25,800 – – course they are applying for. An interview you to request the information. may take place at MPW, in-country when we are visiting your region or via Skype. In order to ensure you have the best support Other Fees in your home country when it comes to 3. Receive a decision on the application completing a visa application, we strongly Registration fee £350 £350 £350 (usually within one week). recommend that you have an agent, consultant IELTS (per term) £2,000 £1,750 £2,000 If a place has been offered: or solicitor that can help you. If you don’t have 4. Complete and return registration form, someone to help you through the process consent form and registration fee (£350) and check you have the correct documents, Deposits to guarantee place. please speak to your interviewer. Deposits are payable upon registration and £10,000 £8,000 £9,000 5. Pay a deposit (to be refunded in the last If you have any questions, please ask your used as payment towards nal fees term of study). interviewer to direct you to the International Admissions Of cer who can give you advice Accommodation on student immigration to the UK. For the most up to date information, please visit £19,950 to £12,000 to £12,000 to KSS A highly signicant factor in the UK Visas and Immigration website. £20,750 £15,250 £15,950 the students’ progress is their excellent attitude to work, to their tutors and to the college. ISI Inspection Report
30 International Prospectus 2021/2022 | 31 London 90-92 Queen’s Gate London SW7 5AB
Birmingham 16-18 Greenfield Crescent Birmingham B15 3AU
Cambridge 3-4 Brookside Cambridge CB2 1JE
+44 (0)20 7835 1355
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