Good quality AS grades are needed, as the predicted grades in the UCAS application will be based on these. This is particularly important for overseas candidates who may not have sat GCSE or equivalent examinations; for such candidates, the AS grades will be the only graded external examination qualifications on the UCAS form. Although retakes are an option, all medical candidates should look to achieve solid AS grades at the first attempt.

Students can expect:

• To receive 6 hours of tuition per subject per week in the lower sixth (this is reduced to 4 for subjects with only 1 or 2 students). This will continue into the upper sixth; however, an additional 2 hours per subject per week will be provided where necessary to provide support to any students who need to retake papers in their second year. (One year intensive students can expect to have 6-8 hours of tuition in each subject per week).

• Class sizes not to exceed 10 students (except in rare circumstances)

• Enthusiastic teachers who will take an interest in their student’s academic studies and their application to medicine and appreciate the specific needs and requirements of students. Tutors will always put students best interests first and will be on hand to offer assistance outside of class whenever they have no other teaching commitments.

• Medical seminars on topical medical and scientific topics using up-to-date materials and journals

• Visiting speakers and guest lecturers throughout the year

• The opportunity to attend medical lectures and seminars off the premises. Ashbourne is well situated for such events and they are organised regularly; Imperial College Medical School is a 10-minute walk and University College, London is a 15-minute tube ride. Medical applicants are urged to attend these events to broaden their interests and keep up-to-date with current medical and scientific issues.