Medicine/Dentistry/Veterinary Science

The aim of this programme is to aid students as they prepare for and apply to the Health Professions, with a particular focus on Medicine, Veterinary Sciences and Dentistry. The preparation process includes practising and training for the challenging test involved with applications, the UCAT, and are delivered as teacher led sessions as a part of the P7 co-curricular provision. These sessions include 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 reading of relevant journals, such as the student British Medical Journal. In addition, they will be motivated to broaden their subject knowledge beyond the syllabus in their science subjects by reading, studying and reflecting on areas of interest.

The P7 provision is structured as follows:

• During terms 1 and 2 of Year 12, students follow a program of teacher-led discussion around the careers including all aspects of the roles, key competencies and Core Values. We explore the resilience needed to carve out a career in such a competitive vocation and begin sessions around extra reading and study.
• In the Summer Term of Year 12, students are given support and advice on the UCAT process and guidance with writing their personal statements. Further, help is offered to support with completing the UCAS form in order to meet the early deadline of October 15th.
• In the Autumn term of year 13 a rigorous schedule of preparation and practice for the interviews begins. A variety of interviewers both from Gordon’s and from outside make up our “panels” of interviewers, plus a blend of online and face-to-face interview practice ensures candidates are well prepared for this ever-evolving part of the process.

is a career in the health profession RIGHT FOR ME?

Having exceptional grades, a good work ethic, being calm under pressure and resilient are all pre-requisites for a career in Medicine, Veterinary Sciences and Dentistry. There will be moments of excitement and happiness, as well as sadness and stress; dealing with both and being able to support each other is important.

WHAT UNIVERSITIES ARE LOOKING FOR?

A strong application will contain all the following:

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.
• A levels – AAA including Chemistry and sometimes Biology, plus one other.
• A good UCAT score is important for applications to many medicine and dentistry courses (see below for more information), but this does not apply to veterinary sciences

Wider-reading / learning

This can be a combination of reading books and journals (see the list below), online courses such as from FutureLearn, talks or lectures either in person or virtual.

When looking for a reading list, Oxford University says “First and foremost, read what interests you the most. Each student should, from early on, begin to develop their own particular area of expertise. Second, consider what subjects or topics relevant to Medicine you may not cover in your A-level studies (or equivalent)”.

Please see their suggested reading list here: https://www.medsci.ox.ac.uk/study/medicine/pre-clinical/applying/reading

Work experience

This needs to be in both a medical (often known as “shadowing”) and hands on, 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 (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.

Impressive UCAT score

Usually, the test will be taken in the summer between year 12 and 13. Pupils book their own test, be aware this has a cost attached to it.

We offer some support to prepare the pupils for the UCAT, but practice will make perfect. The general advice is 6 weeks of preparation however, we would recommend allowing far more time than that, as it can be difficult to get to grips with.

More information is available here: https://www.ucat.ac.uk/

(Please note the BMAT was discontinued in November 2023)

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. But students should be able to demonstrate what they have gained from their non-academic activities.

THE SUPPORT WE OFFER (overview):

Here at Gordon’s School we offer a regular P7 session to year 12 and 13 pupils, providing the following support:​

• University and course information
• UCAT preparation starting in Spring of year 12​
• Interview technique practice (multiple sessions)​
• Personal statement sessions​
• Personalised references​
• Talks and MOOCs​
• Alumni support
• Support from Meducators UK as a South-East hub​
• Teaching and led research into ethics, GMC pillars and other topics