MPW Cambridge
Key Information
Welcome to MPW Cambridge, an independent fifth and sixth form college, offering students A level, GCSE, retake and revision courses. Total number of pupils: 207 Number of international students:71 Number of Boarders in the school: 80 (in KSS student accommodation) Earliest age to Board: 14
History of the School
In September 1973, three graduates from the University of Cambridge – Sir Nicholas Mander, Rodney Portman and Robert Woodward – realised a shared ambition. That ambition was to bring the fundamentals that shaped their own educational experience, delivered by their prestigious alma mater, to school age students. Their vision comprised small classes, a strong tutorial system and superb teaching, all set within an informal atmosphere. Over fifty years on, these fundamentals are still the hallmarks of an MPW education.
Pre-16 qualifications
MPW Cambridge offers a broad range of subjects at GCSE. Students can choose to study over one year, 18-months or two years, depending on their circumstances. There is an average of just six students per class, and a guaranteed maximum of nine. Each student receives regular 1:1 support from their Personal Tutor, who provide comprehensive academic and pastoral support.
Post 16 qualifications
MPW offers the most comprehensive choice of A level options of any academic institution in the UK. They can be taken over one year, 18-months or two years and subjects are offered with no restrictions on combination or course length. Students normally take three subjects at A level, with the option of also taking an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). Like at GCSE, classes are limited to nine students, with regular 1:1 support through the Person Tutor system. The popular NCUK International Foundation Year, is also offered.
Academic performance
Boarding accommodation
A number of attractive accommodation options are offered by KSS, a wholly owned subsidiary of MPW. Tripos Court is a superb, gated student community in a great location. It offers smart, purpose-built student accommodation, located opposite Cambridge Leisure Park and a short walk from the college and city centre. Another great option is Malta Road, which comprises five terraced houses and self-contained flats, in the heart of one of Cambridge’s most desirable and vibrant areas. It offers a genuine home away from home and is very popular with returning students.
Pastoral care
The college has a mature, socially relaxed atmosphere. Students are on first name terms with their tutors and there is no school uniform. With 70% UK domestic and 30% international students, it offers a diverse and welcoming community. The Personal Tutor system gives students access to 1:1 pastoral support with a trusted mentor.
Extra-curricular activities
MPW Cambridge students enjoy a range of sporting and other extracurricular activities. Students participate in weekly activities relating to sport, ethics, science, debates, creative writing, enterprise and mindfulness. The purpose of these activities is to stimulate new interests and prepare students for the role that extra-curricular activities play at university. Further activities also take place which are non-compulsory and open to all students. These include a range of sports, several charity fund- raising events, a Student Council, International Evenings and a Summer Graduation Ball.
General school facilities
A Day in the Life of