HISTORY: 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.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR: MPW Birmingham students enjoy access to the sports facilities at a local university, with options including badminton, basketball, football, cricket, netball, and general fitness training. Popular clubs and activities include a debating society, Model UN, Duke of Edinburgh Award, plus charity work. The college takes advantage of its location with excursions to the Magistrates’ Courts, Botanical Gardens, Planetarium, art galleries and museums. There are also trips further afield with overseas study tours, theatre outings to London and Stratford-upon-Avon, and subject field trips.
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.
PRE-16 QUALIFICATIONS: MPW Birmingham 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.
ACCOMMODATION: A number of attractive accommodation options are offered by KSS, a wholly owned subsidiary of MPW. Greenfield Crescent sits next door to the college and offers smart and convenient accommodation for students. With comfortable rooms, large communal kitchens and lounges, it is a popular residence, one to which many students return for their second year. An ideal option for students aged 17 plus is 54 George Road, which offers stylish, purpose-built student accommodation in a great location. It features bright, spacious rooms with views over the city, outstanding facilities, and a location convenient for both MPW Birmingham and the city centre.
PASTORAL: 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.
Easter Revision and Getting Into Guides Easter Revision : Complementing MPW Birmingham’s core academic offer, is the college’s comprehensive Easter Revision programme, which it has been running for over 35 years. These courses help students to prepare for their exams, plug gaps in their knowledge and boost confidence. Available for A level and GCSE, these intensive revision courses are board- and syllabus-specific. The courses feature extensive past paper practice, guidance on exam technique and detailed feedback on areas for students to improve. They are delivered in small classes by highly qualified tutors, many of whom are trained examiners. Getting Into Guides: MPW produces the popular Getting Into series of guides, which aim to give students a competitive advantage when applying for undergraduate courses and universities. Written by acknowledged experts in a clear and concise format, they offer applicants straightforward, practical advice on how to secure a place on the course of their choice. Each title in the series provides an honest view of what it’s like to study the subject, detailed advice on choosing the right university or college and guidance on the application procedure, plus top tips for interviews.