Higher Education & Careers

Badminton students go on to pursue diverse and exciting futures at some of the most prestigious universities in the world. 

Badminton made me feel undaunted about going on to Oxford and then doing a Masters in Art History in London. Eventually, I was able to work there in the National Portrait Gallery.

Anna, Old Badmintonian

Our higher education and careers provision culminates in the Sixth Form where students prepare for their next steps beyond school. The Lower Sixth focuses on research and exploration, helping students identify pathways aligned with their aspirations and academic strengths. In the Upper Sixth, the university application cycle begins, guiding students through the process with expert support.

Broadening Horizons Programme

Lower Sixth students take part in our Broadening Horizons programme, a weekly session featuring:

• Talks from leading universities and subject specialists
• Insights from industry professionals on career opportunities
• Life skills workshops to prepare for independent living
• Attendance at the UCAS University & Apprenticeship Fair, helping students explore their options

Next Steps Week

Next Steps Week kickstarts the university application process. During this pivotal week, students:

• Tour a local university, gaining insights into making the most of open days
• Attend lectures and workshops on personal statements and application strategies
• Participate in Oxbridge, gap year, and subject-specific seminars
• Participate in one-to-one interviews with independent mentors to ready them for higher education and working life.

Awards

Badminton School is proud to support students beyond Sixth Form with several Upper Sixth awards, designed to enrich learning and personal development.

The Urquhart Travel Award

Generously funded by the Urquhart family—whose members have played an integral role in Badminton since the mid-20th century—this award enables Upper Sixth students to travel internationally, volunteer within a community of their choice and expand their knowledge of global affairs

The OBA University Book Award

The Old Badmintonian Association offers this generous annual award to help students cover the cost of books and study materials for university. Applications open at the beginning of the final term, and the award is available to any Upper Sixth student pursuing any subject at university.