Building Ambition with the BPS University Challenge

The Birkenhead Park School is proud to have created and launched the BPS University Challenge – an exciting, school-led initiative designed to build academic resilience, encourage students to be proud of going the extra mile, and inspire them to become the best version of themselves.

When students join the school in Year 7, they are all invited to take part in the BPS University Challenge, marking the start of their journey through Key Stage 3 – Years 7, 8, and 9. These are crucial years where learners develop the knowledge, confidence, and independence needed to thrive in Key Stage 4 (Years 10 and 11) and beyond.

The BPS University Challenge strengthens this foundation by giving students the chance to take ownership of their learning and showcase their creativity. Throughout the year, they complete five academic challenges across a range of subjects – from Maths and Science to History and English. Each task encourages participants to think independently and take pride in their work, which they can bring to life with drawings, colours, photographs, and even tea-stained paper for a historical touch, before submitting it to Mrs Dawes, who leads the challenge and provides feedback.

Since its launch last year, the initiative has been a huge success, with students across KS3 embracing the initiative and consistently going above and beyond expectations.

At the end of each stage, students’ efforts are recognised with a certificate of completion, followed by a special graduation ceremony in July, complete with caps and gowns, to celebrate their achievement. Those who complete all three years of the challenge also receive a special trophy to celebrate their dedication.

Deputy Head of The Birkenhead Park School, Miss Dawes, said: “The introduction of the BPS University Challenge has been inspiring. I am so proud of the fantastic work that our learners have been producing on a regular basis. It shows them that success is driven by their own efforts and determination, while also helping them develop important skills.”

Students have shown great enthusiasm for the challenge, demonstrating pride in their learning as they strive to push themselves further and continue to grow in confidence.

Olivia, Year 7, commented: “I like how in my Science task, I got to create a 3D diagram – I designed it really well!”

Angel, Year 9, who is in the final year of the initiative, said: “I enjoy the challenge most especially because for Maths we get to research about mathematicians, which is actually so cool.”

Year 10 student, Chimeremeze, who completed the challenge last year, said: “I enjoyed learning new things. It’s like an assignment, and it helps you do more research.”

As The Birkenhead Park School continues its impressive upward journey, the BPS University Challenge will remain a key part of enhancing ambition and success, empowering every student to aim high and achieve their full potential.