University Counselling
University Counselling at RGSV supports students to make informed, ambitious and realistic decisions about their future — from exploring pathways in Year 12 through to submitting applications in Year 13.
Our approach is built on individual guidance rather than a one-size-fits-all process. Students work closely with the University Counselling team throughout their time in the Sixth Form, receiving structured support alongside honest, personalised advice as they weigh up courses, institutions and career directions.
Below, you will find how the programme works, what to expect at each stage and how we partner with families throughout the process.
Our approach
Our University Counselling philosophy starts with the student, not a prescribed checklist. The department listens to what each student wants for their future and responds with guidance shaped around their ambitions, interests and questions. Students’ circumstances provide the starting point, while the University Counselling team works alongside them to explore, challenge and refine their choices so that their plans are ambitious, realistic and achievable.
RGSV’s University Counselling programme provides structured guidance through university and pathway exploration, country and course research, application planning, personal reflection and preparation for university admissions.
Support includes:
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timetabled University Counselling learning
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regular individual counselling and check-in meetings
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individual university and application planning
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university and course research
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application and deadline management
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guidance on application documentation
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support for references, predicted grades and school documentation
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preparation for early and specialist applications
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university visits, fairs, workshops and guest speakers
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engagement with alumni and external expertise where this adds value
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communication with students and parents at key stages
The University Counselling journey
The University Counselling journey begins in Year 12, when students explore pathways, countries and courses before narrowing their focus. Students considering early-deadline routes, such as Oxbridge or other highly selective courses, begin additional preparation at this stage and work to internal school timelines ahead of the wider application cycle.
In Year 13, this develops into active applications. Students research institutions, manage deadlines and prepare the required documents across the year. Throughout the process, students meet regularly with the University Counselling team and receive guidance shaped around where they want to go, through to their final decision.
