MCS wins Independent Schools of the Year Award for Contribution to Social Mobility

We are delighted to announce that Magdalen College School has won an Independent Schools of the Year Award in the category of Contribution to Social Mobility, in recognition of our bursary provision and The Bridge programme. The winners were selected from more than 700 nominations by an independent panel of judges.

At the heart of our mission is the belief that education is a powerful lever for upward social mobility and every child deserves access to high-quality schooling. This is reflected in our bursary campaign, which has already enabled numerous talented pupils from less privileged backgrounds to benefit from our educational approach. By reducing financial barriers, we ensure that academic potential and character are the sole determinants of a pupil’s ability to thrive at MCS. In addition, service as a core educational principle means that our pupils not only excel academically but also develop a profound sense of responsibility towards others. This ethos nurtures a generation of socially conscious young people who are equipped and inspired to make a positive impact on society.

Dr Scott Crawford, Deputy Head (Education Development), said: “We are honoured to receive this award, which highlights the dedication of our staff and pupils who have contributed thousands of hours to partnership work. Through strong relationships with dozens of local schools and charitable organisations, we have been able to create opportunities that support young people from all backgrounds to succeed. This recognition is a testament to our shared commitment to social mobility and the lasting impact of these partnerships.”

Of the many partnership projects that we operate, of particular note is The Bridge. Launched in 2022, The Bridge is an academic enrichment programme for high-achieving Year Five boys and girls drawn from primary schools across Oxford. The programme aims to foster intellectual curiosity, nurture talent and promote a passion for learning and provides a platform for talented children to develop their potential and overcome any barriers they may face. Running from January to December, The Bridge involves monthly Saturday morning sessions at MCS and a two-day summer school in July.

The Bridge curriculum focuses on core subjects like Maths and English, providing extension work aligned with the National Curriculum. Moreover, specialist teachers deliver taster sessions in subjects such as Art, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Drama, DT, Economics, Engineering, German, Latin and Politics. Each session also incorporates a different MCS learning disposition, emphasising qualities such as independence, collaboration, motivation, perseverance and reflection while physical activity and sport promote health and wellbeing.

A number of pupils taking part in The Bridge make an application with their parents and carers for a place at an independent school and we provide full support for those applying to Magdalen College School and other schools. Full details of the MCS Bursary support scheme is shared with all participants and their families.

The impact of The Bridge has been significant. The programme has promoted greater academic confidence in 93% of participating pupils, with 82% reporting an increase in their reading habits. Furthermore, 89% expressed a newfound enjoyment of mathematics, while 100% reported feeling more informed and confident about the transition to secondary school. The number of participating primary schools has grown each year since the programme started, from eight in 2022 to 14 in 2024, and at the time of writing, 29 children from 13 primary schools are enrolled on the programme. If you would like to hear more about The Bridge, please email Jo Pick, Teacher of Economics and The Bridge Programme Co-ordinator.

The Master, Helen Pike, said: “I am thrilled and honoured that we have received this award, which recognises our ongoing efforts to make MCS a place where talent and potential are nurtured, regardless of background. Social mobility is at the heart of what we do, and initiatives like our bursary programme and The Bridge are vital in ensuring that young people from all walks of life have access to the transformative power of education. It is deeply rewarding to see the positive impact this has on our pupils and their futures, and we remain committed to expanding opportunities for even more children in the years to come.”