On Wednesday, 12th March 2025, Year 10 students from St Paul's Academy took part in Point 2 of the prestigious St Catherine’s Catalyst Program at Deptford Green Secondary School. This initiative, in collaboration with Addey & Stanhope and Bonus Pastor, is part of Oxford University’s outreach efforts to support and inspire students in their academic journeys.

It opened my mind to specific subjects, and pathways into these. The critical thinking helped me understand different points of view on education.

Y10 Student

The Catalyst Program is a sustained contact initiative designed to provide tailored support at critical stages in a pupil’s education. By employing a ‘hub model,’ schools within the partnership take turns hosting events, allowing for a greater collective impact. This structure ensures that a larger number of students benefit from the program while also distributing the logistical responsibilities among all participating institutions.

I enjoyed mixing with other schools and connecting through discussion to learn their insights into further education.

Y10 Student

The name ‘Catalyst’ reflects the program’s core mission: to accelerate positive change. The initiative aims to increase applications to top universities, enhance student motivation, and ultimately boost the success rate of university applicants. Through a series of structured engagements, students receive invaluable exposure to higher education opportunities and develop the ambition and drive necessary to achieve their academic goals.

The program comprises four key points of contact:

• Point 1: Autumn, Year 8 – Initial introduction to the program and university aspirations.
• Point 2: Spring, Year 10 – Focus on academic development and university preparation (hosted at Deptford Green in 2025).
• Point 3: Summer, Year 10 – Visit to Oxford University for an immersive experience.

During the event at Deptford Green, students engaged in a variety of academic workshops, university application discussions, and interactive activities designed to encourage critical thinking and ambition. This experience provided them with a clearer vision of their future educational pathways and an enhanced understanding of the opportunities available at institutions like Oxford University. A special mention goes to Kemi, Hannah and Shatha for their insightful and thought-provoking responses in group discussions and to the leader of the program.

The Catalyst Program continues to be a beacon of inspiration, guiding students toward their aspirations and helping to shape the next generation of university applicants. By fostering sustained engagement and collaboration among schools, it is playing a vital role in broadening access to top-tier education for all participants. We look forward to our Summer Term trip - we'll be visiting Oxford University for Point 3.

I learnt about the different ways into education and that I can now study nursing as a degree apprenticeship. These experiences are invaluable for my future and I thank St Paul’s for providing these for me.

Y10 student

In a captivating online session, Bolu Babalola, author of *Love in Colour* and *Honey & Spice*, inspired our top Bedrock Learning students with her insights on storytelling. We discovered that great writing starts with a deep love of reading, and that authenticity and joy are at the heart of every compelling story. Bolu shared her journey as a writer (and reader), the power of representation in fiction, and the importance of embracing our unique voices - urging us to write as often as we can.

The Bank of England led a keynote session yesterday to an incredible turnout from our Year 10, Year 11 and Year 9 — just under 150 students! Our young people were true ambassadors of the school, embodying our school values. Engagement was excellent, with students asking thought-provoking questions on everything from money laundering and counterfeit currency to careers and apprenticeship routes at the Bank. The staff were proud of all who attended.

Many thanks to the Business Department who prepared students so well in lessons. Thanks to Mr Khan, Mr Kisitu, and the Business Team for supporting the event.

-GD