UNIVERSITY COUNSELLING APPROACH
Q&A with Jeremy Forrester, University Counsellor
At ACS Cobham, we are committed to preparing students for life beyond school. With an experienced and globally-minded university counselling team, we support every student’s journey toward further education, whether it leads to a top global university, an apprenticeship, or an unconventional path inspired by passion and purpose.
Recently, we sat down with Jeremy Forrester, one of our school’s dedicated university counsellors, to learn more about how his team supports students in making informed, individualised choices about their next steps.
What makes the university counselling approach at ACS Cobham unique compared to other international and British schools?
Our counselling model is deeply personalised and relationship-driven. We don’t follow a one-size-fits-all model. Instead, we meet each student where they are. Whether a student is aiming for Oxbridge, exploring creative arts, or considering a gap year, our approach is tailored to their individual goals. Many schools focus narrowly on one system – UK or international – but we offer full-spectrum support for destinations around the world. We also work closely with universities through visits, virtual sessions, and fly-ins, giving students direct insights into their future options.
How do you help students find the right university fit beyond just rankings?
We guide students to reflect on their strengths, interests, and values. Tools like Maia Learning – a comprehensive platform focused on college and career readiness – and career assessments help us frame this exploration in a meaningful way. We look beyond prestige to consider factors like class size, teaching style, campus culture, and long-term career outcomes. We also host alumni panels and university talks so students can hear authentic, first-hand accounts of life at university, beyond the gloss of the brochures.
Are more students considering alternative paths like gap years or apprenticeships?
Absolutely! We’re seeing increased interest in structured gap years – particularly those involving work, travel, or service. It’s common in countries like Norway and Denmark, and it’s becoming more accepted here too. Students are also exploring UK degree apprenticeships and hands-on training opportunities in fields like tech and business. We’re even seeing curiosity about studying in less traditional destinations like Japan or the Netherlands. Students are thinking more creatively and globally.
How early should students begin thinking seriously about university?
Exploration begins in Grade 9 and 10, where we support course selections and spark early conversations through workshops and presentations. More bespoke, individual support starts in Grade 11. Key milestones include university fairs, activity planning, and shortlisting options. Applications often begin by the summer before Grade 12. We provide tailored timelines to help families plan ahead with confidence and clarity.
How do you involve parents in the process?
We offer a wide range of support for parents, including information sessions, webinars, one-to-one meetings, and access to Maia Learning alongside their child. We see parents as key partners in the journey, so we guide them on how to offer support without pressure. It’s about fostering healthy, open family conversations about the future.
How do you manage applications to global university systems?
Our team includes experts across all major systems – UK, US, Canada, Europe, and more. We offer country-specific workshops, essay and personal statement guidance, and full application support for platforms like UCAS, the Common App, OUAC (Canada), and others. We stay connected through professional networks such as CIS, IACAC, and UCAS Advisor forums to ensure our advice is current and relevant.
What tools and resources do students use?
Students have access to Maia Learning for research, career assessments, and application tracking. We also offer essay writing workshops, interview practice, and database access to resources like Niche and Unifrog. Each year, we welcome over 250 universities to campus, giving students the chance to connect directly with admissions representatives.
What if a student doesn’t know what they want to study?
That’s more common than people think – and it’s okay. We encourage students to try new subjects, join clubs, and reflect on what energises them. Career assessments and exploratory exercises help reveal patterns in their interests. Many universities now offer flexible degrees that allow students to explore before specialising, which is reassuring for those still figuring things out.
Can you share an example of a student who found an unexpected path?
One student initially planned to study business at a competitive school, but during a gap year volunteering in Africa, they discovered a passion for environmental work. That experience reshaped their goals, and they later pursued Environmental Science at a liberal arts college in the US. Today, they’re working in climate policy with an international NGO – a career they’d never considered before that gap year.
What’s one message you hope every ACS Cobham student takes to heart?
Don’t measure your success by someone else’s definition. The right path is the one that’s meaningful to you. Stay curious, trust the process, and make choices based on your values. If you do that, you’ll be building a future you’ll be proud to call your own
