On Thursday 29th January, Leigh Academy Strood played host to the latest LAT Ambition Programme ‘Meet Up’, bringing together a cohort of aspirational students from across the Trust. The event was designed to sharpen academic strategies and broaden horizons, providing attendees with the practical tools and inspiration needed to navigate their journey toward higher education.
The afternoon kicked off with a networking lunch, offering a valuable opportunity for students from different academies to connect. It wasn’t just about the food; the session encouraged students to share their experiences and continue to build a sense of community within the Ambition Programme.
Following lunch, students dove into an energetic and high-impact presentation by Elevate Education titled ‘Study Skills Sensei’.
Moving away from generic advice, the session focused on the specific habits of high-performing students. Key takeaways included:
- The Power of Practice – Shifting focus from passive reading to active paper-based practice.
- Structuring Success – How to break down revision into manageable, high-yield chunks.
- Beating Procrastination – Practical techniques to stay motivated and manage time effectively during peak exam seasons.
To conclude the day, we were joined by representatives from Canterbury Christ Church University (CCCU). Their session provided a roadmap for the transition to Higher Education, demystifying the university experience and highlighting the diverse pathways available to students today.
From understanding the UCAS process to exploring the vibrant campus life and support systems available at CCCU, the talk served as a powerful reminder of what these students are working so hard to achieve.
Mathieu Stevens, Principal of Leigh Academy Minster and Ambition Programme lead for the Trust recognised the powder of such an event, stating “Events like today are pivotal. They bridge the gap between academic potential and the practical ‘know-how’ required to succeed at the highest levels. Seeing students from across the Trust supporting one another’s ambitions is exactly what this programme is about.”
A huge thank you to Leigh Academy Strood for hosting, and to our guest speakers for empowering our students to take the next step in their academic careers.


