Our mission
Our aim is to increase the problem-solving skills of students, their confidence, independent learning and enjoyment of the subject. We want to see an increase in the uptake of physics-related subjects by students at university and beyond. By providing a long-term programme of extra-curricula support, we hope to emulate the success of advanced training programmes in the sports and arts, and foster the talent of the next generation of STEM graduates and scientists. COMPOS is currently free to all UK state school pupils to ensure as many STEM-talented students as possible can take part.
Additional support for students
Our funders, Axiom Maths, prioritise reaching disadvantaged and under-represented groups in STEM and we encourage applications from female, non-binary and socio-economically disadvantaged students. We have additional support available for students who have received the pupil premium, free school meals, been in care or have an educational maintenance allowance. Students need to identify themselves as suitable for additional support when they apply. We have noticed that a lot of students don't know if they qualify for additional support - please help your students to correctly identify themselves where appropriate.
How you can help
Let your students know about COMPOS, they need to register themselves on our home page. We rely on frontline teaching staff to get the word out and reach the students who would benefit from a free programme like this. Display our poster, talk to your keen students and direct them to our website.
Start a COMPOS group at your school
We have the option for teachers to start a COMPOS group at their school. You can do this as an afterschool activity (similar to "Oxbridge club" that runs in some schools). It could be run by one or several teachers. You will receive all teaching materials, and support from our Lead tutor. Your students will also be invited to participate in webinars. You can also send us evidence of completed work, and we will issue letters from the University acknowledging that they have completed the programme. If you are interested please send an email to our lead tutor Vlad Chernov - vladimir.chernov[аt]physics.ox.ac.uk
