Since it began in 2022, our Pegasus Bridging Programme has supported a wide range of students in their transition from sixth-form to studying at Robinson College and the University of Cambridge. Each year, we select 10-12 Robinson offer-holders who benefit from a programme of activities to help them adapt to life at the University of Cambridge and make the most of the range of opportunities on offer.

As part of this innovative scheme, our Pegasus Scholars are introduced to everyday life at Robinson — meeting new people, participating in supervisions, seminars and experiencing formal dining, as well as taking part in wider orientation group activities including punting. During the 2.5 week course, each Pegasus Scholar undertakes a challenging, personalised programme of subject enrichment (including interdisciplinary study where relevant), working closely with experts in their field to expand their understanding of the directions their subject might take them in future, and to hone their study skills.

Our Pegasus Scholars include Daisy (English, 2023) who is set to graduate in June 2026. Daisy says: “The Pegasus Bridging Programme was a game-changer for me. I went from believing I could never belong at Cambridge to feeling really comfortable and part of a community here.

“I'm really lucky to have benefited from the Pegasus scheme. As well as familiarising me with the Cambridge system of learning, it taught me that the non-academic part of Cambridge is just as important as the academic. I came into the Pegasus Programme feeling really daunted, like a small fish in a very big pond. Being able to engage in theatre and other societies has made me much more confident. I've made incredible friends, and I wouldn't change anything. I feel like a new person, and the community and the friends I've made at Robinson are incredible.”

Daisy continues: “I am now an Access Officer and participate in a lot of Open Days and outreach activities where I get to share my experience and encourage those who don't believe that they can apply to Cambridge that they very much can!”

The Pegasus Bridging Programme is led by Dr Lizzi Rawlinson-Mills (Robinson Fellow in English and Education), who said: “It’s a delight to see the positive impact of our Pegasus Programme and to share the stories of our Pegasus Scholars like Daisy who are clearly thriving at Robinson College and giving so much back to the community they are a part of.

“We’re proud of the additional support that we are able to give our offer-holders at Robinson and to see the benefits of this scheme. Huge thanks to generosity of the Isaac Newton Trust and the Pegasus donors who continue to make this programme possible,” added Lizzi.

Watch this interview with Daisy to learn about her experience as a Pegasus Scholar at Robinson College. Find out more about the Pegasus Bridging Programme and University-wide scholarships and bursaries.