Schools across the globe are transforming student futures through FirstPoint USA’s Educational Partnership Programme, a pioneering initiative designed to support teachers and careers advisors in guiding students toward life-changing opportunities at US universities.
Recently, FirstPoint USA hosted its inaugural Continuing Professional Development (CPD) event at the iconic Hampden Park in Glasgow, welcoming educators from over 20 Scottish schools. The event marked the launch of a new phase in FirstPoint’s mission to empower schools with expert guidance, resources, and tools to navigate the increasingly competitive US university admissions landscape.
With over 24 years of experience and more than $2.4 billion in scholarship funding secured for 40,000+ students, FirstPoint USA is the world’s leading agency for US sports scholarships and university admissions. The Educational Partnership Programme builds on this legacy, offering schools a flexible, high-impact model of support that enhances existing counselling services and opens doors for students—whether they’re elite athletes or academically driven scholars.
Ross Duncan, Chief Marketing Officer at FirstPoint USA, shared his enthusiasm for the programme:
“It was fantastic to welcome so many passionate educators to Hampden Park for our first CPD event. Our goal is to equip teachers and careers advisors with the knowledge and tools they need to confidently support students exploring US university pathways. Whether it’s a sports scholarship or academic admission, we’re here to help schools guide their pupils toward informed, successful decisions.”
The programme offers a blended CPD model, combining in-person training with live and on-demand sessions covering US admissions, scholarship pathways, and recruitment trends. Schools also benefit from bespoke training options, access to US university presentations and events, attendance at careers fairs, and annual insights papers to support planning and review.
Key Benefits for Schools
Partner schools gain access to a wide range of exclusive benefits, including:
- Annual on-campus visits for student presentations and athlete evaluations
- Priority access to Talent ID showcase events and educational webinars
- Joint marketing initiatives to raise school visibility with prospective families
- Inclusive guidance tailored to diverse academic, athletic, and financial backgrounds
Key Benefits for Teachers & Careers Advisors
- Blended CPD: In-person and online training on US admissions and scholarships
- Customised training for staff development days
- Participation in careers and guidance events
- Briefings from US university admissions experts
- Ongoing support from a dedicated Partnership Manager
- Drop-in access for case-specific queries
- Peer networking across the global partner-school community
Technology That Simplifies and Supports
Partner schools also receive access to the FirstPoint USA Partner Dashboard, a secure digital platform that streamlines student tracking and communication. With mobile compatibility and no setup required, the dashboard offers:
- Real-time visibility of student progress
- University and scholarship matching tools
- Centralised document hub for transcripts and achievements
- Appointment booking and reporting tools
- Priority access to events, merchandise, and consultations
Jamie Houston, Head of Senior VI and Careers at St Columba’s High School in Kilmacolm, praised the programme’s impact:
“Our partnership with FirstPoint USA has consistently delivered fantastic support to students pursuing higher education in the US. Their experience and guidance have empowered pupils and parents to make informed decisions. We’ve seen students progress to prestigious institutions like Brown and Yale, and we wholeheartedly recommend FirstPoint USA to families.”
A Global Network of Partner Schools
FirstPoint USA’s Educational Partnership Programme is already making waves internationally, with partner schools including:
- IGBIS School, Malaysia
- SGA School, Shenzhen, China
- WISS School, Shanghai, China
- Mount Pleasant Academy, Jamaica
- GEMS Metropole School, Dubai, UAE
- South Coast Baptist College, Waikiki, Australia
Ready to Join the Network?
If your school is interested in enhancing its international university counselling provision and supporting students on their journey to US higher education, register your interest in the Educational Partnership Programme today.
Together, we can unlock new opportunities for your students—and empower your staff to guide them every step of the way.
