how to get offers from unis (Cam, ICL, UCL…)

I think for any Oxbridge application the most important thing is to do LOADS of extra reading, but make sure it's focused on something specific that you enjoy; there's more benefit in focusing on a specific niche than just reading the oxford recommended reading list (as this will make you stand out from other applicants). Over the summer focus on preparing for your entrance test (I believe it's the ESAT) because this is what they'll most likely to use to shortlist you for interview ie this will be more important than predicted grades.
The only other thing worth mentioning is what to include in your personal statement: they'll almost definitely ask you about it in your interview so make sure to include things you would like to mention then (and don't make anything up!). Also make sure you're reflecting on everything you put in: it's better to include less of what you've actually done and reflected on everything you include instead of just listing activities.
Hope that helps!

thank you loads, i’ve been worried about how to stand out coz it’s very competitive

Year 12 here, I’m hoping to do mechanical engineering, I’m predicted A*A*A in maths physics and chem. Hoping to bring it up to 3 A*s, I’m part of several programs and am looking into moocs and further reading. I’ve just finished wokf experience with an aerospace company as well. Any tips for making a good application

Why are you not doing further maths?

my school recommended to only do it as a 4th subject as some schools see it as half an alevel if u take maths alongside it. due to other extracurriculars and family obligations i chose to only do 3 A levels. I realised the desire for further maths too late, however I spoke to an admissions officer at an outreach event at Cambridge recently and I was advised to simply do extra maths and mention it in my ps. and if needed explain why I didn’t take further maths

I'm sorry to say but the Cambridge admissions offer was letting you down gently. 96% of successful Cambridge engineering applicants take Further Maths, and the little leeway they have is when they are understanding to students who attend schools that don't offer it, certainly not because of time management issues. Your chances at Cambridge engineering are unfortunately slim to none.
You probably have a good shot at UCL, and all the relevant application strengthening still apply, but it's worth getting your expectations right.

Thank you for your honesty, I genuinely do want to be realistic when it comes to my applications. Would the same be said for Imperial do you think? I'm asking as l'm eligible for contextual admissions and I'm not too sure if it makes a difference.

Thank you for your honesty, I genuinely do want to be realistic when it comes to my applications. Would the same be said for Imperial do you think? I'm asking as l'm eligible for contextual admissions and I'm not too sure if it makes a difference.

Do you want to work as an Engineer? You really should look at degrees with a year in industry as you'll get a job ahead of those without this.

Yeah, i’m exclusively looking at universities that offer a year in industry because i’m determined to get some good work experience early on

Cambridge don't offer it though.

Yeah but the employment prospects of being a cambridge graduate would help compensate. Anyways, cam has always been a (VERY) hopeful maybe when it comes to actual applications

Year 12 here, I’m hoping to do mechanical engineering, I’m predicted A*A*A in maths physics and chem. Hoping to bring it up to 3 A*s, I’m part of several programs and am looking into moocs and further reading. I’ve just finished wokf experience with an aerospace company as well. Any tips for making a good application