
How universities can support schools seeking subject specific events
When researching universities, students are
often questioning what the university can offer
them when they get there. However, it is also
worth finding out what an institution can offer
before the application process even starts. One way universities can support schools and colleges with this, is through offering subject specific university events.
Subject specific events come in many forms
and are a great way for your students to
start exploring higher education. Student
recruitment teams can offer talks and
workshops in person or online on a range of
subjects, from course tasters to student life
and personal statements.
On-campus visit days have also returned for many institutions, which allow students to
experience university facilities first-hand
whilst receiving sessions from academics.
Furthermore, summer school programs can
encourage students to gain independence and
meet new people.

The benefits of subject specific university events
Subject events are highly beneficial for
prospective students. Deciding what subject
to study at university can be a daunting task,
especially if they are considering areas that
are not taught at their school or college. Trying
out a subject with their chosen university can
give a real insight into whether they can see
themselves pursuing it as a career.
Doing so can also provide a taster of university
teaching. Lectures, seminars and tutorials
differ greatly from Key Stage 5 education, as
does the independent study that university
courses often require. Experiencing this at
a summer school or webinar session can
indicate to students whether university is right
for them.
Another advantage of subject specific events
is that university academics are leading
researchers in their fields, so discussion of a
specific subject through a webinar session can
also develop students’ knowledge and improve
their academic skill in preparation for their
exams.
Mentioning this event participation can
look attractive in a personal statement too,
demonstrating interest and commitment -
especially if it involves a student’s chosen
university.
Subject specific events have school and college benefits too
As well as being of great benefit to your
students, organising these events can also help
school and colleges to achieve their Gatsby
Benchmarks. Incorporating regular sessions
into your timetables will increase encounters
with higher education (Benchmark 7), link your
curriculum to careers (Benchmark 4), and
create a stable careers programme
(Benchmark 1).
Each institution will have their own event
provision, but as an example, at Swansea
University, we offer a termly Current News
webinar series for year 12 and 13 students,
which runs over 2 weeks.
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Editorial has been provided by over 35 colleagues at universities and higher education institutions throughout the UK. On topics covering how to support students with their university decisions, university events, widening participation & fair access, UCAS applications (including writing school references) and more. It also includes the key student finance facts from Martin Lewis.
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