Cumbria’s helping hand for school and college students thinking of university

The outreach team at University of Cumbria has developed alternative methods to ensure help is at hand 24-7. 

In response to the coronavirus pandemic some elements are available, for the first time, on demand  to young people and others who are interested in higher education and exploring training and career options.  

Bitesize live masterclasses, delivered by experts online, form part of the Discover. Explore. Support. outreach approach, as do new ‘Getting Into’ sessions that provide insights into what prospective students may need to get onto the path of their chosen career. 

Masterclasses are ranging from microbes and media manipulation to sport, sketching and the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on local communities. 

There is also a variety of other support available for those who want to apply to university, including how to write a personal statement, student finance, UCAS guidance, and preparing for interviews. 

Daniel Dutton, Head of Student Recruitment and Outreach at University of Cumbria, said: “Designed for those with university in mind, our masterclasses are a unique way of exploring new topics, engaging in debate and enhancing subject knowledge. Our academics are experts in their field and are keen to share their knowledge, skills and expertise with students. 

“Our masterclasses and tailored outreach services demonstrate the wealth of support, opportunities and 100-plus programmes offered across the university’s campuses in Cumbria, Lancaster and London and our five institutes of health; education; arts; business and leadership; and science, natural resources and outdoor studies. 

“Masterclasses are just one part of our holistic Discovery. Explore. Support scheme available to schools, colleges and individuals. In line with our university’s personal approach, our staff and students are on hand to help at every step, whether you want the answer to a basic ‘Is higher education is for me?’ question to those interested in a course, academic area, or career ambition, and those eager to join us on a virtual campus tour or open day. 

“As an anchor institution for Cumbria, it is our mission to work with our partners to help to raise aspirations and attainment whilst also making a significant contribution to the economic, social and cultural wellbeing of our region.” 

Students at Furness College, Barrow, experience and benefit from regular support from the university. 

Keith Wardle, the college’s Head of Health, Access and Early Years, said: “This year our Access to HE students have received several talks that have been focussing on progression into higher education, UCAS, student finance. They’ve also attended a University of Cumbria virtual open day.  

“University of Cumbria is the most popular choice for our Access students, especially those science applicants interested in nursing and allied health professions so the sessions are always helpful.” 

University of Cumbria is holding a virtual open day on 5 December. Visit https://virtualopenday.cumbria.ac.uk/ for full information and to book a free place.  

University of Cumbria is also the lead partner of Hello Future, a UniConnect partnership of universities, skills and training providers offering impartial advice to young people in Cumbria. The first Hello Future Expo, a free virtual FE and HE opportunities fair, took place on Saturday 28 November. 

Those interested in finding out more about University of Cumbria’s outreach support can email outreach@cumbria.ac.uk or visit https://www.cumbria.ac.uk/about/partnerships/schools-and-colleges/ online.