Youngsters get a taste of University life

Year six students will be able to discover the concept of University, during this year’s summer school, led by the University of Wolverhampton.

This week, the Performing Arts Summer School will deliver a range of aspiration-raising activities for pupils to have a direct taste of some of the exciting opportunities for learning in a modern university setting.

The experience also aims to target pupils who live in families who do not have direct experience or knowledge in higher education.

In some families, University is not encouraged to their children; as many are not aware of the facts of University along with many still mistakenly believing only ‘rich’ people are eligible for further education.

The University of Wolverhampton want to provide students with the opportunity to decide for themselves whether they are interested in attending a University in the future.

The University will be able to assist children and their families who have not been down the university route to achieve a better understanding on what universities have to offer.

Ian Hart, Head of Access and Outreach said: “Many mums and dads who have not been to university may not feel confident about talking to their children about it.

“The aspirations of young people are very important for levels of motivation to perform well at school and there is now strong evidence of the link between motivation and levels of achievement.

“It is important pupils know about the opportunities that are available to them well in advance so they can prepare for the next steps they want to take once they have left school.”

The University of Wolverhampton has a great deal of experience of organising activities for pupils in primary and secondary schools and these have a positive impact on raising the aspirations of pupils and informing their parents about higher education.

This year’s Summer School project aims to provide a range of stimulating and enjoyable learning activities based on the themes of Music, Dance and Drama.

ENDS

For more information please contact Danielle Taylor in the Media Relations Office on
01902 322448

Date Issued: 10 June 2014