Teachers and Advisors Conference programme

University House, University of Leeds

Thursday 14 May 2026

Please note if you are registered to attend the conference you will receive an email to select your choice of three seminars for the breakout sessions. 

Chaired by: Richard Kemp, Head of Access and Outreach, University of Leeds.

• 9.30–9.55am: Welcome and registration.
• 9.55–10am: Introduction to the day, Richard Kemp.
• 10–10.20am: Welcome address, Sarah Mulholland, Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Student Education and Experience, University of Leeds.
• 10.30–11am: Breakout session one. Attendees select one seminar from the following:
  • a) AI through the student journey
  • b) Handling sensitive and controversial issues in today’s classrooms
  • c) Integrated Foundation Years: demystifying the extended degree journey.
• 11–11.20am: Coffee break.
• 11.20–12pm: Morning Keynote session: Navigating Change. Professor Kenny McDowall, Interim Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Student Education and Experience, University of Leeds.
• 12.10–12.40pm: Breakout session two. Attendees select one seminar from the following:
  • a) Commuter Students – support at the University of Leeds
  • b) Insight into Engineering
  • c) Getting off to a Flying Start: academic skills resources to help students navigate new ways of learning.
• 12.40–1.30pm: Lunch.
• 1.30–2.30pm: Keynote address: UCAS Update. Ross Sanger, Schools and Colleges Success Partner, UCAS. 
• 2.40–3.10pm: Breakout session three. Attendees select one seminar from the following:
  • a) Student Finance – exact title TBC
  • b) Exploring BA Global Creative Industries: a future-focused path for creative and entrepreneurial students
  • c) Access and participation – recognising and reducing barriers through targeted support.
• 3.15–3.25pm: Closing remarks, Richard Kemp.