Higher education talks and workshops

Suitable for: Year 7 – 13 students
Length of session: 60 minutes

Current undergraduates discuss their personal experiences at Leeds and reflect on their decision-making process and transition to higher education. Please note that in-school sessions are only available in Yorkshire and the Humber because student ambassadors can’t travel outside the local area. An online talk may be possible depending on resources.

Suitable for: Year 10 – 11 students
Length of session: we can offer a 60 or a 30 minute session

Explores the concept of going to university and the value of a higher education qualification. This session aims to break down barriers and raise pupils’ awareness of, and aspirations to, higher education.

Learning outcomes:

• Learn about the different pathways you can take after school/college.
• Recognise the benefits of going to university and getting a degree.
• Understand opportunities and support services available at university.

Suitable for: Year 7 – 9 students
Length of session: we can offer a 60 or a 30 minute session

Introduces the basics of higher education, the benefits of a degree and opportunities available to students at university. This interactive session aims to increase pupils’ awareness of different routes and opportunities that may be available to them in the future.

Learning outcomes:

• Recognise and understand key terms relating to higher education.
• Learn about the different pathways you can take after school/college.
• Understand the benefits of gaining a degree and opportunities available at university.

Suitable for: Year 11 – 13 students
Length of session: we can offer a 60 or a 30 minute session

An introduction to the University of Leeds. Students will learn about our courses, facilities, opportunities and the support available for those choosing to study at Leeds.

Learning outcomes:

• Identify three key factors to consider when choosing a university.
• Explore a variety of courses offered at the University of Leeds.
• Understand the additional support services available for students at the University of Leeds.

Suitable for: Year 11 – 13 students
Length of session: we can offer a 60 or a 30 minute session

This interactive session helps students recognise and confidently communicate the transferable skills they already have, such as leadership, communication, and teamwork, while exploring how these skills can support university applications, future careers, and lifelong employability.

Learning outcomes:

• Understand what transferable skills are and how to surface them.
• Use the STAR technique to talk about your own transferable skills.
• Find out how University can help you to develop transferable skills and prepare for your future career.

Suitable for: Year 10 – 12 students
Length of session: we can offer a 60 or a 30 minute session

Explores the tools and methods available for prospective students to make an informed decision about their university and course options.

Learning outcomes:

• Understand why you’re choosing a specific course
• Explore the different types of courses you can choose
• Understand work placement and year abroad opportunities
• Understand what you need to know before choosing your university

Suitable for: Parents/carers
Length of session: we can offer a 60 or a 30 minute session

An informative talk for parents and carers covering course and university selection, UCAS applications, and the various pathways available to help young people make confident and informed choices about their next steps.

Suitable for: Year 10 – 11 students
Length of session: we can offer a 60 or a 30 minute session

Encourages students to think ahead to their university options and prompts them to consider their Level 3 subjects and qualifications.

Learning outcomes:

• Learn about the different courses you can take in high school/college.
• Understand the benefits of studying different qualifications.
• Gain advice on preparing for sixth form/college and apprenticeships.

Suitable for: Year 10 – 13 students
Length of session: we can offer a 60 or a 30 minute session

Explores the difference between popular and competitive courses and why some courses are more competitive than others, what applications need in order to stand out and  the steps admissions tutors take during the selection process.

Learning outcomes:

• Learn the difference between popular and competitive courses.
• Give an example of the experience you have that might help you stand out.
• Identify different university interview formats and demonstrate effective interview conduct.

Suitable for: Year 12 – 13 students
Length of session: we can offer a 60 or a 30 minute session

Familiarises students with the UCAS application process, from registration and completing the form, through to tracking applications, handling offers, confirmation and Clearing. The session uses real examples to explore the dos and don’ts of writing a personal statement and discusses why the statement is a crucial part of the selection process.

Learning outcomes:

• Understand key steps in the UCAS application process.
• Explain the role and significance of personal statements in university applications.
• Consider ways to begin or edit your personal statement.

Suitable for: Year 12 students
Length of session: we can offer a 60 or a 30 minute session

Focuses on the opportunities available in higher education and what pupils can do in Year 12 to prepare themselves for applying to university.

Learning outcomes:

• Understand the changes in Year 12/1 and their impact on you.
• Select strategies to help you make the most of Year 12/1 and prepare for your next steps.
• Identify your strengths and areas to develop in.

Suitable for: Year 12 – 13 students
Length of session: we can offer a 60 or a 30 minute session

Explores the transition to university and the steps post-16 pupils can take to prepare for undergraduate study and student life. The session highlights opportunities available to first year university students and discusses possible challenges and solutions.

Learning outcomes:

• Understand the application process for university and the key steps involved.
• Explore the transition to university life and identify practical ways to prepare.
• Discover the facilities and opportunities available to students at university.

Suitable for: Year 11 – Year 13 students
Length of session: 30-45 minutes

Introduces students to their options for paying for university. It provides an overview of the Lifelong Learning Entitlement, as well as other sources of funding such as bursaries and scholarships. 

Suitable for: Year 11 – Year 13 students
Length of session: we can offer a 60 or a 30 minute session

Explores different ways of managing money at university, including practical steps and advice from student ambassadors. It covers the costs of key aspects of student life, such as accommodation, travel, and food, and introduces budgeting tools and apps, including Blackbullion. 

Learning outcomes:

• Build confidence in managing your money as you prepare for university, apprenticeships and beyond.
• Understand the financial support and resources available to students.
• Reflect on your current money habits and identify ways to manage your finances more effectively.

Suitable for: Year 11 – Year 13 students

Equips students with the knowledge of the various routes for applying and studying at the University of Leeds. The session focuses on contextual admissions schemes such as Access to Leeds and discusses how Foundation Courses can prepare students for their chosen degree pathway. 

This  session is recommended for students who meet the University of Leeds widening participation eligibility criteria. 

Learning outcomes:

• Understand the key steps in the UCAS application process.
• Understand the entry routes into higher education.
• Discuss the benefits of different routes to higher education.