University teams up with Gogglebox star for new videos

The University of Derby has teamed up with a star of the television show Gogglebox to launch a series of videos to help young people as they prepare for university.

Covering five essential skills to help students boost their confidence and support their transition to university life, the videos are designed for teachers to use in schools and colleges to guide them through this key period in their lives.

They cover research skills, podcasting, confidence building, academic skills – and even cooking.

The videos have all been produced with the help of experts at the University of Derby, including academics, researchers and library staff.

There’s also a special guest appearance from University of Derby alumni Pete Allen, one half of former Capital FM East Midlands’ presenting team Dino and Pete.

Baasit himself studied Business and Information Systems at the University of Derby and went on to train and work as a teacher.

In 2018 he started his own business, Siddiqui Education, and regularly works with young people to raise aspirations.

Since 2013 he, his dad Sid and brothers Raza and Umar have appeared regularly on Channel 4’s Gogglebox.

Baasit said: “I’ve enjoyed collaborating with the University of Derby on a number of live events and sessions for young people and it’s always an inspiring and exciting experience.

“With the Get Ready for Uni sessions we wanted to give young people a taste of the opportunity being at Derby has to offer.

“The university experience can seem daunting as well as exciting, so we are hoping that through these sessions we equip the next generation of thought leaders to feeling better prepared for university life.

“The online sessions give an idea of the skills needed to make university life much more manageable.

“I’m always proud to work with the University of Derby to help celebrate what my home city and education has to offer.”

Liam Dowson, head of schools and colleges engagement at the University of Derby, said: “As a TEF Gold university recognised for its teaching excellence, we’re using our combined experience and sector knowledge to deliver the Get Ready for University programme to prepare students for the next chapter in their lives.

“Ensuring students have access to support in the transition from school and college to university is critical, and by creating this skills development programme we aim to empower them to succeed and become the next generation of game-changers.”