Latest News | 13 February 2024
Young students given insight into university life
Archway Learning Trust
University of Derby
Students at a school which is part of Archway Learning Trust have been enjoying a taste of university life thanks to the University of Derby.
More than 100 year seven students from Alvaston Moor Academy recently enjoyed a special open day at the university.
The day out at the university saw the students, aged 11 and 12 years old, take part in an academic history session; experience a lecture; learn about what courses are available to study at Derby and the jobs to which a degree can lead, before enjoying a tour.
They also took part in a myth busting session around university finances.
The whole day formed part of the academy’s enrichment programme, which is aimed at giving students a variety of cultural experiences.
Olivia Thomas, head of year seven, attended the day and was herself a student at the University of Derby, where she studied sports science.
She said: “Speaking personally, I didn’t really know what university was until I got to year ten.
“By that point, you have got to your GCSEs and A-levels. If you pick the wrong ones, your options have already become more limited.
“If young people start learning about university and career options from a young age, it will help their pathway better.
“It was really good to widen the horizons of the students. Our students were really excited to even just see the campus.
“A lot of them said it really opened up their minds to want to go to university when they are older.”
Luke Gordon-Calvert, senior widening access officer at the University of Derby, said: “Early engagement about education and career pathways is crucial to helping young people make informed life decisions.
“We were delighted to welcome the Alvaston Moor students as part of our ongoing work to introduce local young people to university life and encourage them to start thinking about their futures.
“We offer a wide-ranging programme of events and opportunities for schools, such as campus visits, classroom workshops and assemblies, and careers fairs.”
