Activities for students
All of our sessions are designed to increase awareness of Higher Education and raise aspirations. The following table outlines the sessions we offer, the Gatsby benchmarks met and who they are suitable for. Discover more about what is included in each session by clicking on each one.
We want to be as flexible as possible to meet the needs of each school and college we work with, so have devised variations of our sessions with different lengths and levels of interactivity.
Book a Session
If you would like to book any of the sessions below, contact us on 01484 472282 or schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
| Short Presentation | 20 mins | Our short talks are great for an assembly or as part of a longer day. |
|---|---|---|
| Interactive Presentation | 45 mins | Our presentations have an interactive element throughout that students can get more involved with. |
| Workshop | 60 mins | Some of our sessions are suitable to be extended to include a hands on activity. Indicated throughout with a W. |
| Unique Activity | - | Some activities are unique and therefore structured accordingly. Indicated throughout with a U. |
Higher Education Preparation |
Suitability | Gatsby Benchmarks Contributed to |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Higher Education W | Y9 - 12 | 1, 7 |
| Planning your Career - The HE Route | Y12 - 13 | 1, 4, 5, 7 |
| The University of Huddersfield | Y12 - 13 | 1, 7 |
| Making the most of Y12 | Y12 | 1, 7 |
| Degree Apprenticeships | Y10 - 13 | 2, 7 |
| Preparing for University | Y12 - 13 | 1, 7 |
Skills Development |
Suitability | Gatsby Benchmarks Contributed to |
|---|---|---|
| Presentation Skills | Y12 - 13 | 1, 7 |
| Interview Skills W | Y12 - 13 | 1, 7 |
| Study and Revision Skills | Y11 - 13 | 1, 7 |
| Perfecting your CV W | Y12 - 13 | 1, 7 |
| EPQ Preparation | Y11 - 13 | 7 |
| Mock Interviews U | Y11 - 13 | 1, 7 |
UCAS |
Suitability | Gatsby Benchmarks Contributed to |
|---|---|---|
| UCAS Explained | Y12 - 13 | 1, 7 |
| UCAS Applications and Personal Statements W | Y12 - 13 | 1, 7 |
| UCAS Extra and Clearing | Y12 - 13 | 1, 7 |
Student Fees and Finance |
Suitability | Gatsby Benchmarks Contributed to |
|---|---|---|
| Student Fees and Finance W | Y12 - 13 | 1, 7 |
Student Life |
Suitability | Gatsby Benchmarks Contributed to |
|---|---|---|
| Student Life W | Y12 - 13 | 7 |
| Student Ambassador Panel U | Y12 - 13 | 7 |
Visits To Campus |
Suitability | Gatsby Benchmarks Contributed to |
|---|---|---|
| HE Experience Days U | Y10 - 13 | 1, 7 |
| Talk and tour U | Y10 - 13 | 1, 7 |
Subject Specific Activities |
Suitability | Gatsby Benchmarks Contributed to |
|---|---|---|
| The Discover Programme U | Y12 | 1, 4, 7 |
| Taster Days U | Y12 - 13 | 1, 4, 7 |
Specialist Programmes and Events |
Suitability | Gatsby Benchmarks Contributed to |
|---|---|---|
| Careers, HE Fairs and options events U | Y9 - 13 / Parents | |
| An introduction to Headstart Huddersfield | Y12 - 13 | 7 |
Gatsby Benchmarks
Our Higher Education preparation sessions also fit within the requirements to meet many of the Gatsby Benchmarks. The Gatsby Benchmarks that are most closely aligned with our activities are:
- Gatsby Benchmark 1: A stable careers programme (GB1)
Every school and college should have an embedded programme of career education and guidance that is known and understood by pupils, parents, teachers and employers.
- Gatsby Benchmark 2: Learning from career and labour market information (GB2)
Every pupil, and their parent, should have access to good quality information about future study options and labour market opportunities.
- Gatsby Benchmark 3: Addressing the needs of each pupil (GB3)
Opportunities for advice and support to be tailored to the needs of each pupil.
- Gatsby Benchmark 4: Linking curriculum learning to careers (GB4)
All teachers should link curriculum learning with careers. For example, STEM subject teachers should highlight the relevance of STEM subjects for a wide range of future career paths.
- Gatsby Benchmark 5: Encounters with employers and employees (GB5)
Every pupil should have multiple opportunities to learn from employers about work, employment and the skills that are valued in the workplace. This can be through a range of enrichment activities including visiting speakers, mentoring and enterprise schemes.
- Gatsby Benchmark 7: Encounters with FE and HE (GB7)
All pupils should understand the full range of learning opportunities that are available to them. This includes both academic and vocational routes and learning in schools, colleges, universities and in the workplace.
An introduction to Higher Education
| Category | Higher Education Preparation |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 9 - 12 |
Covering all areas relevant to those considering higher education, students will be able to gain an understanding of how to make appropriate choices and apply them effectively.
- Benefits of choosing Higher Education
- How to research courses and institutions
- A brief introduction to UCAS Applications and Student Fees and Finance
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Planning your career the HE route
| Category | Higher Education Preparation |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 4, 5, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 12 - 13 |
Reflecting on the various routes to employment and the potential career benefits of choosing Higher Education, students will be able to develop an understanding of how to make appropriate choices.
- Graduate market trends
- What employers are looking for (including skills and experience)
- Mapping a university course to a chosen career path
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
University of Huddersfield
| Category | Higher Education Preparation |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1,7 |
| Target audience | Years 12 - 13 / Adult learners |
An introduction to life at the University of Huddersfield including courses and facilities on offer and careers beyond graduation.
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Making the most of Y12
| Category | Higher Education Preparation |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Year 12 |
Taking the students through key information and how they can start to prepare for entering Higher Education alongside their current studies.
- Making the right choices
- Making the most of Open Days
- Accommodation
- The importance of work experience
- Enrichment opportunities recognised by universities
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Degree apprenticeship
| Category | Higher Education Preparation |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 2, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 10 - 12 |
Students will be able to understand the difference between a degree apprenticeship and a traditional degree and decide if this is a viable option for them.
- What are degree apprenticeships?
- Benefits and issues to be aware of
- Entry requirements
- Researching vacancies and how to apply
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Preparing for University
| Category | Higher Education Preparation |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 12 - 13 |
Preparing those who are interested in or have been accepted into university by providing information and tips about preparing for the first few months. This session can be adapted to include information relevant to each year group.
- Social opportunities
- Life skills and support available
- Academic preparation
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Presentation skills
| Category | Skills Development |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 12 - 13 |
Covers the key components of a successful presentation such as content, delivery styles and different tools to utilise.
- Structuring a presentation
- Methods of delivery and support tools
- Practicing presentations
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Interview Skills
| Category | Skills Development |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 12 - 13 |
Covering the process of preparing for interviews, students will be able to examine skills, knowledge and competencies needed.
- Research and preparation
- Interview conduct
- How to provide effective answers and ask questions
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Study and Revision Skills
| Category | Skills Development |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 11 - 13 |
Giving students a good insight into how study skills can be developed to improve performance and how revision techniques can help in the run up to exams.
- Strategies and techniques
- Time management
- Coping with exam pressure
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Perfecting your CV
| Category | Skills Development |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 12 - 13 |
Students will learn the importance of a CV, how they are used and what employers look for when going through the recruitment process. Useful for students currently looking for employment or applying to university.
- What to include and avoiding common mistakes
- Sectioning and structure
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
EPQ Preparation
| Category | Skills Development |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 12 - 13 |
Helps identify the steps and skills learnt within the EPQ including what it is and the benefits and expectations associated with the qualification. This is a more comprehensive session so get in touch to learn more.
- Revision strategies
- Academic writing
- Presentation skills
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Mock Interviews
| Category | Skills Development |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 11 - 13 |
Mock interviews can be conducted by our staff to support the application process and will act as practice to improve performance and confidence. Critical feedback will allow students to adapt their approach when in a real interview situation.
- Common interview questions
- Impartial interviewer
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
UCAS Explained
| Category | The UCAS Process |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 12 - 13 |
Takes students through what UCAS is and options when applying to university. An introductory session for students at the beginning of their journey, whether interested in university or apprenticeships.
- What is UCAS?
- Key dates
- The UCAS website and support available
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
UCAS Applications and Personal Statements
| Category | The UCAS Process |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 12 - 13 |
Explaining the process of UCAS applications, students will be able to identify key skills, and experiences to include and produce a suitable personal statement supporting their course choice.
- The importance of personal statements
- Example of what makes a good or bad personal statement
- Participants will be given a framework to write their own statement
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
UCAS Extra and Clearing
| Category | The UCAS Process |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 12 - 13 |
Covering all aspects of the UCAS Extra and Clearing process
- UCAS Extra eligibility
- Clearing facts from a university's perspective
- What to do if you are in clearing
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Student Fees and Finance
| Category | Student Fees and Finance |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 12 - 13 |
Students will be able to understand the financial terminology, what the costs associated with university are and what financial support is available.
- The finance system
- How to apply for finance
- Budgeting effectively and alternative sources of income
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Student Life
| Category | Student Life |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 7 |
| Target audience | Years 12 - 13 |
This session provides students with an honest perspective of university as a whole.
- Course demands, time management and budgeting
- Accommodation, social activities and part time work
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Student Ambassador Panel
| Category | Student Life |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 7 |
| Target audience | Years 12 - 13 |
An opportunity to quiz current university students about like in Higher Education which can be a stand alone session or added to another talk.
Subject to Ambassador availability.
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Higher Education Experience Days
| Category | Visits to Campus |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 10 - 13 |
Visit Huddersfield to experience a university campus first hand and meet current students, Students will develop knowledge of a range of HE courses and gain an awareness of the physical, cultural and educational environment of a HEI in order to make appropriate decisions about their future.
- Student experience panel
- Subject taster sessions
- Campus tour
- Student finance and budgeting
- Design a university
We can only accommodate 1 group with a maximum of 50 students. This session will take approximately 4 hours.
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Talk and Tour
| Category | Visits to Campus |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 10 - 13 |
Designed as a mini HE day, it offers students the opportunity to learn more about Higher Education and see the facilities available at the University.
- Campus tour
- Presentation on all things HE
We can only accommodate 1 group with a maximum of 100 students. This session will take approximately 2 hours.
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
The Discover Programme
| Category | Subject Specific Activities |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 4, 7 |
| Target audience | Year 12 |
Delivered at your school or college by subject specialists, the discover programme allows your students to explore a wide range of topics, offering insights into a new subject area and developing career awareness.
Further information can be found at hud.ac/discover-programme
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Taster days
| Category | Subject Specific Activities |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 1, 4, 7 |
| Target audience | Years 12 - 13 |
Our taster days allow students to gain first-hand experience of what it's like to study a subject at university.
- Develop a practical understanding of a HE subject area
- Enhance knowledge of a range of courses available
- Assist students to make informed choices about their future
- What it's really like to study at university
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
Careers, HE Fairs and Options Evenings
| Category | Specialist Programmes and Events |
| Target audience | Years 9 - 13 / Parents |
We regularly attend careers and HE Fairs held by schools and colleges to provide impartial advice on applying to Higher Education, supported by information about courses at the University of Huddersfield.
Please contact us if you would like us to attend a fair at your school.
Email: schools.liaison@hud.ac.uk
An Introduction to Headstart Huddersfield
| Category | Specialist Programmes and Events |
| Gatsby Benchmarks | 7 |
This session outlines the programme, eligibility criteria and application process to help students understand what is expected of them to successfully complete the scheme.
Find out more at hud.ac/headstart or contact Sophie Craven at s.craven@hud.ac.uk
Headstart
| Type of Activity | WP Scheme with UCAS points |
| Location | Independent Study |
| Number of Participants | Individual study |
| Duration | Attend an open day or taster day, and write a 500 word assignment |
| Target Audience | Post-16 students (check eligibility online) |
Headstart Huddersfield is a scheme that offers eligible students, interested in applying to the University of Huddersfield, the opportunity to gain an extra 8 UCAS points. The scheme has been designed with the intention of providing fairer access for those groups currently facing barriers and therefore underrepresented in Higher Education.
The benefits of Headstart Huddersfield:
- Assist students with research, decision making and applications to university.
- Develop HE-relevant skills including research, self-reflection and writing skills.
- Formal recognition for students’ work (8 UCAS points recognised by the University of Huddersfield).
- The University of Huddersfield will guarantee interviews, auditions or offers to all Headstart Huddersfield students who have successfully completed the programme and who meet the published academic and non-academic entry requirements.
This session meets the following Gatsby Benchmark/s: GB2, GB7
Contact: Sophie Craven
Tel: 01484 957129
Email: S.Craven@hud.ac.uk