Supported Progression Information Evenings November 2011

∂ Who are we?  England’s 3 rd oldest university  A top 3 UK university Sunday Times University Guide  83 rd in the World (Times Higher Education)  In the top 25 globally for employer reputation (QS World University Rankings)  Around 11,200 undergraduates from diverse backgrounds and over 130 countries  98% Completion Rate

∂ What is Supported Progression? A scheme for talented students in County Durham and Tees Valley An alternative progression route to Durham University 150 places available

∂ Aims of Supported Progression: To identify talented students with potential To support entry to Durham University with a tangible package of support To effectively assess merit and potential through the completion of a project

∂ Benefits – Admissions Support Assessed Project worth UCAS points Guaranteed offer UCAS Application advice & one-to-one guidance

∂ Benefits – Academic Support Subject masterclasses Academic study skills workshops Independent learning

∂ Benefits – Financial Support Year 12 & Year 13 bursaries (up to £125) Around £5,500 Progression Bursary

∂ Additional benefits Regular interaction with academics and ambassadors Realistic experiences of university life University teaching and learning experiences University study skills Information, advice and guidance to support university application Key personal skills Access to university facilities (DUO, library, sports etc)

∂ What you have to do: Attend all sessions and events Take responsibility for your own learning – complete a personal development portfolio Complete the summer school assessed project to the required standard

∂ Programme of events November 25 th Deadline for applications January Welcome Weekend February half term Saturday workshops April Easter Academy July 22 nd – 27 th Assessed Summer School (Chemistry summer school likely to be in school term time early July)

∂ Participating Departments All departments (exc. Medicine) are involved in the scheme

∂ Arts & HumanitiesSocial SciencesSciences Ancient History & Classics AnthropologyBiology & Biomedical Science English LiteratureArchaeologyChemistry HistoryBusiness, Finance & Marketing Computer Science Modern LanguagesEconomicsEarth Sciences MusicEducation Studies and Primary Teaching Engineering PhilosophyGeographyMaths Theology & ReligionLawPhysics Politics & Int. RelationsPsychology Sociology & CriminologyPsychology (Applied) Sport

∂ Examples of activities: Quidditch………improvisedcomedy……yoga…….. debating…….belly dancing ….. critical thinking ……. ultimate frisbee.…….. presentation skills ……..circus skills ……. karaoke……..…fancy dress disco ……….. museum of life ………… academic writing skills …….photography ………. mug painting ……… careers advice …… tennis …… ‘punk science theatre’ …….. battle of the bands ………. chocolate hunt ……. caedlidh …….. football …….karate ……. wii tournament …….film nights ……event planning……college challenge etc

∂ Feedback from last year: “ This scheme has been an amazing experience. Offer or not I will take many things away with me and I'm unbelievably grateful for the opportunity. Thank you!” “The scheme has totally opened my eyes to what Durham is really about and reaffirmed my decision to study Law.” “I will never forget this brilliant experience. Everything has exceeded my expectations - 100%”

∂ Feedback from last year: “The experience will be unforgettable. Everyone throughout the scheme has been excellent! WONDERFUL is the only word to describe the events throughout this year!” “I really enjoyed doing the project, I felt part of a team and the academics were so helpful - I would definitely do it again!”

∂ The Colleges Where you will live for the residential events (eat, socialise, etc.)! Fully catered Single sex blocks Undergraduate Mentors located on each floor Single and shared rooms Convenient facilities: Chapel, computers, extensive grounds, vending machines!

∂ Parents - FAQs Will it interfere with school/college work? How much will it cost? Is transport provided? What guidance is available for parents?

∂ Parents – FAQs (residentials) Will my child be safe? Where will my child be staying? Will there be any unsupervised time? What if my child becomes ill? How do I contact my child? What will my child need to bring?

∂ How to apply Student section Parents/carers section Teacher section Personal Statement Deadline: 25 th November

∂ Additional Selection Criteria 1) Academic potential 2) Socio-economic background 3) Student motivation

∂ The personal statement Why do I want to do this programme? What skills will it help me to develop? What qualities can I bring to the programme? How will I manage my time to complete the programme alongside my school/college work? What are my reasons for wanting to go to university? What are my reasons for wanting to study at Durham? What are my reasons for wanting to study this subject?

Supported Progression Any questions?