WLV Social Opportunities Day: Year 10 Campus Experience Programme

In January 2020, Aspire to HE launched their Year 10 Campus Experience Day programme – the WLV Social Opportunities Day, aimed at providing young people with an opportunity to get a taste of what life is like at university outside the lecture theatre.

The student’s start the day with an engaging workshop, that takes them through what a Student Union is, examples of societies at the University of Wolverhampton, and some of the social benefits of Higher education study. This is followed by an interactive tour of City Campus, through the Student Union, sports facilities, and careers centres.

In the afternoon, students are challenged to create their own brand new student society and social hub for the University of Wolverhampton, which they present to their peers. They are encouraged to consider the needs of the students when designing their hub, including an advice and support centre and careers desk.

When asked ‘what has changed the most for you after this campus visit today’ students have responded;

“I’ve had a good view at what uni is really like and I think it’s good. Before I thought I wouldn’t like it.”

“I now have a better understanding of what goes on in a university. I have also changed my mind on if I want to go to University, which I know I really want to now.”

“My whole thought on universities has changed as a whole, it’s way better than I thought it would be and I’ll be coming here.”

Aspire to HE staff have been thoroughly impressed with the societies presented by all the pupils taking part in the programme so far. Students are covering a wide range of topics, including mental health, film and television, competitive eating, social media, and inclusivity.