Empowering Young People to Explore Higher Education.
We believe every young person should have the opportunity to explore the transformative possibilities of higher education if they choose.
Through immersive residential events, subject-specific experiences, and university insight days, we empower young people to see higher education as an attainable and valuable step toward their ambitions.
For those from under-represented backgrounds, many of whom may be the first in their families to consider university, our programmes provide a crucial opportunity to discover university life. These experiences demystify the process, boost confidence and equip young people with the knowledge they need to make informed choices about their future.
University Insight Days
Each of our regional hubs hosts an insight day at a local university, helping students explore academic subjects, campus facilities, and the wider opportunities that higher education offers:
Canterbury Christ Church University
62 students explored subjects like psychology, robotics, and creative writing, with 88% feeling more inclined toward university study.
University of Gloucestershire
39 students engaged in myth-busting sessions and experienced practical learning in a courtroom setting, sparking interest in future pathways.
University of Sunderland
Linked to our STEM-specific programme, 35 students explored pharmacology and medical faculties. 90% left more likely to consider university in their future plans.
Anglia Ruskin University
Activities included team-building, computer science, and forensics sessions, with 57% of attendees reporting a shift in their future aspirations.
Residential Experiences
Our residentials give young people the chance to step away from the classroom, gain hands-on insight to explore university life and help young people imagine themselves thriving in a university environment.
Year 10 Residential
Each summer, Future Leaders from our hubs across the country come together for four days at the University of Bath. Future Leaders get to experience university life first-hand, with academic study sessions, campus tours, and the chance to connect with employers and student ambassadors.
“The nights staying away, being thrown together and being in a different setting makes it easier to connect with other people.”
Year 12 Maths and Physics Residential
This two-day residential focused on A-Level Maths and Physics. Students attended academic workshops, explored campus life, and gained insights into Oxbridge application processes, including the importance of super-curricular activities.
“I learned valuable information regarding the application process, which was very useful.”
Year 12 Chemistry Residential
A three-day experience introducing students to environmental, forensic, and organic chemistry through hands-on sessions with state-of-the-art laboratory equipment. Participants collaborated on projects and gained a real taste of university-level study.
“It has widened what I want to look at and made me more motivated to explore universities.”
University Transitions
Supported by the UPP Foundation, Villiers Park piloted a transition project in 2023 and 2024, developing a programme of targeted support for young people before they go to university and during their first year.
The project has been informed through focus groups with current students at three universities and a co-creation process to develop and design the course content. Students who have engaged with coaching and support during the transition period have a greater awareness of how to seek support between results day and starting university, as well as once they have made that transition.
Get in touch
Gaby Sumner, Chief Executive
Please direct any questions about university and education insights to Gaby.
