Parents and Supporters’ Guide
When your child is thinking about studying at university, it’s natural to have lots of questions and concerns. This guide aims to outline everything you to need to consider in order to provide support. This should then enable you to help guide your child as they think about their future.
Contents 1
Jargon buster
3
Why Higher Education?
6
While they’re at school
7
Initial research
10
Higher Education Fairs
11
Open Days
15
The application process
19
Dates for your diary
21
Accommodation
23
Commuting to university
25
Results day
27
Clearing
29
Preparing your child for university
31
Money matters
33
Their university life
35
Welcome Week
36
The Students’ Union
37
Student Support at Bath Spa
39
Preparing your child for employment
40
Useful information
41
Checklist
Jargon buster ASSIGNMENT A task or piece of work to complete.
BA/BACHELOR OF ARTS
The qualification most commonly associated with undergraduate arts, humanities and some social science degrees.
BACHELOR DEGREE
A degree awarded by a college or university to a person who has completed undergraduate studies.
BSC/BACHELOR OF SCIENCE The qualification
normally associated with undergraduate science and some social science degrees.
BURSARY Extra financial help
provided by a university or college for students from households on lower incomes. It does not have to be paid back.
CAMPUS The grounds and buildings
CAMPUS UNIVERSITY
A university situated on one dedicated site, with student accommodation, teaching and research facilities, and leisure activities all together.
CATERED HALLS
DISSERTATION An essay
towards the end of a degree usually between 8,000 and 12,000 words, on a specific topic.
FOUNDATION DEGREE
A work-related qualification designed with employers. Normally lasts two years full-time. Progression available to an Honours degree at university or college in the same subject.
FRESHER A first year student. FRESHERS/WELCOME WEEK The University and
Students’ Union events to help students settle - normally during the first week of term.
FE - FURTHER EDUCATION The level of education after GCSEs.
GAP YEAR A year away from
education that some students take before going to university. Often students will use their gap year to travel or to gain work experience and additional qualifications.
GRADUATE Someone who
has successfully completed their studies.
HE - HIGHER EDUCATION
Accommodation where meals are included in your rent.
The level of education that involves undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.
CLEARING Before the start of
HONOURS DEGREE An
a new academic year, universities use this system to fill places still available on their courses.
COMBINED OR JOINT HONOURS DEGREE A type of degree studying two subjects split equally (50/50).
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undergraduate programme which include a dissertation or research project in your final year.
LECTURE Normally a room with
tiered seating and a lecturer talking at front.
LECTURER A member of teaching staff.
LLB BACHELOR OF LAWS.
The accreditation given to Law degrees allowing progression onto further training to become a barrister or solicitor.
MAINTENANCE GRANT/ LOAN Extra financial help
provided by the government for students from households with lower incomes. It does not have to be repaid.
MASTERS A higher level taught
PHD/DOCTORATE The
highest form of degree awarded and involves carrying out research with little or no teaching. At least an undergraduate degree must already be completed to study at this level.
PLACEMENT/SANDWICH YEAR A year of work experience during the third year of study.
POSTGRADUATE
A student who has completed an undergraduate degree and is studying for a higher degree, e.g. Masters or PhD.
degree typically taken after completing an undergraduate degree.
PROFESSOR Teacher and/or
NUS National Union of Students.
PROSPECTUS GUIDES
OPEN DAYS Days when a
university is open to students who are considering applying. They often include activities such as campus tours, subject talks, accommodation tours and finance talks.
OXBRIDGE Informal name for
Oxford and Cambridge universities.
PERSONAL STATEMENT The
researcher of the highest academic level. (printed or online) produced by individual universities detailing the unique information about that university and the courses it offers.
RUSSELL GROUP UNIVERSITIES Represents the
leading UK universities committed to maintaining the very best research, plus an outstanding teaching and learning experience.
section of a UCAS application form where applicants tell universities and colleges about their suitability for the course(s) that they hope to study. One statement is for all five of the application choices.
SCHOLARSHIP Financial award
PGCE This teaching qualification
SELF-CATERED HALLS
is necessary to go on to become a teacher. Students are required to do this once they have finished their undergraduate degree.
made on the basis of a range of criteria such as household income, excellent academic, sporting or musical achievement. They are specific to each institution.
Accommodation with shared communal living and kitchen areas to cook meals.
SEMINAR Small group teaching centering around discussion with other students and staff.
SFE - STUDENT FINANCE ENGLAND This is the funding
UNDERGRADUATE
body who assesses for financial support in England.
A student usually studying their first degree on a programme which lasts three or four years.
SFW - STUDENT FINANCE WALES This is the funding body
UNDERGRADUATE MASTERS Four year degrees
who assesses for financial support in Wales.
SLC - STUDENT LOANS COMPANY Provides financial
assistance in the form of loans to pay fees and living costs. They also manage repayments after graduating.
STUDENT AMBASSADORS
Current students at a University who are paid to work at Open Days and other events. They support and assist visitors during the events.
such as Masters of Engineering (MEng), Masters of Science (MSci) which comprise three years of undergraduate level study, with a further year to gain a Masters qualification.
UNIVERSITY A Higher Education institution that offers degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate level as well as being where academic research takes place.
STUDENT LOAN The loan made by the SLC to cover fees and living costs. It will have to be paid back but only once earning over a certain amount.
STUDENTS’ UNION OR STUDENTS’ GUILD An
organisation in all universities, run by students and dedicated to the representation and support of students.
TUITION FEES Cover the cost of study and may vary depending on what is being studied and where.
TUTORIAL Usually a 1:1 with a
tutor/mentor to discuss work and get guidance.
UCAS Universities and
Colleges Admissions Service. The organisation that handles nearly all university applications. The application process is all online via www.ucas.com
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Why Higher Education? As a parent or supporter, you may have concerns about the benefits of attending university. Here are five reasons why you should encourage your son or daughter to consider university study.
1. Better career prospects
4. Personal development
Some jobs, such as doctor, lawyer and teacher, will require that your son or daughter has a degree. For other professions, graduates are often favoured by employers because of the skills they developed while studying.
Employers recognise that people who study at university level develop a wide range of skills including teamwork, time management, problem solving and communication.
2. Boosted earning potential Research shows that on average a woman with a degree earns on average 28% more than non-graduate women, compared to men with a degree who earn an average of 8% more than non-graduates. Per year this equates to a woman earning £6,700 more than a counterpart without a degree and men with a degree earning £2,700 more (2018 prices).*
3. In-depth knowledge (about a subject they enjoy!) Students study a subject in great detail, learning from experts in the field. This could be a school subject, or it could be a different subject. Bath Spa University offers courses in over 60 subjects including Education, Film, Television and Digital Production, Ceramics and Environmental Science.
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Most students choose to live away from home during term-time, learning how to be independent, responsible and confident as they develop essential life skills – including how to cook and clean without your help!
Higher Education offers students the opportunity to take their learning to the next level and study what interests them. Students can continue to study a subject taught at school/college (English, Maths, Biology for example) or they can opt to study a more specialist course, such as Creative Computing, Publishing or Furniture Design. The difficulty can be deciding which subject to choose.
We encourage you to discuss with your son or daughter what it is they want from their future. They need to understand the decision needs to be right for them and making a choice based on those made by friends or other family members can often lead to the wrong option being selected.
Initial questions to ask when starting off the conversation about going to university Why do you want to go to university? What courses are you interested in studying? Would you rather do a single honours? Or a joint honours? How do you learn? Do you need to find a practical course or a theory based course?
5. New experiences Going to university will give your child the invaluable opportunity to meet like-minded people from all around the UK and beyond. As well making friends with people on their course, your son or daughter will have the chance to meet people through extracurricular activities offered by the Students’ Union.
Do you enjoy exams? Or do you need to find a coursework centred course? How long do you want to study for? Where do you want to study to? What grades are you currently on target to achieve? What entry requirements should we be looking at? Do you want to visit a university Open Day? Have you thought about moving away from home? What do you think you’ll be doing after university? What support can I give you?
Getting a degree isn’t easy. Unlike at school, students are required to do much more independent learning and studying.
*Department for Education and Institute for Fiscal Studies
BUT! University isn’t for everyone - make sure they find the right route for them. BATH SPA UNIVERSITY 4
While they’re at school The journey to university will actually start further back, with the decisions and experiences your child makes at school potentially impacting on their future. There are some things to consider if you think going to university is a possibility for your child. Qualifications
Voluntary experience
Level 3 qualifications, such as A-levels, BTECs and advanced apprenticeships, are essential for getting accepted on a degree course. However, be aware that many universities also take GCSEs grades into consideration.
If your child has an idea for a future career, volunteering is a great way to try it out. It gives your child the opportunity to develop skills and meet new people.
Picking the right subjects and getting the right grades at GCSE will ensure your child will be able to go on to complete the Level 3 qualifications they’ll need to get into university.
Help them to pick the right subjects
There’s a course right for everyone with over 35,000 courses on offer at hundreds of universities across the UK.
•
Pick subjects that they are good at and they find interesting
•
Think one step ahead. When making GCSE choices, consider what options might be available to them afterwards
•
If they aren’t sure what they want to do in the future, encourage them to choose a wide range of subjects to keep their options open
•
Encourage them to talk to someone who is a few years older, to find out about their experience.
Opportunities to volunteer are advertised online at do-it.org, or your child could contact an organisation directly. If they want to be a teacher, they could ask their school if they can help out in a lesson with a younger year group.
Extracurricular activities Participating in activities outside of school looks great when applying to university or for jobs. Whether it is the school choir or the Duke of Edinburgh Award, being involved demonstrates initiative and enthusiasm.
Visit a university If your child gets the opportunity to visit a university for a day through school, encourage them to go. It may help them decide whether university is right for them.
Want to know more about your child’s qualification options? Visit www.careerpilot.org.uk/plan-yourroute/progression-planner
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Initial research One of the hardest choices a student has to make, is narrowing down which course they want to study at university. Once a student has decided what they want to study the next crucial question is where.
Helping them work out what they’d like to study At university, students usually study one subject, or sometimes two. Courses are broken down into modules, which focus on particular areas within that subject. Students can often pick to study the modules they are most interested in. Continue studying a subject they have done at school If they have really enjoyed a subject at school and want to study it in greater depth, this could be the right path for them. Start studying a brand new subject This could be a subject that they have been interested in outside of school, such as Education, Forensic Science or Midwifery. Study a subject related to a particular career If they have a career path in mind, check whether they need a degree to pursue it. You need a degree in Medicine to be a doctor; however you may not need a Marketing degree to work in marketing (although it may help).
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With 35,000 course across the UK this makes this decision even trickier. If for example a student wishes to study Psychology, and we were to say that 60% of universities offer Psychology as a degree; that’s 96 institutions that your child would have to look into. Each of those institutions would then offer several different pathways within Psychology and each of those institutions would teach it differently depending on the expertise of their lecturers and teaching staff. This is why researching is so important - a student needs to pick the course which suits them best. They need to learn the things that interest them, in ways which suit them, in an environment they’re happy to spend three years of their life learning within.
Get them to think about life after university - what do they plan to do with their degree?
There are so many options available so it’s important they make the right choices Researching institutions
Four places to start researching
The first area for consideration is how far away from home a student wishes to be based. For some, the right choice is to stay at home for the duration of their studies and commute to and from university each day, whereas for others the opportunity to live away from home is appealing. You should help your son or daughter consider the pros and cons of each before making their final decision. Once this has been established students can begin to look for universities that fall within their preferred geographical areas.
UCAS Website Once your child has an idea of the subject they would like to study, they can use the UCAS website to find out which universities run courses in that area.
Providing an objective opinion and encouraging students to focus on the elements that are most important to them can help narrow down this choice.
Spa Bath is re Univers now i crea ne ty t ente ivity, cu d for ltu rpr its e ise, as re and w du teac cation ell as her and t cou raining rses .
UCAS fairs UCAS fairs (also called Higher Education Conventions) run throughout the year and are attended by almost all UK universities. They are a great opportunity to gain information, so if your child attends one, encourage them to talk to university staff and pick up prospectuses (a booklet which contains information about the courses a university offer and general information about the institution). League tables League tables such as The Guardian, The Times and The Complete University Guide rank universities on factors such as student satisfaction and graduate employability. This can be a helpful way to compare universities that your child is interested in attending. The university University websites can be an ideal way to find out more about the university, city and courses. If your child can’t find the information they’re looking for online, encourage them to contact the university’s admissions service. BATH SPA UNIVERSITY 8
Research checklist
Higher Education Fairs
The course
One of the hardest choices a student has to make, is narrowing down which course they want to study at university. Once a student has decided what they want to study the next crucial question is where.
п How many hours of lectures, seminars and workshops are there in a week? п What modules are available? п How is the course assessed? п Is there an opportunity to do a placement? п How many students are there in each seminar group?
The university п Is it a campus-based or a city-based university? п What facilities are available to students? -Gym & sports facilities -Library -Bars, cafés & restaurants -Shops -Banks & cash machines п What is the Students’ Union like?
п What facilities does the department have?
п What extracurricular opportunities and societies are there to get involved in?
п What are graduates from the course doing now?
п What support services are available to students?
п What are the entry requirements?
п Does the university offer any bursaries? If so, who is eligible to apply?
п What does the department look for in an application? п Does the university hold interviews for the course?
п Is there support to find part-time work that is suitable for students? п What are the different accommodation options?
UCAS Fairs Each year UCAS coordinates a series of national exhibitions, bringing together representatives from all of the UK’s universities in one central space. School groups and individuals are invited to attend the events and meet with university staff. This is an excellent opportunity to gather prospectuses and ask questions. Time at the exhibitions is limited so students should carry out some initial research and decide which stands they would like to visit first before using any remaining time to speak to others. Check with your child’s school when they attend these fairs. Parents are also able to attend some of them within certain time frames - this is a good opportunity for you to begin to scope all the different Universities and the different course they teach. This will be a good opportunity of supporting your child.
School Fairs Throughout the year universities are invited into schools and colleges to provide information and guidance about their institutions. The majority will run these during the evenings, however some invite us in during the day as well. The aim of these fairs is to provide support to students and their parents about applying to university. Usually several universities will attend and they will each set up their own their own podium. They will bring with them a series of marketing materials, from prospectuses through to roller banners showcasing the courses on offer and the universities highlights. On some occasions, university recruitment officers will also deliver a number of presentations for students and their parents: from Student Finance Support, through to Applying to University, you will find these fairs full of useful information.
If they don’t like exams, find a course which focuses on coursework.
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Open Days Perhaps the best method of researching a university is attending an open day. At Bath Spa University we’ll show you the academic department, accommodation and facilities such as the library and Students’ Union. You’ll also be able to talk to students and staff.
Once a student has narrowed their potential options they need to go and visit! University open days are one of the best forms of research, allowing potential applicants to view the campus and facilities first hand, meet staff and current students, and get a feel for the campus. Open days can take place all year round, but the vast majority are in June/July and September/October. Again, taking some time before the day to decide what you want to see and information you need to obtain can help you make the most of the day. Most universities will publish an open day guide, which shows the schedules of talks and tours on offer so you can plan your time effectively. Our experience is that parents who attend open days with their children often have different questions and think about details that students may overlook. This is really beneficial to the research process so please do not hesitate to ask anything when you visit.
Talks and tours Most universities will offer talks throughout the day, in areas such as subjects, student finance and accommodation. There may also be tours of the university campus, as well as bus tours of the local area. Travel You’ll need to find out where the university is in relation to the town or city. Do you need to book public transport? Will there be parking available? For travel information to Bath Spa University, visit www.bathspa.ac.uk/about-us/how-tofind-us Spare time You may want to allow some time in the day to explore the local area for yourself. This may help your child to decide whether they can see themselves living there. Book your place Many universities will require your child to book their place at an open day online. They may also need to book your place on specific talks or tours that are taking place. Book onto a Bath Spa University open day online: www.bathspa.ac.uk/study-with-us/ open-days
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Questions to think about when attending an Open Day About the course: •
What does the course cover?
•
What assessment methods are used?
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What size are tutorial groups?
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What are the course facilities like?
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What further opportunities are there for you to broaden and deepen your course knowledge?
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Are there any opportunities to study abroad?
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What employability support can I get?
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What do other students think of the course?
General questions: •
Are there any jobs available on campus?
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Are there any volunteering opportunities?
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What academic support is available?
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What bursaries, scholarships or fee waivers are there and how do you apply?
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How do placements or a year abroad in Industry affect your costs or tuition fees?
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What’s on offer in terms of cheap student deals/nights out/ places to eat?
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What clubs and societies are available? Un atten able to daB ath open d ay? W Spa an op eh e at the n campus ave main polic y Ne camp us, w wton Park e lcom visito ing rs Frida Monday to y from 9am to 5p m.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY 12
Open Days in seven steps 1. STUDY THE PROGRAMME Once your child has booked a place at an Open Day, a programme outlining the talks, tours and activities that are happening throughout the day will be sent to them.
Don’t (metaphorically) hold their hand - let them take the first step to independence by asking lots of questions.
2. PLAN THE DAY The programme will include a planner outlining what is happening and when, to help get the most out of the visit. You don’t have to do everything, but make sure your son or daughter makes time for what interests them. 3. ASK LOTS OF QUESTIONS! You’ll meet lots of staff members and current students during the day. To make the most of it, come with a list of questions to ask - ask lots of them! University staff and students love answering your questions. 4. VISIT THE SUPPORT DEPARTMENTS You need to know your child will be supported during their time at university. Staff will be available to answer queries about admissions, finance, accommodation, careers and welfare.
Check out the clubs and societies - there will be loads of opportunities for them to get involved with at University.
5. TAKE A CAMPUS TOUR Tours are normally conducted by student ambassadors and it’s a great way to ask questions about their experiences as a student. Tours usually allow you to see Halls of Residence and facilities such as the library and Students’ Union. 6. TAKE PHOTOS Most people will end up attending several Open Days. After a while it becomes tricky to remember all of them so make notes and take photos as a reminder of the day. 7. MOST IMPORTANTLY - HAVE FUN! Although there’s the serious side of finding out what subjects and degrees are on offer and what student services are available, there’s always a lot happening on campus. Soak up the atmosphere and enjoy it!
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Check in with the Students’ Union they offer loads of information and will be a huge source of support for your child when they’re at university.
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The application process If your child decides that university is right for them, the next stage is the application process. To apply to UK university courses, they will need to apply through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) website www.ucas.com. The application process starts one year before your child wants to attend university. What you need to know: • Your child can apply for up to five different university courses with one application. • Teachers are often happy to review their students’ applications. Make sure your child takes advantage of their expert knowledge by giving them a draft a few weeks before the deadline. • Your child is likely to hear back from the universities they applied to between March and July. Some university courses will invite applicants for an interview or audition before making their decision.
So what is UCAS? UCAS is a charity that processes applications to study full-time courses at universities, colleges, and conservatoires in the UK. Alongside the applications process, UCAS aim to help students make informed choices that are right for them, by guiding them through the entire higher education application process and beyond. To support this, UCAS provides a wide range of valuable information and services for applicants, their parents, and teachers.
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Your son or daughter can use www.ucas. com to find out how to get started, research their options, make their application, and track its progress. There’s information especially for you at www.ucas.com/ parents, including details of the application process, a host of helpful video guides, and a link to sign up for our monthly parent newsletters.
How to fill in the UCAS application First, they’ll need to register – it only takes about five minutes to enter their basic details and set up security information. Next there are seven key sections: • • • • • • •
Personal Details Additional Information Student Finance - they apply through SFE (Student Finance England) Choice - they can pick up to five universities Education Personal Statement - over to your child. Employment
Once your son or daughter have finished their application, it gets sent to their school - at this point the school will write a supporting statement to accompany your child’s statement.
Schools and colleges have their own individual deadlines for personal statements - get your child to check this with their school or college. Personal Statements
Interviews
Most people find writing their personal statement the most difficult part of the application process. For many, it will be the first time they’ve had to write reflectively about themselves. Taking a positive approach and leaving enough time to do a good job really can make your son or daughter’s application stand out from the crowd.
For most universities, Interviews have become a common feature in their admissions process.
For help with how to write and structure a statement, try UCAS’ personal statement tool www.ucas.com/planyourstatement Encourage them to: • think about what makes them interesting and what makes them stand out in a positive way • write down a whole load of words – anything that shows why they’re excited about the course(s) they’re applying for • remember why they chose the subject • list work experience or other activities as supporting evidence to show why they’d make a great student • think about skills they could use on the course, such as leadership, communication, and time management • ask you, their teacher, and their friends for ideas and feedback.
Interviews allow universities the opportunity to get to know your child beyond their application and find out what interests about their chosen course. University interviews normally take place in an informal setting allowing your child to have the opportunity to have a ‘simple’ conversation with a member of academic staff from their chosen degree. Asking questions such as ‘What led you to want to study this degree…’, as well as ‘Where do you hope this degree will get you...’ Academics use the interview process to allow your child to show off and stand out from the crowd (an opportunity they rarely they). Now a days a successful interview can lead to a guaranteed place at university, this can alleviate some of the pressure your child may be experiencing in the build up to their exams. Whilst some universities will offer an interview for all their degrees, others can be very targeted. Make sure you research into which universities offer an interview as they can sometimes be a major ‘lifeline’ for your child as they apply for university.
Proofread their work - or get a friend or neighbour to read it through with them. BATH SPA UNIVERSITY 16
Top Tips for your child’s interview 1.
Be yourself - (well, their professional self) remind them it’s okay to relax in an interview.
5. Make sure they read over their personal statement - it’s very likely the academic will ask them about it.
2. Find out if they need to prepare anything for some courses, students are expected to prepare beforehand. E.g. A monologue for a drama interview.
6. Ask a teacher or careers advisor at their school to give them a mock interview beforehand.
3. Arrive early - Make sure you know where you’re going, and have contact details to hand in case something goes wrong. 4. Research the course - The member of staff conducting interview wants to see why your child would be a good fit for their course - look for as much information online as you can!
7. Come prepared with a list of questions this is also your child’s opportunity to ask questions back.
They won’t be attending university all day, every day. Ask about contact hours. You may be surprised at how little they’re in lectures!
Meet the deadlines - Don’t panic, there’s still time. The possible decisions that a university can make on an application are:
Your child will need to reply to their offers. The types of reply they can make are:
Conditional offer The university offers your child a place on their course, subject to exam results or other requirements.
Firm acceptance Your child’s first choice - if your child makes a firm acceptance of an unconditional offer, the university will expect your child as their student. If it’s a conditional offer, they will have a place on the course as long as they meet the conditions.
Unconditional offer The university offers your child a place on their course, with no conditions. This might be because: • they have already achieved their Level 3 qualifications and have taken a gap year before applying to university • the university thinks the application is of such a high standard, and therefore wants to offer a place in spite of pending exam results Decline The university rejects the application.
Insurance acceptance Your child’s second choice - the insurance choice is a back-up, and therefore it is recommended to choose a course that asks for lower grades than the firm choice. Your child will only have a place on the insurance course if they don’t get the grades for the firm choice. Decline Your child will need to decline any other offers they have received.
For m infor ore abou mation tr and r eceiving e plyi offer s, vis ng to ucas it www. .com
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BATH SPA UNIVERSITY 18
Dates for your diary for applicants starting in September 2021 2020 March – April
September
October
Start researching university Open Days, Summer Schools, Taster Days - begin to think about any work experience your child may need to do over the summer.
UCAS opens for applications Your child should start drafting their personal statement and begin to look at their UCAS Application. Making a list of things they’ve achieved is a great starting point. Make sure they’re attending the personal statement workshops in their schools and colleges.
15 October - Deadline for applications to the universities of Oxford and Cambridge, and for most courses in medicine, dentistry, and veterinary medicine/science.
2021
8 September - Completed Applications can be paid for and sent to UCAS. Applications can’t be sent until all sections are complete, the reference is added, and application fee has been paid.
Do your own research - check the key dates and deadlines, and help them stick to them. There’s so much information out there.
An application can still be sent after this date, but the universities and colleges concerned cannot guarantee they’ll give it equal consideration.
January
February
March
May
June
29 January - deadline for most undergraduate courses. An application can still be sent after this date but the university or college concerned cannot guarantee they’ll give it equal consideration.
Early February - Student Finance opens. Head to Gov.UK to complete the forms.
Deadline for many art and design courses.
Your child needs to respond to their offers if they received them in March. If you receive all decisions from your uni/ colleges by 31 March, reply by 5 May.
Your child needs to respond to their offers, if they received them after March. If you receive all decisions by 6 May, reply by 3 June. If you receive all decisions by 3 June, reply by 17 June.
25 February - UCAS Extra Opens.
20 May - uni/college decisions due on applications submitted by 15 January. End of May - Student Finance deadline.
July
August
September
October
International Baccalaureate and BTEC results published.
13 August - A-Level results day
21 September - Final Deadline for applications to courses starting in 2021
19 October - Last date to add 2021 entry Clearing Choices
Late September - The start of term/ semester 1 at their chosen University
20 October - Last date for universities/ colleges to make decisions
4 July - UCAS Extra Closes - this is the last date to apply for courses in UCAS Extra.
13/14 August - Clearing at universities hits its peak time
30 June - Last date for receipt of applications. Any received after this deadline are automatically entered into clearing.
5 July - Clearing Opens, and vacancies are shown in the UCAS search tool. 13 July - Uni/College decisions due on applications submitted by 30th June 14th July - If you receive all decisions by 13th July, reply by 14th July. 19
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All information correct at time of date collection
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At Bath Spa there optio are othe r ns i Indep ncluding e Hous ndent ing a n Hom e Sta d y.
Accommodation The next big question to ask is where your child is going to live. Universities generally have their own guides to what accommodation is available; however, most universities will offer the following: Halls of residence The traditional option for first year students, these are managed by the University and offer a good stepping stone from living at home to living independently - the majority of students will take up this option.
Questions to think about choosing accommodation •
Is a place in halls guaranteed?
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Does the university have accommodation ‘on’ and ‘off’ campus?
Private student halls
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Would a place still be guaranteed if the university is your child’s insurance choice?
A second option in some areas is a room in a purpose-built student living complex owned by a private company. Factor in which bills are included, what facilities are on-site, and how far it is from campus.
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What does it cost and what’s included in that cost?
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How long do the contracts run for? When are students expected to move out?
Useful checklist of what is needed in student accommodation
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Are they catered or self-catered?
Private accommodation
Kitchen
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How quiet are they?
п Crockery
п Bedding
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Can you put stuff on the walls?
п Cutlery
п Coat hangers
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What is security like, and how secure are they?
п Cooking utensils
п Photos/posters (check if they are allowed to put things on the wall)
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What happens in years two and three?
п Microwaveable dishes
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Is there a dedicated housing service to support students in their accommodation?
A good option for mature students, and those who missed out on halls because they applied late or through Clearing. This can be a big leap from living at home, but you may find it to be considerably cheaper.
Living at home In some circumstances it can work out well for students to continue living at home - as long as you’re happy for them to stay! They may need to make more effort to get out and socialise to meet other students, but they’ll save money and avoid the hassle of moving and worrying about finding housing each year.
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•
Can you bring a car?
•
Can they have guests stay over?
Chec k with S Hous tudent i unive ng at the rsity to what is alr see e ady prov ided!
п Pots and pans п Mixing bowls п Airtight food containers п Foil, cling film, freezer bags, tea towels п Basic ingredients
Email universities - they have teams who are there to help and support you and your child through the process. No question is too silly.
Bedroom
п Laundry basket п Clothes airer п Stationery and study materials
General items п Towels п Cleaning materials п Washing powder/ fabric softener п Toiletries п Iron
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Commuting to university
Health and Wellbeing
Advice to parents of students frequently focuses on students who are living on campus. However, being a parent of a commuter student requires you to consider some unique issues that come from living at home and travelling to campus for lectures, social life, and potentially work.
•
Increased stress as they attempt to balance family life, university, social life and a job.
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Maintaining a healthy diet while having an irregular schedule. It’s important to remember that their timetable will differ and they won’t be in university 9-5 each day.
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The time required for commuting reduces available personal and study time; students often respond by limiting sleep in order to do coursework or meet an upcoming deadline.
On campus, students are surrounded by classmates and friends who are focusing on their degrees and preparing for a future career. An important step for commuting students is to bring that focus home with them. By identifying themselves as students first and making their degree their primary goal, they will do better academically, be more likely to graduate within three years, and have a more meaningful university experience. When families understand and acknowledge the importance of their academic classes, commitment to studying, and determination to succeed, students are better able to prioritize not only their education but also their work and family. Parents who understand the unique challenges for commuting students can improve their child’s university experience for the better – here are some actions you can take: Acknowledge the commute Recognise the time your child spends waiting for a bus, cycling to university, driving through rush hour traffic, or hunting for a reasonably placed parking spot. Just getting to campus and back home again can be a stressful and challenging part of their day.
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Support Your Child’s Commitment to their academic studies By granting more flexibility for household responsibilities, you will let your child know that you understand and respect the fact that university is more demanding than Sixth Form/ College, and that you’re proud of your child’s academic efforts. Be Alert to Stressful Times End of Semesters and exam seasons are particularly difficult times for students, but coursework and project deadlines also crop up throughout the semester(s). Taking over chores for your child during these periods, providing study treats, or filling the fuel tank of the car are much-appreciated gifts during those difficult days. Encourage their social Involvement Promote your child’s social involvement in campus activities and encourage him or her to stay on campus between classes, use campus resources for studying, and attend athletic events, concerts, and other student activities. Research has shown that students who feel more committed to university are more successful when they participate in campus activities and share experiences with other students.
Being a commuting student comes with its own worries and stresses - things which as a parent/carer it’s useful for you to be aware of.
•
•
Commuting time cuts into opportunities for exercise and other social activities. Students in clubs and societies will usually use the evenings and weekends for rehearsal/practice time. Commuting students can be more anxious about starting university. There is greater fear about fitting in, and making friends as a commuting student. Fear of missing out on social activities and being at a disadvantage of those living in halls of residence.
It’s important to remember though that being a commuter student isn’t all negative, and as a parent or carer it’s important you discuss with your child the possibilities of commuting to university, especially if it’s something which appeals to them. Some of the positives are: •
Eating meals at home can be more comfortable than dining in a campus facility; the food is more likely to be familiar favourites, and the foods selected may represent a more balanced diet than they would potentially cook for themselves.
•
Living with family members can be less stressful than coping with multiple room-mates - all living on various schedules.
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Sleep is less likely to be interrupted by noisy room-mates or dormitory neighbours
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When a student becomes ill at home, caring family members are on hand.
•
Living at home can be considerably cheaper for a student as they’re not paying the high prices of student accommodation.
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Results day Results day can be a really emotional experience. For most it will be a celebration of hard work and securing a place at their first choice university but for a few students their initial plans might have to change and this can be really unnerving. Whatever the outcome the most important thing to remember is to stay calm. Ways you can help prepare for the day
On the day
Have a positive but honest conversation with your son or daughter to see how they feel they performed in their final exams. If they have genuine concerns then some prior research into alternative options can make a real difference on the day.
The most important thing to remember is for students to stay local. Universities will want to speak directly to applicants and this can prove difficult if they are away on holiday with no access to a computer and/or their UCAS information.
Get them to list all of the things that are important to them with regards to university – course, location, etc. It is really important to remember that if they do need to look for a different institution that they still find one that meets the criteria.
At approximately 8am students will find that their status on UCAS track will change:
If you feel that your son or daughter has been affected by mitigating circumstances then it is worth discussing this with their school/college and maybe even contacting their chosen uni in advance of results day. This allows them to take this into consideration when finalising applications. Gather all paperwork associated with UCAS together and place it in one folder. If a student needs to contact their university choice they may be asked to quote information such as their UCAS ID number. Having all of this to hand can help speed up conversations
Don’t decide for them - remember they’re the ones studying the degree, not you! Listen and support where you can. 25
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Conditional Offer changed to Unconditional Offer The student has been accepted onto their chosen course. If a student hasn’t met the conditions of their Firm choice they may have done so for their Insurance – in which case this will have updated accordingly. Conditional Offer changed to Unsuccessful Unfortunately the student hasn’t met the conditions of their offer and their place has been withdrawn. No change (conditional offer remains a conditional offer) Don’t panic – this can be for a few reasons. Most commonly it is because the university hasn’t had all of the student’s results confirmed (for instance, they may be waiting for a GCSE resit) but it may be because a decision is still being made.
Your child may, however, find themselves in one of the following situations: They don’t get the grades needed for their firm choice, but they meet the entry requirements for their insurance choice The insurance choice university will be notified and will expect your child as their student. They don’t get the grades they need for their firm or insurance choice If your child still wants to go to university this year, they may be able to find a place on another course through Clearing. More info on Clearing follows on page 27.
They get much higher grades than originally expected Your child can still decide to go with their firm choice, or they can apply for a course with higher entry requirements through adjustment. Adjustment is for students who achieve higher grades than expected and are reconsidering their options. Available courses are listed on the UCAS website and there is a short period of time in which they can decide to swap to another course if they want to. Want to know more about adjustment? Visit www.ucas.com/how-it-all-works/ undergraduate/results/better-than-expected
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Clearing Unfortunately, not all students will secure the grades that they were hoping for and results day can quickly turn to panic. Clearing is a UCAS process that works for thousands of students, most of which will find an alternative university option and go on to have a fantastic experience. What is clearing? Clearing is where universities advertise any remaining spaces on their courses on results day. Students can apply for courses through clearing if they don’t have any offers, which could be because: • Their exam results were lower than expected, and therefore didn’t meet the entry requirements of their firm or insurance choice • They didn’t receive any offers (or none that they wanted to accept) • They applied for courses after 30 June If eligible for Clearing, their Clearing number will appear on their UCAS track. They will need to quote this throughout the course of the day so encourage them to write it down. All Clearing vacancies will be listed centrally on the UCAS website and on the individual university sites. Sit with your son or daughter and look through all of the options available, when you come across one that you feel has potential then the student should call them (there will be a designated Clearing phone number clearly listed) and discuss the course in further detail. Encourage them 27
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to ask any questions that they might have about the course, university or student experience as a whole. If the student’s grades match the university’s criteria they will make a verbal offer and students can hold as many of these as they want so do not be afraid to ring lots of institutions. Once all of the research and phone calls have been made it is time to decide if one is a good match and formally accept it on UCAS track. If not then they should consider a gap year and reapplying the year after; Higher Education is a major investment of time and finances and it has to be right. The earliest they can accept an offer is 3pm on A Level results day so there is plenty of time to consider all options and no pressure to make an immediate decision. Just be aware that verbal offers do expire (sometimes 24 hours after they are made). Once a place has been accepted it is time to put into place final arrangements, including securing accommodation and notifying Student Finance that the university destination has changed. To find out more about clearing, visit www.ucas.com/how-it-all-works/ undergraduate/results/if-you-have-nooffers
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY 28
Preparing your child for university So they’re in. Their place has been confirmed, they know when and where they’re going. How can you help your child in their preparations?
Keep on top of deadlines
Standard student bills
Make a note of all the key university deadlines.
Council tax – if everyone living in your child’s household is a full-time student, they won’t have to pay council tax. If someone in their household isn’t they’ll get a council tax bill, but will qualify for a discount.
Run through how to budget By now, you and your child should have a good idea of their budget per term. If this is the first time your child has had control of their finances, it’s worth taking time to talk through with them the basics of budgeting.
Help them find the best student bank account UCAS will send your child a status code in their newsletters which can be used as proof of status as a future student. This makes opening a student account quick and easy. All the major high street banks offer student accounts and some provide better benefits than others. Helping compare the various options and working out which is best for them is a good exercise. Banks are keen to entice students with freebies, but do look beyond these. It’s often features such as the level of interest-free overdraft that may prove more essential. When you’re comparing 0% overdraft facilities on over, check whether the headline amount is guaranteed, or just ‘up to’, and if there are any other restrictions.
Offer them cooking lessons Even if you’re not the world’s best chef, you’ll still be able to offer some useful tips on cooking. Make sure they at least know the basics and have a few meals that they are comfortable preparing. 29
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Utility bills – if your child is moving into private accommodation, utility bills may not be included, so make sure they’re aware of what’s expected for them to pay. Internet – probably a priority for your child! Many universities offer a free wireless connection in halls. TV licence – students need a TV licence if they watch or record television programmes as they’re being shown on TV, on any device. They don’t need one to use a streaming service, such as Amazon Prime or Netflix, but a subscription may be required. Insurance – check the small print of your home contents insurance, which may already cover your child’s belongings when away from home, or see if this could be added on to your existing policy. If not, it may be worth getting them a separate policy.
Talk to them Discuss everything well in advance of them leaving - they might be worried about little things that you can help with, such as cooking for themselves or doing their own washing, or may have bigger concerns about money and how they’ll fit into university life. All you can do is be supportive, but that may be enough to help them settle in initially. BATH SPA UNIVERSITY 30
Money Matters As a parent or supporter, you want to know that your child will have enough money to pay for university. This section will explain what your child will have to pay, and where the money comes from.
U Stud se the e nt F Cal estim culator inance to a your te of wh get an at fu child the g can ge nding t over nme from nt
Student Finance
Paying for University
Paying fees and living costs Your child won’t have to pay up-front for tuition fees. The cost will be covered by a loan supplied by Student Finance England, and paid directly to the university on your child’s behalf.
Bursaries Many universities offer non-repayable bursaries to eligible students.
As well as the fee loan, your child can take out a maintenance loan to contribute to their living costs – rent, food, bills, transport and course materials. Repaying loans How much your child repays will be based on how much they earn, not how much they borrowed. They won’t start repaying their loan until they’ve finished university and are earning over £26,575.* If they earn £26,575 a year, their repayment will be 9% of their earnings. So if for example, your child was earning annually £26,575 they would repay £9 p/m to the Students Loan Company, additionally, if they were earning annually £40,000 they would repay £101 p/m.* If your child has any outstanding debt after 30 years, it is written off.
Bath Spa University offers bursaries to students from lower income households to help with their living costs. Part-time jobs Many students choose to work part-time alongside their studies to help with their living costs. At Bath Spa University, students are allowed to work up to 15 hours per week. The University’s JobShop supports students by advertising approximately 2000 jobs a year. When to apply for student finance Your child can apply for student finance as soon as they have submitted their UCAS application form. They should start their application as soon as possible.
Apply early for student finance - money matters, and sorting it out early can avoid major headaches down the line.
*Bath Spa University Student Finance Team
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BATH SPA UNIVERSITY 32
Their university life Going to university is a time of big change; your child may move away from home for the first time, they’ll have to learn to manage their own money and develop higher level study skills. It’s also a time that they’ll start thinking about their longer term career plans. How they’ll get taught Lectures Presentations delivered by an academic where students are expected to listen and take notes. Lectures are typically 1-2 hours long and are often delivered to the entire year group. On larger courses, this can be up to 200 students! Seminars A smaller classroom-based session which usually involves group discussion of material presented in a lecture or in set reading. It’s a friendly environment where students can ask each other questions if they are stuck or to help them develop their ideas.
Workshops Practical courses may have workshops, which are scheduled sessions for practical work. Workshops can take place in a lab if studying a scientific subject such as Food with Nutrition or Biology, or a studio if studying an art or performance subject. Assessments Students are often assessed with exams and coursework as in school, although these are likely to be longer at university level. Some courses also have other methods of assessment, such as presentations, portfolios and performances.
Who teaches them? University students usually have a different lecturer for each module that they study. Lecturers are experts in their subject area and often conduct research alongside their teaching. Number of timetabled hours If your child chooses to study a full-time course at university, it doesn’t mean that they’ll be in lessons 9am-5pm every day. Students can be timetabled for as little as eight hours per week (depending on the course and university). Students are expected to take responsibility for their learning by studying and completing assignments in their own time.
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Access to world class facilities and resources Universities generally have first-rate facilities relating to the subjects they offer. At Bath Spa University, the academic building Commons has cutting edge digital equipment, including a state-of-the-art television studio. Students also have access to 170,000 books and other resources, including journals, CDs, DVDs and music scores. Length of their holidays Generally, universities have three terms (sometimes called semesters) of approximately 10-12 weeks in length. There is no break for half term, but students usually have a four week break for Christmas, and around three months off for summer. Students often spend their summer visiting family and friends, getting a job, gaining work experience, or travelling. BATH SPA UNIVERSITY 34
Welcome Week
Students’ Union
What is the purpose of Welcome Week? It’s the first step in beginning their university journey. Making memories that will stay with them for life.
Every university has a Students’ Union (SU), which is run by students. The SU is a charity which is independent of its university and exists to help students to get involved, make friends and have fun.
Questions you might have about the non-academic side of university life •
Examples of events and activities which happen during Welcome Week
Will my child cope with living away for the first time?
Welcome barbecue
•
Will they make friends?
Casino and Jazz Night
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What happens if they’re struggling?
Pizza and games
•
What about all the partying?
House-warming silent disco Mindful mornings
The focus of Welcome Week is on helping students make friends, find networks and settle in to university life.
Welcome back mixer
There will of course be night time events like pub crawls and club nights, but it’s also about getting to know the university, the local area and how to access both via transport.
Commuting students’ meet up
Students can take their time getting to know their new house mates, as well as others on their course. They meet their academic staff as well as support staff from across the university.
Outdoor cinema
Students can get involved with new activities and interests. They can integrate with existing students, who will be on hand to introduce them into the university. They can attend a series of workshops, ‘Introducing’ them to various services such as the library, academic support and the Students’ Union.
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Interfaith mixer A night of comedy Cocktails and carnival night A night with the ‘Hypnotist’ Commercial Fair - A chance for students to engage with local businesses, charities and more to find out the best deals and services available to students. Activities Fair - A chance for students to join Clubs and Societies with many stalls set up to showcase the many opportunities available for them at university.
Encourage your child to make use of the Student’s Union because: • •
•
•
•
They have an independent advice service They engage with all students to make sure everyone feels welcomed into the community They run lots of awareness raising campaigns to help students ( e.g. mental well-being, budgeting, housing advice, sexual health) They support volunteering and help students raise money and get involved in the community They are home to 90+ different sports clubs and interest societies
•
• •
•
They support students to develop their skills and experiences, which longer term help students with employability after university. They represent students interests to the university and to the local community Events and Night-life - but we only work with partners who have a strong commitment to the welfare of students (#gotyourback) The Students’ Union has a strong presence across the University campuses which allows students to drop in and get support when they need it
Bath Spa University’s Students’ Union offers: Societies Interest groups run by students. They’re a great way for your child to meet like-minded students, develop a current hobby or pick up a new one. Societies include samba drumming, baking and sign language.
Volunteering There are some great opportunities for your child to volunteer in the local community. It’s a great way of meeting other students as well as adding something valuable to their CV.
Sports clubs Clubs which compete with other universities. They offer students the chance to develop current skills, or to learn a new sport. Sports clubs include football, netball and American football.
Trips The SU organises European trips annually. These are a cost-effective way for your child to experience a different culture in the company of loads of other students.
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Student Support at Bath Spa University Your child’s wellbeing will be one of your main concerns, particularly during the early stages when they are adjusting to their new environment. All universities provide additional support for students so please check what they have to offer.
Student Wellbeing Services at Bath Spa University We have a team of expert advisers who provide a safe and confidential space where students can talk about any issues which might be affecting their ability to study. The team offers advice and support on wellbeing and disability issues as well as short-term counselling and therapy to help students with personal and emotional problems. Please be aware that, as your child will enter university as an adult, there are legal restrictions which prevent universities from sharing personal information on students with their parents. This means that the university will not normally be able to talk to you about any problems that your child may discuss with university staff. We would advise parents to speak to their child in the first instance if they notice any signs of distress or anxiety. However, if a parent is seriously concerned about their child and they want to speak to someone at Bath Spa University, they can contact Student Wellbeing Services.
The Student Wellbeing Services encourages students to get in contact with any queries or concerns including: • Money Advice • Medical service (On-site GP and Nurse) • Young Adult Carers advice • Estranged student guidance • Mental Health • Accessibility and Disability • Care Leavers
Personal tutor Every Bath Spa student is given a personal tutor who is an academic staff member from one of their subject areas. Personal tutors are our students’ first point of contact with the university. They help the students in their care settle into life at university, discuss and guide their academic progress, and support and encourage them during their studies.
Email: studentwellbeing@bathspa.ac.uk Telephone: +44 (0)1225 876543
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Students will usually have the same personal tutor throughout their course.
Our Writing and learning centre On-hand to help students reach their potential during their degree, the centre helps students with academic writing, referencing, preparing for exams and how to use constructive feedback and much more.
Safety and security At Bath Spa University, we take the safety of our students very seriously. A team of dedicated security officers patrol our campuses 24 hour a day, seven days a week. Our campuses are monitored by CCTV and an ID card is required to access most buildings. There is always someone available to provide support in the event of an emergency.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY 38
Preparing your child for employment
Useful information
If you or your child is worried about how they can prepare for the world of work post-graduation, here are some key things they can be thinking about while they study Apply for work experience and internships Getting hands-on experience in the world of work through an internship or placement will stand them in good stead when they go for job interviews, and can provide a good foot in the door for competitive industries. However make sure they know their rights, so they aren’t ripped off!
Part-time jobs The latest National Student Money survey found that 67% of students turn to a part time job at some point during University. For many, it’s a necessity for financial reasons, but a part-time job also provides students with skills they can put on their CV and expand on in job applications.
Clubs and Societies Most universities will have a society for pretty much any hobby or pastime you can think of, so whatever your child is interested in, they’re bound to find a way to keep it up at uni. Not only are they a great way to make friends and demonstrate interests outside your course, students can also run for committee positions which will help build leadership and teamwork skills - something employers love to see.
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Travelling You might think that when students go travelling it’s all about getting drunk with their mates, but research has shown that travelling actually makes students more employable. From language skills to awareness of other cultures, budgeting to problem-solving, traveling has more benefits than you might think.
Bath Spa University’s careers service The careers service offers a programme of small group workshops, one-to-one appointments with qualified careers consultants, mock interviews, presentations and e-guidance support. The service supports students in: •
Planning a career after university
•
Getting work experience or a placement
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Finding part-time/summer work
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CVs and job applications
•
Job search strategies
•
Networking with employers
•
Interview and assessment centre preparation
Bath Spa University graduates can use the careers service for up to three years after finishing their studies.
UCAS www.ucas.com The perfect place to begin your search into Higher Education - from browsing 1000’s of courses to picking which university suits your child best. Student Finance www.gov.uk/student-finance We all know going to university is expensive so start planning now! Here you will find everything about student finance from applying, to how much money your child will get, to repaying it back. The Student Room www.thestudentroom.co.uk The Student Room is the place to go if your child wants to talk to 1000’s of other students in the same position as you. From reading blogs and articles - to asking the questions which play on their mind throughout the day - the Student Room allows them to find out more about the universities you’re looking into.
The Student Hut www.studenthut.com If you want to find out where the best student city is or the best halls of residence at a university then the Student Hut is the where to look. Read articles, reviews and recommendations from students present and past. This website is designed to give transparency on all aspects of student life. The Complete University Guide 2020 www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk Perfect for finding out which university is best for the course your child is interested in. Each year students at every university are asked a series of questions, from student life, to academic life, to university facilities here you’ll be able to get lots of information about all the different universities from a student perspective.
Prospects www.prospects.ac.uk Does your child have the perfect job in your mind but not sure how to get there? Prospects helps pick the right career path for your child. From outlining what jobs are available, to showcasing the different degrees available.
BATH SPA UNIVERSITY 40
CHECKLIST A handy list to have when you speak to your child about going to university.
Have you asked what support and help you can give them? Have they researched what course they’re interested in studying? Have they thought about where they would like to study? Together, have you created a time line of key dates in the build up to them attending university? Have you both begun to think about which Open Days to attend? Have they registered their details on UCAS? Have they chosen their five options? Remember this could be five different institutions, or it could be five courses at the same university. Have they started thinking about their personal statement and what their university is looking for from them? Has their school or college completed their reference? Have you got all the documents and necessary information to hand? They will need their GCSE/BTEC/ NVQ certificates and ID documents to complete their student finance application. Have they received their welcome email from UCAS? Are they regularly logging in to UCAS Track to check their progress and offers? 41
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Have they replied to these offers? Remember the deadlines associated with replying to universities/colleges. Have they heard back from the universities which they have made offers with? Are they regularly checking their email in-boxes? Check spam/junk mail boxes, as sometimes important emails can fall into these. Have they prepared for any interviews they have been invited to? Have they asked about attending an Applicant Visit Day? Have they applied for university accommodation? Do they have any questions to ask ahead of starting university? Think about emailing the teaching staff at the University. Are they around to collect their A-Level results? Have you asked how they’re feeling about starting university? Is there any further help or advice you can offer them before they start their degree? Have you spoken about actually moving to university. Do they want you to go with them? Remember this can be an anxious time for them, so make sure you don’t add pressure to them.