Students Take Part in Event to Help with Transition to University

Students with a neurodiversity took part in a special transition event at the University of Worcester aimed at supporting them ahead of starting university.

The two-day event was an opportunity for those students due to start their studies in September to explore the campus while it was quieter, meet new friends and key people from Student Services, learn more about living in campus accommodation and about the support available to them.

The 20 students who attended took part in a walking tour of the University’s three campuses in the City, as well as the Hive library, and visited Lakeside Campus, where they tried their hand at archery.

They took part in a session on money advice, as well as sessions on Counselling and Mental Health and Student Support and Wellbeing.

In addition, they had the chance to view some University accommodation, socialise and play games in the Students’ Union, explore campus and chat with staff and students, as well as having the opportunity to raise any questions with the University’s Disability and Dyslexia Service.

The majority of students also spent the night in a typical student flat in halls of residence, enjoying a film evening together.

Incoming English Language and Creative Writing student Barnaby Ratcliffe said: “I’ve enjoyed it and it has helped me get to grips with higher education as a whole. I was more than a little nervous about starting university before this event, but now I’m here it’s been very helpful. It’s helped me acclimatise.”

Another incoming student, Siobhan Conway, who will be studying Creative Writing and Screenwriting, said: “It’s a lot of information but it has been really useful and it’s nice to get the lay of the land, especially the campus.”

Natalie Rhodes, a University of Worcester Disability Adviser, said: “Twenty students joined us for this year’s Summer Transition Event for neurodiverse students, experiencing university life ahead of starting in September.

"The event helps take some of the unknown out of starting university, giving students time to become familiar with their new surroundings and make connections before September. Students told us it had helped them feel less anxious about starting.”