Students offered HeadStart on University life

Students heading to Leicester in 2021 are being invited to get a HeadStart on their University experience with online resources designed to help them settle into student life.

The HeadStart programme will deliver academic and digital learning support, in addition to the standard University enrolment, for new students arriving through the main UCAS cycle and through Clearing.

A-level and Scottish SQA students will receive their all-important results on Tuesday 10 August 2021.

HeadStart resources have been designed by the University’s Digital Learning Innovation Team with contribution from the Academic Skills Centre and provide informal opportunities for new students to learn about University study. This takes the form of an online course, available from August 19 to all new students starting their studies this year, and remaining with them for the duration of their studies.

Live Microsoft Teams sessions will be available throughout September covering academic jargon busting, time management, active reading and note taking, and exploring different types of assessments, plus each student will also be offered a welcome video call with key academic figures from their chosen course to put their minds at ease before starting their studies.

Kerry Law, Chief Marketing & Engagement Officer at the University of Leicester, said: “Making the step up to University is a hugely exciting time and, at Leicester, opens up so many opportunity for our students to flourish.

“However, we recognise that, for many, they may be moving to a new city or even a new country. Even students living at home throughout their studies may need a helping hand to settle in.

“We are therefore very pleased to offer this HeadStart support, pioneered in our School of Physics and Astronomy, and now available to all new students who we look forward to welcoming to Leicester.”

The HeadStart programme adds to existing University of Leicester support, delivered from the moment students arrive to the moment they graduate – and beyond. This includes academic learning and development resources as well as health and welfare support.

The University also provides support to students affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, most recently announcing quarantine accommodation guidance for international students heading to Leicester from Red and Amber List countries.