Inspirational summer schools attract almost 300 people

Pupils enjoy one of the University's summer schools

Press release issued: 5 July 2011

Students from across the country will be descending on Bristol next week [July 10 – 15] to sample university life in the city.

Almost 300 A-Levels students will be taking part in the three summer schools, organised by the University of Bristol to inspire youngsters to enter higher education.

Over 700 people applied for the 160 places available on the Sutton Trust Summer School, which is a week aimed at academically able students in Year 12 from disadvantaged backgrounds.

It’s one of just four summer schools across the country jointly funded by the educational charity and consists of a one-week taster programme of lectures, seminars and tutorials, providing students with a realistic glimpse into life as an undergraduate at university.

They will also receive information on UCAS applications and student finance, while having the opportunity to take part in extra-curricular sessions such as debating sessions or sporting activities.

A further 60 Year 11 pupils from the Bristol area will be taking part in the Aimhigher UniTaster week, while 40 people have signed-up for the Faculty of Engineering’s hands on week, run in partnership with Headstart and funded by the UK Electronics Skills Foundation to promote technology-based careers.

Activities include sitting in on Crown Court cases, visiting the Bristol Earthquake and Engineering Laboratory and debating topics such as the human rights of gypsies and travellers.

Prospective medical science students will be able to test their skills on a Human Simulator – a state-of-the-art, life-sized ‘manikin’ that can be programmed to simulate abnormal body function, disease processes, and the effects of drugs.

Over 50 members of the academic staff will be giving up their time to help with the summer schools.

Doug Jennings, Schools and Colleges Liaison Officer at the University, said: “The summer schools are very much about enthusing pupils and showing them what it’s really like to study a subject at university.

“We make the weeks as engaging and exciting as possible and the events always receive terrific feedback. Coming to University is a hugely important decision and these events play a role in supporting that decision-making process.”