The University of Roehampton is inviting care-experienced young people to take part in its expanded ‘Stay and Discover’ residential this October half-term, designed to build confidence, raise aspirations and help bridge the gap in access to higher education.
Open to care-experienced students in Years 12 and 13, the two-day residential offers an opportunity to experience university life first-hand, explore Roehampton's Southwest London campus and learn more about the support available to care leavers considering higher education.
Care-experienced students currently make up less than 1% of the UK student population, highlighting the importance of initiatives that help remove barriers to higher education and ensure young people feel informed and supported when making decisions about their future.
This year's residential has been expanded thanks to funding from the Greater London Authority, enabling Roehampton to offer an even wider range of activities and support.
Participants will take part in interactive workshops delivered by Foster Greatness, and Become and Act for Voice, alongside sessions focused on university life, wellbeing, academic success and planning for life after graduation. Attendees will also have the opportunity to stay on campus at no cost, enjoy a trip to Gravity Max, take part in social activities, and receive complimentary meals, refreshments, prizes and giveaways.
The programme aims to ensure care-experienced young people understand the opportunities available to them at university and the practical support on offer at Roehampton. This includes year-round accommodation, a £2,000 bursary and dedicated wellbeing support.
The residential is designed for care-experienced young people, helping them move confidently from school or college into university life and thrive once they arrive.
The programme has already had a lasting impact on previous attendees, helping them feel more informed, confident and excited about their future education options. Reflecting on their experience, one participant said:
"I have enjoyed meeting other care-experienced students and getting to know them, as well as talking about the benefits of going into higher education. I learnt about what Roehampton provides and how they have an emphasis on mental health and wellbeing. I enjoyed the scavenger hunt - so creative!"
Caitlin Atha, Student Recruitment Coordinator who organised the residential says “Opportunities like Stay and Discover are so valuable in helping care-experienced young people see that university is a path open to them, and that support is available to help them succeed. The programme gives young people the chance to experience university life first-hand, build connections with others who may have shared experiences, and discover the opportunities available to them in higher education. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of the programme and to see confidence grow in the young people who attend each residential as they begin to recognise the exciting possibilities for their future.”
Booking for the residential is open now. To book complete an online booking form.