Year 10 students visited University of Birmingham campus on 4th February. The day, run by university staff, focused on students’ future goals and aspirations, the importance of their GCSEs, the advantages of higher education, and included a campus tour.
Students learned that around half of all young people go on to university-level education and there is a clear route from good GCSEs onto well-picked A-Level courses and then to university.
On average, graduates are estimated to earn double what non-graduates earn.
Whilst there are other routes to success, such as a higher-level apprenticeship or quality vocational training, it is important young people understand all of their options.
Students learned that the cost of university is not prohibitive. Loans are available which graduates only start repaying when they are earning. Someone earning £27,000 would only repay around £9 per month. Student loans are more generous for those with lower household incomes.
Friary students quizzed Birmingham undergraduates Mollie and Josephine on their experience of university life. Working in groups, they designed and marketed a new student society and had to pitch their ideas to Mollie and Josephine.
Despite tough competition, the judges decided the winning team were Jack Le Friec, Stonnall Phelps, Owen Rushton, Jacob Wright and Neo Yunt. Jamie Richards got a special mention for his excellent contributions throughout the day.
Matt Allman, Headteacher, said: “We work hard to communicate all of the career routes – whether it be employment, apprenticeships or university – and to give students a real insight into what lies ahead of them. This visit was part of this much wider programme and we are delighted to continue our work with Birmingham University.”
