Pathways to Engineering

Are you interested in studying engineering? Want to find out more about a career in the engineering sector? Experience Pathways to Engineering and make up your own mind.

The Pathways to Engineering programme, in partnership with the Sutton Trust, includes a range of events throughout Year 12 and Year 13 to give you an insight in to both studying Engineering and exploring a range of careers within the sector.

The programme this year will include a blended approach, with some virtual events and face to face events on campus when it is safe to do so. A typical programme includes:

• Opportunities to meet and network with professionals within the Engineering sector
• Find out more about career opportunities in the sector
• Attend Engineering taster lectures to see what university study involves
• Tailored support with UCAS applications and personal statements
• Expert support with preparing your CV for work experience
• Off-campus trips for example JLR, Mercedes AMG F1, Tilbury Douglas etc. Subject to change annually.
• Graduation Ceremony

Participating Universities: University of Warwick & University of Liverpool

View the eligibility criteria here.Link opens in a new window

Students applying to the Pathways to Engineering must meet the following criteria:

• Attend, and have always attended, a state funded, non-fee paying school/college
• Be in Year 12 at the start of the programme
• Live within a reasonable commuting distance of the University of Warwick

In addition, preference will be given to students: who meet one or more of the following:

• Have achieved in the region of 5 A*-B (9-6) grades at GCSE (with a minimum of 2 A* or A grades), including grades 9 – 6 in Mathematics and English
• Currently taking A-Level Maths and/or Physics
• Would be the first generation in their family to attend university
• Have been in receipt of Free School Meals whilst at secondary school
• Have attended schools with a lower than average progression to Higher Education, or a higher than average proportion of students who qualify for Free School Meal
• Live in a neighbourhood with a low rate of progression to higher education or a high level of socio-economic deprivation
• Have been looked after, in care or a young carer

The more criteria you meet, the more likely you are to be offered a place on the programme.

Year 12 Draft Programme

Autumn Term

• Programme Launch to find out about the two years ahead
• Opportunities to apply for work placements taking place during February half-term

Spring Term

• CV Support
• Sector Day to find out about roles within the Engineering sector
• Opportunities to apply for work experience placements taking place during Easter, May half-term and during the summer holidays.
• Academic Taster Day
• Student Life Event

Summer Term

• Personal Statement Event
• Pathways to Engineering Summer School

Year 13 Draft Programme

Autumn Term

• Programme Relaunch

Spring Term

• Graduation Event
• A Level Revision Support (TBC)

"Pathways has helped open doors and given me the confidence, guidance and opportunities I need to work towards my future goals." - Pathways to Engineering student (2026)

"The Pathways to Engineering program has been extremely beneficial to me in many ways. Through the opportunities it provided, I realised that I want to pursue a career in civil engineering, which has given me a clear direction for my future. I was also able to gain valuable work experience through the programme, allowing me to see what the profession is really like in practice. Networking events and activities helped me build my confidence by encouraging me to connect with professionals and share my interests. Along the way, I have met like-minded people who share the same passion for engineering, which has motivated me even more. These experiences have not only strengthened my academic goals but also developed my personal growth. Overall, Pathways to Engineering has shaped both my aspirations and my belief in myself." - Pathways to Engineering student (2026)

"Pathways has helped me bridge the gap between GCSE and A-Level by giving me useful information about my chosen sector and extremely useful experiences that have given me skills to prepare me for work." - Pathways to Engineering student (2026)

"Pathways has been a truly impactful experience for me. It has given me the opportunity to explore different career routes, connect with industry professionals, and build the confidence to pursue my ambitions. The guidance and support I’ve received has not only helped me understand the pathways available but has also motivated me to aim higher and believe in my potential." - Pathways to Engineering student (2026)

How much does the programme cost?

Nothing, the programme is completely free including the residential. At events, food and refreshments are provided and the Pathways team are able to support with transport costs if needed.

How many places are available on the Pathways Programmes?

There are hundreds of places nationally. At the University of Warwick, we have space for 40 students per subject/ programme.

Can I apply for a place on the programme at any of the participating universities?

You need to live close enough to campus to be able to attend sessions regularly therefore you should apply to a Pathways university that is closest to you, and should be within a reasonable commuting distance.

How much does it cost?

The programme is free. Your travel expenses to and from Pathways events are paid (subject to you submitting receipts) and transport costs may be reimbursed.

How many sessions do I have to attend?

We expect participants to attend the majority of events, and attendance at online events is encouraged. To pass the programme, and be eligible for a reduced offer, participants must have a high attendance rate.

Will I miss time from school?

Some events take place during term time, so it is very important that you share the details of the programme dates with your tutor/head of sixth form as soon as these are available.

I am studying at an independent school. Why can't I apply for Pathways?

The programme is designed to offer opportunities to students from under-represented backgrounds. There has been much research published regarding widening participation which has concluded that these students are mostly found in state schools.

If I complete a Pathways programme will I receive reduced offers to attend university?

Some universities who run the Pathways to Law programme offer reduced offers to those who complete the programme, or who meet certain widening participation eligibility criteria. At Warwick, for example, students who complete Pathways at any university are eligible for a reduced offer and have the opportunity to join Warwick Scholars as an undergraduate when they enrol at the university after completing the Pathways programme. More information about the Warwick Scholars undergraduate programme can be found here

Warwick Scholars Undergraduate Programme

Can I apply for more than one WP programme?

Not in Year 12. In Year 13 you may apply for mA*ths Online or Warwick Scholars as well as being on Pathways. These students may be eligible to apply for our Warwick Scholars access programme and if offered a place will be expected to complete their existing post-16 programme alongside participating in Warwick Scholars. Further details about Warwick Scholars can be found here

Warwick Scholars

When will I hear whether I have been accepted on to a Pathways programme?

We hope to have an outcome by mid-November - as soon as we have reviewed applications we will let you know the outcome.