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University Explorers

ExpWarwick

About University Explorers

University Explorers introduces Looked After Children to Higher Education through a varied programme of fun and exciting activities. The programme is delivered in collaboration with the Coventry and Warwickshire Virtual Schools. University Explorers also encourages participants to develop a peer network, build confidence and resilience and achieve goals. By targeting Looked After Children in Year 6, the project is also well-placed to support children with transition to secondary school.

Key Facts

The key information is contained within this menu. Please open each section to find out more.

The core aims of University Explorers are:

  • To provide an introduction to Higher Education.
  • To provide a supportive and positive environment.
  • To have fun and experience a positive interaction with education and peers.
  • To build confidence and self-esteem throughout the project.

We work in partnership with Coventry and Warwickshire Virtual Schools to understand any specific needs to best support each cohort of children.
University Explorers provides a fun and interactive introduction to Higher Education, taking place at the University of Warwick campus across a series of four Saturday events during Spring. During each visit, children would have the opportunity to explore campus and work with current university students.

Activities typically include:

  • Subject and society taster sessions
  • Campus treasure hunt
  • Team games and icebreakers
  • Group project work introducing Higher Education


In 2021, the programme was moved online. The core themes of the project were adapted to suit the virtual world and children took part in a series of four online workshops. Each workshop included icebreakers/games led by Warwick student ambassadors, academic taster sessions from Warwick academics and university information, advice and guidance. Each child also received two resource boxes containing materials for each session plus some additional freebies each week.

University Explorers is open to Looked After Children in Year 6. The team at Coventry Virtual School and Warwickshire Virtual School are responsible for inviting any young people eligible for the programme.

    If you are part of a West Midlands Virtual School and would like to discuss any opportunities for collaboration please get in touch by emailing experiencewarwick@warwick.ac.uk

      Contact

      Emily Cannon, Widening Participation Officer

      emily

      Email: experiencewarwick@warwick.ac.uk

      “She really enjoyed it and has had a positive experience from it.” – Foster Carer, 2022

      What was the main thing you learnt during the project? “To be confident and I can make friends” – Looked After Child, 2022