Parents and carers guide to university

Helping your child decide which courses and universities to apply for can be a daunting task. How you approach this will depend on your relationship with your child. You can encourage them to talk through their options. Thinking about how a course could help them to achieve their career ambitions later in life.

Here are some tips to make the process a little easier:

• Have a conversation about the subjects they enjoyed studying at school and college. Where do their skills and interests lie, and what kinds of careers might they wish to embark on in the future.
• Don’t worry if your child doesn’t have all the answers. Many students are still unsure about their future career path when they come to university. While some courses specifically prepare students for professional careers in a certain field. All our courses will equip them with transferable skills which are transferable to a huge range of professions.
• If your child is passionate about pursuing a career in a specialist area like architecture or medicine they’ll need to study for a degree in those areas. And some degrees may only be open to them if they have A Levels in those subjects.
• Remember that your child’s personal ambitions and life goals are likely to differ from your own expectations. Don’t pressure them into studying a particular subject if their heart isn’t in it. They'll be far more likely to excel at university if they are studying a subject that they’re enthusiastic about.
• Many schools and colleges have a careers service. It may be beneficial for your child to have an informal chat with a professional careers adviser. They can talk them through their options and the job opportunities available if they study a particular subject. 
• Would your child prefer to move away from home to enjoy the ‘full student experience’? Or is it more convenient for them to commute from home every day?
• What kind of lifestyle would they enjoy? Would they prefer to live in the heart of a vibrant, bustling city or a smaller town with a community feel? How often will they want to visit home and how much will it cost to travel back and forth? The location they choose will impact the cost of living. For example, the price of accommodation, everyday essentials, eating out and socialising.

University can be a fantastic, life-changing experience for students. But it can also be tough. Many new students struggle with moving away from home for the first time, making new friends, fitting in, and meeting the demands of their course.

That’s why we’ll be there for your child every step of the way. With second-to-none support services, from the moment they arrive until the day they graduate and beyond. We’ll help them to overcome any problems they encounter, get back on track, and make the most of their time with us.

We were recently ranked third in a nationwide study from HUMEN, in recognition of the mental health support we provide for our students. In September 2021 we opened the doors to our brand-new £60 million Student Centre, bringing all our professional advice and support services under one roof.

Here are just some of the ways we'll support your child:

• During their first few days, your child will be invited to attend some of our ‘induction sessions’. These are activities designed to help them find their way around and settle in. They’ll also meet their tutors and have opportunities to socialise with other students on their course. And participate in introductory lessons to help them get up to speed with all the skills and knowledge they’ll need to succeed. From writing assignments to using lab equipment and the latest computer software.
• At the start of term, all students will take part in ‘Welcome Week’ (sometimes known as Freshers' Week). There will be an exciting programme of social activities, trips and welcome talks. All designed to help your child enrol on their course, meet new friends, and generally have a fantastic first few days.
• Your child will regularly meet with a Personal Tutor who'll be there to offer friendly advice. As well as ongoing support with their studies and any personal matters.
• Students will receive timely feedback on their work to help them continuously improve.
• Our Student Coaches run regular workshops to help students get the most out of their studies. They can help with everything from study skills to note-taking,

Expert advice

Students can speak with our expert advisers in confidence to discuss any personal issues they’re experiencing. We offer professional help and support with:

• Personal issues and mental health, including trained counsellors.
• Financial matters and budgeting.
• Visas and immigration
• Disabilities and learning difficulties – we’ll ensure that your child is not disadvantaged in any way and can get the most out of their time at University.
• Academic support. Our Library staff can help students improve their research skills and find the resources they need for their assignments.
• There’s a Medical Centre and Pharmacy on the Preston Campus. Students can sign up with a GP to get vaccinations, contraception advice and more.
• Admin queries, including council tax exemption letters.
• Careers planning – our Careers Team help students to plan their future career path and take practical steps to achieve their ambitions. They can help with job searching, CV checking, interview skills and more. They can help with job searching, CV checking, interview skills and more.
• Business and enterprise – we can give your child the skills they need to set up and run their own business.
• Faith and religion – our Oasis Faith and Spirituality Centre offers a warm welcome to people of all faiths and none. The centre includes prayer facilities and support from a multi-faith chaplaincy team. 
• The Students’ Union offers independent advice, support and representation. As well as a wide range of social opportunities, clubs and societies.