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University Of Exeter presentation - UCAS Day 9th July 2026

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University Of Exeter presentation - UCAS Day 9th July 2026

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University Of Exeter presentation - UCAS Day 9th July 2026

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University Of Exeter presentation - UCAS Day 9th July 2026

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The UCAS Budget Calculator is a free tool that shows you the real cost of university life by using real student spending data to show personalised budgets based on your location, lifestyle, and accommodation. It breaks down your living costs and includes everything from where you'll live, to what groceries you buy, what transport you take, and what social activities you do.

How does it work?

The calculator breaks down your living costs and includes everything from where you'll live, to what groceries you buy, what transport you take, and what social activities you do using real student data. Based on the location you're planning to study in, the calculator will estimate how much each part of your university life will cost, allowing you to understand how far your budget can take you.

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Understanding real costs, such as accommodation, food, travel, and extras, will help you avoid surprises and manage money confidently throughout your studies. The UCAS Budget Calculator will give tailored cost breakdowns by region, with features like monthly budgets, custom spending categories, and visual charts.

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The graduate job market is grim right now – but the data says university is still worth it

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The graduate job market is grim right now – but the data says university is still worth it

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Thank you to Rebecca Jones for recommending this interesting read on the current jobs market.

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The graduate job market is grim right now – but the data says university is still worth it

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The employment benefit of a degree is large.

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HE Guidance: A Guide to University for Parents/Carers with Higher Education Advisers from University of East Anglia

June 16 @ 18:00 - 18:45

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Channel Talent - Interactive school webinars

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Register here
If you're supporting a young person with applying to university, you might find the world of higher education confusing. This webinar will provide parents and carers with an introduction to university, helping you to better understand the process and be able to help your young person make a successful application.

We will cover:

Important dates and deadlines

Things to consider when choosing courses and universities

How to help your young person prepare to make an application

How to make the most of open days.

There will also be time to ask us any questions you may have.
Please note that, although the session is scheduled to end at 18:45, the team at UEA will stay on until 19:00 to answer further questions.
As a live, participative event, this session will not be recorded but slides and other resources will be shared after the event, where available.

Suitable for: Parents and carers supporting a young person with applying to university.

Preparation/Pre-Reading: You may wish to consider questions you have about applying to university.

The IT Setup: The event will be run on Zoom and participants will be able to join using laptops, tablets, and mobile devices. If you are joining as a school group, we recommend connecting with one device and projecting on to a whiteboard. You will be able to interact with the university via typed comments and questions. Full details will be sent to those who have registered (see below) prior to the event.

Booking a Place: This is free for schools and colleges. If you would like to take part in this event, please register your interest using the link to the registration form below:
Register here

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Channel Talent - Interactive school webinars

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HE Guidance: A Guide to University for Parents/Carers with Higher Education Advisers from University of East Anglia - Channel Talent - Interactive school webinars

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HE Guidance: A Guide to University for Parents/Carers - UEA

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The Sixth Formers Guide to degree apprenticeships

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The Sixth Formers Guide to degree apprenticeships

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Your free 140-page guide to how degree apprenticeships offer a debt-free alternative to a traditional university degree

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The Sixth Formers’ Guide to Degree Apprenticeships

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Hampshire Monthly Labour Market May 2026

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Amazing Apprenticeships mini listing - Summer edition

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Amazing Apprenticeships mini listing - Summer edition

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Careerpilot : Get information : Finding a job/experience : CV Builder

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Independent careers guidance for schools

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Issue 20_Innervate Inspiring Opportunities Newsletter Spring Term 2026

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A guide to finding and completing work placements

Students: how to find it and how to be successful on it

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For students: a guide to finding and completing work placements

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Students: how to find it and how to be successful on it

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Taster courses and summer schools are provided by some universities to let you experience academic and social life on campus before applying for a place. Open days are a brilliant opportunity to experience university life first-hand. You will be able to explore the campus, experience a sample lecture, ask questions and get a feel for the town or city.

UCAS has more information on what you can expect from a taster course here as well as a search function to find out what's available. The University of London also runs a fantastic range of half or one-day taster courses across London.  New courses are added regularly, so it is worth signing up for updates in your subject areas. You can also search UCAS for information on open days in addition to Prospects Open days, What Uni open days, Uni Taster Days, Open Days and Find Open Days.

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UniTasterDays subject guide videos These impartial videos have one key aim - to support students who are considering university to make informed future subject decisions. They feature guest speakers from a range of different universities, who are always experts in the subject being explored.

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UCAS has lots of support for young people making post-18 choices. Information on how and when to apply for a university course, help with choosing a course and with writing a personal statement. UCAS have also produced The Ultimate Guides - UCAS - a series of guides loaded with information to help you understand what’s next. There’s also the UCAS YouTube channel - watch student stories, get advice on all your options, and use our how-to guides on the university application process. Plus there's plenty of advice on student accommodation, personal statements, Clearing, attending UCAS Exhibitions, and much more. If the location is important to you or you want to find out more about the place the university is located then have a look at the city guides by UCAS.

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Her appointment follows the departure of Clare Marchant in September 2023, after 6 years in the position, to take up the role of Vice Chancellor at the University of Gloucestershire.

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UCAS connects people to University, post Uni studies including teacher training, apprenticeships & internships. Find all the information for your next step.

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Fast-track your future plans with our series of Hub live sessions. Featuring UCAS experts, careers advisers, unis and employers, and even students and apprentices. Wherever you’re at with your plans, we’ve teamed up with careers, higher education, and application specialists to help you take your next steps. Plus we’ll be talking to current uni students and apprentices who will be bringing you some serious insight on student life, the things they wish they knew, and how to choose the right path for you.

So, whether you’re looking for practical tips on how to start your application or write a winning personal statement, or simply looking for some inspiration, we’re here with the experts to help.

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Fast-track your future plans with our series of Hub live sessions. Featuring UCAS experts, careers advisers, unis and employers, and even students and apprentices.

Coming up live in the UCAS Hub...

Wherever you're at with your plans, we've teamed up with careers, higher education, and application specialists to help you take your next steps. Plus we'll be talking to current uni students and apprentices who will be bringing you some serious insight on student life, the things they wish they knew, and how to choose the right path for you.

So, whether you're looking for practical tips on how to start your application or write a winning personal statement, or simply looking for some inspiration, we're here with the experts to help.
Hub live sessions
*All sessions will last approximately 30 minutes to allow plenty of time for Q&As. All dates and time subject to change
How to get involved
To get involved, all you need to do is sign in to your Hub on the day of the live session and there will be a button at the top of the page inviting you to join. Listen in, ask questions, and get the answers you need to help with your next steps.

Not yet got a UCAS Hub account?

Create yours today

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Fast-track your future plans with our series of Hub live sessions. Featuring UCAS experts, careers advisers, unis and employers, and even students and apprentices.

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Progression evening February 2026 - Introduction to Student Finance from Ruth Boyce at the University of Exeter

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Progression evening February 2026 - Introduction to Student Finance from Ruth Boyce at the University of Exeter

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National Careers Service - how to get work experience

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National Careers Service - how to get work experience

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Work experience is a chance for you to:

try out career ideas and rule out options

find out more about your strengths, values, motivations and interests

develop your soft skills, such as teamwork and problem solving

meet new people and build your network of contacts

challenge yourself to overcome a difficulty, for example communicating with others

identify any reasonable adjustments you may need because of a disability or long term health condition

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Opportunities for school and college students

From year 8, you should have the chance to take part in workplace experiences.

You could:

shadow someone at work to see what their job is like

visit different workplaces

go to work with a parent or guardian

do a 1 or 2 week work placement

go into a workplace for one day a week over a period of time

Speak to your school or college careers leader about workplace experience.

If you're at college, your work placement team may also be able to help.

Courses that offer work experience

All T Levels and traineeships will include work experience.

You may be able to do work experience as part of a vocational technical qualification (VTQ) and some degree courses.

Work experience might be one day a week over a few months or full time for a few weeks. You may have a placement officer or tutor who can help you find work experience during your course.

Work shadowing

Work shadowing provides a chance to watch someone doing a job for a day or a few days. You could do this to find out about a job role.

If you're in a job, you could use it to explore opportunities for personal development or a promotion. It gives you an idea of what a job involves, rather than hands-on experience.

Internships

Internships are paid periods of work experience lasting around 2 to 3 months in the summer. They're usually aimed at undergraduates and recent graduates. There are some opportunities for school leavers.

You can get information from your university careers service. There may be internship schemes dedicated to students at your university.

Placement year

A placement year is a paid year in the workplace as part of a higher education course. You apply for these in the same way as graduate jobs. University careers services can help you to find opportunities relevant to your course.

Insight events

Insight events are usually organised by companies or careers organisations. You spend a day or a few days finding out about a specific sector such as:

Gap year and year abroad experience

Companies and charities may offer gap year and work abroad experiences. You could also set this up for yourself.

Virtual work experience

Companies are starting to develop 'virtual' placements. You work remotely using digital technology, without having to go into the workplace.

You can also learn to deal with situations in the workplace without having to go out on a placement. Accenture's Skills to Succeed Academy and Barclays Lifeskills can help you to develop these skills.

FutureLearn has a virtual work experience course for exploring the work of a vet.

Search online for other online work experience, virtual internships and insight into work opportunities.

More ways to get work experience

You can also gain work experience if you:

do some volunteering

get a part-time job

go to face-to-face or virtual company events and open days

help friends or family with a business

set up your own small business

enter competitions and skill challenges like World Skills

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Look at the different ways to try out different careers and see whether they're right for you.

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Explore Springpod's Job Sector Collections

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Explore Springpod's Job Sector Collections

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Explore Springpod's Job Sector Collections, where you can discover tailored experiences grouped by industry. Dive into collections featuring virtual work experiences and subject spotlights related to specific job sectors.

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Discover Virtual Work Experience & Subject Spotlights by Sector | Springpod Collections | Springpod

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Explore Springpod’s new Collections pages offering students tailored virtual work experience and subject spotlights in various sectors including Law, Engineering, Business, and Medicine. Gain industry insights and boost your career prospects today!

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Student Finance and Budgeting from Georgina May at UEA

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Student Finance and Budgeting from Georgina May at UEA

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Student Finance and Budgeting from Georgina May at UEA

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Student Finance from Ruth Boyce at The University of Exeter

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Student Finance from Ruth Boyce at The University of Exeter

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UCAS Discovery Farnborough Wednesday 22nd April 9:30

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UCAS Discovery Farnborough Wednesday 22nd April 9:30

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UCAS provides information, advice, and admissions services to inspire and facilitate educational progression.

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Progression evening February 2026 - Student Finance and Budgeting from Georgina May at UEA

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Progression evening February 2026 - Student Finance and Budgeting from Georgina May at UEA

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Student Finance and Budgeting from Georgina May at UEA

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Bohunt Liphook Student Finance and Budgeting

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Amazing Apprenticeships Higher and Degree Listings Guide January 2026

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Amazing Apprenticeships Higher and Degree Listings Guide January 2026

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What to know what the most affordable UK city for students is?

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The Armed Forces include the British Army, Royal Air Force and Royal Navy. Together, they’re responsible for the safety and security of the UK. They're involved in combat, peacekeeping and humanitarian aid. From soldiers and pilots to engineers, medics and intelligence analysts, there are countless opportunities available with the UK armed forces, depending on your skills, interests and qualifications.

Of the 142,560 people serving in the UK's armed forces in 2023, over half of them were in the British Army, which had 77,540 personnel. The next largest branch was the Royal Air Force at 33,180, followed by the Royal Navy at 26,330, and finally the Royal Marines, which was the smallest branch in terms of personnel, at 6,510.

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The British Army - there are lots of ways into the British Army - click here to find out what is available to you based on your age and experience. You can enter as a regular soldier or take up a specialist position. The British Army recruits a range of roles from medics to musicians to legal officers - find out more here. They have over 100 separate roles in 7 categories:

Combat - aviation communication specialist, infantry officer, paratrooper, tank crewman.

Engineering - armourer, cyber engineer, electronics technician, vehicle mechanic.

HR, finance and support - educational and training services officer, HR officer, Royal Military Police (RMP) soldier.

Intelligence, communications and IT - intelligence officer, military intelligence, supply chain operative.

Logistics and support - driver, chef, logistic supply specialist, port operator.

Medical - biomedical scientist, doctor, mental health nurse, radiographer, veterinary technician.

Music - household cavalry officer, household cavalry soldier, musician.

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The Royal Navy has over 100 different roles in the following services:

Fleet Air Arm - fighter jets and helicopters.

Royal Fleet Auxiliary - provides fuel for ships and supplies for personnel.

Royal Marines - an elite amphibious fighting force.

Submarine Service - also known as the 'Silent Service', it carries the Trident missile system.

Surface Fleet - destroyers, frigates, minesweepers, aircraft carriers.

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A job in the Naval Service means adventure, camaraderie, and lifelong prospects. Join us and be a key part of global operations. Ready for adventure?

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The Royal Air Force (RAF)  has careers across the following fields:

Aircrew - pilot, Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) pilot, weapon systems officer/operator.

Air and space operations - air and space operations specialist, air cartographer, air operations (control/systems) officer, air traffic and weapons controller, firefighter, flight operations manager.

Cyberspace - communications infrastructure technician, cyberspace communication specialist, engineer officer (communications electronics), joint cyber unit.

Engineering - aircraft technician (avionics/mechanical), electrician, engineer officer (aerosystems), general technician (workshops), photographer, vehicle and mechanical equipment technician, survival equipment specialist, weapon technician.

Intelligence - intelligence analyst, intelligence analyst (linguist), intelligence officer.

Logistics - air and ground steward, chef, driver, logistics officer, mover, musician, supplier.

Medical services - biomedical scientist, dental nurse/officer, environmental health practitioner, medical officer, medical support officer (pharmacist/physiotherapist), nursing officer, operating department practitioner, radiographer, registered nurse (adult/mental health), RAF medic, student nurse (adult).

People operations - chaplain, legal officer, media operations officer/specialist, people operations officer.

Security and resilience operations - personnel training officer, physical training instructor, RAF Police officer, RAF Regiment gunner/officer.

Visit the RAF recruitment website to see which role is right for you and explore the available professions.

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Search by job title or company and by area.

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We've introduced a new way to find and apply for an apprenticeship in England.

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Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job with study.

As an apprentice you'll:

be an employee earning a wage and getting holiday pay

work alongside experienced staff

gain job-specific skills

get time for training and study related to your role (at least 20% of your normal working hours)

Apprenticeships take 1 to 5 years to complete depending on their level.

Levels of apprenticeship

Apprenticeships have equivalent educational levels.

Some apprenticeships may also give you an additional qualification, such as a diploma.

Who can start an apprenticeship

To start an apprenticeship, you'll need to be:

16 or over

living in England

not in full-time education

You can apply for an apprenticeship while you're still at school but you'll need to be 16 or over by the end of the summer holidays to start the apprenticeship.

If you have relevant experience

You could spend less time training or qualify earlier if you have relevant experience. This includes having:

qualifications, such as a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) in a relevant subject

industry or sector experience

completed training, such as an IT course

You can agree this with your training provider and employer when you start your apprenticeship.

If you need more experience

If you feel you're not ready for an apprenticeship, a traineeship is a course designed to prepare you for one.

Apprenticeships in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

Different organisations deal with:

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Becoming an apprentice - what to expect, apprenticeship levels, pay and training, making an application, complaining about an apprenticeship.

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National Careers Service can help you with your career, learning and training choices.

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Careers advice - job profiles, information and resources | National Careers Service

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The National Careers Service can help you with your career, learning and training choices. Find out more about us and the different ways we can support you. This service is available to people who live in England.

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icould uses the power of personal stories to inform young people's career choices. They have a great selection of real-life career videos - which gives great first hand experience from those who are doing jobs that you might aspire to.

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Cookies at icould.com

We use cookies to improve your experience of our site and to track site use. Please let us know if you agree to these cookies.

Essential cookies Statistical cookies

No, I want to find out more

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Real-life career videos, advice and information to inspire your career

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Prospect - careers match your skills and personality to over 400 job profiles, The Future You series provides a range of topical advice and guidance via webinars and podcasts.

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Prospects for graduate jobs, postgraduate study, advice about work experience, internship opportunities and graduate careers

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Career Pilot is a free online platform offering information on progression routes. Browse their career profiles by subject and have a look at their strengths and values checker to see what  jobs/companies might fit with the things that are important to you in your life.

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Careerpilot : Plan your future work & study

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Internships can help you get workplace experience, make connections in your industry, and are often flexible enough to fit around your studies. An internship is a fixed-term work experience aimed specifically at students or graduates. Businesses often provide these short-term positions to give students a chance to learn about the industry. Internships can run from just a few weeks right up to a full year depending on the sector, company, and role. As a student, you may find that most internship opportunities will be quite short, perhaps running during your summer holidays. Internships can be a valuable means of gaining work experience in your chosen field - and can help you stand out from the crowd when applying for jobs. Look at professional associations and organisations in your chosen field to search out opportunities as well as contacting employers directly. Job fairs can also be an excellent way to make connections in your industry.

UCAS has information on internships here. They suggest looking for an internship using the following options:

search on Gov.UK or other careers websites

approach companies directly if you’re interested in them specifically

use social media channels like LinkedIn to find opportunities

Career Pilot has information on internships here.

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No two universities in the UK will offer identical courses for the same degree. It’s important to compare courses to find the one that works best for you. What to consider when comparing courses:

Look at the reputation and ranking of the course

The Times Higher Education World University Rankings

QS World University Rankings

The Complete University Guide League tables compare UK universities in over 74 subject areas. Look at entry standards, student satisfaction, research quality and graduate prospects to gain all the information needed for your next steps.

The Guardian University guide rankings

Does the course structure and timetable match your preferences?

What are the employment prospects for graduates of the course?

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The Russell Group represents 24 leading UK universities listed here. Russell Group members are world class research-intensive universities.

Informed Choices brings together guidance from the admissions teams at Russell Group universities to give pupils clear information about the subjects they should consider if they are hoping to progress to a competitive university. Find out more information here

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Informed Choices brings together guidance from the admissions teams at Russell Group universities to give pupils clear information about the subjects they should consider if they are hoping to progress to a competitive university. Find out more information here

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Choosing the right subjects to study post-16 is very important in helping you to get into university, particularly a Russell Group university.

If you don't know what degree subject you want to study, it's important to choose A Levels (or equivalent qualifications) that keep as many options open to you.

Whatever your situation, Informed Choices can give you the start you need in deciding what to do next.

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Choosing the right subjects to study post-16 is very important in helping you to get into university, particularly a Russell Group university. If you don't know what degree subject you want to study, it's important to choose A Levels (or equivalent qualifications) that keep as many options open to you.

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The Complete University Guide subject guides with 30,000+ courses and degrees offered by UK universities and colleges, these guides will help you decide what to choose. They've unpacked what studying the subject involves, why you should study it, what jobs you could get and what degree options you have.

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Deciding which degree to study is a big decision. With such a wealth of options, consider the subjects you enjoy, the ones you're good at, and the careers they could lead to. Get expert tips on choosing a degree course and picking the right university, and explore alternative undergraduate qualifications.

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Explore your options when it comes to qualifications, choosing the right degree course, foundation degrees and ‘topping up’ an HND.

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Try a university course before you apply and make sure it’s the right choice for you. In every subject spotlight you’ll find on demand interactive videos, activities and content to enhance your UCAS personal statement.

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Our mission: Futures For All

As the UK’s leading social mobility charity, we are dedicated to levelling the playing field for all young people in state education by providing fully funded access to our Work Experience and Speakers for Schools programmes.

Through our partnerships and activities, we have supported almost 2 million students, helping to shift socioeconomic outlooks and move towards a fairer future with equality of opportunity and a more diverse workforce. Our commitment is clear – we want to ramp up our support for state schools and colleges to ensure that, by 2028, every young person has access to fully funded, high-quality work experience.

Talent is everywhere across this country, but opportunity is not. It’s time to put that right.

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Uptree for students is a free professional networking platform designed to help you get started in the world of work. Find upcoming work experience opportunities  filtered by industry and location. Their Student Resource Hub has lots of downloadable resources including a CV and cover letter template plus FAQs on CVs and interviews.

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Explore your career options with events, advice and apprenticeships

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Student Ladder lists work experience opportunities for year 12 students in a variety of industries.

Search over 2,500 positions for Work experience, Internships, Apprenticeships and Graduate Schemes.

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Search over 2,500 positions for Work experience, Internships, Apprenticeships and Graduate Schemes.

Browse Listing POST A JOB

Student Ladder applications guide

5 guides in 1 - from writing your CV and covering letter to how to perform well in assessment centres.
This guide covers everything you need to know before taking your first step on the career ladder.

We are recommended by the career services of:

Take a look at an apprenticeship

Have you considered an apprenticeship? Do not assume your only viable option is to go to university. There are some amazing opportunities with leading employers for bright students. You will both earn a salary and study for a qualification, funded by your employer. Many offer degree apprenticeships as well.
The tide is changing and university degrees are not so respected as they once were and not needed for you to be successful. Being a graduate is no longer a passport to graduate employment. Fewer than half of graduates secure professional jobs within six months of graduating and many find that they are no more employable than when they left school, only poorer. Average student debt is c£50,000 after 3 years.

So take a look at what apprenticeships are available - you might be surprised. It is a smart option.

Listing Spotlight

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Student Ladder applications guide 5 guides in 1 - from writing your CV and covering letter to how to perform well in assessment centres.This guide covers everything you need to know before taking your first step on the career ladder. VIEW E-BOOK We are recommended by the career services of: Interested in Investment Banking?

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The Forage offers virtual work experience programs that replicate work at top companies and connect students to the companies themselves.

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"You can't have a say at the table if you don't have a seat at the table. So these programs and these opportunities for people who look like me, act like me and think like me, are an opportunity to have a seat at the table so we can have a better future for the people behind us."

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Free Virtual Work Experience Programs from Top Companies - Forage.

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UCAS - advice for parents, guardians and carers

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UCAS - advice for parents, guardians and carers

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Everything you need to help your child decide on the next steps.

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Advice for parents, guardians and carers | UCAS

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Everything you need to help your child decide on their next steps.

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As a parent or carer, you want to be able to guide and advise your child towards the best opportunity for them. So, where do you start?

There are many options available including apprenticeships, T Levels and HTQs.

Being open-minded about the range of opportunities, and equipping yourself with knowledge and information is the best way to build your confidence, and ultimately to support your child to make the best decision for them.

Through this Parent Zone, we aim to help you to explore those options.

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“The Parent Perspective” is a podcast series for parents and carers, helping them to support their children with careers advice and guidance.

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Careermap You can find apprenticeships, graduate schemes and professional jobs that will give you the kick start you need to thrive in the industry of your choice. Careermap also provides advice and support to make sure you find an opportunity that fits your skills.

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Apprenticeships, Graduate Schemes & Jobs | Careermap

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If you're a school leaver, graduate or job seeker, we have lots of options! Search & apply for apprenticeships, graduate schemes & jobs.

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We have a number of books to help you on your path into medicine - guides to UCAT, writing a personal statement along with real life stories of those in the medical profession.

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Welcome to OpenLearn – the home of free learning from The Open University. We deliver bite-sized learning experiences designed to fit easily into daily life. Any one of our hundreds of courses can be studied anywhere, anytime and completed at your own pace. Whether you’re looking to get promoted at work, support your children with their schoolwork, looking for extra study materials as a student, or simply passionate about a subject, we are open to all.

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You can search by course title. You can also search for OpenLearn courses associated with an Open University course by searching for the course code.

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FutureLearn is a UK-based online learning platform that partners with universities and organizations to offer a wide range of courses, programs, and degrees online.

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Learn with 260+ world-class institutions and educators

Get 30% off Unlimited

Get 30% off your first 2 months on Unlimited online courses

Invest in your future with Unlimited access to 1000+ high-quality short courses and digital certificates from world-class institutions.

Learn more

Be inspired by COP28

Change starts with learning - that's where we come in. Discover courses on climate issues, learn from top experts and take the first steps towards climate action.

1

Choose a short course

From introductory to advanced, you'll find high-quality courses across every subject, designed and taught by academic and industry experts.

2

Subscribe or upgrade

Join FutureLearn Unlimited for long-term access to your course and a CV-ready certificate, or upgrade individually on each course.

3

Learn, connect and discuss

Courses are divided into weeks and steps. You'll be able to connect with other learners throughout your learning journey.

4

Find your next course

Now you've caught the bug, what will you learn next?

Find your perfect course with FutureBot

Explore your career options with FutureBot, the AI-powered chatbot that brings you tailor-made course recommendations. Get started and make your next career move.

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FutureLearn: Online Courses and Degrees from Top Universities

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Join millions of people learning on FutureLearn. Find online courses and degrees from leading universities or organisations and start learning online today.

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Get unlimited access to over 10,000 learning programs from top universities and companies.

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Coursera | Degrees, Certificates, & Free Online Courses

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Learn new job skills in online courses from industry leaders like Google, IBM, & Meta. Advance your career with top degrees from Michigan, Penn, Imperial & more.

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As an alternative to direct clinical experiences, some providers are now offering virtual work experience, meaning more young people have the opportunity to benefit from relevant work experience. For example, UCAS and Springpod have a virtual work experience offering which can support students from under-represented backgrounds in gaining insights into the medical profession.

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Our Flying Start degree programmes offer you the opportunity to start a career and gain a degree at the same time.

Join us in accounting, or business management where you can earn a salary and fast-track your career while studying for your chosen subject. Whichever programme you choose, you’ll work on a range of projects in a culture that embraces difference and encourages you to think imaginatively. At PwC we want you to feel challenged, to grow and to thrive. You’ll have the opportunity to make an impact, being the difference to our clients from day one.

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Flying Start degree programmes | Early Careers | PwC UK Careers

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If you want to go to university but are also keen to begin your career, our Flying Start degree programmes offer the best of both worlds. You’ll get to work with world-class clients and be part of our highly skilled teams.

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We’re delighted to let you know that applications for our school and college leaver opportunities starting in 2025 are now open and we have many routes for you to join us.

If you're looking for opportunities to join us straight from school or college, our full-time school and college leaver programmes are designed to help you develop your business skills through real client work, while also completing formal training and studying towards qualifications.

Perhaps you’re looking for an opportunity where you can gain a degree and begin your career. Our Flying Start degree programmes offer you the opportunity to kick-start your career and go to university.

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Start your career with PwC. We offer a variety of programs for students and graduates to start creating their careers with PwC. We focus on your skills and passions, not just your degree and education. With our diverse range of businesses and variety of work you’ll easily find your perfect role.

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Our mission: Futures For All

As the UK’s leading social mobility charity, we are dedicated to levelling the playing field for all young people in state education by providing fully funded access to our Work Experience and Speakers for Schools programmes.

Through our partnerships and activities, we have supported almost 2 million students, helping to shift socioeconomic outlooks and move towards a fairer future with equality of opportunity and a more diverse workforce. Our commitment is clear – we want to ramp up our support for state schools and colleges to ensure that, by 2028, every young person has access to fully funded, high-quality work experience.

Talent is everywhere across this country, but opportunity is not. It’s time to put that right.

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Amazing Apprenticeships Guide to Degree Apprentiecships

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Amazing Apprenticeships Guide to Degree Apprentiecships

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Choices magazine - parent and carer guide to apprenticeships and technical education 

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Choices magazine - parent and carer guide to apprenticeships and technical education 

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Rate my apprenticeship lists apprenticeships, jobs, reviews and careers advice for school and college leavers. Their top 100 apprenticeship employers are here.

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Search & apply for apprenticeships and school leaver jobs in the UK on RateMyApprenticeship. Read reviews on companies from previous apprentices and discover excellent career advice to help you achieve your dreams.

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June 2025 Newsletter - Business and Finance

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In this Skills for Life short course, powered by Springpod, you’re going to take a deep dive into the exciting world of apprenticeships. In Lesson 1, we'll dive headfirst into what an apprenticeship is, unlocking how they could kickstart your career. Lesson 2 is where we'll explore what makes apprenticeships a dynamic learning experience. In Lesson 3, we'll discuss the benefits that come with choosing this pathway, from earning while you learn to gaining invaluable skills.

Then, in Lesson 4, we'll give you some tips on how to secure that dream apprenticeship opportunity. Lesson 5 will inspire you with real-life apprenticeship success stories from people who are currently working towards, or have finished an apprenticeship.

Finally, in Lesson 6, you'll have a chance to hear about some of the employers who are eager to help and recruit the next generation of skilled professionals. Buckle up, because this apprenticeship journey is about to help you take control of your future - and it all starts with skills!

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In this Skills for Life short course, powered by Springpod, you're going to take a deep dive into the exciting world of apprenticeships. In Lesson 1, we'll dive headfirst into what an apprenticeship is, unlocking how they could kickstart your career. Lesson 2 is where we'll explore what makes apprenticeships a dynamic learning experience. In Lesson 3, we'll discuss the benefits that come with choosing this pathway, from earning while you learn to gaining invaluable skills.

Then, in Lesson 4, we'll give you some tips on how to secure that dream apprenticeship opportunity. Lesson 5 will inspire you with real-life apprenticeship success stories from people who are currently working towards, or have finished an apprenticeship.

Finally, in Lesson 6, you'll have a chance to hear about some of the employers who are eager to help and recruit the next generation of skilled professionals. Buckle up, because this apprenticeship journey is about to help you take control of your future - and it all starts with skills!

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Apprenticeships Unlocked Trailer | Springpod & Skills for Life

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Watch the trailer for Apprenticeships Unlocked from Springpod & Skills for Life. In partnership with the Department for Education.

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Springpod apprenticeship opportunities is a careers platform where students can experience the world of work and university before they apply - they also feature apprenticeship opportunities. You can also undertake a short course on apprenticeships - take a look at this course run in partnership with Skills for Life.

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Welcome to the Springpod jobs board. You can browse and apply for opportunities with some of the world’s biggest employers here.

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UCAS - the Ultimate Guide to Apprenticeships

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UCAS - the Ultimate Guide to Apprenticeships

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May 2025 Newsletter - Science and Research

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A degree apprenticeship enables you to gain a full undergraduate or master's degree while you work. Degree apprenticeships take three to six years to complete, depending on the course level.

You'll spend most of your time working and you'll also study part-time at university. For example, you might go to university one or two days per week, or in short blocks, such as a week at a time. Overall, you spend about 20% of your time studying vs. 80% of your time working.

Degree apprenticeships work differently across the UK:

England and Wales both offer degree apprenticeships, with the most options currently available in England.

In Scotland, degree apprenticeships are known as Graduate Apprenticeships.

Northern Ireland offers higher level apprenticeships (HLAs) that offer you qualifications upto Level 7 which is the equivalent of a master's degree. However, the majority are at Level 5 which is equivalent to a foundation degree.

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Learn about degree apprenticeships in England. Get a paid-for degree alongside professional experience and a salary. Read more about degree apprenticeships.

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Prospects apprenticeships details what apprenticeships are and how to find an apprenticeship. Their guide to the top paying apprenticeship sectors in 2024 is here.

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An increasingly popular study option, apprenticeships are a great way to gain hands-on experience while studying towards an industry-recognised qualification and earning a wage. They're available across a range of sectors, from accounting, business and law, to construction, engineering and transport.

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Learn more about apprenticeships including the different types, where to find them and how to apply

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April 2025 Newsletter - Sport, Leisure and Tourism 

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March 2025 Newsletter - Healthcare and Emergency Services

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Apply online for student finance - online applications for student finance including Tuition Fee Loans, Maintenance Loans and Grants.

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Get uni ready and use our student toolkit and student timeline to find out what you need to get ready to apply.

If you’re going to uni or college in 2025 to 2026 but haven’t applied yet, you’ve missed the deadline to make sure your funding is in place for the start of your course.

Don’t worry, you don’t need to call us – you can still apply online!

Find out more about applying late.

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Get uni ready and use our student toolkit and student timeline to find out what you need to get ready to apply.

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Get uni ready and sign up to our mailing list to be the first to find out when applications open for full-time undergraduate courses start from September 2024!

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University of Exeter student finance guide 2026

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University of Exeter student finance guide 2026

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University of Exeter Student finance guide 2026

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University of Portsmouth student finance webinars

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University of Portsmouth student finance webinars

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Choosing to go to uni is a life-changing decision. So it can feel daunting. But we can help with that.
Find the latest advice, break down the UCAS process and choose to get even more help with your big decision in our live sessions.

They're interactive, so you can ask any questions you have, including general queries about university. Or simply listen in on topics like student finance, choosing a course and how to get the best from your degree.

Live webinars coming up
Jump to Parent & Supporter Webinars Jump to Subject Specific Webinars

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Get help with each stage of the UCAS process by booking your place on our free live webinars. Book now.

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Explore Springpod's Job Sector Collections

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Explore Springpod's Job Sector Collections

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Explore Springpod's Job Sector Collections, where you can discover tailored experiences grouped by industry. Dive into collections featuring virtual work experiences and subject spotlights related to specific job sectors.

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Discover Virtual Work Experience & Subject Spotlights by Sector | Springpod Collections | Springpod

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Explore Springpod’s new Collections pages offering students tailored virtual work experience and subject spotlights in various sectors including Law, Engineering, Business, and Medicine. Gain industry insights and boost your career prospects today!

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UCAS types of offer - Find out about the different decisions universities and colleges can make on your application

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UCAS types of offer - Find out about the different decisions universities and colleges can make on your application

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Students who have made an application to university or college before 26 January may start receiving offers. Here are the types of offers they may receive.

If your students did not receive offers from all five choices, they can use Extra to add another choice.

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These mean you've already met the entry requirements, so the place is yours if you want it! But first check the offer to see if there's anything else you need to do.

Check the offer carefully. Even if you've already got your qualifications and have met the academic requirements, you might still need to get a DBS or PVG check, provide proof of your results, or meet some financial/medical requirements. If it's not clear, contact the uni or college.

Remember, by accepting an unconditional offer, you are committing to go to that uni or college, so you can't make an insurance choice.

If you change your mind, you can decline your place and apply using Clearing.

If you're taking exams but have been made an unconditional offer, your results won't affect whether or not you get accepted. But, although your place won't be dependent on your grades, taking your exams is really important to prepare you for uni or college and could impact your future employment.

Some graduate employers take A levels and other qualifications into account when reviewing job applications, so it's important you take this into consideration when preparing for your exams.

Your consumer rights

You should have received specific information from your chosen universities to help you make an informed decision. They're required to make this available to you under consumer protection legislation - find out about the information you should receive.

Unsuccessful or withdrawn choices

A withdrawn application means a course choice has been withdrawn by either you or the university/college.

The reason will show up in on your application - maybe you didn't respond to emails/letters they sent, or missed an interview.

An unsuccessful application means they've decided not to offer you a place on the course.

Sometimes they'll give a reason, either with their decision or at a later date. If not, you can contact them to ask if they'll discuss the reason with you.

Don't worry if you don't get any offers though - you might be able to add extra choices now, or look for course availability later on.

Adding an Extra choice

You might be able to add another choice through our Extra service if you've received decisions from all five universities or colleges and weren't accepted, or if you declined the offers you received. Extra is a free service - available for you to apply to one course at a time between 25 February and 4 July. If Extra is available to you, it'll show up as an option when you sign in to track your application.
Find out more about Extra
UCAS student discounts

Make your money go further with our student discounts! From offers on fashion brands to big savings on tech, we've got you covered.

All you need is the discount code for the offer you want to save cash on. And keep checking back - we'll be adding more exclusive offers soon...
Get your student discounts now!

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These mean you've already met the entry requirements, so the place is yours if you want it! But first check the offer to see if there's anything else you need to do. Check the offer carefully.

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Springpod - virtual work experience programmes

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Springpod - virtual work experience programmes

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Navigating the world of work can be daunting and stressful. We understand, we’ve been through it with thousands of students, we feel your pain. Complete our experiences around your studies and begin your career now.

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Find the right career path for you, in your own time!️

Navigating the world of work can be daunting and stressful. We understand, we've been through it with thousands of students, we feel your pain. Complete our experiences around your studies and begin your career now.
Find work experience

Connect with industry experts, complete mini-activities, and get noticed by employers 💼

In-depth, interactive and informative virtual work experiences from industry experts in the world's leading employers.

Understand industries and the world's best employers as if you were already working there.

Choose the right career path and boost your CV at this critical stage of your career.

Latest work experience programmes 🚀

Trusted by the World's leading brands 🌎

Frequently asked questions 🤔

I have a question about my application or programme eligibility

When will I hear back if I have been successful with my application?
Once you have applied for your programme, you will receive a confirmation email. You will be notified about the outcome of your application via email at least 3 days before the programme start date. Good luck!
Can I apply to multiple programmes?
Yes, you can sign up to multiple programmes with us. The live talks will be available as recordings, so you can catch up on any potential clashes.
Who can take part in the programme? (Age limits, some programmes have location constraints but most don't etc.)
Most of our programmes require students to be in school/college. Some programmes require students to be based in specific regions of the UK, this is stipulated by the organisations themselves, and is not defined by Springpod.

However, the ages mentioned on our programmes are more of a guideline than a strict limit. As such, we more than welcome older students to apply as well!

I have a question about my assignment

How long does it take for assignments to be reviewed?
Assignments can take up to a week or longer to review and be marked complete. Rest assured, it will be reviewed soon and your certificate will be generated once your programme has been marked as complete.
What do I do if I upload the wrong file?
If you make a mistake when uploading a file, please email hello@springpod.com. We will be able to make a note on our system. Don't worry, the outcome of your programme will not be affected by this.

I have a question about the programme dates, deadline or workload

I won't be able to complete the programme, can I have an extension?
There is no specific cut-off deadline for completing your programme (although, if possible, we would encourage you to complete all the work within the time frame, alongside the live webinar sessions).
When does the programme start?
Our programmes have various start dates, you can find the exact date on the programme website page. These are available here: https://www.springpod.com/virtual-work-experience/search

You will be notified if your application has been successful, 3 days before the programme start date.
What happens if I can't finish the work experience in time?
All programme material will remain accessible after the end date of the programme. Students can continue to work through their programme after the official end date. Although, if possible, we would strongly encourage students to complete all the work within the time frame, alongside the live webinar sessions.
How long will I have to complete this programme?
There is no specific cut-off deadline for completing your programme (although, if possible, we would encourage you to complete all the work within the time frame, alongside the live webinar sessions).
How much work is required for these programmes? (Will I be able/should I complete more than one programme at a time)?
There is around 10 hours worth of work in total, spread across a two week period. The live talks will be available as recordings, so you can catch up on any work whenever possible.
When do the programmes run? (programme structure etc.)
The live talks will take place during weekday working hours. However, all live talks will be available as recordings and the courses can be completed at your own convenience. Once you have access, you can view and complete the material as and when you can, within the time frame of the course in question (for example, within a two week period). In total, there is around 10 hours worth of work. There is no specific cut-off deadline for completing your programme (although, if possible, we would encourage you to complete all the work within the time frame, alongside the live webinar sessions).

I have a question about the live talks

What happens if I can't make a live talk/webinar?
All live talks will be available as recordings. You can access these at the same link used to access the live event. So don't worry if you can't attend a live webinar, a recording will be available for you to access through your programme within 24 hours of the live event finishing.
What software is required for the live talks?
We use a piece of software called BigMarker. It is a cloud based video hosting software. It requires no installations or downloads on your end, and will provide everything you need to join the live webinars through one simple link.
Will I be able to ask questions/do I have to have my microphone on?
You will have a chance to ask questions at the end of each webinar. These questions are typed out and then read to the presenter by the host of the live talk. There is no need to speak, and all student microphones will be muted for the duration of the live webinar.

I have a question about the certificate

Will I receive a certificate on completion of the programme?
You will receive a certificate on completion of your programme. It will be made available to download whenever your programme is marked as complete.

I want to delete my account

How can I delete my account?
You can delete your account following the below steps

Can you please ensure you log into your account at the following link: https://www.springpod.com

Once logged in, click on your name in the top right-hand corner, select settings and then 'delete account'.

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Find work experience Connect with industry experts, complete mini-activities, and get noticed by employers 💼 In-depth, interactive and informative virtual work experiences from industry experts in the world's leading employers. Understand industries and the world's best employers as if you were already working there.

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Try a university course before you apply and make sure it’s the right choice for you.

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A list of Uptree's Careers Learning Programme courses

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We set required cookies for signed-in visitors to enable sessions and abuse prevention. You can also allow us to set additional ones to help us improve our service and enable additional functionality.

By clicking "Allow all" you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enable additional functionality and analyse site usage.

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Speakers for schools - Upcoming Broadcasts - December 2024

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Speakers for schools - Upcoming Broadcasts - December 2024

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Monday 9th December 2pm

The World of Journalism And Presenting

Curious about what it’s like to be a journalist or a radio presenter? Join Nick Robinson, the presenter of BBC Radio 4’s Today Show, for an exciting talk about the world of journalism and broadcasting. Nick will share his journey from starting out as a journalist to becoming one of the leading voices on British radio. Learn about the skills needed to break into journalism, the importance of asking the right questions, and how to tell impactful stories that keep people informed.

Wednesday 11th December 2pm

Ready for Takeoff: Launching a career in Aviation with the CAA

The Aviation industry is huge and there’s so much to get involved with! Learn from a panel of the CAA team and their different roles as they unpack their journeys and experiences into engineering, legal routes, and tech. There’s more than meets the eye, let’s unpack it together!

Thursday 12th December 10am

Storytelling in the Digital Age: The fusion of PR and Tech

We're lifting the lid on roles and businesses that exist across the marketing and tech industry and going to learn how stories can form and be shared when you understand the language of PR and skills needed to work in tech. Join us to find out more about what the industry is looking for, how to find those work opportunities and to be inspired by the world of possibilities that await.

Thursday 12th December 2pm

Merky Books x HSBC UK Futures – How To Build It with Damola Timeyin

In this talk, Damola Timeyin, author of How To Build It, explores themes of entrepreneurialism, connecting with collaborators and finding inspiration. With an illustrious career in creative strategy working with brands such as Nike, Clarks Shoes and Tesco, Damola knows what it’s like to build brands and maximise creative potential. Damola is a business founder and knows what it means to succeed (and fail). Join us for an inspirational life lesson for any young person thinking about their future.

Friday 13th December 10am

Level Up Labs: How to Practice Being Proactive - STEM Careers

Join Lauryn, a writer, researcher, and advocate for diversity in STEM, as she shares her inspiring journey to becoming an influential voice in the STEM community. This session will explore ways to build confidence, and seize opportunities in STEM careers. Lauryn will offer insights from her book, The Shuri Effect: Bridging the Gap for Young Black Women in STEM, and her experiences working to close representation gaps. Students will leave empowered to take charge of their futures, inspired by her actionable advice, and equipped to tackle challenges in STEM with confidence.

Tuesday 17th December 10:15am

Master Money Management

Are you ready to gain the essential financial skills you need? We will cover practical topics such as budgeting, managing pocket money, and making the most of student discounts.We’ll explore key questions like: What are the best budgeting practices to avoid common mistakes? How can I build good financial habits before finishing school? How can I prepare for the costs of further education or apprenticeships? How to University loans work? What should I know about student discounts and how to maximise them?

Thursday 19th December 2pm

Merky Books x HSBC UK Futures - Can’t We Just Print More Money? With Rupal Patel and Peigh Asante

In this talk, Rupal Patel breaks down key economic concepts in an engaging and understandable way. In this session, we will explore the basics of money, from its definition and history to the critical question of why we can't simply print more of it, illustrated with real-world examples of hyperinflation. We will also break down how economies function through supply and demand, the role of government in economic regulation, and the impact of central banks on inflation and economic stability. Additionally, you'll gain valuable insights into personal finance, understanding the influence of economic policies on everyday life, and practical tips for saving, investing, and budgeting. This talk is a must-attend for anyone interested in demystifying economics and its relevance to our daily lives.

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Speakers for Schools is excited to present its weekly broadcast schedule! This schedule will be updated regularly and talks will be targeted to different age groups are accessible via signing up using the registration from links below. registration closes at 12pm the day before the broadcast date - links are then sent out by email that afternoon.

Tips on participating in the Broadcast
To access the talks, links should be opened in a browser that is not Internet Explorer and students should join the live event anonymously, there is no need to create a log in.
Students wishing to see subtitles for the broadcast can turn them on via the panel on the right-hand side of the screen.

Further guidance on how to access talks can be found here.

Questions for speakers can be submitted via Q+A Function during the talk which will be made live for students to submit questions. The questions submitted will be moderated by a member of the SFS team and approved if relevant.

We send out the join link to our broadcasts the day before. Should you require the join link earlier, please email broadcasts@speakersforschools.org

The Manufacturing Process Of Beauty Products And Their Ingredients With Gaia Carminati Head Of Product Development & Packaging In Partnership With Indu

Time: 10:00 am - 10:45 am

Age Group: KS3-5 / S1-6

Explore the alchemy behind beauty! Join us for an exclusive online event in partnership with Indu with Gaia Carminati Head Of Product Development & Packaging. Uncover the secrets of skincare and cosmetics in this insightful journey from formulation to production. Elevate your understanding of the art and science of beauty in just one click! #BeautyManufacturing #SkincareSecrets

Click here to register

If you have any questions at all, please don't hesitate to contact us at: broadcasts@speakersforschools.org

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Upcoming Broadcasts | Speakers for Schools Events

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Stay updated with Speakers for Schools' weekly broadcast schedule. Engage in enlightening talks targeted for different age groups. Register now and join the conversation!

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Well At School - thinking about university? Well at school supports students with medical and mental health needs. 

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Well At School - thinking about university? Well at school supports students with medical and mental health needs. 

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Deciding what to do after school can seem daunting. If one of your options is going to university there are a few things you may want to think about alongside what and where you want to study. Managing a chronic health condition may mean considering a few additional things on top.

Here we give you a few suggestions of things you might want to ask before you apply as well as things you may need to do once you are offered a place.

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Information, advice and resources for schools and parents on helping children and young people with medical or mental health conditions get the best out of school.

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National Careers Service - Gap Year advice

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National Careers Service - Gap Year advice

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A gap year is not a year off. It's a way to develop yourself and your skills before taking the next step in your education or career.

A gap year can make a big statement about you as a person and can help you get into certain careers.

Benefits of taking a gap year

A gap year can give you an advantage when you apply for jobs or courses.

Some of the advantages include the opportunity to:

think about your career plans

travel and experience other cultures

earn money to support yourself in future study

improve your CV by doing work experience

get skills you cannot learn in a classroom

become more mature, focussed and motivated

Activities to do on your gap year

You should choose activities to build the skills you think you'll need in your future career. Popular skills include teamwork, leadership, problem solving and independent learning.

Depending on your circumstances you could:

Improve your applications

You can enhance your personal statement or job applications by describing your gap year in the right way.

Make sure you highlight:

the things you've done or experienced

the skills you've learned or developed

how you'll apply the skills you've learned

your experiences using the star method

Planning your gap year

When you're preparing for a gap year, make sure you:

plan ahead of time

think about money and how you'll support yourself

keep your CV up to date

make a note of application deadlines so you do not miss them

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A gap year is not a year off. It's a way to develop yourself and your skills before taking the next step in your education or career. A gap year can make a big statement about you as a person and can help you get into certain careers.

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Why take a gap year?

A gap year offers you the opportunity to gain skills and experiences, while giving you time to reflect and focus on what you want to do next.

A productive gap year can be valuable on your CV – many employers value the experiences students have gained if they’ve actively managed their time, set themselves goals, and stretched themselves.

A gap year can also enhance your higher education studies – if you decide to apply for uni, you could tailor your gap year to relate it to the subject area you plan to study.

Admissions tutors know that some students may take a little time to adjust to studying again, but many former gap year students are generally more focused and responsible.

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A gap year offers you the opportunity to gain skills and experiences, while giving you time to reflect and focus on what you want to do next.

A productive gap year can be valuable on your CV - many employers value the experiences students have gained if they've actively managed their time, set themselves goals, and stretched themselves.

A gap year can also enhance your higher education studies - if you decide to apply for uni, you could tailor your gap year to relate it to the subject area you plan to study.

Admissions tutors know that some students may take a little time to adjust to studying again, but many former gap year students are generally more focused and responsible.

Volunteering - support a worthwhile cause and gain valuable experience. You could take part in a wildlife conservation project, teach children, or help build a school in a third world country.

Travel - explore the world, discover new cultures, and develop your independent living skills at the same time. You could go backpacking across South East Asia, InterRail through Europe, or buy a round the world plane ticket.

Paid employment - earn money and gain new skills at home or aboard. You could work on an outback farm in Australia, as a ski lift operator in Canada, or at a backpacker hostel in New Zealand.

Work experience - if you want to gain relevant experience and skills for a particular career or subject you plan to study, you could consider a work placement or internship. These can last from a few weeks to a year. Depending on the type of contract on offer, you may or may not receive a salary. These are very popular and competition for places is high, so you need to apply early.

Part-time courses - why not take the opportunity to try something new? You could take up a new language, learn how to programme, try a new sport or music instrument, or learn a new practical skill, such as mechanics, carpentry, or cookery.

Flexible working holidays with pre-arranged jobs in Canada, Japan, USA, UK, New Zealand and Australia.
JENZA

It's important to form a plan of what you will do for the year, no matter what your gap year idea is, and you need to start planning well in advance. Some voluntary work schemes are popular and have strict deadlines, and you need to consider when you need the money to pay for airfares or visas.

There are loads of ideas you could consider - some might fill an entire year, others a few weeks or months. You could also combine more than one idea.

UCAS article

Sponsored by University of Bedfordshire

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Learn what you need to consider and plan for your gap year. Also find inspiration, tips & advice so you can research and refine your options.

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The Student Room - is it a good idea to take a gap year before university?

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The Student Room - is it a good idea to take a gap year before university?

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Get the inside track on what it's like going to university after taking a gap year, with tips and advice from UEA staff and students

There are many reasons for considering a gap year before university. Maybe distant shores are calling your name. Perhaps you fancy getting a bit of work experience and earning some money. Maybe you just really need a break from all that learning.

Making all those plans is the fun part - but for many people there comes a point where you start questioning whether a gap year is actually a good idea after all.

Will I remember how to study? Will I just want to stay in work? Will being a year older make it harder to make friends?

And if you're looking at going travelling - whether it's a big trip around the world or a few weeks Interrailing across Europe - there's the unavoidable challenge of how to afford it all.

Questions like these get posted on The Student Room's gap year forum regularly, so we asked some of the most common to staff and gap year students at UEA. Below, they share their thoughts on the benefits and challenges of starting university after a year away from education.

If I don't go travelling on a gap year, will I ever get round to it?

If your main purpose for wanting to take a gap year is to experience life in a foreign country, don't assume that a gap year is the only option. At many universities, there will be the option to study abroad during your degree.

"A gap year can be amazing - but choosing not to take one doesn't limit your options for international experience," says Annie Kay, study abroad manager at UEA.

"There are so many opportunities to study abroad as part of your degree, and at UEA we have lots of options. It's a really supportive way to live abroad."

That support is an important part of studying abroad as part of your degree - you can expect your uni to have a structure in place that will help.

For instance, UEA students who study abroad go to a university in another country that has an exchange relationship with UEA.

"That means they know your home university and are used to welcoming students like yourself," says Annie.

"The other nice thing about spending time abroad after you've started a degree is that you know what you're interested in.

"So you can study your degree subject from a different angle, explore and have adventures, and get what you need from the experience."

You'll also be doing some serious CV building, adding skills and experience that will help make you stand out to future employers.

Will my gap year make it harder to catch up with university work?

If you do choose to take a year out from academia, you might be wondering if you'll find it easy to get back into the swing of things with university work.

When it comes down to it, university still represents a big transition from school or college whether you've had a gap year or not - so you won't be in too dissimilar a position to students who've started university straight after finishing their A-levels or other qualifications.

And while a gap year may not exactly sharpen your academic skills, it could help you develop other qualities that will come in useful when you do go to university.

"The beauty of a gap year is the freedom to spend your time wisely, which can make the transition more seamless as you learn to think for yourself," says Josiah Laws, a physiotherapy student at UEA.

"A gap year has the potential to develop and strengthen the skills required for university, all while academic skills are not lost (but perhaps not strengthened either)."

Will taking a gap year mean it's harder to make friends at university?

When you're taking a step into the unknown, such as starting university, it can feel comforting to make that step at the same time as your friends.

So, it's a common concern for people considering a gap year that they will be falling a year behind their school and college friends - who will all be wise old second years by the time they are starting as freshers.

The truth is that most people start their university course knowing absolutely no-one there, regardless of whether they took a gap year or not.

So everyone is starting from scratch. And if you've got a year's experience of being out in the world, meeting and talking to people from outside of school and college, you're going to be better equipped than most to build a new friendship group quickly.

Is a gap year going to make applying to university much more complicated?

If you've decided to take a gap year before uni, you have a few application options.

You could apply for deferred entry. This means you'll apply at the same time as everyone who is not taking a gap year, but will select the following year for entry on your Ucas application.

Alternatively, if you don't decide to take a gap year until after your application has been sent off (or even after you've been offered a place) you could contact the university and ask to defer your place until the following year. There's no guarantee that the university will say yes, though.

Finally, you could simply hold off on applying until after your gap year. You'll already know your exam results, and the life experience you've gained could even boost your application.

"Universities are very positive about gap years and encouraging of those students that want to explore this opportunity," says Alix Delany, associate director of admissions and applicant engagement at UEA.

"When an application lands at a university for deferred entry, so that the student can take a gap year, it always piques our interest," Alix says.

"My tip is that if you are planning on a gap year, give us a brief indication of your reason in the personal statement so that universities are not left guessing.

"Even if your plans are still fluid, an indication will help us. All universities are looking at why you think you will be able to fulfil your full potential at university, and if you can loop your gap year reasons back to this it will be viewed very positively."

So, is a gap year right for you?

If you're comfortable stepping out of education for a year (and you have a plan for managing the cost) then taking a year out of study can give you time to explore different interests - or even travel the world.

But you don't necessarily need to take a whole year out to achieve those things. University life is filled with opportunities, and every university will have masses of societies where you can discover new passions and keep up with current ones.

On the travelling side, the study abroad options offered by many universities make it possible to see the world in a structured and supported way as part of your degree.

A gap year can be a memorable experience but, whether you decide to take one or not, starting university can be just the start of your adventures.

Benefits of taking a gap year

You'll have the chance to focus on different interests, outside of academic study

You might choose to go travelling and explore different places

You'll get used to living more independently, which could make starting university less daunting

You could strengthen your CV and/or university application

You'll get used to meeting people (and making friends) from outside your school/college group

Questions to ask yourself before taking a gap year

Do you have a definite plan for what you want to do during your gap year?

What's the main reason you want to take a gap year? If it's to pursue non-academic interests, could you find societies at uni that cover these?

If overseas travel is what tempts you, might this be available as part of your uni course?

How will you fund your gap year plans? Work out your budget so you don't run out of funds halfway through.

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Is it a good idea to take a gap year before university?

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There are many reasons for considering a gap year before university. Maybe distant shores are calling your name. Perhaps you fancy getting a bit of work experience and earning some money. Maybe you just really need a break from all that learning.

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Learn how a gap year can help you develop transferable skills, save money, improve your language skills, and reflect on your future career path. Discover if a gap year is right for you and how to plan a productive and rewarding experience.

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UCAS - How to write your personal statement

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UCAS - How to write your personal statement

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Next, you'll need to write about your personal skills and achievements. Universities like to know the abilities you have that'll help you on the course, or generally with life at university.
Don't forget to include evidence to back up why you're so excited about the course(s) you've chosen.

Be bold and talk about the achievements you're proud of.

Include positions of responsibility you hold, or have held, both in and out of school.

What are the things that make you interesting, special, or unique?

Your work experience and future plans are important to include. You should share details of jobs, placements, work experience, or voluntary work, particularly if it's relevant to your course.

Try to link any experience to skills or qualities that'll make you successful.

If you know what you'd like to do after as a career, explain how you plan to use the knowledge and experience that you'll gain to launch your career.

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How To Write Your Undergraduate Personal Statement

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Stand out from the crowd by showcasing who you are and what you can bring to a university as you begin your undergraduate journey.

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Personal statement guide - University of Sussex

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Personal statement guide - University of Sussex

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Personal statement guide - University of Portsmouth

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Personal statement guide - University of Portsmouth

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Personal statement worksheet - University of Winchester

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Personal statement worksheet - University of Winchester

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Why you need a CV

A CV is your first chance to promote yourself. A good CV might get you a job interview.

You usually need a CV to apply for a job or to give to an employer you'd like to work for.

Tips for writing your CV

Employers get lots of CVs to look at and have to decide quickly who they're going to interview.

When you write your CV, remember to:

use a clear font like Arial, Times New Roman or Calibri in size 11 or bigger

always use the same style throughout

use headings and bullet points to make it easier to read

be clear and to the point

get someone else to read it to double check your spelling and grammar

Information you need for your CV

Start with the job advert for the role you're applying for so you can look at the job description, essential criteria and the company details.

If the job you're applying for does not have a job description, you can look at our job profiles to see what skills you'll need and the typical things you'll do in that job.

You should write your CV to match the job and company you're applying for to improve your chances of getting an interview.

Sections for your CV

Your CV should include a section for your contact details, an introduction, your education history, your work history and references.

Contact details

You need to let employers know how to contact you if they want to offer you an interview.

You should include your name, phone number, email address and a link to your work network profile, if you have one, such as LinkedIn.

You should not include your age, your date of birth, whether you're married or your nationality.

Introduction

This is a few short lines that sum up who you are and what you hope to do. It should go just under your name and contact details.

Make your introduction sound like you're the right person for the job.

Education history

You can add this after the introduction if you're early in your career or do not have much work experience.

If you have a lot of work experience, you might want to change the order and show off your work history and experience first.

Whatever order you choose, you'll need to include the:

names of your qualifications

name of the school, college or university where you studied

dates you attended

Work history

You should include details of any work placements, volunteering and paid jobs you've had. List the most recent experience first.

You should include:

the employer name

the job title

the dates you worked there

what you did, usually 2 to 3 lines using the STAR method

Gaps in your work history

It's normal to have some gaps between jobs and work experience when life events happen.

You can read our advice on how to explain gaps in your work history.

Short work history

If you're applying for your first job, you can focus on skills you've learned through projects, work experience or volunteering.

You can also include your interests and hobbies that show some of the skills you have. For example, if you're a captain of a sports team, this demonstrates leadership and organisation skills.

References

You might want to include a section about references if there is someone who has agreed to give you one. This could be your current or previous employer, a teacher or someone respected in your community.

However you should not put someone else's contact details on your CV. Instead, you can say that 'references are available on request'.

Speak to an adviser if you need help

It's ok to feel overwhelmed or confused about how to write a CV, especially if you do not have a lot of work experience.

A careers adviser can help you work out what your CV should say and get you on the path to your dream career.
Speak to a careers adviser

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A CV is your first chance to promote yourself. A good CV might get you a job interview. You usually need a CV to apply for a job or to give to an employer you'd like to work for. Employers get lots of CVs to look at and have to decide quickly who they're going to interview.