Designed to encourage talented young people from under-represented backgrounds to consider degrees and careers in engineering, the programme gave students the opportunity to experience life as an Oxford undergraduate while taking part in engineering activities, workshops, demonstrations and discussions.
Across the two four-day residentials, students stayed in undergraduate accommodation at Trinity College and St Hugh’s College, helping them experience college life first-hand while building friendships and tackling engineering challenges together. Students travelled to Oxford from across the country, including York, South Wales, Norfolk and Bournemouth. For many, it was their first time away from home.
“This programme helped me to understand that despite your background, you can do anything.”
The selected cohort reflected the programme’s focus on widening participation and supporting students who may face barriers to higher education. Of the students who took part, 58% were eligible for free school meals and 45% had no immediate family experience of university. The programme had a significant impact on students’ confidence and aspirations, with the proportion of participants who felt a career in engineering was for them more than doubling, rising from 23% before the programme to 52% afterwards.
