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Social enterprise – the stuff dreams are made of

Thu 10 January 2019 - 16:17

By UCAS in UCAS advice

If you’re motivated by your values, have an idea, and want to make the world a better place, social enterprise could be for you.
  • Social enterprises are businesses or projects people set up to focus on tackling social problems, improve communities, or create opportunities to improve people’s lives. There are various definitions of social enterprise, but a key feature is that they have a social or environmental objective – they’re driven by values.
  • You may recognise these examples of social enterprises – The Big Issue, One Water, the Eden Project, Divine Chocolate, and Jamie Oliver’s ‘Fifteen’ restaurant.
  • They make a profit and make a difference. Yes, they need to succeed and make money, but a key feature of many social enterprises is that half or more of the profit they make is reinvested into sustaining or growing the business. They often receive income from grants and donations, but also generate income from trading or delivering...

The Application Process: An International Student's Perspective

Fri 20 December 2019 - 11:25

By Charlotte Stevenson in International students

Laura Klepeisz graduated secondary school in Austria and is currently applying to university in the UK.

 


1. What most made you want to apply to university?

Firstly, because I don't want my education to be over yet. I feel it will be an opportunity to further enhance and develop the skills I have already gained. In addition to this, student life is full of enriching experiences. Not only does it present new opportunities, but it also broadens my outlook on life in general.

2. Of the application process, which element did you find most difficult?

The personal statement!  It is the...

University Tales: Term 2

Thu 10 January 2019 - 14:50

By Itunu in First year

 
Highlight of first term: starting my own radio show 'Identity' with my friend
Check us out here and follow us here 


Hey everyone!!! It’s a been a while (about 3 months and a bit to be exact). My New Year’s Resolution is to write for UCAS every Thursday, so catch me every Thursday for an update on my University Tales.
 
 
...

Five money tips every international student should know

Thu 12 December 2019 - 10:36

In International students

Studying for a qualification in the UK could be the start of a fantastic adventure, but there are a few things you need to sort out first. Here are five financial tips to help you make the most of your studies.

1. Set up a bank account
Setting up a UK bank account gives you more security and control over your money. You can still spend it when you like, and
it’s much safer than keeping it in your pocket or hidden under your mattress.

When you open a bank account, you’ll need to show the bank or building society two types of identification:

• your passport
• proof of your address in the UK

Depending on the bank or building society you choose, the proof of address you need could differ – so ask before you apply...

How to look after your finances as a postgraduate

Wed 7 November 2018 - 16:34

By money.co.uk in Money

 

Taking on a postgraduate course is a big commitment, for both your time and your bank balance. But being smart with your money can make life much easier.

How much will it cost?
Not all postgrad courses cost the same, but the average is between £16,000 and £23,000 a year. How much it costs depends on:
• which course you choose
• where you study
• whether your course is full time or part time
• how much you spend on rent, bills, and entertainment

Postgraduate certificates and diplomas tend to be the cheapest, while master’s degrees and PhDs are the most expensive. Think about your reasons for studying and try to pick a...

Why FE was for me – Shane Baker

Tue 6 November 2018 - 15:51

By Shane Baker in Teacher Training

Several factors influenced me to take up teaching as a profession. My grandad, particularly, guided me to higher education and ultimately into the profession. I was always keen to share what I had learnt with others. I remember my primary school teacher being significant in my childhood, and hoping that one day I could have the same impact on others. With the skills, knowledge, and experience I already obtained at the time, I felt there was definitely an area within education that I could bring these skills to, as the teaching profession is so broad.

The application process was very straightforward. It was exactly the same as applying through UCAS for undergraduate courses. I think it is important for those who are contemplating completing initial teacher training (ITT) after their initial undergraduate degree, that you know you can access student finance to fund the course. ITT courses are one of a few courses that are exempt from second funding.

I studied for a BA...

How to fill in your spare time

Thu 10 January 2019 - 16:19

By UCAS in First year

I know the score, you’re at university and you’re there to study. Whilst you’re at uni, it can be a good idea to do something productive to fill the time in between studying. Here are my top ten suggestions to fill in any spare time you have!

1. Get a part-time job. A part-time job would be considered reasonably easy to a) apply and get, and b) to work around your studies. Not only will it fill your time, but you’ll be able to earn some money to fund your studies and social life.

2. Start a new hobby. Picking up a new sport or hobby is a productive way to spend your time. You will be...

Budgeting at uni

Fri 18 September 2020 - 15:45

By UCAS in First year

By Hannah, a 19 year old student from South Wales. 

We all know that loans, grants, and bursaries are amazing as soon as they arrive in your bank account, but this money will need to last you longer than a week or two!

I don’t know about you, but when I know that I have a large amount of money in my account, I think that I’m wealthy and tend to spend a good amount of it on unnecessary items. Last year, when I was a student, I tried budgeting and here are some things to consider.
  1. NUS Extra is your best friend. My student discount card saved me so much money during the year. You’ll be eligible for discounts in plenty of high street or online shops
  2. ...

Freshers' is over – what next?

Fri 18 September 2020 - 15:38

By UCAS in First year

By Hannah, a 19 year old student from South Wales. 

Now that Freshers’ is over and you’re settled into university life, you are likely to have some sort of work to complete. University isn’t like school or college where you would have classes and have some homework to do. As a student you are expected to go to lectures and seminars, and then complete independent study, where you research, read, and complete tasks on the subject you are studying.

The different types of work include
essays, reports, group projects, presentations, exams, assignments, and...

No regrets – Alice Hackett

Tue 6 November 2018 - 15:51

By Alice Hackett in UCAS advice

My own reception teacher inspired me to be a teacher. I knew I wanted to be just like her! I thought: if I can be as good a teacher as she is, then I want to give it a go. I knew from a young age that I wanted to be a teacher, so I took the relevant paths at each stage to give me the best chance of getting into university. 

I studied a BEd in Primary Teaching with Qualified Teacher Status. The application to university was not as stressful as everyone says. The course was enjoyable and gave a real insight to what being a teacher is like. The placements were really useful as well, because you got to learn on the job. I moved away into halls for the first year, then moved into a house with friends for second and third year.

My advice?

Find out more about student finance before applying. Training to become a teacher is hard, especially the first year, but have faith, you can do it! Also, being aware there are...

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