Record numbers at HE Convention
24/06/2010
Record numbers of young people visited this year’s Higher Education Convention in Hatfield
Organised by Youth Connexions Hertfordshire, this year's convention took place at the College Lane Campus of the University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield on Tuesday 22 and Wednesday 23 June.
Attendance for the biggest careers event in the county grows annually. 9,200 students from 102 schools and colleges across Hertfordshire visited this year, more than ever before.
130 exhibitors provided first hand information – representing all the major Higher Education institutions as well as Gap Year organisations and the Armed Forces. Careers guidance staff were on hand to give expert advice about learning pathways, and talks were given on topics ranging from specific subjects of study to choosing a course, student life and finance.
The new Disability Helpdesk with Youth Connexions staff
For the first time there was a Disability Advice stand, a collaboration between Youth Connexions and the University of Hertfordshire. This provided advice to students about applying for the Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). The DSA helps ensure students are on a ‘level playing field’ by funding aids from computer equipment and software to mentoring.
The Forum building hosted stands and a number of informative talks
Richard Walker, Assistant Head of Sixth Form at the Priory School, Hitchin, commented “Our students tend to use their visit to get a feeling for the University setting and pick up prospectuses. We prepare for the visit with a two day course looking at UCAS, and the event is always useful. This year was even better than last year”.
Janice Keys, Head of Work Related Learning at Bushey Meads School added, “The organisation has been improved again from last year, and the student ambassadors have been excellent, being very pro-active in helping their peers”.
Youth Connexions staff provide a welcome and information
Tamsin, a student in year 12 at St Clement Danes School in Chorleywood, said “The convention has been very useful. The advisers on the stands are very honest, telling you whether or not their course would be right for you. I would definitely recommend it”.
Sam, a student of Priory School said "Nearly every University is here. It’s well laid out. It is good to hear the answers to your questions in person about costs and what it’s like to be at Uni”.