Pupils enjoy taste of life at USW

The University of South Wales (USW) welcomed 34 students to Treforest this month for an overnight residential as part of the USW and Reaching Wider Summer School.

The event gave the sixth-form students, from schools and colleges across the UK, the chance to gain an authentic experience of university life.

The event was specifically designed to support potential students who are underrepresented in higher education and face barriers throughout their education.

From social activities, staying in Halls of Residence, and meeting other students, the immersive experience was enjoyed all round. The students were given the opportunity to take part in subject-specific sessions and gain important advice and information from academics.

USW ambassadors were also on hand to chat to the students and give them an insight into the life of a USW student.

Lisamarie, one of the students who attended the Summer School said: “I would 100% recommend the Summer School to students next year. The staff are nice. You get to meet loads of friends, and the student ambassadors are really helpful”

Alexandra Roberts, Senior Student Recruitment Officer, said: “The event has been a great success. We’ve had 34 young people on campus and the feedback has been brilliant.

“The academic sessions were a real highlight for many. I’d like to thank everyone who supported this project, without you the Summer School would not go ahead.

“We look forward to next year’s cohort and welcoming those who attended the Summer School to the University in September”

All attendees of the Summer School who enrol on a full-time three- or four-year undergraduate degree course at USW in September 2025 will be eligible for the USW Summer School Bursary. The bursary is worth £500 and will aim to support with technology or other course-related materials and costs.