First Astrophoria Foundation Year students begin their studies at Oxford
The first cohort of Astrophoria Foundation Year students started their studies at the University of Oxford last week, taking part in an orientation week before the start of term. Twenty-two young people from across the UK are the first students on the fully funded programme, which is designed to help bridge the gap between A-levels and the challenging undergraduate degrees at Oxford.
Throughout the week students were introduced to key aspects of their course and University life, alongside taking part in sessions on topics such as wellbeing and financial planning. They were also officially welcomed to Oxford by the University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Irene Tracey.
The orientation week included visits to many of Oxford's colleges, museums and libraries. In the evenings there were plenty of opportunities to socialise and get to know their fellow students. Students also took part in group tasks which encouraged them to develop teamwork, communication and critical thinking skills.
Dr Jo Begbie, Astrophoria Foundation Year Director, said: 'I am delighted to welcome the first cohort of Astrophoria Foundation Year students to Oxford. It has been fantastic to meet them all in person and I hope that this orientation week has given them opportunities to make new friends and a chance to see what Oxford has to offer. I'm sure it has set them up for a great first term and I look forward to following their journeys over the coming year.'
The Astrophoria Foundation Year was launched last year for UK state school students who have experienced disadvantage or disruption during their education and is part of the University of Oxford’s efforts to increase participation from students from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds.
