Astrophoria Foundation Year
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Preparation for Undergraduate Studies

Introduction to the course

All students on the Foundation Year complete the Preparation for Undergraduate Studies (or 'PUGS') course alongside their subject courses.   

The aim of the PUGS course is to develop your understanding of what it means to study and thrive at university and to create opportunities for you to build on and develop further your skills and confidence in preparation for successful transition to 1st year undergraduate study.   

The course consists of modules taken throughout the year which focus on different aspects of your development, yet which work together to build your overall academic confidence. The modules will provide support in generic academic skills and academic writing; communication skills to build verbal discussion alongside written discussion; and broader personal development through academic mentoring, but also through the society and culture course which aims to provide you with some aspects of the social and cultural capital.   

What will my week look like?

The delivery of PUGS will be structured through various different activities. These include: 

  • 1:1 academic mentoring meetings 

  • 1:1 academic writing meetings 

  • Whole cohort sessions during orientation week and academic induction week 

  • Weekly whole cohort academic skills lectures, workshops and seminars 

  • Society and Culture events, trips and visits. 

You can see photos from some of our previous trips on Instagram.

Teaching staff

Cat Purtell - Astrophoria Foundation Year Welfare Lead

Cat Purtell, Preparation for Undergraduate Studies Course Lead

“The Preparation for Undergraduate Studies course provides students with a supportive environment to build essential academic skills. It enables them to communicate their ideas clearly and confidently within an academic context. Developing these skills is crucial for success at university and in future professional settings, as they foster critical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to engage with complex issues independently.” 
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Michael Lyons, Preparation for Undergraduate Studies Tutor

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Ed Penn, Preparation for Undergraduate Studies Tutor