Educational charity Bell House are putting together a week-long series of online events, workshops and open discussions to give support, guidance and a chance to share experiences with anyone navigating the unique landscape of higher education in 2020 and beyond.

With sessions exploring everything from looking after mental health while at university, to alternatives to the traditional gap year, there’s a trove of insight and discussion on offer for all entering the world of higher education this autumn – whether you’re a parent, school leaver or current student.

Dates and times for each session are listed below, with some yet to be confirmed. These will be updated and can be viewed at the Preparing for University hub on Bell House’s website (accessible here: http://www.bellhouse.co.uk/preparing-for-university).

Full schedule:

How to Stay Mentally Healthy at University, Thursday 3rd September, 11am

What does mental resilience look like at university? Join Sara, counsellor at Oxford University, for an interactive session where she draws on her experiences of working with students to offer practical thoughts on what to do to take the best care of our minds.

Preparing for University with Dyslexia, Friday 4th September, 10am

The transition from sixth form or college to university is an exciting one, but can be daunting, especially if you learn differently. Tina Hunter, an experienced dyslexia specialist, will be leading a session on how to prepare for university with dyslexia.

How to Realise Your Academic Potential, Friday 4th September, 1pm

Want to do well academically at university but haven’t considered how best to go about doing this? This is the perfect session for you! Join Sara, counsellor at Oxford University, for an exploration of psychological perspectives that can help you achieve this goal.

Transitions and Change: Advice on Navigating the University Environment, Saturday 5th September, 1pm

Transitioning to university, the challenges faced and how to overcome them. Drawing on personal experiences, James, a Student Ambassador at UCL, will be leading a session on how to make the most of your university experience.

Moving away from gap year stereotypes: exploring alternatives to traditional gap year experiences, Sunday 6th September, 2pm

Exploring the alternatives to traditional gap year experiences and tips for how one can make the most of their gap year when confronted with unprecedented changes. This will be a session focused on moving away from the stereotypes and designing a year that suits you and your future plans.

Student Panel A: Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Sunday 6th September, event timings tbc

Considering a degree in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences but unsure of what to expect? Join us for a panel discussion on the university experience whilst studying one of the disciplines mentioned above.

Community Engaged Learning at University: the university experience beyond your degree programme, Monday 7th September, event timings tbc

Your university experience consists solely of your degree programme – we think otherwise. This is an exploration of the various student-led initiatives available to university students, its importance and its added value to your university experience.

Applying to Oxbridge: the Ins and Outs, Monday 7th September, event timings tbc

Just starting the university application process and considering applying to Oxbridge? Partnering up with InisdeUni, this is the ideal introduction to the Oxbridge application process, how best to prepare and the support available to prospective applicants.

Student Panel B: Sciences (Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Medicine and Tech), Tuesday 8th September, event timings tbc

Considering a degree in the Sciences but unsure of what to expect? Join us for a panel discussion on the university experience whilst studying one of the disciplines mentioned above.

Preparing for Higher Education During a Time of Global Pandemic: You Are Not Alone, Tuesday 8th September, event timings tbc

An interactive presentation led by Preparing for Higher Education Mentor at Brightside on the support available for the students who are currently considering their higher education options. Ideal for both parents and secondary school students, the session will shed light on university applications and the transition to higher education.