HE Toolkit Sessions 25–26

Session 1: Great expectations

This session introduces applicants to the academic and behavioural expectations of Higher Education. Participants will explore what it means to study at a higher level, including the standards of commitment, independence, and organisation required for success. A key outcome is for applicants to develop a personal study schedule that reflects their individual responsibilities and constraints, such as work, childcare, or commuting. Additionally, they will learn how to strategically plan and prioritise coursework to ensure all assignments are completed on time and to the required standard.

Session 2: Study skills 1

In this session, applicants will begin to develop core academic skills by exploring the differences between academic and non-academic reading and writing. The session will highlight how language, structure, and purpose differ across various types of texts. Learners will be introduced to a variety of academic terminology commonly encountered in HE and will practice identifying suitable and credible sources for research. By the end, participants will be better equipped to engage with academic material confidently and effectively.

Session 3: Study skills 2

Building on the previous session, this class focuses on developing the ability to retrieve information from reliable sources and make meaningful notes from it. Applicants will practice scanning texts to extract key points quickly and efficiently, a vital skill for managing academic reading loads. They will also learn about the importance of referencing, gaining an understanding of how to acknowledge sources appropriately to avoid plagiarism and support their academic integrity.

Session 4: Employability

This session aims to connect academic development with career progression by exploring the concept of transferable skills. Applicants will examine how skills gained through HE—such as critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and time management—apply to a wide range of employment contexts. They will also reflect on what employer’s value in different industries and roles, enabling them to better understand how their HE journeys supports long-term employability and career aspirations.

Session 5: Soft skills

In the final session, the emphasis shifts to the development of soft skills, including effective communication and presentation. Applicants will explore how to interpret and respond to verbal and non-verbal cues in academic and professional settings. They will also gain experience in presenting information clearly and confidently using a mix of verbal, written, and digital formats. This session supports applicants in building the confidence and clarity needed to contribute meaningfully to discussions and deliver presentations in HE environments.

These sessions are ideal for prospective University Campus North Lincolnshire applicants looking to build study skills, confidence, and readiness before starting their course with us in September 2025.