Student Support
Supporting our students is our priority at University Studies no matter what point of the Higher Education journey they are at.
We offer support right from enquiry through to our students moving on into employment or progressing in their career as our alumni. The following constitutes our Student Support Framework that is there to ensure that we are providing a proactively inclusive, caring, and supportive student experience.
We understand that every person has different needs, so while you will enjoy excellent teaching and support from your departmental lecturers, we also have a team of people on hand specifically to help you outside of your formal learning, both academically and with those personal issues that arise for all of us from time to time. It may be that you need some guidance on the best way to improve your work, or that the transition to Higher Education has left you feeling a bit uncertain. Perhaps you have a specific learning need that means you require some extra help, or you are worried about how you will be able to combine studying with your current commitments. Whatever it is, we will work with you closely to design solutions that work for you. We want everyone to be able to access Higher Education, and our team will work tirelessly to make it happen for you.
The Student Hub
The Student Hub is located at the back of the main hangar space and the staff are available to all students to assist with any enquiries you may have whilst you complete your studies. Ask about pastoral support, fee advice, timetable information, room access, policy or procedure help and enrolment or anything else that will help you with student life.
If you are not on site you can still ask US on
01284 716341 or at universitystudiessupport@easterneducationgroup.ac.uk
Returning to Education
Whilst several of our students come to us straight from college, many of those who have graduated through University Studies started their Higher Education journey later in life.
If you are starting a degree after a break from education, we understand that you may be worried about managing existing commitments alongside your studies. We want to reassure you that we will do our very best to support you, whatever your circumstances. We already have several measures in place, such as our Personal Progress Tutors; our Intelligent Timetabling - which keeps you tuition sessions together to help you manage childcare or work; and Academic Skills Advisor.
Above all, we will help you manage your studies by treating you as an individual. It is a benefit of our small size. Whatever your circumstances might be, we can work closely with you to make sure you have every opportunity to thrive.
Many of our mature learners start their Academic journey by completing an Access to Higher Education course as this can help them gain the qualifications they need to go on to a full degree. Find out more about the courses we have on offer below:
Student Support Framework
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Within the Student Support Framework there is a specialist Inclusive Learning Coordinator who co-ordinates support and information for all students whose disability, SpLD or physical or mental health difficulty is impacting on their ability to achieve their academic potential and make the most of the opportunities available at USWSC. You may have declared a disability, SpLD, or mental health difficulty on your application form and already made contact with the Disability Support Advisor prior to your arrival to discuss any particular requirements you have. If not, do not hesitate to contact the service at any time while you are studying at US, if you require advice, practical assistance or support for your studies.
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The Personal Progression Tutors (PPTs) works as a point of contact outside of the Welfare Team solely focused on supporting you. The PPTs will help with any problems that may arise during your time studying with us:
Assisting with the transition from FE to HE
Managing your workload
Accessing counselling
Providing a supportive ear outside your course
Information on learning, academic and financial support
Sarah Ellison - Personal Progress Tutor
Trained in advice and guidance, disability, financial support and mental health awareness, I work with students to ensure that they are fully supported pastorally. I am committed to enhancing student experience through the promotion of an inclusive and holistic approach to learning, providing support and signposting to other support agencies to ensure academic success and raise student aspirations and progression.
Having completed my own degree as a mature student, I am appreciative of the learning journey that students undertake and am keen to ensure that pastoral support is an integral element of this study experience.
It is a privilege to watch our students grow confidence, self-belief and ambition as they progress on their degree journey.
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Student Representatives (Student Reps) are the voice of their cohort. Their role involves gathering feedback to be discussed at the student council meetings and share with staff so that we can make positive improvements to make University Studies as inclusive and accessible for everyone. If you are interested in becoming a Student Rep, please universitystudies@easterneducationgroup.ac.uk
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Whether you’ve been away from study for a little while, just need a refresher or want to boost your grades, our Academic Skills Advisor is on hand to help.
They are separate from your Personal Academic Tutor and your Personal Progress Tutor and are there to support you with skills like time management, giving presentations, revision, academic writing style or referencing – all the essentials that are necessary for reaching your potential and getting the most out of your studies.
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Good mental health is essential for a happy, balanced life. We know student life can be tough for many, so we have implemented several support systems to help you maintain good mental health during your time with us.
Mental health support can be accessed via our Student Welfare team. The Personal Progress Tutors can refer you to them.