Careers and Pathways

Exploring Your Future: Why University Workshops and Open Days Matter for Year 10, 11, and 12 Students

As high school students approach the final years of their secondary education, the decision of what comes next can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you’re in Year 10, 11, or 12, attending university workshops and open days can be one of the most important steps you take in preparing for your future. These events offer a unique opportunity to explore study options, meet university staff and students, and get a real feel for campus life.

Here’s why you should make the most of these events—especially if you’re in Year 10 or 11—and why Year 12 students still have a lot to gain by attending, even in their final year.

For Year 10 and 11 Students: Explore Early, Choose Wisely

1. Year 12 Will Be Busy – Use Your Time Wisely Now

Year 12 is often the most academically intense year of high school. With major assessments, exams, and other pressures mounting, you might find it difficult to attend open days or take time out to explore different university pathways. That's why Years 10 and 11 are the perfect time to start attending these events. You have more time and mental space to think deeply about your interests, compare courses, and research institutions before the pressure builds.

2. Discover Your Interests

You don’t need to have it all figured out yet. University open days and workshops allow you to explore a wide range of disciplines—from business and engineering to arts and health sciences. Attending early can spark interest in areas you’ve never considered and help you begin narrowing down your options based on what truly excites you.

3. Make Informed Subject Choices

Your subject choices in Year 11 and Year 12 can directly impact your eligibility for certain university courses. By exploring early, you can learn which subjects are prerequisites for your dream course and ensure your academic pathway aligns with your goals. This avoids last-minute surprises and keeps more options open for your future.

4. Build Confidence and Motivation

Visiting a university campus and participating in workshops can make university feel real and achievable. Meeting current students and lecturers, seeing facilities, and learning about student life can build your confidence and help you see yourself thriving in that environment.

For Year 12 Students: It’s Not Too Late

If you're in Year 12, you might already feel the pressure of exams, university applications, and the looming finish line. But attending open days and workshops can still be incredibly valuable at this stage.

1. Final Confirmation of Your Choices

You might already have a course or university in mind, but physically visiting the campus and speaking with current students can solidify—or shift—your decision. An open day might be the confirmation you need to know you're on the right path, or it could open your eyes to a better fit.

2. Application and Admission Advice

Open days often provide valuable sessions on how to apply, write personal statements, meet entry requirements, and understand admission processes. You’ll get the latest updates and tips directly from university staff, which can give you an edge when applying.

3. Learn About Support Services and Scholarships

From academic support and wellbeing services to scholarships and accommodation options, there’s a lot that goes into university life beyond just choosing a course. Attending events now gives you the chance to ask detailed questions and prepare fully for what lies ahead.

Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Future

No matter what year you're in, university workshops and open days are opportunities to explore, ask questions, and shape your academic journey.

• If you're in Year 10 or 11, don’t wait until Year 12 to start thinking seriously about your future. Now is the perfect time to explore your options with less pressure and more time to reflect.
• If you're in Year 12, make the most of the events still available to you. Use them to refine your choices, get practical application advice, and feel confident in your next steps.

Remember, the earlier you start exploring, the better prepared and more confident you’ll be when it’s time to make big decisions. So take that first step—attend a university open day or workshop, and start building the future you want.

University Events in May 2025

University Open Days