UCAS Days

The Kalisher Trust delivers a Russell Group university experience day for final year A level pupils (Years 12-13) which is stimulating, questioning, and immersive. Generously hosted by Sheffield University, after school exams, the day focuses on Kalisher’s theme of ‘inspiring advocacy’.

The main elements of the day are:

Active university Student Ambassador engagement

Enthusiastic and carefully primed Student Ambassadors from different disciplines, in one minute mini biographies, explain why they chose their degree subjects and what they enjoy about university life. They also conduct a tour of vibrant university student areas in small groups, inviting further discussion in groups and during informal breaks.

UCAS advice

Invaluable UCAS advice is given by higher education experts, with pre- and post- UCAS Days material given to schools. Central to this process is identifying why a subject is of interest, why a particular pupil experience has been pertinent to the course, and why an experienced university admissions tutor might not be impressed by an unfocussed list of achievements. Practical group work ensures that embryonic UCAS form entry models are developed and evaluated.

An ‘inspiring advocacy’ exercise

Chaired by the Chancellor of the University, a Kalisher trustee, and with background material distributed in advance, all pupils take part in a ‘Judicial Inquiry’. Assisted by a Kalisher barrister or judge, pupils in small discussion groups prepare material and each individual is required to stand and deliver pertinent evidence to the inquiry in a strong, confident and persuasive voice.

Very experienced barristers comment on the magnificent way the boys and girls rise to the challenge of defending their group’s position tenaciously in front of complete strangers. Volunteer pupil group leaders are questioned further by the Chancellor to support their arguments.

Time spent in small groups and ongoing support

University undergraduates and university professors answer questions in small groups, or as individuals, about courses and subject development areas. Ongoing support and links for staff and pupils are provided, inviting further contact from pupils and staff.

University law school links

We invite Russell Group university law graduates and undergraduates to help in our education outreach programmes, providing unrivalled opportunities for aspiring barristers to make contact with Kalisher trustees.

Gallery of images:

  • "It was a pleasure working with you and we were also very grateful to your many wonderful colleagues for giving up their time."

    Outreach Officer (Post-16 Engagement)

  • "This was a real team effort and everyone pulled together to ensure the pupils had an excellent experience. Looking forward to working with you again in the future."

    Head of Outreach and Widening Participation

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