Care Leaver Brochure

‘ACCESS TO’

SUPPORTING STUDENTS Subject Focused Programmes FROM A LOOKED AFTER BACKROUND

Pocket Guide

for S5 and S6 Pupils

COMING TO RGU? University is a great time to explore areas of study in more depth and meet new friends. RGU wants to make the transition period of coming to university a positive experience and one where you do not have to be worried about your past holding you back or your concerns about your future becoming an obstacle.

WHO IS OUR SUPPORT FOR? RGU is proud to have been awarded the Buttle UK Quality Mark to demonstrate our on-going commitment to supporting students from a looked after background. Anyone who has been looked after at any point and for any length of time, whether by a local authority or through kinship care can access the services and support available. RGU has a range of services and support packages available that are designed to make your transition a positive one.

HOW DO YOU GET SUPPORT? The university’s dedicated care leaver adviser can provide support as and when you need it and in a different number of ways, whether it is just a quick chat about your progress or getting help with your finances or accommodation. Additionally, RGU can provide; • • • • • • •

Assistance with your application to the University Financial assistance to attend interviews, selection visits and Open Days Consideration for inclusion in our contextualised admission process A free enrolment support pack including travel support 365 day accommodation in student halls for first year students with a 20% reduction in cost Advice on external financial support Other support includes counselling, disability services, help with employment opportunities and careers and academic support.

UCAS Care Leaver Tick box It is important to tick the box on the UCAS application form to identify yourself as a Care Leaver.

This information is confidential and will only be used in a positive way to open doors to all of this additional support at university.

CONTACT If you would like a chat with the care leaver adviser about anything specific or would just like some more information, you can call 01224 263048 or email access@rgu.ac.uk. Our adviser is based in the Faculty of Health & Social Care; just ask at the Student Help Point on level 3 if you would like to meet in person to discuss any issues.

You can find out more information by following the link below. http://www.rgu.ac.uk/current-students/student-services-and-support/care-leaver-support You may also find the Higher Education Handbook for Care Leavers useful. This can be downloaded at the link below. http://www.thewhocarestrust.org.uk/data/files/H.E.Handbook_2014_Scotland.pdf

Robert Gordon University, a Scottish charity registered under charity number SC013781 Produced by The Gatehouse: Design and Print Consultancy at Robert Gordon University•44960JE