IntoUniversity

IntoUniversity works to provide local support that can break cycles of disadvantage and open up new opportunities for young people. Believing in the talent of every young person, they do not limit their support to those young people who have been labelled ‘bright’ or ‘gifted’. They believe that, with support, every young person can progress to an excellent post-school destination and are committed to helping them on this journey.

Each local centre offers an innovative programme that supports young people aged seven and up to realise their ambitions, achieve their academic potential, develop vital skills and gain experience of the world of work. Started in 2002, the IntoUniversity network has grown to 46 centres across England and Scotland – from Newcastle to Norwich and East Ham to Edinburgh – supporting over 50,000 young people each year. From the original cohort of 17 students which made up the first IntoUniversity intake, they have worked with 250,000 young people - that's 250,000 ambitions sparked, and 250,000 futures shaped.

Find a centre.

Read about IntoUniversity's impact.

The Explore Oxbridge programme in partnership with IntoUniversity supports students to develop skills, explore their academic interests, prepare their university applications, and learn more about the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford.

It is currently delivered through a mixture of in-person and virtual delivery, as well as incorporating day trips and residential trips. While most of the programme is delivered through group workshops and webinars, students who are currently in their final year at school are offered personalised one-to-one support with their applications.

IntoUniversity Oxford South East is the first centre in Oxford, opened in partnership with Christ Church, the University of Oxford and The Queen’s Trust. 

The multi-stranded programme includes after-school Academic Support sessions helping young people with their school work; one-to-one mentoring opportunities with university students or corporate volunteers; a series of aspiration-raising workshops in partnership with local schools, universities and businesses; and career insight opportunities, including insight sessions and work experience.

Academic support (Ages 7-18)
At each centre, IntoUniversity staff provide sessions of structured academic study after school, helping students age 7-18 to develop effective study skills. Students have access to essential resources that they may not have at home such as books, university prospectuses and computers, as well as trained staff and volunteers.

Primary students may also study a tailored, termly curriculum which is based on university degree subjects. Each ‘degree’ covers key National Curriculum/Curriculum for Excellence numeracy and literacy learning objectives.

Secondary students may also complete projects as part of the ‘Future Readiness Award’ where they develop the meta-cognitive skills necessary to become independent learners. Past projects have supported students to create bold presentations and take part in lively debates.

The FOCUS Programme (Years 3-6/P3-P7; 7-13/S1-S6)
IntoUniversity offers Primary and Secondary schools a programme of free immersive educational activities and workshops. These support students’ aspirations, attainment and development of key skills that promote success at school and beyond. Young people participate in the FOCUS programme either in school, at a corporate partner or at a local IntoUniversity learning centre.

Find out how your school can get involved.

Mentoring (Years 6-12/P6-S4/5)
IntoUniversity students are matched with volunteers who act as positive role models and provide opportunities for the mentees to develop their social skills, explore future options and improve academic attainment. Young people benefit from regular one-to-one support from a role model who can offer invaluable advice and guidance.

In Years 6-12/P6-S4/5, students are paired with a university student who helps them create and work towards their goals.

In their final year of school, students are paired with a corporate mentor who offers support with the transition from the final year of school through to university.