Upcoming Events and Support, Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford

The Department of Engineering Science at the University of Oxford offers a wide range of events and support programmes to help young people explore their interest in engineering. These events are specially designed for students, teachers, and parents to understand what engineering at Oxford is all about. From school resources to residential programmes, open days, and access events, there are many opportunities to engage with the world of engineering at one of the top universities in the world.

Key Upcoming Events and Support Programmes

Uncover Engineering

• Target Group: Year 10 students who are female or of Black African and Caribbean heritage
• Duration: 4 days of residential stay in a college at Oxford
• Focus: Explore maths and physics through engineering-based activities
• Activities: Workshops, hands-on engineering tasks, evening social events
• Goal: Offer real insight into university life and engineering as a subject

Features of Uncover Engineering

Aspect	Details
Eligibility	Year 10 students (female or Black heritage)
Location	Oxford college and Department of Engineering Science
Main Focus	Maths and Physics in Engineering
Additional Activities	College stay, formal dinner, social events
Organised By	Oxford University’s Department of Engineering Science

Open Days

• Purpose: Help future students explore what it’s like to study engineering at Oxford
• Events Included: Taster lectures, live demonstrations, departmental tours
• Audience: Students, parents, carers, and teachers
• Availability: Open to everyone; participants can stay for a short visit or the whole day
• Student Support: Talks by current students to share their experience

Activities During Open Days

Activity	Details
Taster Lectures	Academic sessions with real university lecturers
Lab Demonstrations	Interactive demos to understand engineering projects
Department Tours	Walk-through of labs and learning spaces
Information Sessions	For parents and carers on student life and admissions
Peer Insights	Current students share tips and personal journeys

International Women in Engineering Day – 23 June

• Purpose: Celebrate and encourage the involvement of women in engineering
• Audience: Students of all ages, especially girls interested in STEM
• Event Type: Special sessions highlighting female engineers and their research
• Activities: Presentations, hands-on projects, Q&A sessions
• Impact: Inspire the next generation of female engineers by showcasing role models

Focus Areas of the Event

Focus Area	Details
Research Showcases	Highlight female-led engineering research at Oxford
Career Talks	Real-life experiences of working as a female engineer
Student Participation	Engagement opportunities for all age groups
Educational Support	Learning more about engineering pathways and university admissions

UNIQ Access Programme

• Target Audience: UK state school students from under-represented backgrounds
• Selection: Students with strong academic performance and limited university exposure
• Format: Summer schools, online support, university-style learning
• Objective: Improve diversity and access at Oxford by helping capable students
• Success Rate: Many UNIQ students receive Oxford offers annually

Components of UNIQ

Component	Details
Eligibility	UK state school students with high academic potential
Activities	Oxford-style lectures, tutorials, and workshops
Support Provided	Application advice, subject guidance, and mentoring
Accessibility	Prioritised for those from low-income or under-represented backgrounds
Outcome	Increased chances of receiving an Oxford offer

Graduate Access Programmes

• Target Group: Prospective postgraduate students from under-represented communities
• Support Provided: Application help, funding guidance, mentoring
• Collaboration: Departments and colleges work together to support diversity
• Purpose: Ensure equal opportunities for all talented students, regardless of background
• Long-Term Goal: Improve inclusion and participation in Oxford’s graduate programmes

Graduate Support Features

Feature	Details
Mentorship	Guidance by current postgraduates and staff
Application Advice	Step-by-step support for postgraduate applications
Financial Help	Information on scholarships and funding options
Inclusivity Focus	Promoting equal access to advanced education
Programme Outcome	Encouragement for students to pursue engineering research

Resources for Schools and Applicants

• For Teachers: Resources to support gifted students in exploring engineering
• For Students: Tools, activities, and information about Oxford’s engineering courses
• Online Materials: Videos, reading lists, and virtual labs for classroom use
• Objective: Create awareness about opportunities in engineering and how to access them
• Result: Stronger engagement with potential applicants at an early stage

School Engagement Resources

Resource	Description
Lesson Plans	Curriculum-linked material for school teaching
University Guides	Simple guides explaining Oxford courses and life
Activity Packs	Engineering challenges and experiments for classroom use
Outreach Videos	Recorded talks and lab walkthroughs
Support for Teachers	Email and event support to encourage student applications

Final Analysis

The Department of Engineering Science at Oxford continues to build inclusive, educational experiences that support both students and educators. Each event, from Uncover Engineering to Open Days and UNIQ, is designed to nurture talent and interest in engineering. These programmes make it easier for diverse and talented students to see a future at Oxford, while also helping teachers and parents guide young minds towards engineering. Through active engagement, hands-on learning, and real university exposure, Oxford aims to ensure engineering is seen as an exciting and reachable goal for everyone.