The University of Oxford is known worldwide for its academic excellence. The Department of Engineering Science is deeply involved in helping young people, especially those from less-represented backgrounds, to understand and explore engineering. Outreach efforts focus on making engineering education more accessible and ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have equal chances to apply and succeed. Various programmes, visits, and events are organised regularly for school students to introduce them to the world of engineering and encourage them to consider a future at Oxford.
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Outreach Focus of the Engineering Department
- The main aim is to inspire young students to explore engineering as a career.
- Special support is given to students who may face barriers to higher education.
- Collaborations happen with Oxford Colleges, schools, and other university departments.
Key Student Groups Supported
The department focuses on helping students from backgrounds that are often underrepresented in higher education. These include:
- Girls and women interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
- Students from low-income families
- Young carers or those living in care
- First-generation students (whose families have not attended university)
- Children of Armed Forces personnel
- Students from Gypsy, Roma and Irish Traveller communities
- Pupils from schools with a low Oxford admission history
Major Outreach Programmes and Events
The department organises several initiatives to encourage student participation.
Major Programmes and Activities
| Programme/Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Uncover Programme | Department-led outreach to introduce engineering and build student interest. |
| UNIQ | University-wide summer school for state school students. |
| Astrophoria Foundation Year | A One-year course to prepare students for Oxford undergraduate study. |
| Engineering Workshops | Hands-on sessions for school groups on Oxford visits. |
| Lab Tours | Guided visits to Engineering Science labs, when arranged via the link to colleges. |
Details about the Uncover Programme
- Aims to provide insight into studying engineering at Oxford.
- Includes online and in-person sessions.
- Offers guidance on university application processes.
- Encourages direct interaction with current students and academics.
- Covers topics such as entrance exams and interviews.
Support from Oxford Colleges
Oxford Colleges play an important role in the outreach process.
- Each UK region is linked with a specific Oxford College.
- Teachers from UK state schools can contact their region’s college to plan a visit.
- College visits can include Engineering Science activities if requested early.
- Engineering lab tours and workshops depend on coordination with the College.
- Individual visits or private group tours are not allowed due to limited resources.
College Support for State Schools
| Support Type | Availability |
|---|---|
| Regional Link Colleges | Available for all UK state schools based on geographical location. |
| Planning School Visits | Teachers must contact the link college to plan any student visit. |
| Engineering Session Add-on | Can be included in visits if mentioned early to the College during planning. |
| Individual Tours | Not provided for single individuals or private school groups. |
UNIQ Summer School
- Specifically for students from UK state schools.
- Offers free academic sessions, accommodation, and meals.
- Helps students experience life as an Oxford undergraduate.
- Includes subjects such as Engineering, Medicine, and Law.
Astrophoria Foundation Year
- Designed for students with high academic potential but facing barriers.
- Offers a foundation in core subjects before starting an undergraduate degree.
- Helps build confidence and prepare for Oxford’s academic environment.
Continuous Event Cycle
- Events run throughout the year.
- Includes school group visits, open days, online Q&A sessions, and workshops.
- Focus remains on widening access and building enthusiasm for Engineering.
Types of Regular Events
| Event Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Open Days | Gives students and families a chance to learn about the university. |
| Q&A Sessions | Offers direct interaction with staff and students. |
| Online Talks | Helps students from remote areas to access information. |
| Themed Workshops | Covers topics like energy, robotics, or mechanical design. |
| Teacher Training Events | Assists teachers in advising students about Oxford admissions. |
How Engineering Professionals Can Support
The department encourages engineering professionals and companies to support its outreach mission.
- Companies can collaborate by sponsoring events or providing engineers as guest speakers.
- Working professionals can share their career stories with students.
- Financial donations can help expand the outreach to more schools.
Ways to Contribute
| Support Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Corporate Partnership | Companies can partner for workshops or sponsor outreach events. |
| Guest Speaking | Engineers can volunteer to speak during student events. |
| Alumni Donations | Financial gifts help run outreach programmes and offer resources to schools. |
| Volunteer Mentorship | Professionals can guide students preparing for engineering careers. |
Important Contact Information
- Schools should contact their region’s Oxford link college for visit planning.
- Engineering workshop requests must be routed through the college.
- Companies or individuals interested in supporting outreach can email:
outreach@eng.ox.ac.uk
Accessing the Outreach Calendar
- The University of Oxford maintains a calendar listing all outreach events.
- Students, parents, and teachers can check for suitable opportunities.
Benefits for Students
- First-hand exposure to Oxford’s academic environment.
- Confidence-building through interaction with real engineers and professors.
- Useful tips for improving their university applications.
- Increased motivation to aim higher in studies.
The Way Forward
Support for schools and young people is a strong commitment of the Department of Engineering Science at Oxford. Through focused outreach, they help students understand what engineering at Oxford means and how they can become a part of it. These efforts build a more diverse and inclusive academic environment, ensuring that talent is supported, no matter the background.
