Thomas Transition Programme

The Thomas Transition Programme (TTP) aims to increase self confidence and reduce some of the pressure felt about the final stages of Year 11 and summer exams. It will also support students with decisions about life after Year 11, providing workshops and advice about making the best choices for the future. As the Programme is delivered by the University of Leeds, the students will work closely with the link member of staff from the University’s Contextual Outreach Team. They will also meet and work with current students studying at the University, who will support sessions and be able to talk to TTP students about what it’s really like to go from Year 11, through post-16 education, and on to university study.

 To recruit bright students and support them through Year 11

 To encourage students to go on to post 16 education

 To support their transition to Year 12 by providing information regarding FE providers in the area and courses available, raising aspirations and achievements, and broadening horizons

·To advise students about making appropriate and sensible course choices for post 16 study

Workshops are delivered in school to increase confidence with revision and exam preparation. These sessions will also support students in planning for the future and life after Year 11. Teachers are able to select the most appropriate sessions for their students from the following activity menu:

Activity One - Informed Choices (Pathways & Progression)

Activity Two - Learning Styles & Revision Skills

Activity Three - Exam Preparation

Activity Four - Interview Skills

Activity Five – Time Management

Activity Six - Self Management (Goal Setting & Pressure)

Activity Seven - UCAS: Courses, Courses, Courses!

Activity Eight– Stress Management

Students are given the opportunity to experience life as a university student by taking part in a residential stay at the University of Leeds. Students have their own bedroom for the night in one of our on-campus Halls of Residence. They will discover what it is like to live in university accommodation, meet new people from other TTP schools and gain insight into the all round student experience.

During the day, students take part in a variety of activities designed to highlight the extracurricular aspects of university life. There is plenty of opportunity to speak with and get to know our university students who support the residential event. In the evening there will be a social event to encourage students to mix with people from other schools and have fun. This experience is the perfect way to find out more about the realities of university life, as well as to unwind after GCSE examinations.

The residential is free of charge and includes transport to the University, accommodation and all meals / refreshments.

‘I feel a lot more confident about going on to further education and I have also made some great new friends’

‘Having experienced university and feeling part of the University of Leeds I am inspired and motivated to go’

‘I really enjoyed my time on the residential and the student hosts were fantastic!’

‘I feel privileged to be one of the individuals selected; it’s given me a good insight into university life and I strongly recommend this project’