New Beginnings University of East London Me – English language BA Hons; Level one skills module for Cass School of Education and Communities; New Beginnings

New Beginnings Is … Twelve week intensive study skills course, designed to build on existing skills, knowledge and experience. Is not … GCSE level two English equivalent Academic subject content rich Applicable to non-UEL courses

Demographics Traditional mature learners Non-traditional mature learners Traditional young learners Non- traditional young learners Who comes to NB Trad mature – working, transferable skills Non-trad - long term unemployed/home maker responsibilities Trad young learners - traditional but ‘missed’ their opportunity Non- trad Young learners - disaffected from learning Links – lacking confidence, can’t get into uni without long learning process – possibly unnecessary – repeat A levels, do an access course – all want to move their life on – excited and anxious – want to succeed but don’t know how to start.

Selection Process Admissions process Potential interview assessment Written comprehension task Understanding instructions Being able to articulate themselves sufficiently clearly for us to be able to manipulate into an academic writer.

During the Course Nurturing and pastoral care Controlled release into student services/facilities Nurturing and pastoral care - Supportive, scaffolded learning, guided to independence, continuous positive outlook – even when being critical. Senior lecturers, support of school and staff, mantra = Small steps – big achievements – permanently positive For the students plug in and switch on.

Course Content Weekly sessions Basic study and transferable skills Facilities and services support 12 weeks of 3 hours plus VLE application forms and money advice

After the Course Confident independent students Those that do not complete Those that do not pass Confident independent students - undergraduate programmes Contacted and counselled – HE is not for everyone – some drop out – better from NB than an undergrad course. Or refer back to our advise centre for GCSE, A levels, Access courses

Q&A Caroline McGlynn Senior Lecturer & Programme Leader Cass School of Education and Communities University of East London Water Lane Stratford London E15 4LZ cmcglynn@uel.ac.uk