The event, led by Sophia from WizeUp, supported by the Jack Petchey Foundation, provided valuable insights into managing money during university life.

Sophia guided students through the essentials of student loans, offering practical advice on budgeting and the repayment process for student loans once they start earning. One significant highlight was the discussion on the rate at which students repay their loans, which can affect their financial planning for years after graduation.

Students learned that having a part-time job while studying can significantly enhance their financial situation. However, Sophia emphasised the importance of balancing work with academic commitments and understanding personal needs and goals when choosing a university.

Parental contributions were also discussed as a potential support mechanism during university. Sophia highlighted that where students choose to study can impact their living costs. For example, studying in a major city may come with higher accommodation expenses compared to a smaller town.

During the workshop, students worked in groups to estimate living expenses for student accommodation, considering factors like location and lifestyle. This hands-on activity helped students gauge realistic costs and plan accordingly.

The interactive session allowed students to ask questions throughout, ensuring they left with a clearer understanding of their future financial responsibilities. Students participated in a questionnaire at the end of the workshop, which consolidated their knowledge.

This visit from Sophia was the second in a series of financial workshops for our students and another step forward in equipping our sixth formers with the financial acumen necessary for university life and beyond.

“We endeavour to provide our students with the power to make informed choices in their lives. Seeing our students be inquisitive, engaging and passionate about their next steps is exciting. I can only apologise to Sophia for the number of questions our students had for her at the end, but it highlights the benefits of working alongside WizeUp to empower our students.” K.McCarthy – Assistant Headteacher – Key Stage 5

At the end of the workshop, the Upper Academy was presented with a Certificate of Participation in Financial Education from Jack Petchey Trustee Ron Mills and C.E.O of WizeUp, Michael Flack

“The workshop really inspired me to research more about the financial costs associated with going to university. Thank you.” Lannissa.B – Year 12

“It was really insightful and helpful with defining the cost of living. I am now more informed about student finance whilst studying at university.” Jenan.A – Year 12

“The workshop was very valuable to me and shed a lot of light about topics I was looking at regarding this process. The visitors were very kind and open to all questions. Overall the workshop was very beneficial and informative.” Harrison.D – Year 12

“This was very useful for me. Before the workshop I was not considering university at all. Now, I believe it is more of an option and I will research it a bit more in my own time. We had the opportunity to ask questions during and after the workshop which was really good.” Angel.G – Year 12

“It was very interactive and useful. It gave me a good insight into the costs of uni and I feel more prepared.” Jayden.L – Year 12

At the end of the workshop, the Upper Academy was presented with a Certificate of Participation in Financial Education from Jack Petchey Trustee Ron Mills and C.E.O of WizeUp, Michael Flack