Online support for students planning for university

Imran Mojib, Special Correspondent

As students are getting anxious about the transition to undergraduate study during these unprecedented times, a Dubai-based university has developed a new way to support students, particularly those individuals who are keen to go to university in September, as well as their teachers and families.

The University of Birmingham Dubai has introduced a new online resource, which is free to access for students and teachers, and offers two main focus areas - School Zone and Skills4Uni.

School Zone offers free impartial advice and support to students through this transitional period. Recorded webinars include ‘How to Apply to University - UCAS’, ‘Personal Statement Workshops, and ‘Study at University’.

These webinars help students to develop the necessary skills to enable them to submit the most effective and compelling university applications. The portal will be updated every week with new material, taster lectures and information sessions.

Skills4Uni is being offered in conjunction with the University’s UK campus and supports the transition to university education. This interactive resource will help students to get a better idea of what studying at university looks like, and prepare them for the next phase of their academic journey, by getting them used to working independently, advising on how best to research, how to reference and how to identify different styles of delivery.

Thomas Moriarty, Careers and University Advisor, GEMS Wellington Academy Al Khail, said, “Both School Zone and Skills4Uni are excellent online resources. They give our students an impartial solution in gaining the sufficient guidance and support during their transitional stage to university.”

Lianne Brown, Business Studies Teacher and Assistant Head Teacher of Sunmarke School said, “Skills4Uni has proved to be a valuable resource for our students during the current climate. Many students are anxious about the transition to undergraduate study and by using this resource our students now feel better prepared for the next phase of their academic journey. Our students have found the resources on academic integrity, knowing how to research and reference information, particularity useful.”

Prospective students have the opportunity to seek further advice from the University’s team during a series of Virtual Open Days from June 6-9, from 3pm-7pm. This provides students and their families the chance to ask questions about the application process, and the impact of COVID-19 on their application.