At Christ Church we are proud to offer a range of foundation degrees to support students to access the degree of their choice and future careers opportunities.
A foundation year is the first year of a four-year course which:
- provides a great introduction to studying at University and to a subject you want to explore
- offers you a highly supportive environment where you can develop the self-confidence, knowledge, skills and understanding for further study
- takes your individual circumstance into account
I did not regret coming on a foundation course as it has prepared me and built up my confidence for going forward with my degree. My advice to new foundation students is to never be afraid to ask questions!
Waheed, Social Work Student
Not every Foundation year is the same, but there are some things that every Foundation year student will have in common. Adult Nursing student Josie explains why a course with a foundation year was the right choice for her and offers some advice to everyone who’ll be following in her footsteps from September.
To prepare for your Foundation Year before you arrive:
- Connect with a Student Peer Mentor: our Student Peer Mentors are current students, trained to provide a safe and confidential space for you to talk freely and ask questions. They can provide reassurance and guidance to help you succeed in your studies, build support networks and feel connected to the wider University community.
- Explore the Learning Skills Hub - there are dedicated online modules to help you get started, as well as support with the basic study skills such as finding information or writing essays
- Understand the language that is used at University as it may be different from what you are used to. We have developed the University jargon busting guide to help you.
And to make the most of your time when you arrive:
- Meet your Personal Academic Tutor: every student is allocated a key named member of academic staff, from their course of study, called a Personal Academic Tutor (PAT). Your PAT provides you with academic support, so together you can identify any skills you need to develop.
- Learn about your Blackboard, the University’s Virtual Learning Environment, providing you with access to your learning materials, resources and services to support your studies.
- Explore the Library and all the resources they offer.