A newly announced agreement due to go live in spring 2024 will enable those with an account on the UCAS Hub to explore, interact with and sample university subjects, courses and work experience online for the first time before they apply.
The collaboration will bolster UCAS and Springpod’s joint missions to support students in exploring their future options and, as a free service, improve social mobility by broadening horizons, removing barriers and widening access to higher education, apprenticeships and the world of work irrespective of background or location.
UCAS research has highlighted the importance of making students aware of their choices from as early as primary school through personalised information, advice and guidance.
The report found the majority of students (83%) decided on their degree subject before choosing their university or college. When making their decision, 73% chose a subject they enjoyed, while 54% pursued a course with good career prospects, with disadvantaged students more likely to be motivated by employability.
By logging into their UCAS Hub, students will have virtual access to:
- Subject spotlights: Interactive university course tasters which feature real-life lectures, seminars and academics, giving prospective students the opportunity to experience a variety of degree subjects that they may be considering studying.
- Work experiences: Immersive and informative virtual work experiences with leading employers such as the NHS, Network Rail and Airbus. These incorporate real workplace activities – from attending a live surgery to designing a lunar landing module – and the chance to speak with, and hear from, industry professionals.
Over 300,000 young people have enrolled in a Springpod programme in the past 24 months, and the platform is used by students in over 4,000 schools across the country. Overall, 80% of students who have taken part in a Subject Spotlight, say it gave them a better perception of that degree and has led to them considering applying – with 62% more interested in attending an open day.
As well as giving an insight into university, the practical, task-based learning programmes help to boost employability skills and better prepare students for work – 99% of those completing Springpod’s programmes rate the awareness of careers in their chosen industry as good or excellent. Students receive certificates of completion from universities and employers which they can evidence on their personal statements.
UCAS Chief Executive (Interim) Sander Kristel said: “This is a fantastic innovation offering all students with a UCAS Hub account the opportunity to explore their next steps through free virtual experiences of university and work life.
“Through this exciting new collaboration with Springpod, we are delivering on the recommendations set out in our ‘Where Next’ report, embedding accessible careers education earlier in the process of student decision-making. This will be fundamental in further supporting students in making informed decisions based on their future dreams and aspirations while enabling us to provide deeper, richer insight to universities, colleges and industry employers wanting to reach and engage with young people on their next steps.”
Springpod Founder and Chief Executive Sam Hyams said: “Springpod aims to inspire and empower the next generation by helping them to select and secure their brightest future, which is why we’re excited to introduce virtual career and course experiences to the hundreds of thousands of young people applying through UCAS.
“Our programmes enable young people to try a career or subject before they apply, increasing understanding, confidence and outcomes. Our aim is to ensure young people achieve their brightest future and together, with UCAS, we can help to educate, upskill and prepare young people to take their future into their own hands.”
