Higher Education Conference brings together sector experts to support students' next steps

Opening the conference, Spencer Academies Trust Interim CEO, Kate Green, spoke about the vital role schools play in opening doors to future opportunities for young people. Referencing recent findings from the Milburn Report, she highlighted the challenge facing the education sector, with around one million young people aged 16 to 24 currently not in education, employment or training. She emphasised the importance of ensuring every student has access to the information, support and encouragement needed to make informed decisions about their future.

Susan Sharp, Executive Director of Post-16 at Spencer Academies Trust, welcomed delegates and outlined the purpose of the conference. She shared: “I am so pleased that so many staff attended, with 36 local schools represented. I hope that it will enhance the knowledge and guidance we give our students as they take their next steps. The conference started with an inspiring speech from our CEO Kate Green about the need to open the doors of opportunity and ended with practical advice on how to successfully apply for Medicine. It was wonderful to have such a range of speakers from different universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, Nottingham and Derby. Sam Sykes from UCAS was really inspiring with her obvious passion for raising aspirations in young people. I hope everyone enjoyed the chance to meet other post-16 and careers leads across the East Midlands - the room was buzzing with a spirit of collaboration and community.”

The first session was delivered by Sam Sykes, UCAS Lead for Schools and Colleges, alongside Nicola Turner, Adviser Engagement Partner at UCAS. They explored how UCAS supports students in finding courses that suit their individual strengths, interests and learning styles, helping them make informed decisions about higher education pathways.

The session highlighted the transformative impact of higher education, not only through academic study but also through the development of independence, confidence and life skills. Delegates heard how course structures can vary significantly, with some programmes offering practical, hands-on learning while others are more assessment or examination based.

The speakers also examined current higher education trends and admissions data, discussing how GCSE outcomes can influence university applications, particularly for competitive courses where specific grades may be required. They stressed the importance of helping students understand course content in detail to ensure they choose programmes that genuinely align with their interests and aspirations.

UCAS also highlighted the growing importance of Level 4 and 5 qualifications as valuable progression routes for students who may not yet be ready for a full degree programme. The session addressed concerns around the cost of university, discussed the support available to students and explained the UCAS Clearing process.

The conference then welcomed Rachel Lister, Head of Student Recruitment at the University of Cambridge, and James Riley, Outreach Delivery Co-ordinator at the University of Oxford.

Rachel provided a detailed overview of the university application timeline, helping staff understand when students should begin researching courses and preparing applications.

James focused on personal statements, offering practical advice on how students can effectively communicate their interests, achievements and suitability for a chosen course. He emphasised the importance of selecting a course that is the right fit for the individual and shared guidance on how teacher references can help applicants stand out. He also discussed admissions tests and assessments used by some Oxford courses, explaining how they are designed to challenge and stretch candidates academically.

Representing the University of Derby, Liam Dawson, Head of Schools and Colleges Engagement, showcased the wide range of opportunities available at the institution. He highlighted Derby’s investment in specialist facilities and its strong focus on careers and employability, supporting students both during their studies and as they move into employment.

Delegates also heard about Derby’s partnerships with major employers including Rolls-Royce, Toyota, McDonald’s and the NHS, as well as the university’s degree apprenticeship programmes. Liam introduced the university’s ‘Get Ready for Uni’ initiative, which provides students with practical advice and resources covering everything from independent living and cooking to preparing for academic study.

The conference concluded with Mandy Hampshire, GP and Director of Admissions for the School of Medicine at the University of Nottingham, who provided valuable insight into applying for Medicine. Her session covered UCAT preparation, admissions criteria and what prospective medical students can do to strengthen their applications.

Feedback from attendees reflected the positive impact of the event.

One delegate described the conference as “insightful, practical, immediately applicable and expert-led - a brilliant day of CPD.”

Greg Barker from John Port Spencer Academy said: “The best set of speakers I have seen, so passionate and inspiring. I learnt so much over an afternoon - my head was buzzing with ideas. Thank you.”

Other attendees praised the quality of the conference, with one commenting: “I found the whole event really useful. It was great to be able to attend something of such high quality for free. Thank you for organising and I look forward to attending more events in the future.”

Another added: “The session was informative and supportive. I’d highly recommend attending a session like this in the future; I’ll certainly be wanting to attend.”

By bringing together experts from across the higher education sector, the conference provided school leaders and careers professionals with the latest knowledge, guidance and resources to help more young people access opportunities and achieve their ambitions after sixth form.