University Fair: horses for degree courses

Stidents took the opportunity to plan the next stage of their education and future careers at the third annual University Fair staged by the Lady Elizabeth School.

A total of 34 universities from across Spain, the UK and Europe - took stands at the event staged at the senior school on Benitachell’s Cumbre del Sol last week, making it the largest to date.

It is hoped the growing success of the University Fair will encourage more school across the region to send pupils to the event and attract more institutions to take part, creating a centre of excellence at Lady Elizabeth to help give youngsters the best information.

Head of school, Chris Akin told CBN the fair was all about “empowering” students as they looked to move into further education.

“This is all about lighting a spark, to help students to say: ‘Heh! I’m in charge of my own future and want to do this’.”

The event was seen particularly important for sixth formers on their final exam courses - but younger students at the senior school were also able to attend to ask questions and begin to make choices for the future.

“You start to see them take ownership over decisions; you are put into a school by your parents but when you are going to university, it is the kids taking the decision,” said Mr Akin.

“They are going to be empowered; when you are empowered, it is your future. When you make choices, you are going to own it.”

He said the fair allowed youngsters to see what a particular university had to offer, even if they chose to continue their studies elsewhere. “It starts them thinking about university; the questions they should ask and what courses and careers are out there.”