Flying Start

We have several targeted projects designed to address known barriers to success experienced by specific groups of students. Initiatives such as Flying Start are mentioned in our Access and Participation Plan. The plan contains examples of some of the ways we are addressing gaps in continuation, attainment, success and progression.

What is Flying Start?

Flying Start is a one-day optional programme that aims to familiarise participants with the basics of academic writing, IT skills for study and study skill knowledge, empowering participants to feel confident when starting the course.

Who would benefit from attending?

The Flying Start programme is designed to address the known barriers to success faced by students and help build study skills confidence to ease the transition to studying at Writtle University College.

The programme is open to any university level student who would benefit, but is primarily aimed at:

• Mature learners who may have had a break from studying (over 21 years old)
• Students with a declared disability who feel they may benefit
• Students planning to study:
  • Certificate Higher Education (CertHE)
  • Foundation Degree (FdSc)
  • Diploma Higher Education (DipHE)
  • Any 'with Foundation Year' degree pathways
• International students

When does it run?

The one-day programme is run on five dates over the summer and offers options to either come to campus if you can, or join online if you prefer.

The on-campus day register your arrival at 9.15am at the Main Reception, Main Building for 9.30am start, with departure options at 2.15pm or 4.00pm.

• Wednesday 23rd August
• Thursday 31st August
• Tuesday 5th September

The format for the online day is 9.30-2.30pm

• Thursday 24th August
• Wednesday 30th August

We are also offering Flying Start to International students for on-campus workshops run 1.30-4pm on the following dates:

• Wednesday 4th October (Undergraduate)
• Friday 6th October (Postgraduate)

How do you sign-up?

Groups are limited to a maximum of 15 to ensure we provide tailored support for all needs. Students holding a firm offer who meet the eligibility criteria will receive an email invitation with an opportunity to book a place on the programme. The programme is free and includes refreshments. Please bring a packed lunch with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to bring?
A pen and a notebook. Course materials will be provided.

Can I get food?
Tea, coffee, water and juice provided, but you will need to either bring a packed lunch or purchase food on-campus [Garden Room or Thyme Out, subject to availability].

What will I learn from Flying Start?
The essentials to writing an academic assignment from understanding the assignment to putting together your reference list.

What will I do on the day?
Learn about writing assignments through lecturers and practical activities. This will be led by members of the WUC Student Success team.

Will I meet people from the course I'm planning to study?
Students on Flying Start are planning to study on all our subject areas, so you may well meet someone who wants to study the same subject as you, but this is not guaranteed.

What's the difference between on campus and online?
The content will be the same for both but the campus sessions will also include to actually study on campus.

What if I can't make any of the dates?
If you can't make any of the dates, please email success@writtle.ac.uk, using the header Flying Start.

Will I get a certificate?
There is no graduation certificate, but a certificate of attendance can be provided on request.

Is this the same a pre-sessional course?
Flying Start is a pre-sessional course that aims to help you prepare for study but it is not a pre-sessional English course, and only students with a suitable level of English can attend. If you require more information, please email success@writtle.ac.uk

Want to know more?

If you have questions about the Flying Start programme, please do not hesitate to get in touch by emailing success@writtle.ac.uk

What students say...

I'm a mature student and was anxious about studying after such a long break from college. The session was incredibly helpful. It answered all the questions I had and eased my mind about starting my course.