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Table 1 Summary of key RO programme elements
Programme elements
Benefits
Students undertake an assessed piece of independent
research in an area of their own interest. This can either
take the form of the Realising Opportunities Academic
Assignment, supported by a university tutor, or the
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) in conjunction
with their school/college.
Students are able to demonstrate their potential to
be successful at a RIU. They undertake independent
research in an area of personal interest to them, and
they develop analytical, critical thinking, and academic
skills including research and referencing.
Students work through an online study skills module
provided by the University of Birmingham. The skills4uni
module has interactive tasks, videos and information
designed to build students’ awareness of RIUs and
increase their skills levels.
skills4uni offers students invaluable insight into the
vibrant teaching and learning on offer at RIUs and
helps students develop skills to be successful at
university.
Students attend a range of events and activities including
the RO Local Launch at their host university and the
RO National Student Conference where students meet
representatives from all Partner universities. Students
are also offered a wide range of events and activities
across the Partnership such as subject taster days,
residential summer schools, master classes and
open days.
The range of events and activities aims to promote
the national feel of RO, and encourage geographic
mobility. Together they are designed to build students’
confidence, foster a sense of belonging to RO, upskill
students, encourage informed choices and raise
awareness of RIUs. Students can attend as many
events as they like. This is a unique opportunity to
visit RIUs across England.
Students have access to a wide range of online
support during their time on RO including access to
RO Ambassadors, regular online chat sessions with
representatives from across the Partnership and, in
Year 13, the opportunity to be linked with a current
undergraduate at one of the RO Partner universities
to provide support and subject insight.
The online support provides students with structured
support covering key topics at key times - such as
student finance, higher education research and UCAS
applications.This support offers students access to the
RO Central Team, host Partner universities and access
to someone with first hand experience of studying at an
RIU and who can answer their questions and offer a
peer perspective and be a positive role model.
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Academic element
skills4uni
Online student support
Events and activities