Students explore their options for the future at higher education fair

More than 10,000 young people attended the fair.

More than 10,000 young people from schools across Beds, Bucks, Herts, Nottinghamshire and Milton Keynes took part in a two day higher education fair held at the University of Bedfordshire.

Hosted at its Bedford campus on Monday and Tuesday (June 22 and 23), there were more than 150 stands from higher education institutions with representatives available to answer questions from potential students.

There were also people from the National Careers Service, the Army and National Citizen Service.

Head of student recruitment at the university David Seaton said: “UCAS conventions are the only opportunity students have to explore a variety of post-18 options in one setting.

Higher education fair at Bedfordshire University.

“They’re a chance to get some face time with admissions staff and subject specialists, find out what life’s like on and off campus, and discover what else is on offer when your exams are done and dusted - volunteer work, gap year adventures, and the big wide world of work.”

There were also a number of presentations running throughout the two days, including those about student life and finance.

Students could also attend talks on sports, nursing, English, engineering, criminology and medicine.

Other presentations covered applying to Oxford and Cambridge and the opportunities available with a law degree.

There was also the chance to find out about studying in Scotland.

“Whether that is joining the army, going to college or onto university, the fair provided the perfect opportunity for everyone to get a thorough knowledge of their next step,” said David.

In addition to the seminar programme and exhibition, there was a live music festival, featuring local band the Toffees, as well as music acts from local schools.