Levelling Up: Chemistry - Short Programme

A-level students will receive six academic tutoring sessions derived from existing Levelling Up: Chemistry resources. These sessions will be delivered virtually in small tutorial groups of 5, led by students from the host University’s Chemistry department. 

A-level students will also receive four pastoral mentoring sessions derived from existing Levelling Up: Chemistry resources and/or mentoring material from the host University’s Widening Participation team. At least two of these sessions will cover topics related to applying to University (such as personal statements, UCAS applications, etc.). 

In addition, participating Universities should host an on-campus visit for those students participating in the Levelling Up: Chemistry – Short Programme. 

• All learning materials for the programme (which can be adapted by the Host institution). 

• Overview of the programme and general tips and advice for running it. 

• Supporting material for each session (including tutor guidance, Chemistry self-study tasks, and summary documents). 

• Regular community meetings to share experiences with other participating Universities. 

• Setting appropriate eligibility criteria and definitions for ‘underrepresented’ groups, such as, but not limited to, the following: 
  • Students who receive free school meals. 
  • Students whose home address postcode is classified as POLAR4 Quintile 1 or 2. 
  • Students who attend a UK state school. 
  • Students who are care experienced or estranged. 
• Working and engaging with local schools and colleges to recruit A-level students. 
• Selecting approximately 20 A-level students who meet the agreed eligibility criteria. 
• Obtaining appropriate privacy statements and safeguarding documentation for use of online conference platforms. 
• Providing a platform for the sessions with appropriate safeguarding considerations. 
• Appropriately schedule sessions for the duration of the programme. 
• Organising any additional sessions and/or in-person activities. 
• Conducting the recruitment, DBS checks, training and payment of undergraduate tutors. 
• Attend regular National Levelling Up: Chemistry Hub community meetings and events. 

We are pleased to acknowledge financial support for the Levelling Up: Chemistry – Short Programme  from Dr Tony Hill. Funding of up to £2000 per year is available for three years. Existing Levelling Up: STEM schemes have shown that this will cover the cost of delivering the main programme (e.g., paying tutors/mentors). Additional costs such as on-campus visits should be covered by the host Chemistry department.