Students from Aureus School in Didcot took part in a day of music and dance activities during a visit to Buckinghamshire New University, where they also gained an insight into university life.
A group of 27 pupils from Years 8 to 10 attended the visit to the university’s High Wycombe campus, participating in workshops designed to introduce them to performing arts and future education opportunities.
During the day, students joined a dance workshop led by third-year university students and also recorded a song in the university’s professional studio facilities.
“They took part in a dance workshop led by third-year students,” said Alison Burbage, Head of Global Citizenship and Personal Development at Aureus, which is part of GLF Schools.
“They performed a song in the recording studio, and students were able to see the equipment in the studio and how this was done. Listening back to the song was a memorable moment, and seeing all the students participate in the dance.
“It was very enjoyable, and it was really useful to see what a university is like.”
The visit marked the third time Aureus students have travelled to the university, with the trip taking place every two years as part of the school’s wider enrichment programme.
Mrs Burbage said experiences outside the classroom help pupils understand the opportunities available after secondary school and expose them to facilities not normally available at school.
“Trips like this are really important, as it enables students to see what options they have after school,” continued Mrs Burbage.
“They benefit the students, as it enables them to take part in different activities that they don’t get to at school. For example, we don’t have the recording facilities that they have, so it was really interesting for them to see this.”
She added that the workshops are intended to build confidence, encourage ambition and give students practical experience in creative subjects.
“The idea is to enable students to participate in performing arts workshops in dance and music, and to see what the inside of a university looks like, and to encourage them to aim higher,” she added.
“It also gives them aspirations for their future.”
