What is a foundation year?

CCCU Official

Official Rep

A foundation year is the first year of a four-year course which:

•

provides a great introduction to studying at University and to a subject you want to explore

•

offers you a highly supportive environment where you can develop the self-confidence, knowledge, skills and understanding for further study

•

takes your individual circumstance into account.

If you are returning to education, caring responsibilities can feel like an obstacle, but we understand the issues you may face and at CCCU we are happy to make allowances by extending deadlines and offering extra support where needed.

To prepare for your Foundation Year before you arrive:

•

Connect with current students. Is there a peer mentor programme or a chat to a current student programme online? They can provide reassurance and guidance to help you succeed in your studies, build support networks and feel connected to the wider University community.

•

Explore the universities skill hub - there are dedicated online modules to help you get started, as well as support with basic study skills such as finding information or writing essays. An example of a skills hub is: Learning Skills Hub - Canterbury Christ Church University

•

Understand the language that is used at university as it may be different from what you are used to.

And to make the most of your time when you arrive:

•

Meet your Personal Academic Tutor: At CCCU every student is allocated a key named a member of academic staff, from their course of study, called a Personal Academic Tutor (PAT). Your PAT provides you with academic support, so together you can identify any skills you need to develop.

•

Learn about your virtual learning environment. At CCCU we use Blackboard, the University’s providing you with access to your learning materials, resources and services to support your studies.

•

Explore the Library and all the resources they offer. There are usually a lot more services on offer than you would expect so make sure you ask them.

Whether you're a school leaver or someone considering returning to study, a foundation year course may be just what you’re looking for. You can have a look at our offering using the below link but we know that everyone has different needs when applying for university so make sure you do in depth research to not only the FY course but also the full degree you would like to move onto post the completion of your foundation year.

https://www.canterbury.ac.uk/search/undergraduate-courses?term=foundation%20year

Find out from our students how the foundation year has opened up opportunities and given them the chance to study their perfect course.