Supporting Your Child Through University Life at the University of Bradford

Hi parents/guardians

If your young person is starting their journey with us at the University of Bradford and you have any queries or concerns for them and how best to support them then below is the ultimate guide that covers budgeting, moving away, managing workload and well-being, and settling into University life at Bradford.

Supporting your young person through budgeting

-It is best to sit down with your young person and go over all expenditure such as accommodation, groceries, travel, course materials and social spending. The amazing thing about Bradford is that its usually quite reasonably affordable.

-Make sure to check all the types of financial support your young person might be eligible for, these could be student loans, bursaries or University of Bradford scholarships. More information about funding your studies can be found here: https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=7469167

-Make sure your young person remembers to set up a simple weekly budget by downloading apps such as notion and a budget calendar to help track expenses.

-Also encourage your child to apply for part time work to help with expenses. Bradford definitely has flexible on-campus roles and lots of part-time jobs around the city. They can also visit the careers service who can help them plan their work around their student timetable so it does not clash.

Supporting Your young person through moving away

-Sit down together and research different types of accommodation. FYI, the Green (Bradford’s on-campus accommodation village) is quite popular amongst students because it’s safe, sociable and right next to campus. More information about how your young person can stay safe is can be found here: https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=7469167

-Help them formulate a checklist so they’re not panicking on the day when they are moving out.

-It would be very helpful for you and your young person to visit Bradford and explore the campus area before starting the university. knowing where things like shops, takeaways and bus routes would be very helpful before settling in as the child will be less overwhelmed

Supporting your young person through settling Into University life

-Encourage your young person to participate in things like welcome week. clubs, societies and events. These things would help to make friends and break the ice before starting classes.

Supporting your young person through balancing workload & wellbeing

-Make sure your young person sets realistic expectations. University usually involves more independent learning, reading and time management. It may take slightly longer for them to adjust.

-Recommended planners, digital calendars or assignment trackers to help your young person be more prepared and organised. The library at the University also run different classes such as study skills workshops which can help students organise and manage their workload.

-Make sure your young person is aware of support services the University offer such as wellbeing services, counselling, and the MyBradford team for general help.

-Make sure that you remind your young person to have a good sleeping routine and not to stay up too late. Also make sure they are eating balanced meals and having breaks from screens. it's up to your young person to maintain this routine.

If you have any other queries or concerns then feel free to ask below and we would happy to help! :smile: