Oxford’s Department of Physics is partnering with the Institute of Physics to offer a brand new programme of tutoring and mentoring to local school students who want to study physics at university. The 14-month programme, Levelling Up: Physics, will provide 40 sixth-formers with a programme of dedicated physics tuition from a specialist A-level tutor. The students will also be part of a mentoring programme run by the Department of Physics; students will be paired with undergraduate physicists who can provide insight into what it’s like to study physics at university. In addition, the Department of Physics will be opening its doors to the students (either online or in-person) through a series of visits and events over the course of the programme.
Be the first to find out more
Students who are currently in Year 12, who think they might like to take part in the programme are invited to fill in an expression of interest form now. More information and the expression of interest form can be found here: https://www2.physics.ox.ac.uk/levellingup. Applications for the programme will open in the next few weeks, and we will send the application form directly to anyone who has filled in an expression of interest. Although they may wish to discuss the programme and their application with a teacher, applications should come from individual students. We will also be approaching local schools shortly to ask teachers to encourage their students to apply.
How physics can open doors
Levelling Up: Physics, which is part of the national Levelling Up: STEM programme, is being launched in physics departments in three universities in 2021 – Oxford, Durham University and the University of Birmingham – with the generous support of Oxford alumnus Dr Tony Hill. Levelling Up: Physics recognises that physics opens doors to many different careers including engineering, video games development and finance, as well as physics research. The programme will therefore encourage candidates to view opportunities in physics in their broadest possible context.
Inspiring the next generation
‘It is incredibly important to us to be part of this innovative and collaborative national programme,’ comments Dr Sian Tedaldi who heads up the Department of Physics’ award-winning outreach work. ‘Inspiring the next generation is one of our primary objectives and this programme is a great example of sustained, active engagement that could make a real difference to students’ lives. We are extremely grateful for the generous funding from an Oxford alumnus too.’