Uncover Engineering Programme inspires future engineers from across the UK

Designed to encourage talented young people from under-represented backgrounds to consider degrees and careers in engineering, the programme gave students the opportunity to experience life as an Oxford undergraduate while taking part in engineering activities, workshops, demonstrations and discussions.

Across the two four-day residentials, students stayed in undergraduate accommodation at Trinity College and St Hugh’s College, helping them experience college life first-hand while building friendships and tackling engineering challenges together. Students travelled to Oxford from across the country, including York, South Wales, Norfolk and Bournemouth. For many, it was their first time away from home.

“This programme helped me to understand that despite your background, you can do anything.”

The selected cohort reflected the programme’s focus on widening participation and supporting students who may face barriers to higher education. Of the students who took part, 58% were eligible for free school meals and 45% had no immediate family experience of university. The programme had a significant impact on students’ confidence and aspirations, with the proportion of participants who felt a career in engineering was for them more than doubling, rising from 23% before the programme to 52% afterwards.

Feedback from students highlighted the impact the programme had on their confidence and future ambitions. One student said:

“I loved the different activities, and it has definitely changed my mind about engineering!”

Parents also shared positive feedback following the residential experience. One parent commented:

“Following the course, her aspiration is to study engineering at Oxford. Whether or not she achieves this, she clearly sees herself as a future engineer.”

The Department would like to thank Trinity College and St Hugh’s College for hosting students and providing a welcoming and inclusive residential experience. Thanks also go to the Oxford Robotics Institute for providing robot demonstrations during the programme, and to the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management for its invaluable financial support.

To learn more about the Department’s Access and Outreach work, including upcoming events and opportunities for schools and young people, visit the Department’s Support for Schools and Young People pages. Organisations interested in supporting future programmes can also contact outreach@eng.ox.ac.uk.