School Connect

The School Connect programme works closely with 12 partner secondary schools, engaging pupils across three core projects at key stages, to break down barriers to higher education and support the curriculum by providing Student Mentor role models from a range of subjects. Our activities showcase the breadth of opportunities in higher education, clearly demonstrating their progression routes; to help inform pupils about the diverse range of careers open to them. Senior pupils applying to Glasgow Caledonian University can also access application and transition support to ensure they have the resources to gain the maximum benefit from their university studies.

Options and Choices Project

The options and choices project works with whole year groups of S2 or S3 pupils, as they make their subject choices. Through 12 mini show and tell sessions with GCU students, pupils learn about some routes into professions and how their subjects could be used practically in the future.

Senior school

For S6 pupils aspiring to university study, School Connect provides a series of workshops starting with a half-day of teambuilding activities in early June as pupils start S6, followed by a series of workshops to support the UCAS process and transition to university study. Many of our former pupils become Student Mentors when they commence their studies at GCU.

Success stories

“Taking part in School Connect as a teenager from the East End afforded me tremendous opportunities. Without it, I would not have been able to access higher education nor excelled once here. I have been nominated for countless awards and this can all be traced back to the amazing work that took place in order for me to develop into a young adult. I have been privileged not only to take part but also work for the programme as a student mentor, which is an honour. School Connect taught me that education can be accessed by all and never to be afraid to do better than what’s expected, something that has guided me through my university journey.” (Dean, former pupil and current 3rd year nursing student and student mentor)

The School Connect team also works closely with care experienced young people. For more information please see our support for care-experienced students page.

The School Connect privacy notice can be viewed here - School Connect Privacy Notice V02