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Widening participation

Discovery

Discovery supports autistic young people to build confidence and learn more about university in a neuro-affirming environment.

Applications for the Discovery Summer School are open now

Our programmes tailored support for autistic young people create an inclusive space where everyone can thrive.

No formal diagnosis is required, just come as you are and explore opportunities designed with your needs in mind.

[My favourite part of Discovery was] meeting people with similar interests and also struggles (socially) - not having to mask all the time.

Discovery weekly sessions participant

Read more about the different opportunites available below:

Weekly mentoring sessions bringing participants together on campus. In addition to developing key skills to thrive at university, participants will:

  • meet current university students
  • get student help, tips and tricks
  • learn about university life
  • receive support from the neurodiverse community

Sign up to our mailing list to be notified when applications open.

Applications are usually open between November and January.

Applications are open now

A three-day residential experience where participants stay in student halls, attend skill-building sessions, manage a budget, cook meals, and engage in social activities. With support from student ambassadors, they gain confidence and insight into university life.

You can find out more on our Discovery Summer School page.

A campus visit for young people in school years 12 and 13 who may find the traditional Open Day environment overwhelming.

The day includes:

  • talks about applying for and being at university
  • Q&A sessions to give you an insight into university life
  • campus tours

Episodes of our podcast, University, Autism and You, are available where outreach staff and current university students offer insights and advice to help autistic students prepare for university life.

Supporting autistic students at Undergraduate Open Days

During Open Days, autistic students are given the opportunity to access a quiet area to plan their day, with refreshments and staff available to support them.

We can also offer:

  • a lunch voucher that can be spent at a University café on campus
  • a student ambassador to walk around with for the day or to take students on a tour of the campus

An email with more details will be sent to students who have signed up for an Open Day via the main Open Day sign up form.

Contact us

If you have any questions or would like further information about any of the above, please get in touch:

Widening participation and outreach team