14.12.2005
The students' charity UNIAID, has launched a new online student finance learning tool at the University of Brighton, called 'All About U', to help 16-19 year olds prepare for the challenges of university life.
'All About U' gives users a virtual experience of one year at university. Faced with a series of scenarios, which are fun but mirror the challenges and decisions they will have to make at university, users will learn to balance their time, money, academic goals and social lives. The programme can be played individually online or be incorporated into workshops for students, parents, carers and advisers.
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The launch of 'All About U' at the University of Brighton showing the Minister of State for Higher Education and Lifelong Learning, Bill Rammell MP (left) and Professor Julian Crampton Vice-Chancellor at the University of Brighton (right).
Professor Julian Crampton Vice-Chancellor at the University of Brighton said: "At a time of considerable change in higher education, we should be doing everything we can to give the best information and advice to students who are making their most important investment. 'All About U' aims to help students understand some of the financial challenges they will face and the impact that their choices will have on their life and studies."
"It is also important that students and their parents understand that they will not be paying fees up front. Only when students have graduated, are in employment and earning over £15,000 will they begin to repay their fees. The University of Brighton also has a wide range of bursaries in place for students going to university next year. We anticipate that over half the students coming to Brighton will receive a bursary."
UNIAID aims to help young people overcome financial hurdles to higher education. It provides online information and practical assistance in the form of accommodation bursaries. The 'All About U' programme has been produced with support from HSBC Bank, the Learning and Skills Council and UNITE, the UK's largest student accommodation provider. It was developed by leading e-learning company, Epic, in collaboration with the University College London psychology department and a young award-winning comedy writer.
'All About U' follows UNIAID's first online programme for students called Student Survivor, which has been played by over 900,000 people since its launch in April.
To play UNIAID's online programmes, log on www.uniaid.org.uk.
- The UNIAID accommodation bursary scheme supports 41 students at 22 universities across 13 UK cities.
- UNIAID is supported by HSBC Bank, UNITE Group, Learning and Skills Council, Slough Estates, Workbank and Universities UK.
Contact: Marketing and Communications, University of Brighton, 01273 643022
