IntoUniversity Buddy Programme

If you are interested in volunteering for the March session, please contact me at annika.melwani@ucl.ac.uk.

About IntoUniversity

IntoUniversity is an educational charity providing local learning centers where young people are inspired to achieve. At these local learning centers IntoUniversity supports young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to achieve a place at university or another chosen aspiration.

IntoUniversity has two programs: Buddy Days (for Year 8+ students) and FOCUS group days (for Year 6 students). Both of these days include a campus tour and an activity.

Buddy days and FOCUS Graduations

IntoUniversity’s Buddy/FOCUS program is comprised of a half-day workshop in school led by IntoUniversity staff introducing the students to university, which is then followed by a full day trip to a university.
The day at university is led by university volunteers who lead a planned campus tour and an engaging workshop designed in collaboration with IntoUniversity staff. This will take place from 10:30AM - 2:30PM.
Buddy days are usually done with 25-30 year 8 students from one of IntoUniversity’s partner schools. These days will be focussed on Law, and will include an interactive activity. In the past, students have set up a mock courtroom and debated issues affecting young people.
FOCUS days are usually done with 25-30 year 6 students from one of IntoUniversity's partner schools. After the tour, school students will interview university students to hear a first-hand account of life at university. After that, they will have a graduation ceremony and presentation on what they've learnt throughout the week.
University students (buddies) are fully supported by IntoUniversity staff to create their interactive workshop and are never left alone with the school students.

Requirements for this role:

UCL Centre for Access to Justice will be helping to facilitiate these buddy days from 2024-2025. The tentative dates for 2024 will be added to this list over time:

11 October 2024 (Year 6 FOCUS Graduation)
15 November 2024 (Year 6 FOCUS Graduation)
16 January 2025 (Year 12 workshop, Day of University Life)
21 March 2025 (Year 8 Buddy tour)

In order to apply, you must be available for at least one of the above dates. Depending on numbers, you may be asked to participate in multiple buddy days. You will be asked to complete your availability on the application form.

You will also be required to attend an online meeting with a member of IntoUniversity staff a week before each session. During this session, you will also plan the content of the buddy day with a representative from IntoUniversity.

All students will receive the CAJ Mandatory Volunteer training, which covers data protection and confidentiality, working with vulnerable clients, professional conduct and regulation, self-care, and our expectations of CAJ volunteers.

Pro Bono Skills Development Framework

The Centre for Access to Justice now offers all students engaged in voluntary pro bono the opportunity to participate in the Pro Bono Skills Development Framework. This framework allows you to reflect on the skills gained during your placement, aligned with the Aurora Competence Framework. Completing it earns you a Certificate of Commitment to Pro Bono, acknowledging your dedication and skill development. Your participation will help you document and showcase the valuable competencies you've developed, however, please note that participation in the PBSDF scheme is entirely voluntary and will not affect your placement in any way.

How to apply