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How our Pre-Degree teams empower students to thrive
Tuesday, 4 March, 2025 — Discover how the dedicated teams at Arts University Plymouth provide exceptional support for Pre-Degree students, helping them build confidence, academic skills, and creative futures.
<p dir="ltr">For ambitious young creatives, staying in school for A-Levels might seem like the safe option, but the most driven, independent, and industry-ready artists, designers, and makers take a different path. At Arts University Plymouth, our <strong>UAL Level 3 Extended Diplomas</strong> offer an immersive creative education designed by artists, for artists, ensuring that students graduate with the skills, confidence, and portfolio to thrive in Higher Education and the creative industries</p>
<p dir="ltr">From <strong>academic skills and SEND support</strong> to <strong>student well-being</strong>, our dedicated teams are experts in guiding students through the transition from school to Pre-Degree study, helping them build the <strong>resilience, confidence, and independence</strong> they need to thrive.<br /></p>
<p dir="ltr">For many students, <strong>English and Maths</strong> can feel like barriers to success—especially for those who struggled at GCSE. That’s why our <strong>Academic Skills Team</strong> works across all Pre-Degree departments, embedding <strong>core literacy, numeracy, and analytical skills</strong> into creative subjects in a way that feels relevant and engaging.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Their work has had a <strong>measurable impact</strong>:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><strong>97% of students completed their Extended Diplomas in 2024</strong>, with <strong>70% achieving high grades</strong>.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Arts University Plymouth ranks in the <strong>top quartile nationally</strong> for GCSE retake results, placing <strong>38th in English and 53rd in Maths out of 223 colleges</strong>.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Attendance in <strong>Academic Skills Year 1 has risen by 19% over two years</strong>, proving that students engage when they feel supported.</p></li></ul>
The Academic Skills Team goes beyond classroom teaching to ensure students’ well-being, checking how they’re coping with their main course, their GCSEs, and their personal development. Their proactive approach empowers students to fully engage with their education and overcome challenges.
Vicki Prout, Learning Support Coordinator
<p dir="ltr">For students who arrive with low grades or <strong>anxiety about Maths and English</strong>, one-to-one coaching is a game-changer. <strong>Jane Davis, Academic Skills Coach</strong>, has worked closely with students to <strong>boost confidence, increase attendance, and help them pass exams they never thought they could</strong>.<br /></p>
Jane’s impact goes beyond academic success. She helps students believe in themselves and their abilities. Her support has been transformative.
Steven Forsyth, Head of Pre-Degree
Steven Forsyth, Head of Pre-Degree
<p dir="ltr">Creative students often <strong>thrive in alternative education environments</strong>, but many have <strong>additional learning needs</strong> that weren’t fully supported in school. At Arts University Plymouth our <strong>Learning Support Team, led by Vicki Prout</strong>, ensures that all students with special educational needs receive the guidance and adjustments needed to succeed.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Vicki’s work has directly improved <strong>student retention, attendance, and confidence</strong>, through:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><strong>One-to-one support and mentoring</strong>, tailored to individual needs.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><strong>Practical classroom interventions</strong>, ensuring that students feel engaged rather than overwhelmed.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr"><strong>A seamless transition to Higher Education</strong>, with strategies to help students continue their success at university.</p></li></ul>
Vicki has gone above and beyond to help students gain access to support beyond the classroom. This has meant that many students who were once school refusers or low attendees at secondary school can now be seen achieving 80% plus attendance, with ambitions to attend university or apprenticeships. For many, this was unimaginable before they started at Arts University Plymouth and received support from Vicki.
Bryan Parsons, Art & Design Extended Diploma Course Leader
<p>For many students who were once <strong>low attendees or school refusers</strong>, Vicki’s support has meant the difference between <strong>dropping out</strong> and <strong>achieving their ambitions</strong>.</p>
Vicki is always there if I need a chat. She’s kind, caring, and always makes time for me. It’s good to know she’s there whenever I need her.
Harley, Extended Diploma student
Vicki is brilliant at aligning her passion for inclusivity with her keen strategic thinking. This has resulted in a collaborative and enhanced transition into Higher Education for students who need that extra support and confidence boost to succeed at university.
Kerry Dungay, Head of Student Support for Arts University Plymouth
<p dir="ltr">At Arts University Plymouth, we know that <strong>academic success is just one part of the journey</strong>. Our Pre-Degree students gain so much more than qualifications. Our students develop the <strong>confidence, resilience, and employability skills</strong> that prepare them for Higher Education and creative careers.</p>
<p dir="ltr">From <strong>creative problem-solving and collaboration</strong> to <strong>real-world projects with industry</strong>, students at Arts University Plymouth graduate with <strong>the tools they need to succeed in the 21st century</strong>.<br /></p>
Our students achieve amazing things, from winning national awards to progressing to top universities and creative careers. What makes the difference is the supportive, inspiring environment that gives them the confidence to take creative risks and push themselves.
Steven Forsyth, Head of Pre-Degree
<p dir="ltr">We know that making the leap into creative education can feel daunting, but at <strong>Arts University Plymouth</strong>, you’ll never be on your own. Whether you need <strong>academic support, specialist learning guidance, or a confidence boost</strong>, our teams are here to help you <strong>realise your potential</strong>.</p><h3 dir="ltr"><strong>Book an Open Day and start your journey today.</strong></h3>
