• Central West Year 9 high school students will gain understanding about studying at university and learn about their accessible options

More than 170 Year 9 students from Central West high schools will participate in a Future Directions Day organised by the Future Moves program Charles Sturt University in Bathurst on Thursday 11 August.

Future Moves Program Coordinator Mr Ben Rodwell said students from Denison College Kelso Campus, Cowra High School, Blayney High School, and Kandos High School will attend the day’s academic sessions to gain insights into tertiary education options at the University.

“Many students from regional and remote areas do not have adequate access to higher education as many of them may be the first in their family to attend a university,” Mr Rodwell said.

“The Future Directions Day is an opportunity for regional and remote students to gain an understanding of what it’s like to study at university and to know that this is an accessible option for them, should they choose to move into higher education.

“Our programs are designed to empower regional students and give them the confidence regarding university study.”

Students are able to choose which sessions they would like to participate in, ranging from paramedicine, psychology, communication and more, and participate in course-specific activities of their choosing, run by academics.

Mr Rodwell said this is a great opportunity for students to hear from the University’s lecturers about the course and career opportunities available.

“Some students will visit buildings such as Engineering, and the TV studio, when they participate in their workshops,” he said.

“We’ll also take them around the campus for a tour to see the facilities and amenities available for students, such as the library, gym, and café.

“We have some great hands-on activities, such as Health Heroes which is run by the Three Rivers Department of Rural Health which includes resuscitation demonstrations and blood pressure readings.

“At the end of the day these high school students will have a chance to ask questions in our Q&A to current students about what it’s like to study at the University and to assist with breaking down any misconceptions these students might have about higher education.”

The Future Moves program is funded through the federal government’s Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Program (HEPPP).