Go Higher West Yorkshire Roadshow rolls into town
26 & 27 January 2018
Go Higher West Yorkshire brought Higher Education directly to the people of Wakefield this month. Supported by West Yorkshire Higher Education institutions the roadshow brought together a team of specialists to Wakefield city centre to inform, inspire and entertain!
Wakefield is the only city in England without a traditional university, though 2017 saw the opening of the long awaited ASIC building, the new home of Wakefield University Centre. Entry to Higher Education in the region is historically one of the lowest in the country but when the roadshow descended into the Ridings shopping centre for a two-day event, the people of Wakefield embraced the opportunity to take part and gather information.
Jayne Kaye, who helped to organise the event, said "We were amazed at the attendance- an estimated 500 visitors consulted traditional universities, University Centres, local further education colleges and took advantage of free careers advice provided by Prospects."
To ensure an element of fun and frivolity, Lawrence of LT Entertainment brought his wonderful balloon modelling and circus skills along to ensure that visitors of all ages were catered for. No stranger to higher education himself, Lawrence has a degree in Accounting; he learnt his skills as balloon modeller, magician when he joined clubs and societies during his time at university.
Media make-up provided by Bradford College also went down a storm; the students' delighted doe-eyed toddlers with their fantastic face painting skills, as well as the special effects make-up in which they have studied. Children's University also attended the event, ensuring that the positive messages of education are passed on at an early age.
Fifty evaluations were completed over the two days, providing excellent feedback and confirming the success of the event. The evaluation forms were entered into a prize draw and we are delighted to announce that the winner is Carrie-Anne Firth of Horbury, Wakefield.
Plans to repeat the event early September and January 2019 are already underway- watch this space!