Sir Malcolm Thornton gives inspiring talk to prospective students

29 February 2012

Over 100 pupils from Wallasey School attended a Higher Education taster day which enabled them to work alongside current students and recruitment staff to learn more about studying at university and what life is like at LJMU.
 
After an inspirational talk from Sir Malcolm Thornton, Chair of LJMU’s Board of Governors, which reflected upon his life’s journey, the pupils spent the day working with Student Recruitment and Widening Access’s team of Student Advocates, who delivered taster workshops in subjects such as Engineering and Journalism. This involved a range of activities, from designing their own newspaper to building structures out of everyday household items, both of which were based on projects the Student Advocates did themselves in their first year at LJMU.
 
Pupils were also given a tour of the campus and of Cambridge Court accommodation.
 
Talking about the event, Sir Malcolm commented: “This is a part of a highly successful and continuing dialogue the University is having with schools.  It has been a wonderful opportunity for pupils to come out of the school and into the University in order to help them make choices for the future.
 
“I talked to them about where I started, which were humble origins, and how aspiration and support of wonderful parents and teachers has given me the opportunity to do all the things that I’ve done. Nothing is beyond you. Say “I can do that,” aim high and understand the importance of lifelong learning.”
 
Paul Ireland, Account Manager for Student Recruitment and Widening Access, commented: “At LJMU we are committed to offering the best possible advice and guidance to schools and their students as part of our outreach programme. This year the Student Recruitment and Widening Access Team will deliver over 650 outreach activities in more than 250 schools to engage and inform students about Higher Education.
 
“The visit from Wallasey School is a great example of the many taster days that we run throughout the year and demonstrates LJMU’s commitment to fostering good relationships with schools and colleges.
 
“After the visit many of the pupils told us that they now want to go to university and had great fun finding out what life would be like as a student as well as hearing about Sir Malcolm’s inspiring journey.”