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UEL's Professor Fluffy visits Beckton primary school for lessons on university life

Wednesday 23 May 2007

Year 5 pupils at Winsor Primary School in Beckton had a surprise visitor on Thursday 17 May, when Professor Fluffy of the University of East London (UEL) came to class for a special workshop aimed at introducing the children to university life.

Professor Fluffy, a colourful and cuddly toy academic, is the focus of an Aimhigher initiative designed to encourage primary school pupils to consider higher education as a positive life choice open to all. UEL staff and students joined Professor Fluffy's class to help raise awareness of university life through a range of interactive activities.

Danielle Smith, UEL Schools Liaison Ambassador, said: "Too many people miss out on a university education simply because they aren't introduced to the concept at a young enough age. Professor Fluffy is part of a nationwide scheme to address this issue and support the government's drive to get fifty percent of young people into higher education.

"By informing primary school pupils about university life in a fun and engaging way, we can help to raise their aspirations and ensure they develop a good understanding of the exciting opportunities available through higher education."

Using Professor Fluffy workbooks, the pupils took part in a series of exercises and activities aimed at inspiring them to think about higher education and what they can potentially achieve in their lives.

Montana (10), of Canning Town, said: "It's been good to learn about university life, like what subjects people do and the holidays they have. There are 55,000 subjects that a student can choose from. I’d like to go to university but I don’t know what I would study – it’s too hard to choose!”

Kamal (10), of Beckton, added: “I really want to go to university so I can get a good job and a good life. Maths is my favourite subject at school so maybe I’d study that, but I think I want to be a doctor. I wouldn’t mind having Professor Fluffy as my teacher because I don’t think she’d be very strict.”

UEL hosts a range of summer schools, masterclasses, exhibitions and events with local schools and community groups throughout the year. For details, call 020 8223 2598, or come to UEL's fortchoming Open Day on Saturday 16 June.

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For details and pictures contact Patrick Wilson: 020 8223 2061 or 07951 797 975

Notes to Editors

The University of East London (UEL) is a global learning community with over 28,000 students from over 120 countries world-wide. Our vision is to achieve recognition, both nationally and internationally, as a successful and inclusive regional university proud of its diversity, committed to new modes of learning which focus on students and enhance their employability, and renowned for our contribution to social, cultural and economic development, especially through our research and scholarship. We have a strong track-record in widening participation and working with industry.

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