Do educational experiences in school prepare students for university? A teachers’ perspective

ABSTRACT

Entering higher education (HE) is a critical moment for many students and one in which their educational experiences may change dramatically, but are students academically prepared? From a structured and supported environment, they enter a more autonomous and independent setting and little is known about their preparedness for this transition. This article explores, through the voices of teachers in schools and colleges, two aspects of preparedness for HE, independent learning and academic confidence, in order to more closely examine the challenges faced by thousands of new students each year. The findings highlighted differences in both terminology and approach between the two educational layers and contribute new insights to support universities in enhancing practice through a deeper understanding of the prior experiences of their new students through the lens of their teachers. Overall, the article highlights some significant messages about the gap between these two levels of education that cannot simply be left to the student to navigate.

Abbreviation: Higher Education (HE)

KEYWORDS:

• preparedness
• teachers of students aged 16–19
• independent learning
• academic confidence
• transition

Acknowledgments

We would like to thank the students from the schools and sixth form colleges who took part in our study. Without them, this narrative would not have been possible.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Julie Money

Julie Money is a programme manager in the School of Sport Studies, Leisure and Nutrition. She trained as a teacher of PE at Plymouth Marjon University, completed a BEd (Hons) degree at Exeter University and gained an MA in Education from Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU). She is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. Julie taught in a Wirral secondary school before entering the advisory service for a local authority and working predominantly in primary physical education prior to working at LJMU for over 25 years. Her research focuses on the student experience in HE.

Sarah Nixon

Dr. Sarah Nixon is a Subject Head in the School of Sport Studies, Leisure and Nutrition, with specific responsibilities for learning, teaching and assessment. Sarah teaches on the Sport Business programme, is a National Teaching Fellow and a Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Linda Graham

Linda Graham is a Careers Advisor at LJMU, specialising in supporting the students from the School of Sport Studies, Leisure and Nutrition. Linda has gained a wealth of experience throughout her career spanning across both the Careers Service and Human Resources within an HE setting. Before entering HE, Linda worked in professional and managerial recruitment, working closely with employers to recruit graduates and also those applying for managerial-level positions. She has engaged in projects working with secondary schools to encourage student engagement with HE and has also been a school governor for many years.