The Uni Guide Podcast

The Uni Guide Podcast
  • 5.0 (1)
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  • Updated Monthly

Hello listeners and welcome to The Uni Guide, a podcast created by UniTasterDays.The university guidance podcast on all things about university.In this podcast series we will be providing you, our listener, with the cutting edge and most up-to-date information and conversations about university……in plain English…. without the jargon.From the lived experience of everyone involved in the process: That’s students, parents, teachers and career advisors…. Stay tuned, like and share as we bring you the answers, tips and advice you need in regular episodes.Covering topics like:Why and how do you apply?How much does it really cost?How can you select a course or institution?How can you prepare for exams?What do you need to know before starting your course?How to get the most out of the university experience?And many more! Produced by Tim Roe for UniTasterDays Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Jul 17

    Results Day 2026 & Clearing: What every student needs to know | Episode 55

    Results Day 2026 & Clearing: What every student needs to know Results Day 2026 is one of the biggest moments in the university application journey. Whether you're expecting the grades you need, worried you might miss your offer, or simply want to understand how Clearing 2026 works, this episode explains everything you need to know before Results Day arrives. Every year, thousands of students secure a university place through UCAS Clearing. Yet many still have questions about what happens on Results Day, how Clearing really works, what universities are looking for, and what to do if their plans change. This episode is packed with practical advice to help you feel informed, confident and prepared. Host Jon Cheek is joined by Laura Knight, Recruitment Manager at the University of Staffordshire, Stephanie Hartley, UK Student Recruitment Manager, and Year 13 student Neve Wright, who shares an honest perspective on how students are feeling ahead of Results Day and the questions many are asking themselves right now. Together, they answer the questions students ask most about Results Day and UCAS Clearing, offering practical guidance, reassurance and insider advice to help listeners make informed decisions. The episode covers questions students often ask about Results Day and Clearing, including: what to do first if you don't get the grades you expectedwho can use Clearing and why it's not just for students who miss their offerswhat to have ready before contacting a university through Clearingwhat actually happens during a Clearing phone calltips for students who feel nervous about calling universitieshow to research universities quickly on Results Daythe biggest mistakes students make during Clearing and how to avoid themwhat happens after accepting a Clearing place, including Student Finance and accommodationone thing every student should do before Results Dayone thing students definitely shouldn't panic aboutthe advice our guests would give their younger selves ahead of Results Day and Clearing Whether you're preparing for A level Results Day, BTEC Results Day or another Level 3 qualification, this episode will help you understand UCAS Clearing, university offers, Clearing phone calls, accommodation, Student Finance and the decisions you'll need to make on Results Day 2026. This episode is designed for students applying to university in 2026, as well as parents, carers, teachers and careers advisers supporting young people through Results Day and Clearing. Featuring: Laura Knight, Recruitment Manager, University of StaffordshireStephanie Hartley, UK Student Recruitment Manager, University of SouthamptonNeve Wright, Year 13 studentHosted by Jon Cheek, Founder, UniTasterDays.com Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources: UniTasterDays.com The Students' Guide to University Brochure The Parents’ Guide to University Brochure The Teachers' Guide to University Brochure University event incentive platform University Jargon Buster University Subject Guide Videos The Uni Guide Podcast - all episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Results Day 2026 & Clearing: What every student needs to know | Episode 55

  2. Jun 25

    Degree apprenticeships explained: work, study and uni life | Episode 54

    Episode 54: Degree apprenticeships explained: work, study and uni life Thinking about a degree apprenticeship but not sure how they work? In this episode, we explore what degree apprenticeships are really like, how students balance work and university study, what employers are looking for, and how to apply successfully. Degree apprenticeships have become one of the most searched-for alternatives to university, allowing students to earn a salary, gain professional experience and achieve a university qualification at the same time. Yet many students still have questions about the day-to-day reality, application process and whether the experience is right for them. Jon Cheek and special guest host Elizabeth Joseph-Adigun, Founder of The HerEstate Network, are joined by Amaya Sophia Ahmed, a Level 6 Degree Apprentice with Colliers International and a BSc Real Estate Management student at the University of The Built Environment. Drawing on her own experience, Amaya shares an honest insight into degree apprentice life, including how she structures her week between work and study, what surprised her most about the experience, and the advice she would give students considering this route. The conversation explores the realities of degree apprenticeships beyond the headlines, helping students understand what to expect and how to prepare for the opportunities and challenges that come with combining employment and higher education. The episode covers questions students often ask about degree apprenticeships, including: what a typical week looks like for a degree apprenticehow degree apprenticeship university study works in practicedegree apprenticeship application tipswhat employers look for in degree apprenticeship applicantsthe differences between degree apprenticeships and traditional university coursessupport available from schools and collegeshow AI is beginning to influence applications and recruitmentbalancing work, study and personal lifethe benefits and challenges of degree apprenticeshipsadvice for students considering a degree apprenticeshipwhat Amaya would tell her younger self before applying This episode is designed for students researching degree apprenticeships, university alternatives and career pathways after sixth form or college. It also offers valuable insight for parents, teachers and careers advisers supporting students with post-18 options. Featuring: Amaya Sophia Ahmed, Level 6 Degree Apprentice at Colliers International and BSc Real Estate Management student at the University of The Built EnvironmentElizabeth Joseph-Adigun, Founder of The HerEstate NetworkHosted by Jon Cheek, Founder, UniTasterDays.com Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources: UniTasterDays.com The Students' Guide to University Brochure The Parents’ Guide to University Brochure The Teachers' Guide to University Brochure University event incentive platform University Jargon Buster University Subject Guide Videos The Uni Guide Podcast - all episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Degree apprenticeships explained: work, study and uni life | Episode 54

  3. May 13

    Choosing a career: Do you need it figured out at 18? | Episode 53

    Episode 53: Choosing a career: do you need it figured out at 18? Do you need to have your future career planned out by the age of 18? This episode explores the pressure many students feel to make big decisions about university, careers and their future, and why it is completely normal for plans, interests and ambitions to change over time. For students approaching university applications, career choices and life after sixth form or college, it can often feel like everyone else has their future mapped out. Social media, school expectations and conversations about careers can sometimes create the impression that successful people always knew exactly what they wanted to do. In reality, many career journeys are far less straightforward. Current students Rosie and Reece join Jon for a chat with Baasit Siddiqui, creator of the 7Cs to Thrive Framework, author of Mr Siddiqui’s Curious Careers, TV personality and Director of Siddiqui Education. Together they discuss why curiosity, confidence and staying open to opportunities can often matter more than having a fixed career plan at a young age. The conversation explores Baasit’s own journey through university, teaching, television and education work, including how unexpected experiences and challenges helped shape his career path. The episode also reflects on the pressures young people face when making decisions about university and careers, and why students should not feel defined by a single choice made at 18. The episode covers questions students often ask when thinking about careers and university, including: whether successful people always know what career they want from a young agehow career plans can change over timewhy uncertainty about the future is completely normalwhat university can offer students beyond academic studyhow curiosity can help students discover new opportunitieswhat happens when things do not go to planhow students can feel more confident about making future decisionswhy staying open to different experiences can lead to unexpected opportunities This episode is designed for students considering university, feeling uncertain about their future career, or worried about making the “right” decision at 18. It also offers valuable insight for parents, teachers and careers advisers supporting young people as they navigate career and university choices. Featuring: Baasit Siddiqui, Creator of the 7Cs to Thrive Framework, Author of Mr Siddiqui’s Curious Careers, TV Personality and Director of Siddiqui EducationReece Buckley, Micro and Molecular Biology student at Manchester Metropolitan UniversityRosie Glover, Law student at Durham UniversityHosted by Jon Cheek, Founder, UniTasterDays.com Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources: UniTasterDays.com The Students' Guide to University Brochure The Parents’ Guide to University Brochure The Teachers' Guide to University Brochure University event incentive platform University Jargon Buster University Subject Guide Videos The Uni Guide Podcast - all episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Choosing a career: Do you need it figured out at 18? | Episode 53

  4. Apr 13

    Degree apprenticeships: step up and stand out | Episode 52

    Episode 52: Degree apprenticeships: step up and stand out Thinking about a degree apprenticeship but unsure what the pathway looks like? This episode explores how degree apprenticeships work, what the application process involves, and how students can stand out when applying for competitive apprenticeship opportunities. For many students, a traditional university degree is no longer the only route after sixth form or college. Degree apprenticeships offer the opportunity to earn a salary, gain professional work experience and achieve a university degree at the same time. However, researching apprenticeship opportunities, understanding the application process and deciding between university and apprenticeships can feel confusing for many students. UniTasterDays Founder Jon Cheek is joined by Elizabeth Joseph-Adigun, a degree apprentice who chose this pathway instead of attending university full time. Together they discuss what influenced her decision to pursue a degree apprenticeship, how she searched for opportunities, and the strategies that helped her stand out during the apprenticeship application process. The conversation also explores the experience of entering industries where women are less represented, the importance of representation in certain career sectors, and how students can build confidence when pursuing careers where they may not see people like themselves. The episode covers questions students often ask when considering degree apprenticeships, including: what degree apprenticeships are and how they compare to universitywhen students might start considering apprenticeships instead of universityhow to handle reactions from others when choosing an apprenticeship pathwayhow to search for degree apprenticeship opportunitieswhat helps applicants stand out when applying for apprenticeshipswhat it is like entering industries where women are underrepresentedwhy representation matters in certain careers and industriesadvice for students who do not see people like themselves in certain professions This episode is designed for students researching degree apprenticeships, exploring alternatives to university, or considering earn-while-you-learn pathways. It also provides useful guidance for parents, teachers and careers advisers supporting students as they explore university and apprenticeship options. Featuring: Elizabeth Joseph-Adigun, Founder of The HerEstate Network Hosted by Jon Cheek, Founder, UniTasterDays.com. Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources: UniTasterDays.com The Students' Guide to University Brochure The Parents’ Guide to University Brochure The Teachers' Guide to University Brochure University event incentive platform University Jargon Buster University Subject Guide Videos The Uni Guide Podcast - all episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Degree apprenticeships: step up and stand out | Episode 52

  5. Mar 9

    University explained: courses, costs and applications | Episode 51

    Episode 51: University explained: courses, costs and applications Thinking about going to university but unsure how it all works? This episode explains the key things students need to understand about university courses, tuition fees, student finance and the university application process. For many students, researching university can feel confusing at first. There are thousands of university courses to choose from, different application routes, and lots of questions about costs and student finance. In this episode, the panel breaks down how university works and the most important things students should know before applying. UniTasterDays Founder Jon Cheek is joined by Rosie Glover, a final year student at Durham University, and Simon Fairbanks, Associate Director of Community Engagement at UniTasterDays. Together they discuss the key advice featured in the Student Guide 2026, along with the common misunderstandings students have about university before they apply. The conversation explores how students can choose the right university course, what they should look for beyond the course title, and what students really need to understand about tuition fees, student loans and the realities of university life. The episode covers questions students often ask when researching university, including: what students can expect from the Student Guide 2026common misunderstandings students have about university before applyinghow to choose a university course and what to look for beyond the course titlewhat students need to understand about tuition fees and student financehow the university application process workswhat students should know about university before starting their course This episode is designed for students who are researching university courses, choosing subjects, or preparing for the university application process. It also provides useful guidance for parents and teachers who want a clearer understanding of how university works today. Featuring: Rosie Glover, Final year student, Durham University Simon Fairbanks, Associate Director, Community Engagement, UniTasterDays Hosted by Jon Cheek, Founder, UniTasterDays.com. Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources: UniTasterDays.com The Students' Guide to University Brochure The Parents’ Guide to University Brochure The Teachers' Guide to University Brochure University event incentive platform University Jargon Buster University Subject Guide Videos The Uni Guide Podcast - all episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    University explained: courses, costs and applications | Episode 51

  6. Feb 5

    Why study engineering at university: what to expect | Episode 50

    Episode 50: Why study engineering at university and what it’s really like Thinking about studying engineering at university but not sure what it actually involves? This episode breaks down what an engineering degree is really like, what you would study day to day, and the careers it can lead to after university. Engineering is one of the broadest and most misunderstood university subjects. In this conversation, we look beyond the stereotypes to explain what engineering actually covers, who it’s for, and why it could be a great option for students who enjoy problem solving, creativity and real-world impact. UniTasterDays Founder Jon Cheek is joined by Dr Elaine Brown, James Dornor and Patricia Ashman to explore the different types of engineering degrees, the routes into engineering, and the wide range of careers available both within engineering and beyond. They also talk honestly about skills, subjects, and common worries students have before applying. The episode covers questions students often ask when considering engineering at university, including: what studying engineering at university actually involvesthe different engineering careers a degree can lead towho engineering is for and why representation matterswhich subjects and skills are most useful for an engineering degreehow important maths and physics really arewhat a typical week studying engineering looks likethe different routes into engineering, including degrees and degree apprenticeshipshow transferable engineering skills are if career plans change This episode is designed for students who are choosing A levels, thinking about university courses, or deciding whether engineering is the right path for them. It also offers useful insight for parents and teachers who want a clear, realistic picture of what studying engineering at university is really like. Featuring: Elaine Brown, University of Bradford James Dornor, Chief Executive Officer at Driven By Us Patricia Ashman, Strategic Higher Education Leader, engineer and TEDx speaker Hosted by Jon Cheek, Founder, UniTasterDays.com. Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources: Driven By Us - A Community interest company led by special guest on the podcast James Dornor UniTasterDays.com The Students' Guide to University Brochure The Parents’ Guide to University Brochure The Teachers' Guide to University Brochure University event incentive platform University Jargon Buster University Subject Guide Videos The Uni Guide Podcast - all episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Why study engineering at university: what to expect | Episode 50

  7. Jan 8

    Is university for everyone? Access, affordability and opportunities | Episode 49

    Episode 49 – Is university for everyone? Access, affordability and opportunities In this episode, we tackle a big and often debated question: is university really for everyone? But before we tell you all about it, check out a fantastic resource we didn't have time to mention - the Sutton Trust Contextual Offer tool (2025 Contextual Offers Tool for UK Universities) Back to the episode now. We're explore what widening participation actually means in practice, why it matters, and how universities and organisations work to make higher education more accessible for students from underrepresented backgrounds. Andrew Hunter, Senior Programmes Manager at The Sutton Trust, joins Claire Mula, a Law with Business student and aspiring solicitor, alongside host Dr Leah Brooks, Chief Operating Officer at Future Frontline, to unpack the realities behind access, affordability and opportunity. We’ll cover: What widening participation means and how students are identified as eligible for supportWhy widening participation is so important for universities and organisations like the Sutton TrustThe types of support and opportunities available to help students from widening participation backgrounds succeedUniversity events and programmes designed specifically for widening participation students The conversation then shifts to lived student experience, with honest reflections on: What feels most challenging when arriving at university as a first-generation studentWhether university is becoming too expensive for students from low-income familiesOne message for students questioning whether university is for themWhether university is truly for everyoneHow accessible top universities really are, regardless of background This episode offers a balanced, practical discussion for students, parents and educators navigating questions around fairness, access and the future of higher education. Featuring: Andrew Hunter, Senior Programmes Manager at The Sutton Trust Claire Mula, Law with Business student and an aspiring solicitor Dr Leah Brooks, Chief Operating Officer at Future Frontline and Uni Guide Podcast host Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources: UniTasterDays.com The Students' Guide to University Brochure The Parents’ Guide to University Brochure The Teachers' Guide to University Brochure University event incentive platform University Jargon Buster University Subject Guide Videos The Uni Guide Podcast - all episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Is university for everyone? Access, affordability and opportunities | Episode 49

  8. 12/11/2025

    Does your uni course choice shape your future career? | Episode 48

    Episode 48 – Does your uni course choice shape your future career? In this episode, we dive into one of the biggest decisions students make – choosing a university course – and explore how much that choice really impacts future career paths. Our guest Chris Rea, Head of Strategic Relationships at Prospects, joins Reece Buckley, a final year Micro and Molecular Biology student at Manchester Metropolitan University, to discuss what “career-ready” choices look like, how employers view degree subjects, and whether the course you pick now will open doors, close them, or leave room to explore. We’ll cover: How students can make informed, career-focused course decisionsThe extent to which degree choice affects employment outcomesExamples of careers where a specific degree is essentialWhich subjects offer the most flexibility for students unsure of their future plans Towards the end of the episode, Chris and Reece reflect on the conversation — including Chris’s final insight: what advice he would give his younger self when choosing a degree subject. Whether you have a clear career goal or no idea what comes next, this episode will help you think differently about course choices and the pathways they can lead to. Featuring: Chris Rea, Head of Strategic Relationships at Prospects Reece Buckley, Final year Micro and Molecular Biology student at Manchester Metropolitan University Students, Parents, Carers and Teachers - please access these FREE resources: UniTasterDays.com The Students' Guide to University Brochure The Parents’ Guide to University Brochure The Teachers' Guide to University Brochure University event incentive platform University Jargon Buster University Subject Guide Videos The Uni Guide Podcast - all episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Does your uni course choice shape your future career? | Episode 48
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About

Hello listeners and welcome to The Uni Guide, a podcast created by UniTasterDays.The university guidance podcast on all things about university.In this podcast series we will be providing you, our listener, with the cutting edge and most up-to-date information and conversations about university……in plain English…. without the jargon.From the lived experience of everyone involved in the process: That’s students, parents, teachers and career advisors…. Stay tuned, like and share as we bring you the answers, tips and advice you need in regular episodes.Covering topics like:Why and how do you apply?How much does it really cost?How can you select a course or institution?How can you prepare for exams?What do you need to know before starting your course?How to get the most out of the university experience?And many more! Produced by Tim Roe for UniTasterDays Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    The Uni Guide Podcast
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © UniTasterDays Ltd
  • Show Website
    The Uni Guide Podcast

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