At Randstad Student Support, we understand that the start of university can be overwhelming, particularly for students who may struggle with new environments, routines, or social situations. Our Orientation Support offering is a proactive service that helps students familiarise themselves with their campus, meet their mentor or support worker, and feel confident about the year ahead.

key benefits of our orientation support service

familiarisation with campus

Students are shown around key areas of campus, including classrooms, libraries, the canteen, and staff offices. This helps them navigate their new surroundings with ease and reduces anxieties about the unknown.

introduction to support networks

Students meet with their support worker or mentor, building a positive relationship before their full support begins. This continuity is invaluable, ensuring they’re not starting from scratch when their DSA award comes through. Depending on the student’s needs and anticipated support package, we can provide support workers for general orientation support or a mentor if the student is likely to receive a mentor through their DSA award in the new academic year.

personalised support

The service is tailored to meet the needs of individual students, particularly those with higher support needs. It is a gentle introduction to university life, with a focus on making the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.

great value for universities

Depending on the specific requirements, we collaborate with universities to offer this support at a competitive rate. Orientation support can be provided by support workers, while mentor-led support, where students are likely to be awarded a mentor, will follow a more competitive pricing structure. Once a student’s DSA award is in place, they will continue to work with the same mentor, ensuring consistency and a smooth transition into the next phase of support.

appealing to parents

Parents often find this service reassuring, as it provides their children with a structured introduction to university life and a familiar face to turn to for support. It’s an excellent opportunity to reassure parents that their children will have the guidance they need to stay on track throughout their studies.

why it matters

Starting university is a significant milestone for any student, but for those with complex needs, it can present additional challenges. Our Orientation Support service doesn’t just help students find their way around campus, it also builds their confidence, gives them a strong foundation for their academic journey, and helps them feel like they belong.

By offering this service in the weeks leading up to the academic year, you’re providing students with the support they need to stay on course and thrive. Orientation Support helps students overcome initial anxieties, settle into their new environment, and feel prepared to engage with their studies.

This service is especially beneficial for students with complex needs as it creates a sense of familiarity and continuity that can be crucial for academic success and emotional wellbeing.

ready to learn more?

If you’re interested in offering this valuable service to your students, or if you’d like to discuss how it can benefit your institution, we’d love to hear from you. We’re confident that this will be a great addition to your student support offering and will provide your students with the best possible start to their university experience.

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