Attend a virtual subject taster session and discover what it would be like to study your chosen subject at degree level. 

On these free-of-charge virtual events, you will sample lectures and practical sessions, work alongside other students interested in your subject, meet our enthusiastic staff, and get a real feel for life at the University of Reading.

To request your place on a subject taster, please complete the application at the bottom of each event description.

We try to accommodate as many students as possible in our virtual outreach provision and in most cases will be able to offer places to all that are interested. However, in the case of over-subscription on events, priority will be given to students on a first come, first served basis.

The Reading Scholars Programme gives Year 12 students a real taste of life as a university undergraduate, providing practical support as participants begin their higher education application process. Featuring input from leading academics and current undergraduate e-mentors, the programme aims to challenge participants academically and enhance their current studies.

The programme is currently offered in the following subject areas: 

• Architecture
• Art and Design
• Biology
• Business
• Chemistry
• Food Science and Pharmacy (CFSP)
• Education, English Literature
• Film, Theatre and Television (FTT)
• History, Classics and Archaeology (HAC)
• Languages and culture
• Mathematics
• Psychology
• Physical Geography and Environmental Science (PGES). 

Applications for the Reading Scholars programme 2021 will open in October 2020. View last year’s programme brochure.   

As part of our commitment to widening participation, the programme is for students who meet our widening participation criteria.

Join one of our one-hour subject webinar series with a focus on particular subject areas that you can study at university and the University of Reading.  You will hear from academics and/or students talking about what it is like to study their subject at degree level and be able to ask them questions afterwards. Talks typically last between 20-40 minutes with the opportunity for 20 minutes Q&A at the end.

We are currently confirming dates for the next set of subject webinars for the autumn term and these should appear on this page shortly. In the meantime, watch our recorded sessions to gain an insight into what studying that subject may involve:

• Subject spotlight on English Language and Linguistics
• Subject spotlight on English Literature
• Subject spotlight on studying Finance at University
• Top tips for making successful applications to the Flying Start Programme with PwC

We also have a broad range of webinars covering broader HE topics such as choosing a university, student finance, student life and writing personal statement available to attend on a weekly basis.

Together with universities and cultural institutions from around the world, the University of Reading has developed a wide range of free online courses. 

Providing you are 13 years or older you can explore a diverse and exciting range of topics in your own time and on any device. Courses include Begin Robotics, Our Changing Climate, and A Beginner's Guide to Writing in English for University Study. Find out more about our free online courses

In unforeseen circumstances, we may have to cancel or amend the events. Participants will be notified of any changes as far in advance as possible.

Want to be the first to know about events and activities in your subject area of interest? 

Please email us at outreach@reading.ac.uk

For teachers and advisors

Keep up to date with what is happening at the University and join our events mailing list. Please visit our teachers and advisors website.