The Third Annual Students' Writing in Transition Symposium
14th September 2010
Newton Building, Nottingham Trent University

Over 80 delegates attended the third annual Students' Writing in Transition symposium at Nottingham Trent University. A wide range of colleagues from across the UK representing both the higher and further education sectors attended.

Students' Writing in Transition gave delegates the opportunity to explore how students cope with the transition from learning in post-16 education to university. As this is most readily evidenced through academic writing, the symposium also focussed on student writing in the first year.

The keynote speakers were, Kathy Harrington and Peter O'Neill from the Write Now CETL at London Metropolitan University. Their presentation discussed the benefits of using student writing mentors to develop and support student writing.

Delegates were able to attend a number of sessions centered on topics such as: 

• expectations and management in further education delivery
• adapting texts to enhance student engagement
• supporting dyslexic students in the classroom. 

Papers were also presented on current research at NTU into student learning prior to university, including reflections on a number of projects such as the new peer mentoring scheme and staff FE/HE shadowing initiative.

Delegates also had the chance to hear from a student mentor about her experience in supporting students with their writing. The NTU peer mentoring project that she reported on has been designed to provide student support throughout a number of academic schools across the University. Email Sarah Johnson for further information.

Posters were made available for delegates to peruse during the lunch break. The posters displayed information about a range of current projects including an update on the HERE project of which NTU is a leading partner.

Feedback from the event was encouraging, below are a few of the positive comments we received from attendees:

• 'The best thing about the event was the focus on the 'practical' in addition to exploring the research context.'
• 'All of the speakers were extremely informative and knowledgeable, some offering practical strategies to ease transition.'
• 'A good and interesting choice of sessions to attend.'

Planning has already started for 2011 symposium. The date for the next event is provisionally Tuesday 13 September 2011, and we will welcome contributions. Please email Rebecca Bell for more details.