Your Foundation Year begins in September 2025. Find your induction and timetable details here:

Study skills

Starting university is exciting, but it can also feel like a big step. Whether you’re exploring university options or preparing to start, here are some simple, low-pressure ways to boost your study skills.

Read for fun – and mix it up!

Reading helps with focus, comprehension, and critical thinking—but it doesn’t have to be academic!

Try:
✅ A book, blog, or magazine on a topic you enjoy.
✅ Listening to audiobooks or podcasts (great for learning on the go!).
✅ Reading the news or opinion pieces and thinking: Do I agree? Why or why not?

Try summarising what you read in a sentence or two—this will help with note-taking later!

Practice writing: little and often

You don’t need to know how to write essays or report before you start your university journey, but getting used to expressing your thoughts in writing will help.

✅ Journaling – Write a few lines about your day or a topic you’re interested in.
✅ Voice Notes or Blogs – Record your thoughts and try summarizing them in a short paragraph.
✅ Social Media Writing – Practice explaining an idea in a short, clear way, like in a tweet or Instagram caption.

You could write a short review of a book, film, or article. Try writing 100 words. What did you like? What could be improved?

Get comfortable with managing your time

✅ Use a to-do list (on paper or your phone) for small daily tasks.

✅ Try a weekly planner—mapping out when you’ll do things helps.

✅ Set a 10-minute timer when working on something—see how much you can do.

Think about your digital skills

You don’t need to be a tech whiz, but getting familiar with online learning tools before you start university is a plus!

✅ Try browsing Newman’s website and this site.
✅ Take one of the free online digital skills courses we've recommended.
✅ Watch a YouTube tutorial on digital skills, such as using Microsoft365.

Get used to asking “Why?” and “How?”

University is all about thinking for yourself, so practicing asking questions now will help later.

✅ When watching the news or a documentary, ask: “Why did that happen?” “How do we know?”
✅ If you disagree with something, explain why to yourself—even in your head.
✅ Chat with a friend or family member about a topic—listen to their view & explain yours.

Watch a TED Talk or short documentary and tell someone one thing you learned.

Most importantly… relax & enjoy the process!

Preparing for university doesn’t have to be stressful.

If you decide to attend university, there will be plenty of support to help you settle in. The best thing you can do before you start is to stay curious. Explore topics that interest you in a way that feels fun.

If you've got questions and can't find the answer in our F.A.Q. page, email us anytime: foundationyear@newman.ac.uk

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