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Your Foundation Year begins in September 2025. Find your induction and timetable details here:
Starting university is an exciting new chapter, but it can feel like a big change. At Birmingham Newman University, we pride ourselves on being a friendly, supportive, and community-focused institution.
What to expect (click to expand)
What to expect (click to expand)
Starting university is an exciting step, but it can feel quite different from your other educational experiences. Here’s what to expect:
✅ Independent learning
Students are expected to take responsibility for their own learning. Tutors will offer guidance and support, but a lot of the work will be self-directed. There will be online work to do in advance of attending sessions each week.
✅ Critical thinking
University encourages students to question ideas, analyse information, and form their own arguments.
✅ Different teaching styles
Seminars, tutorials, workshops and lectures.
✅ Networking & community
University is a great place to meet people from different backgrounds, join societies, and connect with future employers.
Understanding unfamiliar language
Understanding unfamiliar language
Moodle – The Virtual Learning Environment, a place to access course materials, submit assignments and track deadlines.
Module – An individual unit of study within a degree course. Each module focuses on a specific subject area and contributes to the overall degree. In Newman's Foundation Year, there are four modules.
Credits – Each module is assigned a credit value. The Foundation Year consists of 120 credits.
Assessment – The way students' academic progress is evaluated. In the Foundation Year, there are two types of assessment:
Assessment by Engagement – Based on engagement with a series of tasks, including presentations, written work, meetings with tutors and more.
Capstone Assessment – A final, structured task e.g., a presentation, digital resource, or written piece of work.
OurNewman Portal – A one-stop hub for university services, including timetables, emails, course information, and academic records.
Student Success – A dedicated support service offering help with academic development, finance and welfare, mental health, disability support, and career planning. Whether you need study skills advice or wellbeing support, Student Success is here to help.
Students' Union (SU) – Represents all students at Newman, organises events, and supports student-run clubs and societies. The SU is your voice within the university and a great place to get involved in student life.
Academic Personal Tutor (APT) – A key point of contact for academic support throughout your studies. An APT will help guide your learning journey, provide feedback on progress, and offer academic advice.
Foundation Tutor – A dedicated tutor specifically for Foundation Year students. They provide additional academic and pastoral support, helping you transition into university life and prepare for your chosen degree.
Learning at University
Learning at University
📖 Types of Learning
Lectures – sessions where key topics are introduced.
Online activities - videos, readings, quizzes and more to complete before coming to your campus sessions each week.
Seminars – group discussions where you apply and debate what you’ve learned.
Tutorials – One-on-one with your tutor to discuss assignments and progress.
Independent Study – expect to spend time researching, reading, and preparing for assessments.
💡 Key Skills
Time management & organisation
Understanding of your learning style
Research & referencing
Digital literacy (using Moodle, OurNewman, and academic databases)
Effective communication & writing skills
Getting involved in student life
Getting involved in student life
University isn’t just about studying—it’s also about making friends, joining activities, and finding your place in the community.
👥 Students’ Union (SU) – Represents students, organises events, and runs clubs and societies. A great way to get involved!
🎭 Clubs & Societies – From sports teams to faith groups and academic societies, there’s something for everyone.
🛐 Faith & Wellbeing – Newman has a Chapel and pastoral services available to support students of all faiths and backgrounds.
💬 Student Voice – Get involved in student leadership or as a student course reps to shape university life.
Supporting success
Supporting success
It’s normal to face challenges at university—what matters is knowing where to get help.
🤝 Student Success Services – Help with academic writing, mental health support, disability services, and career advice.
📚 Library & Study Spaces – The library offers books, journals, and quiet areas for studying.
💻 Digital Support – Struggling with Moodle or OurNewman? The IT Helpdesk and the E-learning team will assist..
🧑🏫 Academic Personal Tutor & Foundation Tutor – First points of contact for academic and personal guidance.
📅 Wellbeing & Mental Health Support – The student success team is there is help support students' wellbeing.
Expectations of students
Expectations of students
⏳ Time Management – Stay organised with planners or apps.
💬 Communication is Key – keep in touch with tutors and the student success team.
🏆 Engagement Matters – Success in university comes from engaging in class, asking questions, and taking initiative.
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