Centre for Foundation Studies | University of Chester

Welcome to the Centre for Foundation Studies at the University of Chester. My name is Jan O’Driscoll. As Dean of Students and Lifelong Learning, I have strategic oversight of the Centre for Foundation Studies, which delivers all the University’s Foundation Years.

We are delighted to have you join our academic community. Below, you will find essential information to guide you on your academic journey with us, in particular to help you with your first few weeks of study. You will find resources, such as your Programme Handbook, so do have a read through, and if you have any questions, you will also find appropriate contacts included.

Welcome Week Specifics

Welcome Week is an important time where we will introduce you to your programme. We will also have a range of activities to enable you to meet other students on your course and form across the University. There will be department introduction week beginning 23^rd September, where you can get to know each other and the campus. You will also get to meet your Personal Academic Tutor. Dates on when these sessions will take place will be populated on your timetable, which you can access via the University of Chester app.

An introduction to your Personal Academic Tutor (PAT)

Every student is assigned a Personal Academic Tutor (PAT). They will be your first point of contact for issues that arise during your degree. We work alongside Student Services, and make referrals to Student Services where necessary, to help you navigate your degree and manage any unexpected surprises that life can throw up from time to time.

You will meet with your PAT when you arrive at university and at least three times a year, but your PAT is always at the end of an email and you may see them more, or less, depending on your circumstances. Your PAT will provide their contact information when you meet with them in Welcome Week.