Our Nurturing Futures Conference is an annual education event. You'll attend a series of talks and workshops led by our experts and gain valuable knowledge about the university application process, helping you to support your students further. You'll also have the opportunity to network with other education professionals to share best practice.
The next Nurturing Futures Conference will be held on Wednesday 25 March 2026. Book your place now.
Programme of events
Networking breakfast
Time: 9am - 9.40am
Start the day with a brew, bite to eat and interesting conversations with fellow delegates and University staff.
Welcome
Time: 9.40am - 10am
A warm welcome from Professor Andrew Ireland, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Students and Teaching.
UCAS updates
Time: 10am - 10.45am
Join Ross Sanger from UCAS, who will share the latest news, updates and developments, for students applying to university in 2026.
Subject Spotlight: Psychology, Media and Sport
Time: 11.10am - 11.55am
Choose from one of three subject sessions:
- Psychology – Step into the world of psychology with lecturer Dr. Andy Morley and discover ‘what the study of decision-making tells us about student life and the university experience’.
- Media – Join our lecturers as they take you on a tour of our industry standard facilities in the cutting-edge Media Factory. You’ll discover an exhilarating environment for creative minds, including green screen, podcast studios and theatres.
- Sport – Explore our Sir Tom Finney Sports Centre, named after the Preston footballing legend. This state-of-the-art indoor facility features fitness studios, sports courts and our newly refurbished gym facilities. You’ll also discover our exciting new Team Lancashire sports offering.
Lunch
Time: 12.05pm - 12.50pm
Art of Brilliance: Your Wellbeing Launchpad
Time: 1pm - 2.30pm
We know the world of education can be intense and often challenging, that’s why we’ve partnered with the Art of Brilliance, to deliver a session focused on you. In a world where there’s a lot of talk about ‘best self’ and ‘living your best life’, Hannah Knowles will show you how to achieve this. With doable principles and fun tasks, you’ll leave equipped with tips and tricks to share with your colleagues.
Student Finance & Life-long Learning Entitlement
Time: 2.40pm - 3.10pm
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is due to transform the way in which students fund their education. Samantha Fletcher will help to demystify this new form of funding, explain how the LLE will work, what students may be entitled to and how it differs from the current system.
Q&A Panel
Time: 3.20pm - 4pm
Join our panel of staff and current students for an open and honest discussion about university life. Whether you want to know about student finance, academic support for students or tips to help your students thrive in their first year - this is your chance to ask your burning questions.
Optional: Campus & Accommodation tour
Time: 4pm - 4.45pm
Whether it’s your first time on campus or you’re a frequent visitor, there’s always something new to discover at the University of Lancashire. Our Student Ambassadors will show you around our key facilities and student accommodation.
I really enjoyed how well organised the event was. Every session was interesting and all the speakers had a deep knowledge and clear passion for what they were discussing. The freebies were also great and high quality - made us feel very special.
