DD been invited to a 'Welcome Day'…

[HappySonHappyMum]

…in the middle of July. The letter says it's to help the transition from school to Uni, to meet tutors, other students on the course, for taster sessions and to be given a course handbook and summer work. Sounds brilliant - BUT - what if she misses her grades? She'll be all set up and raring to go and then she won't be able to go and she'll be devastated. I know I'm thinking the worst. Will they be judging her for any decisions they may have to make when they get all of the results in. It seems more than just an offer day as it's timetabled. Someone talk me down!

This actually sounds brilliant. Like a good induction day at a school sixth form would be, and like a far superior offer holder day. I understand your fear about her missing grades, though. How likely is that to happen?

Speaking as someone who once worked in student recruitment, this is exactly the point of these welcome days. To lock the students into their choice so they don't change their minds at the last minute.

They may also have some other benefits, but mainly it's about recruitment. What's the university?

@Piggywaspushed Grades are doable and my DD is working incredibly hard but it only takes one dodgy paper and it could all go wrong! It does sound brilliant but it would make her insurance choice much less desirable if she didn't make the grades. @Paq It's firm offer holders only so not really about making them choose the course, it's really about welcoming to the Uni. It's only for one specific department at the University of Chichester. I can't fault their communication and interview process at all - they've been brilliant so far. I'm wondering if it's about putting faces to names for when they get the results and decide whether to accept you if you just miss your grades?

Trust me OP, it's about retaining the students they've made offers to. Universities are in intense competition for students and it's not uncommon for applicants' heads to be turned at the last minute.

This was literally my job for several years so I know what I'm talking about.

I don't think you should second guess the motivation in all honesty. Perhaps they have found students are less likely to have trouble settling if they experience the university and meet people? Drop out rates for unis are at an all time high, so this sounds like a good proactive step.

The grades bit is unavoidable. She'd be upset either way if she didn't reach her offer grades. Fingers crossed she does!

I have taught several students who have gone to Chichester. All really happy!