Schools and Colleges Open Day

What to expect

Our Open Day is designed to give Year 12 and 13 students an understanding of higher education, providing the information, advice, and guidance they need to make informed decisions about their next steps and to support Gatsby Benchmark 7.

Bringing everything together in one place, the day offers students the opportunity to explore post-18 options, gain valuable insights into university life, and speak directly with academics, support staff and current students.

It also gives them a chance to visit the University of the Year, experience our state-of-the-art facilities, discover our diverse range of courses, and get a real feel for what studying at the University of Derby could offer them.

There's lots for you to discover at an Open Day and your students can plan their day however they choose; here's an idea of what you can expect:

• A welcome talk from one of our most senior leaders who will introduce you to Derby and set the scene for the day ahead.
• Explore our campus – your students can explore Kedleston Road, Markeaton Street, The Cavendish Building and One Friar Gate Square. They take part in either 1 or 2 of our subject taster sessions, where they can talk to teaching staff about their course of interest; and explore the facilities they’ll be using as a student.
• You and your students can join our students on a guided campus tour, and find out first-hand what it’s like to study at Derby.
• Take a tour of our award-winning accommodation. We were delighted to be named Best University Housing and Best Environmental Management (UK and Ireland) in the 2025 Global Student Living Awards.
• A variety of information, advice and guidance sessions. Such as personal statements, student finance, getting career ready, study skills and student transition, and degree apprenticeships.
• Chat with our support services to ask any questions they have about applying, funding, and wellbeing.

We're really looking forward to welcoming you and your students to our Open Day in October.

Funding for coach travel is available to Year 13 groups.