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Department of Psychology
HomeDepartment of Psychology About usEquality, diversity and inclusionWidening participation

Widening Participation

We're dedicated to making psychology inclusive. We work closely with our local community, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds to ensure our research reflects diverse lived experiences. We share our latest findings through a range of events and networks.

By providing school outreach and mentoring, the Department and University work together to dismantle barriers to entry. We’re here to help every student develop the tools they need to succeed in higher education and beyond.

Whether you’re from a working-class background or are the first in your family to head to university, you belong here. The Department and University are committed to creating a space where your unique perspective is valued and your potential is supported.

Thomas Davies, Widening Participation Champion

Activities

Below is an overview of initiatives and activities undertaken by the Department and across the University to widening participation and outreach.

  • Pint of Science: A non-profit organisation which aims to provide a space for researchers and members of the public alike to come together, be curious, and chat about research in a relaxed environment outside of mysterious laboratories or daunting dark lecture theatres.

 

  • I'm a Scientist Get Me Out of Here: A student-led STEM enrichment activity. It connects school students with scientists through energetic real-time text-based chats. Many members of the department have participated by answering questions about psychology, and making science more accessible to schools.

 

  • YorNight/ Psych!York: The department hosts free and interactive displays and demonstrations within the city of York. Past events have included topics such as brain activity during sleep, chimpanzee communication, and decision-making. (yornight-psychyork-group@york.ac.uk)

 

  • York Festival of Ideas: A celebration of the power of education. With speakers, exhibitions, films, and much more, the festival offers diverse events that aim to educate, entertain and inspire. Psychology hosts a variety of talks and stalls during the festival, such as a talk on 'The End of Bias' and interactive activities like building your own brain. 

 

  • York Shine: Helps to expose children (Years 7 to 11) to science and STEM subjects, delivered in partnership with schools across the region. Shine participants are high-achieving students from backgrounds that are underrepresented in higher education. 

 

  • Next Step York and YorWay Residential: Next Step York is aimed at pupils who have the potential to progress to university but have experienced barriers that may prevent them from accessing higher education. 

 

  • Therapeutic Writing Groups: A six-week programme of writing groups to help strengthen emotional wellbeing and mental health through structured writing tasks within a safe and guided environment. (therapeutic-writing-groups-group@york.ac.uk)

 

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