Widening Participation 

Pint of Science is 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. They believe that everyone has a place at the table to discuss the research going on both on our doorsteps and far beyond. The Psychology Department has delivered many talks in partnership with Pint of Science, on topics ranging from dealing with stress, sleep and social media, and 'citizen science'.

I’m a Scientist is 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.

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. 

Email: yornight-psychyork-group@york.ac.uk 

York Festival of Ideas is a celebration of the power of education, as a collaboration between many institutions of York. 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. 

The Shine initiative at York 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. Shine aims to raise awareness and knowledge of higher education, while also inspiring, motivating and encouraging participants to realise their aspirations and achieve academic success.

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. It consists of a two-year programme for students in Year 12 to help them flourish, with modules across various subjects, support for their current studies, and tasters of university life. Participants are invited to a summer residential at the end of the first year.

The department has collaborated with the charity, Kyra, to host 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. Kyra Women's Project is a York-based charity that aims to support women to make positive changes in their lives, offering a range of courses, therapies, life skills and events.

Email: therapeutic-writing-groups-group@york.ac.uk 

The Department of Psychology visits many different schools across the country, from primary school all the way to sixth form, presenting and demonstrating different aspects of Psychology. 

Email: outreach-in-schools-and-sixth-forms-group@york.ac.uk