In this episode Elizabeth speaks to Christian about decision making and then applying to university as a mature student.

This is an important viewpoint as about a third of undergraduates in the UK are mature students.

Christian shares his story of facing a fork in the road about his future - looking for another job or making the move towards university. There were many of things to consider especially as he knew the world of work but didn't know any mature students. He now does!

Listen as Elizabeth and Christian discuss:

• What steps helped Christian move towards being a university student.
• The positives and challenges of being a mature student
• The importance of seeing the bigger picture and understanding your WHY of higher education and beyond
• Support that universities can offer for this particular group of students
• Using your strengths and skills from your work experience to university life
• The advice that Christian offers to make this a successful transition

As the summer holiday begins in the Northern Hemisphere, many students, teachers and parents are looking forward to some rest and relaxation after a busy academic year.

For many students this time represents the end of one stage of their education and the beginning of the next, a move from primary to secondary school, a transition to higher education, or maybe a move into the world of work.

In this episode, Elizabeth shares her professional insights into this time of year and how she supports students, parents and educators to embrace both endings and new beginnings.

Listen as we discuss:

Elizabeths reflections from her professional work at this time of year.

Four elements of the RAFT framework.

• The importance of review and reconciliation.
• The value of affirmation
• The rational for taking the time to make a good farewell
• The positivity in thinking destination.

A little of what we have got right and wrong during our past times of transition.

Why transitions are not all easy, there are both good times and bumps along the way.

The importance of self-compassion at this time.

A timely episode for this time of year.

Exams over, results out, the long summer vacation begins. A time for re-connection between students, family and old friends. A time that brings joy and probably also 'some' frustration...

In this episode, we revisit Episode 55, first designed for the return home after term one at university. On re-listening we realised everything we said was relevant not just for that first return but for subsequent ones as well.

So, whether you are a student, parent or other family member, this episode is worth a listen as you all embark on The Return -:)

We discuss:

• How student experiences will have varied and home life may have moved on. How to find the new balance.
• The importance of setting realistic expectations and communicating them.
• Why 'negotiation' may become the most helpful word of the summer.
• The value in good endings and new beginnings even when the transition is a mini one.
• A reminder to put your well-being at the heart of the holiday period. Rest and recovery.... and whatever else makes you feel well.
• Setting the scene for a positive return to university in September.