CHILDREN from a Hampshire primary school were given an insight into life at university.

Year six students from St Marys CofE Primary School were given the chance to explore the world of higher education this week, with a visit to Southampton Solent University.

As part of Solent’s Step into Success programme, 53 pupils took part in a campus treasure hunt and a ‘create your own university campus’ workshop before gathering in the university’s Spark building to meet the vice-chancellor, Professor Graham Baldwin.

Groups of students presented their vision of an ideal university, with the winning team receiving a prize for their idea, ‘The Diversity University’, which focused on inclusivity.

“Some of the themes from the winning team included a sun garden, being able to travel to university on a cruise ship and key values for pupils which included respect, tolerance and co-operation.

Professor Baldwin said: “These visits are a great opportunity for young people to find out what university is all about and start thinking about their aspirations for the future.

“And it is fantastic for us to meet our next generation of students, discover what they’re interested in and let them know that higher education is an option for everyone.

Year six teacher and upper key stage two phase leader at St Marys CoE Primary School, Faye Bauck said: “The children loved the day and still talk about what they saw and the tasks they carried out.

“It has also allowed our children to understand there can be more in their futures and that they can reach for the stars when thinking about future careers.

“Hearing many of the children declare that they would like to become doctors, graphic designers and vets was truly wonderful.”