🎓 Re-engaging With Your Studies This Semester?
Returning to university after a leave of absence can feel exciting — and a little daunting. If you’re finding it tricky to get back into the swing of things, you’re not alone 💛
Join us for our weekly LEAD sessions, designed specifically to support students who are re-engaging with their studies after time away. It’s a relaxed, welcoming space where you can:
- Connect with others who are also returning
- Share challenges and reflect on your experiences
- Learn tools and strategies to support your academic progress
Want some insight as to what is covered? See the schedule below!
Sign up using this form, asking for information on re-engagement or LEAD sessions!
We’ll also be joined by a guest from IELLI – the Learning and Writing Centre, who will deliver a practical session on organisation and effective study habits to help you rebuild momentum with confidence ✍️📚
🗓 Wednesdays, 3.30pm–5pm
đź“Ť Eden Court Meeting Room
🍪 Tea and biscuits provided (always.)
Whether you’re feeling totally ready or still finding your feet, you’re warmly invited. No pressure — just come as you are.
✨ Weekly LEAD Programme Schedule
Supporting Your Return to Studies with Structure, Reflection, and Community
Whether you’re building momentum again or finding your feet after time away, each LEAD session offers structured, supportive space to grow your academic confidence and personal wellbeing. Here’s what’s coming up this semester:
📅 Week 1 – 17th Sept
Introduction to the LEAD Programme & the Domains of Wellness
In our opening session, you’ll:
- Receive an overview of the LEAD Programme, including weekly topics, expectations, and goals
- Explore the eight dimensions of wellness as outlined by SAMHSA
- Reflect on your current level of wellness and set personal goals
- Learn strategies for planning ahead and managing potential stressors
- Discover the framework of Readiness for Change and identify the elements that support sustainable change
📅 Week 2 – 24th Sept
Procrastination and Building Motivation
This week focuses on understanding (and tackling) procrastination. You’ll:
- Explore the root causes and effects of procrastination
- Practise evidence-based strategies for overcoming procrastination
- Try out a self-efficacy exercise based on Edith Grotberg’s work in the International Resilience Project
- Set achievable goals around a task you’ve been avoiding
📅 Week 3 – 1st Oct
Resilience and Problem Solving
In this session, we’ll:
- Explore Reivich and Shatté’s resilience model, focusing on emotional agility and problem-solving
- Develop practical resilience-building skills for handling academic challenges
- Practise structured approaches to problem solving in real-life contexts
📅 Week 4 – 8th Oct
Study Skills with IELLI (Learning & Writing Centre)
Guest: Heather Curtis
Join us for an interactive session with IELLI exploring:
- Study strategies that work
- Organisation and academic tools
- Tips for managing study blocks and staying on track
📅 Week 5 – 15th Oct
Stress and Social Connections
This session will help you:
- Understand the difference between optimal stress (which can enhance performance) and distress (which can hinder it)
- Explore the impact of social connection on managing stress
- Reflect on your support networks and how to strengthen them
⛅ Independent Learning Week – 20th Oct
No session this week
📅 Week 7 – 27th Oct
Understanding and Managing Anxiety
You’ll have the chance to:
- Identify symptoms and causes of anxiety
- Explore simple yet powerful anxiety management techniques
- Recognise common thinking traps that disrupt productivity
- Practise re-framing negative thought patterns and explore how these affect your focus and learning
📅 Week 8 – 3rd Nov
Resetting for a Growth Mindset
This week, we’ll:
- Reflect on the role of mindset in personal wellness, study, and relationships
- Explore the benefits of shifting towards a growth mindset
- Practise mindset resets to help support your goals and day-to-day routines
📅 Week 9 – 10th Nov
Managing Exam Anxiety with Self-Compassion
In preparation for assessment season, you’ll:
- Learn the basics of self-compassion and how it supports performance
- Try self-compassion tools that you can apply both in session and in everyday life
- Explore helpful exam strategies like the Feynman Technique for deeper learning and recall
📅 Weeks 10–13
Review Weeks & 1:1 Drop-In Support
No formal sessions – but support continues. These weeks are dedicated to:
- Drop-in and 1:1 appointments for personalised guidance
- Ongoing development and reflection
- Extra space to check in as the semester progresses
Let me know if you’d like this in poster format, newsletter layout, or uploaded as a calendar-style visual too!