Ordinarily, we work chiefly with secondary schools, but this year we have been involved with Professor Fluffy – an initiative supported by Oxford University as a whole and devised by the University of Liverpool to encourage children to think early about the possibilities offered by Higher Education. The schools who were offered this opportunity had historically had relatively low rates of pupils going on to University or College, so it was a very different venture from one where we are talking to 17 year olds about considering Oxford. The programme involved introducing the children to the concept of higher education through games, discussions and activity sheets. It was salutary to note that although the children all live in or near Oxford, most were unaware of the university and what it does. But they were a delightful group, and embraced the activities with enthusiasm.

'Professor Fluffy' (the large purple stuffed toy in the photos) visited the school and – helped by Isabella McIntyre, St Anne’s Schools Liaison Officer – worked through various games and activities with the children. As you can see from both the comments and photos on this page, the children (and our schools liaison officer) thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

A super idea and does introduce the idea of HE to the children. The children were extremely positive about the whole idea." (Teacher)

I felt it was really helpful and useful. The interactive games were great and the kids loved it." (Teacher)

I knew that it was giong to be fun when I saw that the teachers were friendly and Prof Fluffy looked funny. I think university sounds good, and now I realise that I should go there and work hard to be able to achieve the job I tudy for."

I enjoyed the show because it was really fun and nice people presented it”

I was excited because it was a super lesson. I learned that if you go to college you will learn more.”

I liked the games and different activities. I didn’t even think about university because I didn’t know much, now I know more. Thank you for coming!”

I thought University was going to be boring, but now I think it’s really good.”

I didn’t know University existed, but now I want to go”

I liked the show because it has made me realize that I should go to University because I would get a good job and I should work hard to be able to achieve what job I studied for.”