First Star at University College London

First Star – UCL is a unique, life-changing programme dedicated to supporting care-experienced young people across the UK from Year 5 through Year 13.

Our national remote programme provides an empowering educational journey that opens doors, builds confidence, and sets young people on a path to success.

Contact

Ian Wyles NPQSL

National Director

Email: ian.wyles@firststaruk.org

What First Star UCL Offers

At First Star – UCL we are committed to offering a comprehensive support system that helps each scholar thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Our programme meets the Gatsby Benchmarks, ensuring quality, consistency, and impact.

Programme Overview

Weekly Sessions

Designed for young people at all levels of learning. Each week we deliver; English & Maths Tuition, life skills and fun activities to help young people get the grades they need to overcome barriers to higher education.

University Connect

Is designed to bridge the gap between scholars and higher education opportunities. The project provides support, resources, and guidance to help these scholars navigate the university application process, succeed in their studies, and build the skills needed for academic and personal growth

Launch Pad

It provides scholars with the essential skills, resources, and guidance needed to succeed in further education and employment. By offering practical workshops, mentorship, and financial support, Launch Pad helps our scholars build a strong foundation for their future.

Stem Residential

Our programme now includes an additional residential at The STEM Centre in York—an incredible opportunity for students to dive into the world of science, technology, engineering, and maths through hands-on experiments and problem-solving. Over four immersive days, participants will explore applied chemistry, engage with university experts and industry professionals, and collaborate with fellow budding scientists. From interactive lab sessions to exciting evening activities, this residential brings STEM learning to life in a dynamic and inspiring way!

Summer University Residential

This annual residential gives our scholars the opportunity to experience campus life first hand. This exposure helps demystify higher education, raise aspirations, and build confidence, offering scholars a real sense of what it’s like to pursue a university education and preparing them for future academic success.

Empower U

This project supports scholars in developing the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to succeed in life. Through a combination of mentoring, personal development workshops and our life skills curriculum providing them with tools for independence.

Alumni Voices

First star helped me find my way. I’m doing travelling, working and I think I’m at the happiest place I've been in a long time. its nice to have people you can go to, to talk about your problems

Teshie

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First star is a place to build a story with people who are in a similar situation to your own. A place to learn life skills, go on fun activities and create everlasting memories.

Michael

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These people here are not just people on a programme, they are my friend’s, family and, siblings now. I love them with all my heart we’ve been through it all.