The University of Leeds is partnering with local secondary schools and sixth form colleges to raise students’ aspirations.
The RAISED in Yorkshire (RiY) programme inspires and enables young people from all backgrounds to explore courses they would not otherwise have considered. These include highly competitive courses in dentistry, dental hygiene therapy and other Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) subjects.
RiY’s community collaboration work is raising awareness about the importance of dental health but also providing valuable work experience for youngsters wishing to boost their CVs. It recently held a conference at the University’s Worsley building, attended by nearly 100 sixth formers and staff.
Sue Pavitt, a Professor in Translational and Applied Health Research in the School of Dentistry, initially involved sixth form students from Batley Girls’ High School, working with David Cooper, with whom she co-created the RiY programme.
The project has expanded to other secondary schools and sixth form colleges in West Yorkshire, using a peer-to-peer approach that teaches students how to pass on oral health advice and toothbrushing skills to those just starting secondary school.
Research shows over one-third of students starting secondary schools had tooth decay in their permanent teeth. Four in ten reported that their oral health had an impact on their daily lives such as school absenteeism, pain, bullying and low self-esteem.
The RiY programme has now evolved into a public engagement project with students embracing citizen science, to gain understanding of the science behind tooth decay.
Sue said: “Tooth decay not only causes distress for the children and impacts the wider family but also costs the NHS millions of pounds. It is largely preventable but reaching those most vulnerable is challenging.
“The RiY project was set up to specifically address the poor oral health in West Yorkshire. It empowers young people with the skills and knowledge to improve their own oral health and toothbrushing habits.”
Sue added: “The RiY programme has now evolved into a public engagement project with students embracing citizen science, to gain understanding of the science behind tooth decay.”
PhD Student Yasmen Elsadek is looking at the impact of RiY on the sixth form students and how it raises the aspirations of those who typically lack the parental contacts to open doors to higher education.
Yasmen Elsadek teaches pupils the science behind tooth decay.
Yasmen qualified as a dentist in Libya but got a scholarship to come to the UK where she studied for a Masters in Dentistry, achieving a distinction whilst also looking after her three children aged under five.
She also had a desire to help young people from a variety of backgrounds achieve their potential so became involved in a RiY summer school enrichment programme. This two-week intensive programme provides valuable oral microbiology lab experience alongside sessions to develop clinical skills and improve communication skills, while enhancing the ability to debate ethical matters as well as dental procedures.
Yasmen explained: “My research shows that RiY provides an excellent work experience for those interested in exploring careers in dentistry. The RiY programme provides immense benefits to strengthen their University applications.”
She has been involved now for four years and loves seeing positive results, with young people gaining places on dentistry courses and going on to qualify. “It is lovely to see these young people gain confidence and achieve great results. It makes me so happy,” she added.
Further information
For more information contact Jane Lewis, Corporate Communications Officer, by emailing j.lewis3@leeds.ac.uk