Information for parents, carers and supporters

When your loved one leaves home for the first time to attend Kingston University, it can be an upheaval for everyone involved.

Naturally, you’ll want to support young students to the best of your ability. Here are some top tips for supporting your loved one during their first year at University:

If new students are feeling homesick

Let them know you sympathise, but encourage them to stick it out. Remind them the clubs and societies run by the Kingston Students' Union are a great way to meet people and make new friends.

In case they get ill

Make sure your son, daughter, or loved one registers with a doctor when they first arrive which will make things easier if they do feel ill. There are also some vaccines you may want to arrange to update before university starts.

If they’re disappointed with their term grades

Our site-based Academic Skills Centres can provide them with support and advice.

If they’re struggling with the cold weather

Much of the academic year occurs when the days are short and cold, which can contribute to low mood in some students. Remind them that the Fitness Centre includes lots of indoor dance and aerobics classes, which aren't weather dependent.

If they have financial concerns 

There is plenty of help and advice on fees and funding available, including money management talks and workshops.

If they need help finding a job or securing accommodation

The careers service is available if your son or daughter needs help finding a job. We also offer accommodation support to advise with house-hunting. 

Where possible, our courses are structured to help your loved one develop their work-based key skills, such as time management, team working, presentation and people-based skills. 

We also have a specialist careers team. This support team works with academics, support staff and industry to ensure that students are prepared. We want graduates to step into the marketplace with confidence when they graduate. 

Our careers team can provide: 

• Individual guidance
• Advice and workshops on CV preparation
• Application forms
• Interview techniques
• Psychometric tests

In addition, we run interactive events throughout the year. We aim to give students the opportunity to hear from, and network with, employers in an informal setting.