BOURNEMOUTH University (BU) has been awarded a grant of £1.2 million, giving students access to ‘life-changing opportunities’.

The funding will enable around 500 BU students in 2024/2025 to go abroad and access both curricular and extra-curricular activities.

Students can undertake student exchanges at partner universities, work placements and volunteering at businesses and non-governmental organisations globally.

The grant has been awarded by the UK Turing Scheme – the government's flagship programme for international education and exchanges.

It aims to provide students with transformative experiences through study, work placements, and research opportunities abroad.

Placements can last a minimum of 28 days and a maximum of 12 months.

Meghan Ellis, senior global engagement mobility manager at BU, said: “The Turing Scheme continues to be vital for BU in achieving our vision of our students gaining a global outlook during their time at university.

"We continue to collaborate with our international partners and other organisations including industries, providing learning and transformative opportunities for our students worldwide.”

Students who take part in international opportunities benefit from increased intercultural understanding and awareness and gain valuable skills that are highly sought after by employers.

International mobility programmes have been shown to enhance students’ knowledge, skills and values through enhancing their academic performance, employability, and personal development.

BU student Holly Ditchett volunteered at North Bali Reef Conservation, a non-governmental organisation co-founded by former BU PhD student Dr Zach Boakes.

Holly said: “This experience has shown me the value of cross-cultural collaboration and the unique perspectives it brings.

"It has also made me more confident in my ability to adapt and thrive in international settings, fuelling my desire to build a career that allows me to continue exploring and contributing to global initiatives.”

For another student, James Aram, the Turing Scheme funded a marketing placement in Amsterdam.

James said: “Looking back, my placement with Miele in Amsterdam has been a defining chapter of my academic and personal journey.

"It’s pushed me out of my comfort zone, allowed me to grow in ways I never imagined, and has left me with memories and skills that will last a lifetime.”