Parents and supporters of new students
Information for parents and supporters about the support available to new students as they transition into university.
The first year at university can be a rewarding and challenging experience for new students, as well as anyone supporting them. We want to be sure that everyone involved feels knowledgeable and reassured about the support available to all new students making their transition to university.
This page has information for parents and supporters of new students.
There is further support and information available to you if you are a student with caring responsibilities:
We recorded the presentations from our in-person events which took place during September Welcome Week in 2024.
Watch recordings: Welcome Week event for parents and supporters
Main presentation: Parents and Supporters Talk
Presented by senior University staff and joined by current students, you will learn about the relationship between the University and supporters, the challenges that students may face, the changes they may experience, and information about all support and opportunities available to your student.
- Video: Main presentation Parents' and Supporters' talk 2024
- Presented by senior University staff and joined by current students, you will learn about the relationship between the University and supporters, the challenges that students may face, the changes they may experience, and information about all support and opportunities available to your student.
Life Skills: Living independently (presented by ResLife and Advice Place)
Whether you are living independently for the first time, or are new to Edinburgh, living away from home can be a daunting experience for many students. This session aims to guide you through the transition to independent living by hearing from ResLife – the University’s accommodation staff – and the Advice Place. This presentation will introduce the realities of what it is like to live either in halls with many students or alone and where they can get support with any issues that may arise in either living situation.
- Video: Life Skills Presentation - Living Independently
- Whether you are living independently for the first time, or are new to Edinburgh, living away from home can be a daunting experience for many students. This session aims to guide you through the transition to independent living by hearing from ResLife – the University’s accommodation staff – and the Advice Place. This presentation will introduce the realities of what it is like to live either in halls with many students or alone and where they can get support with any issues that may arise in either living situation.
Life Skills: Student safety (presented by University Security and Police Scotland)
Edinburgh is generally a safe place to live but it is important for everyone to stay vigilant. During this presentation, you will hear from on-campus security and Police Scotland, about the main areas of risks on-campus and around the city. The session will also provide you with guidance and advice about how to look after yourself, your flat, and your belongings throughout your time at university.
- Video: Life Skills- Student Safety
- Edinburgh is generally a safe place to live but it is important for everyone to stay vigilant. During this presentation, you will hear from on-campus security and Police Scotland, about the main areas of risks on-campus and around the city. The session will also provide you with guidance and advice about how to look after yourself, your flat, and your belongings throughout your time at university.
Life Skills: Money matters (presented by Advice Place and Careers Service)
For many students, moving to university will be the first time they will have to deal with personal finances and budgeting. This presentation will give a practical overview of what things typically cost in Edinburgh, how to budget and where to get good deals/discounts. It will also focus on how students can earn an income whilst studying and offer advice on getting part-time jobs and the benefits to their future career.
- Video: Life Skills- Money Matters
- For many students, moving to university will be the first time they will have to deal with personal finances and budgeting. This presentation will give a practical overview of what things typically cost in Edinburgh, how to budget and where to get good deals/discounts. It will also focus on how students can earn an income whilst studying and offer advice on getting part-time jobs and the benefits to their future career.
Life Skills: Making friends (presented by Edinburgh University Students' Association, Vice President Welfare)
Moving to a new city often means having to make new friends while also trying to adjust to new community, which can become overwhelming. Indigo Williams, current VP Welfare, will offer advice on how to overcome common anxieties to making connecting and highlight many opportunities to help students make friends, whilst reflecting on her own experiences as a student.
- Video: Life Skills- Making Friends
- Moving to a new city often means having to make new friends while also trying to adjust to new community, which can become overwhelming. Indigo Williams, current VP Welfare, will offer advice on how to overcome common anxieties to making connecting and highlight many opportunities to help students make friends, whilst reflecting on her own experiences as a student.
Resources to help support your student
Information for parents and supporters