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First ever mindfulness class led by robot helps students through Clearing

16/08/2017
Pepper the robot talks students through breathing exercises to relieve stress of receiving A-Level results. Middlesex will also broadcast live Clearing chat show on results day with advice on getting a place at university

Middlesex has developed what is believed to be the first robot presenting a mindfulness class to camera to support anxious students receiving their A-level results.

The video will help students relax through meditation and mindful breathing, allowing them to focus their minds on making a good decision during Clearing.

A team from the Faculty of Science and Technology programmed Pepper the robot to present the innovative mindfulness session with expert input from Middlesex Psychology Professor, Mark Coulson.

“Results day and Clearing may be the most stressful event that some students have faced,” says Professor Coulson.

“My message to them is that there is no escaping stress in life, but knowing how to deal with it can minimise the unpleasant emotions it can cause.

“It’s really important to remember that help and support is out there and the Clearing team at Middlesex University are waiting to advise people.

“You may not have considered Clearing, but plans change in life and knowing how to deal with stressful unexpected change is an important lesson.

“Clearing can offer you fantastic choices so keep an open mind.”

In another innovative move to help students negotiate their way through Clearing, Middlesex will be running a live broadcast through Facebook on 17 August from 8.30am to 9.30am, which will be packed with helpful Clearing tips.

The broadcast will feature current students and staff members explaining how Clearing works and what students can do to make the most of it.

They’ll also be talking about student life and giving a tour of Middlesex’s London campus. Viewers can ask questions by commenting on the Facebook post.

Watch our Clearing live broadcast on Facebook. You can ask us questions by commenting on the post now or during the show.

Lucy Everest, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Director of Marketing, says students should take advantage of all the help on offer.

“This is a time when young people may have to make new life choices and perhaps change what they had their hearts set on,” she says.

“But it can also be a really positive time and many students look back and are really pleased about the new pathways Clearing gave them.

“It’s important to remember that universities around the country are geared up to support people going through Clearing. Middlesex University phones will be open at 7.30am on Thursday and we want to assist as many people as we can.”

Over 100 Clearing advisers will be answering phone calls at Middlesex from 7.30am to 7.30pm on Thursday 17 August. Lines will also be open on Friday 18, Saturday 19 and the following week.

Find out more about Clearing and the options available at Middlesex

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