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RED Professional Development Award

An opportunity to gain experience and Stand Out from the Crowd in an increasingly competitive job market.

What is the RED Professional Development Award?  

The Reading Experience and Development (RED) Professional Development Award is one of the University of Reading's Official Skills Awards. It is designed to help Reading students make the most of the extra-curricular activities and experiences on offer outside of the academic programme.  

Endorsed by graduate employers, students who complete the RED award are 68% more likely to secure a job by the final year compared to those that do not.  

Why do it?  

  • Gain formal recognition for your extra-curricular activities  
  • Understand what employers look for and reflect on your strengths  
  • Build transferable skills in a way that works for you  
  • Enhance your CV and boost your graduate prospects  
  • Expand your network and increase your confidence  
  • Receive a certificate that can be used on LinkedIn; the completion will also be added to your diploma supplement annex and the graduation brochure  

How do I complete it? 

The award is made up of two stages: Points Submission and Advocacy. To complete the award, you’ll need to: 

  • Earn 25 points through a range of extra-curricular activities 
  • Reflect on what you’ve learned, highlighting how these experiences have developed your professional skills and employability 
  • Complete a short post-award survey to reflect on your overall experience 

Ready to get started?

Check out our: Completing the RED Professional Development Award page

If you have any questions, please get in touch:  

Careers, Carrington First Floor  

0118 378 8359 | red@reading.ac.uk 

Contact Us

What is the Professional Development Award?

Learn more about the Professional Development Award and how to get started

Completing the Professional Development Award

Learn about the requirements and stages of completing the Professional Development Award

Eligible Activities-Professional Development Award

Find eligible activities to earn your 25 points to complete your Points Submission

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