- About postgraduate study
- Part-time study
- Courses
- Order a Prospectus
- Faculties & Departments
- UK students
- EU students
- International Students
- How to apply for your course
- Handy Hints
- Open Events
- Student Recruitment
- Money Matters
- About Us
21 Jun 2005 14:42:17
A new scheme to get Luton’s unemployed into education has got off to a flying start, with dozens of eager candidates signing up at a special open day held at the Job Centre in Guildford Street.
The Passport to Academic Life (PAL) project is being run by the University of Luton and aims to give unemployed people a taste of academia, with the chance to study a range of modules including English, computing, business and psychology.
Project manager Rita Mascia, said: “We hope to target 80 people between now and December 2006, and we have already managed to sign up 30 in the first month – the level of interest has been staggering. It looks like we may have to expand the programme further to meet demand.
“This project offers unemployed people over the age of 25 the chance to see what university life is all about, but most importantly, can help them on the road to gaining a recognised qualification and will improve their job prospects.”
The scheme, which is funded by the Higher Education European Social Fund (ESF), is part of the University’s ‘widening participation’ policy, which is being driven by the government to improve participation in higher education and give more people access to education. It is being run in conjunction with Luton Job Centre, which is facilitating the interviews for the scheme.
Delegates will have to study four modules over two semesters and devote up to 20 hours a week to their studies. Successful students will be awarded with a Certificate in Higher Education. The first strand of the project gets under way in July 2005, with additional starting dates in September 2005 and February 2006.
“It’s set to be a fantastic project,” said Rita. “Not only have we signed up more people that we anticipated, but we have managed to attract people from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. This is exactly what this scheme is all about – being inclusive and representative of Luton’s population.”
The first induction will take place at the University on Monday 4 July. To find out more call the PAL project team on 01582 743985 or e-mail rita.mascia@luton.ac.uk.
Latest news» 2005» Jun» University gives Luton's Unemployed a Passport to Education
