Mon 21st November, 2011
A new initiative from the University of Bedfordshire is helping local learners make the right education choices.
The Access Partnership Programme (APP), delivered by the Access Partnership Team, builds on the success of the Aimhigher Learner Progression Framework, bringing information about higher education to partner schools and colleges.
Director of Widening Participation Steve Kendall said: “The APP provides opportunities for learners to explore the benefits of a University education from junior school onwards. It provides support and mentoring throughout school or college to make sure learners can make the right choice.
“I am very proud that the University of Bedfordshire has shown such a strong commitment to helping local learners. The opportunity for school or college students to work with current undergraduates to help with their progression to HE is particularly exciting.”
The APP includes the Access Partnership Associate Scheme, which has trained around 70 undergraduate students from the Luton and Bedford campuses, to go into local schools and colleges to share their experiences of higher education.
Vice Principal at Central Bedfordshire College Warren Edwards said: “The APP is an extremely well thought out and comprehensive programme which will effectively support Central Bedfordshire College and others in their work to widen participation.
“It provides an excellent vehicle to promote life-enhancing opportunities for students from the most vulnerable and deprived backgrounds and we look forward to working with the University of Bedfordshire for the benefit of our students and their futures.”
The programme aims to reach learners from junior school to university with a number of activities aimed to support them into and through higher education, such as student shadowing, targeted summer schools and mentoring schemes.
For more information about the APP call 01582 743 450, or email access@beds.ac.uk.
If you want to find out how APP can support your local school, sixth form or college, email the Schools Liaison Team at schoolsliaison@beds.ac.uk.
You can view the APP guide at issuu.com/uniofbeds
Latest news» 2011» November» Fresh initiative offers a taste of Higher Education
