Widening Participation
Our Widening Participation Programme supports all students including those from under-represented backgrounds to explore Higher Education and develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to progress to university.
We work with leading universities, including the University of Bath, University of Bristol, University of the West of England, Cardiff University, and the University of Gloucestershire, to provide a range of outreach and support programmes. We also have applicants go on to University of Oxford and University of Cambridge.
Opportunities Available
Students may be able to access:
- Academic enrichment programmes
- Subject-specific pathways (including Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, and Law)
- Mentoring and one-to-one support
- University taster days and workshops
- Summer schools and residential programmes
- Contextual offers and admissions support
- Guidance on university applications and student life
Examples of Programmes
University of Bristol
- Access to Bristol
- Pathways to Health Sciences
- Pathways to Law
University of Bath
Pathway to Bath Programme, including academic modules, mentoring, and a residential experience:
Cardiff University
- Step Up Programme
- Outreach activities and contextual admissions support
University of Gloucestershire
- Outreach and Widening Participation
- Aspiration days
- Higher Education preparation activities
- Summer residentials
- Uni Connect (GROWS)
We also support students to engage with University Access Programmes including those offered by University of Oxford and University of Cambridge. For the Higher Attaining Students, we offer bespoke 1:1 support including interview techniques.
Eligibility
Each programme has its own entry criteria. Eligibility may be based on factors such as:
- GCSE attainment
- Home postcode
- School background
- Household income
- Being the first in your family to attend university
Students should check the requirements for each programme before applying.
Cost
All widening participation programmes are free to take part in.
Further Support
The Careers Team can help students identify suitable programmes, check eligibility, and complete applications to ensure they make the most of the opportunities available.
