Universities team up to widen access

Under the new scheme, student’s taking part in one of the targeted widening participation activities at Exeter could be taken into account should they choose to apply to any of the 11 universities. The University has links with pupils in 53 non-selective state schools and colleges in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset, and engages promising pupils in tutoring, pastoral support, and subject specific activity on campus. The Exeter Adds scheme seeks to support entry onto courses by students who have already worked with the University during their time at school.

Emma Stephenson, Outreach Manager at the University of Exeter says: “The work we do helps students who have potential, but who might need additional motivation and support to apply to the more selective universities and courses. This initiative means they don’t need to face geographical barriers – they might have worked with us here in Exeter but would like to go to University elsewhere.  If a student has taken part in one of our targeted widening participation activities and shown promise then it makes sense that we share that information with other universities.”

The Mutual Recognition Scheme is a collaborative partnership between eleven research-intensive institutions and means that young people who have experienced educational and social disadvantage can be assisted in demonstrating their commitment and potential for Higher Education study. Anyone applying for admission to University for 2010 under a Widening Access scheme at one of the eleven Universities will be eligible and can ask for a referral to be made to any of the universities in the partnership

The partnership will also enable the participating Universities to share best practice around this area of admissions and assist the development of new and extended opportunities for those young people who need help and support to study at University level.