Widening Participation Policy Statement

Our aim for widening participation is to ensure that all those who have the ability to benefit from higher education have the opportunity to do so wherever possible. We believe that higher education and the opportunities that it brings should be available to all, regardless of their background.

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Access and Participation Plan

Introduction

• We are committed to fostering an inclusive educational environment that ensures equal access and participation for all students, regardless of their background. This Access and Participation Plan outlines our strategic approach to enhancing access, success, and progression for underrepresented and disadvantaged student groups.

 

Objectives

1. Increase Access: To attract and enrol a more diverse student body, particularly from underrepresented groups.

2. Enhance Success: To support all students in achieving academic excellence and completing their studies.

3. Promote Progression: To facilitate successful transitions into further education, employment, or entrepreneurship.

 

Target Groups

• Students from low-income backgrounds

• Students from minority ethnic backgrounds

• Students with disabilities

• Mature students

• Care leavers and estranged students

 

Strategic Measures

1. Outreach and Recruitment

• Community Engagement: Partner with local schools, community organizations, and youth groups to raise awareness about higher education opportunities.

• Financial Support: Offer scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid packages to reduce economic barriers.

• Information and Guidance: Provide comprehensive pre-admission counseling and resources to help prospective students navigate the application process.

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2. Admission Processes

• Holistic Review: Implement a holistic admissions process that considers a range of factors beyond academic achievements.

• Contextual Offers: Use contextual data to make offers that reflect the potential of applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds.

3. Retention and Success

• Academic Support: Provide tutoring, mentoring, and skills workshops tailored to the needs of underrepresented students.

• Wellbeing Services: Ensure access to mental health services, disability support, and other wellbeing resources.

• Inclusive Curriculum: Develop an inclusive curriculum that reflects diverse perspectives and experiences.

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4. Progression and Employability

• Career Services: Offer career counselling, internships, and placement opportunities targeted at underrepresented students.

• Alumni Networks: Facilitate connections with alumni who can provide mentorship and career guidance.

• Lifelong Learning: Promote opportunities for lifelong learning and professional development.

 

Monitoring and Evaluation

• Data Collection: Collect and analyse data on student demographics, retention rates, academic performance, and post-graduation outcomes.

• Feedback Mechanisms: Establish channels for regular feedback from students to inform continuous improvement.

• Annual Review: Conduct an annual review of the Access and Participation Plan to assess progress and make necessary adjustments.

 

Governance and Accountability

• Leadership Commitment: Ensure senior leadership is actively involved in and accountable for the delivery of this plan.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Involve students, staff, and external partners in the development and implementation of initiatives.

• Transparency: Publish progress reports and updates on our website to maintain transparency and accountability.

 

Conclusion

• This Access and Participation Plan represents our commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive educational environment. Through targeted initiatives and continuous evaluation, we aim to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed and thrive at our institution.

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Contact details for further information

• You can contact our team responsible for access and participation via email at: quality@doctoralcollege.org