Who we work with
The Outreach and Widening Participation Team is passionate about breaking down barriers to studyAt LSBU, we work with anyone interested in Further and Higher Education. We prioritise work with state schools, academies and Pupil Referral Units.
We are committed to challenging preconceptions, offering opportunities for learners and their supporters to explore new subjects and careers, and to using our network of academics, students, alumni and partners to support those considering Further and Higher Education.
As part of our Widening Participation work, we can provide extra programmes for those learners who come from underrepresented social groups who might miss out on the opportunity to progress in their education due to circumstances out of their control.
These groups include, but are not limited to:
- Learners receiving, or eligible for, free school meals
- Disabled learners, including those with long-term illnesses
- Adult learners – anyone 21 years and over interested in studying for an undergraduate degree
- Care leavers and looked after children
- Young and adult carers
- Learners with no parental/carer history of Higher Education
- Refugees and asylum seekers
- Individuals from Gypsy, Roma, Traveller, Showman and Boater communities
Learners from Widening Participation groups will get priority access to our activities and bespoke support when making applications to LSBU, such as one-to-one personal statement advice. Once students have enrolled at LSBU, we provide additional support, including bursaries, counselling and dedicated staff.
What is Widening Participation?
Widening Participation has been a part of UK Government education policy for decades. It is designed to address differences in progression to university between different groups, acknowledging that learners from disadvantaged backgrounds may face significant barriers when considering, applying to, and succeeding in Higher Education.
As part of our Access and Participation Plan (link here) we also prioritise the below areas:
The STEM skills gap is a current educational challenge. Women are significantly underrepresented in STEM-related career fields. We aim to raise awareness of STEM careers to female learners and provide them with role models of BAME females in STEM careers.
We support care experienced students on their journey, providing support specific to the application process. Please go to our dedicated care leavers and estranged students webpages for more information about what we can offer.
It’s never too late to join LSBU. In fact, more than 43% of LSBU students are over the age of 21, and over 17% of LSBU students joined LSBU after the age of 31. We take into account alternative qualifications and can consider your work experience. Please feel free to contact our Course Enquiries team for more information or visit us on an Open Day to find out what’s on offer.
There are many support teams at our university to ensure that our students get the care and advice they need throughout their time at LSBU. These teams are experts in their fields and always willing to help and assist.
As a student at LSBU you will be able to access support teams to get help with:
- Disability and dyslexia
- Health and wellbeing
- Careers and employability – throughout their time at university
- Student money advice – and budgeting
- Accommodation help
- Learning resources
- Being a refugee and asylum seeker
- Care leavers and estranged students’ support
- Multi-faith support
We want our students to know they are supported in all areas of their university careers as we recognise this can be a steep learning curve and a lot of new experiences.