University access scheme is a success

A SCOTTISH university has seen a significant rise in the number of students from disadvantaged backgrounds following the launch of a access-widening scheme last year.

Glasgow Caledonian University has doubled the number of pupils from six partnership secondary schools securing a place at the institution in just one year – with numbers rising from 16 to 30.

Its Schools and Colleges Engagement and Transition Team started work with senior pupils in August 2012, involving them in a range of activities throughout their final year at school.

Events included pupils s p e ndi ng days at t he university campus and getting involved in support sessions providing help with applications, time management, study and exam skills and presentational skills.

The 30 pupils who have been successful in gaining a place at Glasgow Caledonian are studying a wide range of s ubj e c t s i ncl udi ng o p t o me t r y, nursing, construction management and journalism.

A spokeswoman for the university said: “We look forward to many of these new undergraduate students becoming student mentors in the future and returning to their schools as positive role models within their local communities.”

Andrew Fitzhenry, a principal teacher at John Paul Academy in Glasgow, which took part in the scheme, said: “The project has opened the eyes of our pupils to new experiences. While promoting their own skills and qualities, they were allowed unprecedented access that enabled them to see the university as a positive and viable opportunity.”