Next Steps South West launch resources to help young people realise their potential
Next Steps South West (SW) is a consortium of universities and colleges across the South West awarded government funding to inspire young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to progress to higher education. Industry professionals have identified the need for such a project, and the gap between aspirations and achievement.
“…the lack is an understanding of the rules – both written and unwritten – that will enable these aspirations to be realised, largely through having no access to the informal advice and support…” Paul Clarke, Head of External Affairs at Brightside.
“These are students demonstrating an appetite for higher education who could be successful if they are provided with intensive support to enable successful progression”. Mary Curnock Cook, Chief Executive of UCAS.
This September sees the official launch of the Next Steps SW website www.nextstepssw.ac.uk. Tailored specifically towards students aged 13-19, it hosts a wealth of information and resources to support informed decision making about higher education, and has dedicated teachers’ and parents’/guardians’ pages.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for partners in the region to be able to respond to these needs and work with targeted young people who have the ability to progress into higher education. Through collaborative outreach, we aim to raise aspiration and awareness of opportunities open to them.” Charlotte True, Next Steps South West Project Manager.
Next Steps SW projects have been developed to address the barriers identified by students that they feel prevent them from progressing to higher education. Of particular note is the ‘Next Steps SW Roadshow’, which will be bringing resources and advice to locations in Exeter on board a double decker bus from September 25th for two weeks. It will be stopping off at various schools including St James School, Honiton Community College and Clyst Vale Community College as well as Princesshay Shopping Centre in Exeter on the 30th of September and 1st October.
Partner colleges and universities will be delivering the projects collaboratively with various activities taking place in schools, including an online mentoring programme; soft skill development courses; careers 1:1 guidance; provocative theatre performances and a suite of workshops. Where possible, current university students lead and support the workshops, mentoring and campus tours, bringing their real life experiences to the project. Working with the project will also help schools meet objectives laid out by Ofsted, Gatsby and DfE guidance
“The results are amazing! What a brilliant set of outcomes for our students. More importantly, to see their levels of confidence increase as a result is testament to themselves, Darren (the tutor) and his team (of student ambassadors)”. Craig Bonds, Redruth School.
For a full list of events and activities, visit the website where you will also find a range of inspiring case studies; a complete list of higher education courses available in the region; the latest information on job sectors; and a full list of partners with links to their websites.
Follow Next Steps SW on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to get involved with the latest campaigns, or contact nextstepssw@plymouth.ac.uk for more information.
