The University of Bath has announced it will begin to guarantee a conditional offer of a place to students leaving care, one of the first universities in England to offer this support.
Photo © University of Bath
The University of Bath has long supported students who have experienced being in care before entering the university.
Its dedicated team in Student Services has provided a stable and supportive focus for support, advice, and signposting.
Additional funds are also provided by the supplementary bursary for students leaving care.
For students applying to start studying in 2023, subject to terms and criteria, the University of Bath will guarantee a conditional offer, typically at one grade below the standard offer if they complete one of the university’s outreach programmes: Pathway to Bath, Discover Bath, Target Bath or Access to Bath.
In addition to the ongoing support for all care-experienced students, and now the guaranteed offer for care-leavers, the university has worked closely with current students to develop a set of resources sharing their own experiences of studying at Bath.
The Student Experience webpages provide an insight into life at the university and tell the stories of some current and former students.
In addition, the university has launched an e-mentoring scheme where students who have spent time in care can talk to a current undergraduate student who has been through a similar experience before going to study.
Amber, a final year Sociology student, said: “It can be so confusing thinking about university as a care leaver – there’s so much to think about, and it’s not always the easiest to find the information you’re looking for.
“I was so excited, but a bit daunted to move to Bath, and the Student Services team has been alongside me the whole way, giving me time that’s just about me, and a point of contact to pick up the phone at anytime, as well as loads of practical help.”
Dr Andrew Ross, Head of Widening Access and Participation said: “We are really pleased to have a joined-up offer of support and engagement for students with experience of care.
“We know that some students have a challenging journey to get to university, and we want to recognise that and celebrate their successes.
“This offer from outreach to application support, to guaranteed offer and then ongoing support during their studies is a fantastic achievement, and one I am very proud of.”
To find out more about the offer, visit this page.
