Uni Connect Inspires University Participation

Grimsby Institute is delighted to partner with the Uni Connect programme to support non-traditional progression to higher education.

A series of activities has been delivered to support learners like Alex, who has benefited from a range of events and engagement activities to support him to progress to higher education. Alex is in his second year of Level 3 study on a Criminology pathway, which includes A Level Psychology, A Level Sociology and a Level 3 Diploma in Criminology.

Alex was selected by the regional partnership HOP (Humber Outreach Programme) as part of the Uni Connect programme, due to data highlighting that he is from an area where there are low numbers of people who progress to university.

Over the last two years, he has participated in activities such as a forensic science workshop called Sherlock Bones, a trip to the National Crime Museum in Nottingham and an inspirational revision session held at a cinema in Leeds. He has had stress management sessions to support him with his studies and help with applying through UCAS, including writing personal statements and guidance on HE student finance.

Alex also was able to participate in a NEXT Steps transition support programme with the University of York and a capital trip to London.  As part of his studies, he went on several relevant enrichment and trips so he had as much information and support possible before applying to University.

Alex said: “The support sessions have provided myself and my classmates with a sound understanding of how applying to university works, which a lot of class mates were unfamiliar with. Specifically, the student finance and personal statements sessions were very useful.

“Understanding how this works can be tricky with the percentages and loan repayment guidelines, however the sessions provided an easily accessible presentation which laid out the information well. Personal statements can be daunting to write as they’re one of the main factors which helps us get into the university of our choice.”