Electronics Weekly
The University of Sheffield, Goldsmiths, University of London and the University of Sussex are the latest institutions to join the programme.
As part of the scheme, reports Sheffield University, year 12 and 13 students access events, activities and support specifically designed to increase their likelihood of applying to and succeeding at a research intensive university. It has so far worked with more 1,500 students across the UK
“The expansion of Realising Opportunities is good news, and will help even more young people from less advantaged backgrounds benefit from the transformational experience of higher education,” said David Willetts, Minister for Universities and Science (pictured).
“It is important that young people, regardless of their backgrounds, are inspired to be ambitious as they consider studying at university. Programmes like this raise aspirations and attainment, which is why we encourage universities to invest in this type of outreach.”
Realising Opportunities was established in 2009, funded by the Higher Education Funding Council for England and since August 2012 has been fully funded by the partner universities. By working together the group aims to raise awareness and understanding of research intensive universities and encourage academically able young people from socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds to increase their aspirations.
Deborah Fowler, Head of Outreach and UK Recruitment at the University of Sheffield said: “The University is delighted to be joining the Realising Opportunities initiative this year. This programme complements our other outreach programmes, many of which have been running for a number of years.
“What it adds is the opportunity for participants to gain exposure to other research intensive universities during their post-16 studies, which we believe helps students to make informed decisions about their future destinations and careers.”
