ACCESS (PRE-ENTRY)
As one of the first universities to pioneer tailored access and outreach with young people from care backgrounds, we continue to be committed to supporting care leavers progression into higher education.
Each year we run a three day (two night) residential, providing Children in Care and recently care Leavers with the opportunity to attend taster lectures/workshops, visit other universities, explore routes to university, discover the types of courses that they can study at university, as well as the different ways they can learn, and find out about the support available. Alongside this, we can provide bespoke outreach opportunities for care experienced young people. Please get in contact if you would like to know more.
Support for care leavers in the application/pre-enrolment stage and a package of support for those who enrol at the University, including 365 day housing and a designated Student Advisor, together with our King Alfred Scholarship.
We are also proud to host the annual Hampshire Fostering Network Conference and support the Hampshire Children in Care Awards.
PARTICIPATION (RETENTION, SUCCESS AND PROGRESSION)
We recognise that care experienced students face additional challenges whilst studying at university and offer the following to support their participation throughout their studies.
- King Alfred Scholarship* (including £75 catering card on arrival, an annual £2000 cash bursary and a £1000 graduation bursary)
- Access to university housing 365 days a year*
- Designated student advisor
- Employability fund to support access to work experience, internships and driving lessons*
- Student Ambassador Scheme
* Details correct at time of writing and all subject to students meeting eligibility criteria.
FEEDBACK FROM OUR STUDENTS:
"The University of Winchester has been very supportive. If it wasn't for the staff at the University I would never have had the confidence to apply. The level of support received is fantastic and it's given me confidence to know that I have such an excellent support network behind me."
Details for who to contact for enquiries – [email protected] or [email protected]