Cash boost for Waterfront university

University Campus Suffolk (UCS) has received funding to lead on a project that will ensure all schools across Suffolk and Norfolk have information about applying for Higher Education.

The institution has been awarded £240,000 over two years by the National Networks for Collaborative Outreach (NNCO) and will be working in partnership with UEA, Norwich University of the Arts, City College Norwich, Easton and Otley College and the College of West Anglia.

The aim of the Collaborative Network is to help raise aspirations and for more students in the two counties to see University as an option by offering them the information, advice and guidance that they need to apply. Forming Collaborative Networks is a government initiative that was first announced in a written ministerial statement in November 2013.

Sarah Tattersall, Head of Student Recruitment at UCS, said: “There is rich and varied provision of Higher Education in Suffolk and Norfolk. By working together with our network we want to recognise this and ensure every school has access to a range of information about the exciting opportunities available in their region. This Collaborative Network will work with all schools in the area to build and enhance the outreach work that we already do. We will also develop a website for use by both school and college students and those who may have left formal education a while ago, such as mature students to access our support and advice online”

Tim Greenacre, Deputy Provost at University Campus Suffolk, said: “We are very pleased to be appointed as the regional lead for this important project which recognises our existing collaborative work and expertise in outreach”

Greg Clark, Minister for Universities and Science, welcomed the networks, and said: “Higher education is a transformational experience and the future of the UK economy depends on having highly-trained graduates so it is vital that young people have the right information about progressing into higher education. This programme will ensure that schools and colleges across England can help their students learn about higher education in the classroom, online and through local outreach activity. A record number of students entered higher education in 2014, with entry rates for students from disadvantaged backgrounds increasing by over 10% to its highest ever level. However there is still more work to do to ensure all students who want to study hard can benefit, irrespective of their background.”