The Importance of Access to HE Linda Wyatt CEO AIM Awards

Context Involved for over 25 years Development of one of first programmes in East Midlands Access programme manager Success stories Present time

What is Access The Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma is a qualification which prepares students for study at university. Regulated by QAA It is designed for people who would like to study in HE but who left school without the usual qualifications, such as A levels. An alternative route Life-changing

Change in Access Responded to external changes and H.E needs: 2007: Diploma following review of certificate in : grading – meeting HE need for differentiated achievement 2014: revised specification following review – Increased standardisation – changes in HE funding

Funding/Loans Currently reduced to full funding, BUT Non-repayment of F.E adult loans (2013) on completion of H.E course - statement of intent from government: recognition of value, making Access more secure “Added value” of Access Great preparation for H.E.

ABB= offers 30 Distinction + 15 Merit Arguably higher achievement than A’ Level – no/few quals on entry – 9 month course – no “grade polishing” – 14.7% achievers (AIM Awards AVA) in 20012

Great Preparation “Added value” of Access Great preparation for H.E. – E.g UoD Access student  One of best essays seen from first year student  Obviously been taught well  Surprised by standard so early in degree course  Access a fantastic platform for going into a degree

Belinda Robinson

2008: Access to HE (Social Science), CG Partnership 2011: BA (Hons) 1 st Class in Humanistic Counselling, University of Nottingham Worked for Lincolnshire Counselling (1 year) Set up own practice Teaching Certificate – teaching Counselling skills for C&G partnership

Scott Ellis

Scott worked as a coal miner before he enrolled on the Access to HE course. He is now a college lecturer. 1998: Access to Social Sciences, North Derbyshire Tertiary College(now Chesterfield College) 2002: BA (Hons) Social Policy, Sheffield Hallam University 2006: MA Social Science Research Methods, Sheffield Hallam University 2006: Certificate in Education, North Nottinghamshire College 2007: Lecturer at The Dukeries College, Nottinghamshire Scott Ellis