The Open University in Wales & Connecting Learners Project Partnership: A Pilot Case Study - What we did -What we achieved -How we might proceed

Partnership Initiative A widening access & employer engagement partnership initiative Together the OU in Wales and the Connecting Learners Project planned a pathway progression programme for voluntary sector workers and volunteers in selected communities first areas across the South West Wales region.

Initiative Aims Engage with prospective students working or volunteering within the voluntary sector to raise awareness of opportunities in HE To develop their interest and build confidence for progression to level 4 Improve community access and skills to IT Increase WA and EE student registration and retention

What We Did Identified the venues, target audience, target areas and target numbers In partnership with CLP and Voluntary partners the OU developed the following programme to be delivered to the potential students

Step 1) OU in Wales Pathway Taster Programme Engage prospective Students Develop interest Build confidence Increase awareness of HE provision available for learners

Openings Modules Short introductory courses (25 weeks for 15 credits) One to one support New to study or have not studied for a while (Two practise essays) A course grant which is a non-repayable grant to help with fees (conditions apply)

Taster activity: What makes us happy?

Taster activity: What makes us happy?

Happiness Genetics (Front left of brain) Tryptophan Meditation Relationships Gratitude Thoughts Think of one positive thing you did today

Step 2) Community Follow on Sign Up Surgeries and Advice Guidance Sessions Increase WA and EE registration Continue to increase awareness of range of part-time HE provision available Continue to build confidence Support with application for financial assistance

Step 3) On in Wales Local WA Study support Groups Increase retention via study skills support Improve community access and skills to IT Continue to build confidence

How we implemented the programme with partnership support CLP identified voluntary sector partners with suitable venues. CLP funded and coordinated all events for first step taster sessions, for example, funded room hire and necessary equipment, including refreshments for the event and the follow on pathway sessions In liaison with CLP, the OU planned and coordinated the activity timetable (all 3 stages). The OU funded cost of OU tutors to develop and deliver the programme The OU liaised with OU faculties Via our partnerships, 208 voluntary sector organisations (South West Wales) were directly sent OU Pathways Events and course info (Openings and K101).

What We Achieved Two pathway events Swansea and Llanelli June and July 2012 Six participants registered for Openings in September (Health 3, Psych 2, Society 1) One registered for K101 Numbers are small, but positive! Note: Students funded by UNISON bursary

Case Study: Sharon Sharon attended a pathways taster workshop (Learning to Change) On completing the module she enrolled for further courses During her 3 rd module she applied for employment and was appointed her first job in 18 years Sharon attributed her interview skills and confidence to her OU modules and assignments Without attending a widening access taster workshop Sharon may never have studied at HE and possibly remained unemployed.

How we might proceed together Numbers were small, but positive and Sharon's case study shows the difference that can be made. Therefore, we are keen to continue to work with the CLP to see how we might explore areas for development. Engage with more voluntary sector organisations Look out for what other opportunities are available

R. E. Chilcott Widening Access – South Wales Ehangu Mynediad - De Cymru Open University in Wales Y Brifysgol Agored yng Nghymru Tel: Mob: