1. University of Sussex First-Generation Scholars scheme Sarah Cullen Head of Widening Participation

2. Widening participation Widening participation – what is it and why? First-Generation Scholars scheme Who is eligible What will they do?

3. Widening Participation Some groups are under-represented at university and widening participation seeks to rectify this - State schools Low participation neighbourhoods Lower income Boys And others …

4. Widening Participation It is NOT the fault of students or parents Schools/colleges/universities need to work together Particularly since the introduction of £9000 fees Universities have to demonstrate they are putting in measures to support fair access and to support students at university

5. First-Generation Scholars scheme Before students arrive through outreach activities At university – financial support if family income is below £42,600 At university – other support for students who are the first in their family to progress to HE Post university – support with careers for 3 years after graduation

6. First-Generation Scholars scheme First in immediate family to progress to university (does not include brothers/sisters) Looked after young people Carers Income related – FSM/ college bursary Other mitigating circumstances We will work with the college to identify appropriate students

7. First-Generation Scholars scheme - programme Year 8/9 through to end of college Three strands Informed choices Developing skills and raising attainment Motivation and personal development

8. Informed choices Should I go to university? Where should I go? What course should I do? How much will it cost? Where will it lead?

9. Developing skills, raising attainment Subject specific taster sessions Study skills workshops Study skills materials online Tutoring and support with subjects (under development) Mentoring

10. Motivation and personal development Mentoring Support with application forms – personal statements Workshops to reflect on skills Volunteering and employability Making the most of university

11. Activities Campus visits Subject conferences e.g. Shakespeare day Visits to college – talks by students and WP staff Residential Summer School Non-residential English Summer School Student shadowing E-mentoring

12. Support at Sussex Bursary for students with family income under £42,600 Year 1 - £1000 cash and £2000 discount on accommodation or fee waiver All subsequent years £1000 cash One to one careers support Work study programme

13. What next? Application forms will be with college after Easter Residential Summer school before Easter Non-residential English Summer school after Easter

14. Thank you and any questions? participate@sussex.ac.uk s.m.cullen@sussex.ac.uk