Encouraging mature students

Tutors and advisers of mature students and representatives from further education (FE) colleges across the eastern region have been invited to the event at the end of January, with the aim of developing collaborative projects with the University.

Sarah Barnsley, the FE Access Officer at the Cambridge Admissions Office, (CAO), is leading the forum.

"We need to ensure that we are reaching out to prospective mature students in our region effectively and providing them with the information and support that they need. Through working more closely with FE colleges and tutors, we can offer students the opportunity to find out about university life and help build their confidence and aspirations to take that step into higher education."

The University of Cambridge is committed to widening the participation of mature learners in higher education. Last year, a Sutton Trust summer school was organised at Cambridge specifically for mature students on Access courses. Another summer school is now planned for June 2003.

In addition, several regional events for FE colleges are planned around the country, in conjunction with Oxford University. Many FE colleges have no experience of sending students to Cambridge and the aim is therefore to dispel the myths that surround applying to and studying at Cambridge and to convey the message that students from all backgrounds can thrive at the University. Practical advice on applications and interviews is offered by FE and mature Access graduates who are currently at the Universities.

Janet Graham, Head of the CAO, is keen for the University to build on its current work with FE colleges and believes this forum is an important step forwards in establishing local partnerships.

"Our work with FE colleges and mature students is an important part of our drive to widen access to Cambridge by raising the aspirations of students who are currently under-represented at the University."

This is the first time that a forum focussed on helping mature learners in the region has been organised by the University. In addition to the CAO, representatives from Lucy Cavendish and Hughes Hall, two of the four mature student Colleges at Cambridge, and the Institute of Continuing Education will be attending.

The forum will be taking place on Monday 27 January, from 10am-12.30pm. Please contact Sarah Barnsley at the CAO for further information on 01223 765634 or sjmb2@cam.ac.uk.