The University of Westminster is leading a consortium of London universities that has been awarded a possible £450,000 in funding over the next three years to boost widening participation.
Under the Student Associate Scheme (SAS) university students undertake school-based placements. The scheme aims to both raise awareness of higher education among pupils in schools and colleges and provide university students who may be planning a career in teaching with actual classroom experience. AchieveAbility will be central to the University student training which will include an understanding of multi-sensory teaching and learning practice in the classroom.
The AchieveAbility National Network at the University led the consortium, including Kings College, SOAS and the Open University, in the bid to the Training and Development Agency for Schools. The consortium was also supported by the Aimhigher Partnership.
AchieveAbility Director and bid co-ordinator Katherine Hewlett said: “This scheme provides another valuable bridge between higher education and schools and colleges".
“Westminster University is the leading widening participation provider in the capital which meant we were the ideal lead institution for this consortium.”
University pro vice-chancellor with responsibility for access, Dr Myszka Guzkowska said: “This is excellent news for the University. I’m delighted that Westminster is leading this consortium following our successful bid. This scheme that will bring real benefits, both to our own students and those in local schools and colleges who may be considering higher education.
Under the scheme, students spend 15 days during the academic year in a school placement. The main priority will be for students who are qualified in mathematics, physics and chemistry to widen participation in these subjects.
Ninety-five Consortium students will take part in the scheme during the next academic year. If it meets the success criteria set out by the TDA, the scheme will continue to 2011.
