Posted 25 October 2024

UK Further Education (FE) institutions are at the forefront of the government’s strategy to widen participation in Higher Education (HE). With a mission to provide inclusive and accessible learning, FE colleges are playing a crucial role in opening up opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds. Their impact is especially felt by underrepresented groups, such as students from low-income households, first-generation university applicants, and mature learners. 

Flexible learning pathways 

FE institutions are known for their flexibility, offering a wide range of courses and qualifications that cater to different needs. This includes vocational qualifications, Access to Higher Education diplomas, apprenticeships, and foundation degrees. These programmes offer alternative routes into higher education, allowing students who may not have followed a traditional academic path to gain the skills and qualifications needed to progress. 

Access to Higher Education diplomas, in particular, have been transformative for many adult learners who may have been out of education for years. These courses prepare them for university study, giving them the confidence and academic skills to succeed in higher education. The flexibility of FE colleges, which often provide part-time, evening, and online courses, makes it easier for students to balance their studies with work or family commitments. 

Local and community focus 

FE colleges are often deeply rooted in their local communities, making higher education more accessible to students who might otherwise face geographical, financial, or personal barriers to attending university. Many FE colleges partner with universities to deliver degree level education in a more localised setting.

Bradford College offers courses from Level 4/5 HNC’s, HND’s and Foundation degrees, but also offers full degrees and Post Graduate level study right in the heart of Bradford, allowing students to study more flexibly than at a traditional HE institution. This local focus reduces the need for students to move away from home, making higher education more attainable for those who might struggle with the costs and logistics of relocation. 

By responding to local skills needs, FE colleges also help students gain qualifications that are directly relevant to regional economic demands. This not only supports individual students but also contributes to economic growth in their communities, addressing local skills shortages. 

Apprenticeships and practical learning 

One of the key ways in which FE institutions support widening participation is through apprenticeships. These offer an alternative route into higher education, allowing students to earn while they learn. Higher and degree apprenticeships, in particular, enable students to progress to degree-level qualifications without incurring the debt associated with traditional university courses. Apprenticeships provide practical, hands-on experience, making them an attractive option for students who prefer a more applied approach to learning. 

Removing barriers to Higher Education 

FE colleges are also essential in removing barriers to higher education for underrepresented groups. They offer tailored support for students with specific needs, including those with disabilities, care leavers, and students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Through targeted outreach programs and partnerships with schools, FE institutions help raise aspirations and provide pathways to higher education for students who may not have previously considered it an option. 

Conclusion 

UK FE institutions are playing a central role in the government’s widening participation strategy for higher education. By offering flexible learning pathways, local access, and practical learning options like apprenticeships, they are making higher education more accessible to a wider range of students. As the government continues to emphasize the importance of inclusivity in higher education, the role of FE institutions will remain vital in ensuring that more individuals have the opportunity to benefit from higher learning. 

  

Anita Ladva-Cheung, Bradford College, Head of Student Recruitment & External Relations