Abstract

In 2023/24 Go Higher West Yorkshire (GHWY) delivered a second iteration of the Think and Go Higher Programme, a metacognition-based attainment raising initiative. Evaluation of the programme supports the value of metacognition programmes such as this one, as impact was observed in all intended outcomes, particularly those that are taught most explicitly. The programme is designed to be repeated across three years, with learners who were taking part for the second time stating that repeating the programme helped them to reinforce their learning. The final session takes place on an HE campus, and learners highlighted this as a source of inspiration and academic motivation. Additionally, some differences were found in impact between different ethnic groups and different age groups. Going forwards, outreach practitioners should consider more explicit ways of teaching all aspects of metacognition, as well as consider how the programme could be adapted to ensure all learners are equitably benefitting from taking part.