Wolverhampton scheme aims to raise education aspirations of children in care

A new scheme designed to encourage more looked after children into higher education has been launched by the University of Wolverhampton.

Aspire2Uni, spearheaded by the University’s Access and Outreach department, aims to raise the educational aspirations of children from care backgrounds by engaging with carers, educators and young people.

It will initially target those in Year 7 and 8, with a view to supporting them right through to year 13, university and beyond.

The University will work alongside Creating Chances Trust, a charity which supports looked after children, and Virtual Schools within the West Midlands to organise events and initiatives designed to raise aspirations, break down barriers and help them to progress into higher education.

Natalie Latham, Outreach Co-ordinator for the University’s Access and Outreach, said: “After a year in the planning we are delighted to be welcoming the very first cohort of Aspire2Uni pupils and their families to what will be one of many opportunities for them to visit the University. This is the start of a seven year supported programme which will hopefully enable them to reach their potential and be the best that they can be.”

A City Campus launch took place last week where pupils watched a performance by The Working Theatre and took part in a treasure hunt, allowing them to explore a university for the first time.

The young people, carers and guests then enjoyed a meal and received a thorough introduction to Aspire2Uni, a formal welcome from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Access and Lifelong Learning Jackie Dunne and a motivational speech from Masters Graduate and care leaver Rosie Jones who now works in West Midlands Police.