University of Bath: University of Bath guarantees offers for care leavers
From 2023, students leaving care will be guaranteed a conditional offer of a place at the University of Bath, one of the first universities in England to provide this support for care-experienced students.
The University of Bath has for many years been a strong supporter of students who have experienced being in care before entering the University. Its dedicated team in Student Services has provided a stable and supportive focus for support, advice, and signposting.
Bath students highly value this support including the additional funds provided by the supplementary bursary for students leaving care.
For students applying to start studying at Bath in 2023, subject to terms and criteria, the University will guarantee a conditional offer, typically at one grade below the standard offer if they complete one of Bath’s outreach programmes: Pathway to Bath, Discover Bath, Target Bath or Access to Bath.
In addition to the support whilst at the University for all care-experienced students, and now the guaranteed offer for care-leavers, the University has worked closely with current students to develop a set of resources sharing their own experiences of studying at Bath.
The Student Experience webpages provide an insight into life at the University and tell the stories of some current and former students. In addition, the University has launched an E-mentoring scheme where students who have spent time in care can talk to a current undergraduate student who has been through a similar experience before coming to study at Bath.
Amber, a final year Sociology student, said: “It can be so confusing thinking about university as a care leaver – there’s so much to think about, and it’s not always the easiest to find the information you’re looking for.
“I was so excited, but a bit daunted to move to Bath, and the Student Services team has been alongside me the whole way, giving me time that’s just about me, and a point of contact to pick up the phone at anytime, as well as loads of practical help.”
Dr Andrew Ross, Head of Widening Access and Participation said: “We are really pleased to have a joined-up offer of support and engagement for students with experience of care.
“We know that some students have a challenging journey to get to university, and we want to recognise that and celebrate their successes.
“This offer from outreach to application support, to guaranteed offer and then ongoing support during their studies is a fantastic achievement, and one I am very proud of.”