KU care leaver support second best in the UK

KU was recognised for its high-level support system for care leavers at this year’s Times Higher Education Awards.

The university was named ‘highly commended’ in the category of Widening Participation or Outreach Initiative of the Year at the award ceremony held at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London.

Jenni Woods, acting head of Widening Participation, was honoured her team was shortlisted for the Times Higher Education Award.

“We are immensely proud of this achievement – being shortlisted for the Times Higher Education award was a real honour,” Ms Woods said.

KU’s support package contains increased bursaries, priority for scholarships, support in applying for international study, mobility funds and other enhanced support for care leavers.

During the period of 2012 to 2013 there were 122 care leaver students at KU, with 89 per cent of them graduating with a 2:2 degree or above.

The University of Edinburgh, Henley Business School and Newcastle University were all shortlisted for the award but were beaten by the University of Sheffield.

Despite being recognised for their great work, acting student support manager Chrissie Farley said she and her team encouraged other departments at KU to bring their suggestions to improve their support package.

She said: “We’re also very open to any departments who would like to host a taster day for younger children in care – they are encouraged to get in touch.”