Encouraging talent from poorer areas
University bosses in Preston have hit back at claims that teenagers from poorer areas are missing out the chance of higher education.
The Conservatives' analysis of figures from the Office for National Statistics show that in some areas fewer than 4% of teenagers go to university.
But the University of Central Lancashire is bucking the trend and is among the nation's best for broadening access to pupils from poorer backgrounds and has beaten the Government benchmark for several years.
A spokesman said: "In terms of participation of under-represented groups in higher education UCLan scores well, exceeding its Government benchmark for virtually all categories of student.
"These include the proportion of students arriving at UCLan from state schools or colleges and those from low participation neighbourhoods."
Latest official figures show that around 16.5% of UCLan's full time undergraduate students come from low participation neighbourhoods.
These figures are in excess of the Government's benchmark figure of 12%.
The university has developed a range of activities aimed at schools and colleges to raise aspirations and awareness of higher education.
These include getting young people into the campus for tours, interactive subject workshops and open days with family sessions to talks to prospective students and parents.
The spokesman added that UCLan had extensive links with schools and partner colleges and sessions were regularly held for pupils.
Special sessions have also been held this term focusing on children in care and Muslim boys.
Some summer schools are specifically geared towards pupils from schools in poorer areas and for those from families without a tradition of higher education. Three are planned for this year.
Nicola Rostron, UCLan's Senior External Liaison Officer, said: "The University directly targets students for these summer schools who have engaged in previous widening participation projects.
"We also offer to come into schools and colleges to work with pupils on completing their application forms and answering any questions they may have."
In addition, the University operates drop-in sessions over lunch periods in schools and colleges and employs UCLan student ambassadors to operate a call centre.
"Potential students like to talk to someone of a similar age who has already gone through the whole University summer school application process," explained Nicola.
Professor Patrick McGhee, deputy vice-chancellor (Academic) said: "The University has a long and proud history of reaching out to all areas of community enabling people of all ages to reach their educational and employment potential."
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Weather for Preston
Wednesday 23 May 2012
Today
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Temperature: 11 C to 18 C
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