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Funding secured to help students recognise their potential

Text: Funding secured to help students recognise their potential. Image, blues sky, a brown building with a number of windows, in front grey paving slabs some benches and a surrounding lawn. A new course is being launched at the University of Chichester to provide students with a pathway into further or higher education, thanks to an Arun District Council grant.

The ‘bridging courses’ are being funded by £25,000 from the council’s allocation of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and will support those looking to increase their skills and employability with access to higher education courses and apprenticeships

The 12-week course provides a foundation in personal, professional and academic knowledge and skills and is aimed at those who have previously disengaged with education.

Learning is based on personal and lived experience which is used to develop academic and educational skills, and no prior qualifications are required.

Comprising weekly three-hour workshops and regular one-to-one tutorials, along with independent learning, the course is a non-traditional route into higher education.

Councillor Roger Nash, Chair of the Economy Committee at Arun District Council, said: “We are delighted to support these courses for local residents. They will really help those who are looking to expand their opportunities.”

Professor Simeon Keates, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at the University, said: “It’s fantastic to receive this funding to facilitate these courses, the university will be able to support many local people in advancing their skills and potential.”

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund was awarded by the previous UK government and is a three-year scheme that runs from 2022-2025, with all local authorities able to spend on local priorities to build pride in place, boost productivity and spread opportunities.

To register for these courses, please email: bridgingcourse@chi.ac.uk