Admissions Conference 2021

With 174 further education (FE) colleges in England, and one third of English students under 19 applying to UCAS with prior study at a further education college*, the FE market is of significant importance to higher education, but do we really understand the prior experience and needs of students progressing from FE?

This presentation session will provide data-based insight into applicants from further education colleges, who are they, which qualifications do they study, which degree subjects do they progress onto, and what are the key factors which influence their higher education choices?
The session will then explore their application and transition experience and the information, advice, and guidance which they typically receive to support them in this journey.
Using Leeds City College as a case study, we will explore how a further education curriculum differs from an academic sixth form, and look at the profile of our students, making links to widening participation and social mobility strategies. An oversight of careers education, information advice and guidance, work experience, and employability approaches will develop understanding of how we support progression into HE, and highlight some of the strategies HEPs might put into place to improve retention and achievement of students.
The University of Bradford, the Times, and Sunday Times University of the Year for Social Inclusion 2020 will also showcase its contextual admissions, outreach, recruitment, and transition strategies and how they support students from a FE background.
The presentation will enable attendees to consider how their institutions can better support the applicant experience for FE students, from the pre-application stage to enrolment and beyond. There will be an opportunity to discuss current institutional approaches and to share best practice.
(*AOC College Key Facts 2018-19)

Learning outcomes:

• Learn more about the diversity of the FE market in the UK and some of the key challenges the sector faces.
• Gain an enhanced understanding of the applicant experience, from the perspective of an FE college student.
• Understand how you can better support FE applicants in their transition into higher education.