What we do
We work to reduce drop out rates at university so all students are equipped with the skills they need to succeed at university and beyond.
‘For too long, widening participation work has focused purely on getting young people into university but universities can only support social mobility if good learning is matched with positive graduate outcomes. The reality is that, even if students overcome the odds and secure a place, compared to their better off peers on similar courses young people from low-income backgrounds are generally less likely to complete their degree’
Teach First 2017, Institute for Fiscal Studies
The Bridging Project is a registered charity working to address growing drop out rates for students from low income backgrounds. We know this work is integral to advancing social mobility.
As the number of students accessing university from disadvantaged backgrounds grows as are the number of students who are dropping out. With students starting university in even more difficult circumstances this year we know the need for our work is growing.
We believe that every student should be equipped with the support system and skill set they need to succeed and have made it out mission to see this happen.
The need
Students from low income backgrounds and minority groups are still found to be at a significant disadvantage even when they reach some of the most prestigious universities in the UK. (Social Mobility Commission, 2015)
1 in 12 freshers from low income backgrounds will drop out of university in their first year, 1 in 10 in London, compared to 1 in 20 of their wealthier peers.
Students are more likely to drop out of university if their parents had not attended university and are less likely to graduate with a first or a 2.1 than individuals from higher socio economic backgrounds (IFS, 2019).
Our Programme
Students begin the programme in their final term at school and are matched up with a 1-1 coach who works with them throughout their first year at university.
Students join a cohort of peers to improve the ‘student capacity building’ outlined in the Paul Hamlyn Report of ‘What Works’ to ensure successful integration into university life. The coaches will work to:
Develop key leadership skills including resilience, problem solving and confidence.
Develop long term goals and short term targets.
Develop key skills through 1-1 coaching sessions and group seminars including time management and financial planning.
Build a sense of belonging at university in their first term.
“I have been on Bridging Project since last September, and I can’t quite express how valuable it is. My coach is an indispensable source of support, encouraging me to do things that are necessary, but might make you slightly uncomfortable. For me it was organising meetings, and making contact with pastoral support around my college at Oxford”
Student at Oxford University