An exciting new initiative designed to help local pupils enter higher education is taking place at Bristol University today [Wednesday, 1 November].  Over 80 pupils from local schools and colleges will be visiting the University to take part in the Access to Bristol scheme. The scheme is offering pupils the chance to gain access to some of the world-class teaching available on their doorstep, at one of the country’s leading universities.

Aimed at year 12 pupils, aged 16 to 17 years, the scheme is run as part of the University’s widening participation agenda, encouraging applications from low participation neighbourhoods and first generation students whose families did not attend university.

With over 20 schools and colleges from Bristol, Bath, North Somerset, South Gloucestershire and Somerset taking part, the scheme offers pupils the chance to sample university life while also helping to further their educational potential and development.

The pupils will be taught by Bristol University academics for eight afternoons at university level. They will have the choice of six challenging subjects to choose from, including biomedical sciences, engineering, English, mathematics, policy studies and theology.

Ian Blenkharn, Widening Participation Schools and Colleges Liaison Officer, said: “The Access to Bristol scheme is a great way for local students to gain access to world-class teaching opportunities.  Not only will they be gaining a great head-start in their A-level studies, but they will also be finding out about what it is like to be a student at one of Britain's top universities.”

The Access to Bristol scheme takes place from 1 November to 21 March. The first session will be held in the Powell Lecture Theatre, Department of Physics, University of Bristol, Tyndall Avenue, Clifton, Bristol.  This session is due to start at 2 pm.