Widening participation
We're passionate about engaging with students of all ages and backgrounds, because we believe in creating a student community that reflects our society. Our widening participation and outreach activities enable a more diverse cohort of students to explore the subjects of sociology, politics and international studies and learn about future career opportunities they can pursue.
Our programmes
We offer a range of multidisciplinary post-16 widening participation programmes (many of which are also open to mature students):
- Access to Bristol
- Sutton Trust Summer School
- Insight Summer School
- Next Steps Bristol
- Bristol Scholars
Participants of these programmes receive a guaranteed contextual offer and interview for entry to the University.
Contextual offers
As well as outreach programmes, we support prospective students from under represented backgrounds through the admissions system with our contextual offer scheme.
Our contextual offer is a grade reduction of up to two grades below the standard entry requirements. This offer is made to those from backgrounds who are generally less likely to attend university with us.
Once here, data shows that our contextual offer students achieve above average academically.
Mature students
We welcome mature students (21+ years old) and offer tailored support for adults interested in university study.
Contact us
For more information about our outreach activities, please email: fssl-outreach@bristol.ac.uk
Schools and colleges outreach newsletter
If you're a teacher or educator looking to find out how the University can support your students, you can sign up to our termly schools and colleges outreach newsletter for all the latest events and information.
Online resources
Sign up for access to free virtual resources to support your home learning and super-curricular development.
Our resources have been specifically designed to support students in years 11-13, and those undertaking an Access to HE qualification (a popular pathway into study for mature students).