Oxford University introduces new access initiatives across UK

The access initiatives are launched for young people from disadvantaged and under-represented backgrounds in regions of the UK where fewer people currently go to Oxford.

Study in UK: Oxford University has introduced a series of new access initiatives in 2024 to build on the outreach and access work already being undertaken across the collegiate University. The aim is to attract students with the highest academic potential, from all backgrounds to the University.

Dr Samina Khan, Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Outreach said, "It is hugely exciting to be rolling out these innovative new access initiatives, and we are extremely grateful for the support of our donors to get them off the ground. We know that it will become increasingly challenging to reach under-represented groups with lower progression to higher education. Research has shown us that to make a difference we need to engage with younger students earlier on in their journey and support schools in removing barriers in areas where there is a lower progression of students to Oxford. Over time our ambition is to extend the reach of these programmes to other groups of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds and currently underrepresented at Oxford."

Oxford University access initiatives details

The program is currently working with students from Pakistan and Bangladesh heritage in five schools in Birmingham, Bradford and Oldham. The initiative includes BeUNIQ – a programme for UK state school students in Years 10 and 11 from groups who are currently under-represented among Oxford undergraduates, providing sustained engagement with students, schools, families and local communities.  

The university is planning to launch Oxplore Teach in September, a new digital platform for teachers and other educators in UK state schools. The initiative is designed to assist them in providing academic enrichment activities and supporting learners from a wide range of backgrounds in developing academic confidence, oracy and critical thinking skills.  

"Next month, Oxford University will visit Cornwall as it hosts its inaugural Oxplore Festival, a travelling event to reach, inform and inspire children about higher education and Oxford. The first festival will be held on two days at Callywith College, a post-16 College in Bodmin (9 and 10 July) and will be attended by more than 500 invited 11- to 13-year-olds from local state schools," reads the university's statement.

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