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Aston University Pathway to Healthcare programmes shortlisted in Student Social Mobility Awards

May 17, 2022

2 min



  • Pathway to Healthcare programmes shortlisted for University Access Initiative in the 2022 Student Social Mobility Awards
  • University Access Initiative of the Year Award judged by student vote and panel
  • Aston University Pathway to Healthcare programmes were shortlisted from more than 250 nominations.


The Aston University Pathway to Healthcare programmes have been shortlisted for the University Access Initiative of the Year Award in the 2022 Student Social Mobility Awards.


The Pathway to Healthcare programmes which launched in 2016 are designed to raise students’ aspirations, support their attainment, improve progression and provide experiences to enhance UCAS applications when applying for medical and other healthcare courses.


During the 18-month programme, students are given the opportunity to take part in healthcare subject taster days, work experience in various healthcare settings and A level revision boot camps.


Following the success of the first pathway programme for Year 12/13, the Keith Bradshaw Introduction to Healthcare programme was launched in 2019 to work with key stage three to key stage four students across the West Midlands.


The University Access Initiative of the Year Award will be decided by a combination of the Judging Panel’s scores (50%) and the Student Vote (50%).


The Aston University Pathway to Healthcare programmes were shortlisted from more than 250 nominations.


Sarah Fullwood, pathways manager at Aston University, said: “We are delighted we have been shortlisted for this prestigious award.


“Our pathway programmes are going from strength to strength, despite a sector-wide dip in engagement for widening participation programmes during the pandemic, which is why we were so thrilled to experience an increase in attendance at our pathway events.”

“By breaking down barriers for access for disadvantaged students, the programmes play a vital role in building a future workforce that is representative of the community it serves.”


The Student Social Mobility Awards are organised by upReach to showcase the achievements of undergraduates from lower socio-economic backgrounds from across the UK.


The awards seek to recognise students who have excelled in their studies and beyond and shown great potential to excel as they launch their careers.


The focus of the awards is on students who have demonstrated great resilience, determination or initiative, or boosted their employability in innovative ways. They are also a chance to showcase up-and-coming talent and identify rising stars.


Award winners and nominees overcome significant socioeconomic barriers and mitigating circumstances, serving as inspiring role models for those from similar backgrounds.


The ceremony is due to take place on 21 July at the House of Lords, where the winners will be announced.


For more information about the Pathway to Healthcare programmes at Aston University please visit our webpages.

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