Summer Schools
HEFCE funded summer schools are run by Aimhigher partnerships and by 70 higher education institutions (HEIs) and further education colleges (FECs) across England. The programme provides a taste of university life to learners in Years 9 to 12 who might not realise their potential or whose circumstances could lead them to consider a limited range of subjects / institutions, or not apply for higher education at all.
Format
The programmes vary considerably from one institution to another but most include subject tasters, a session on graduate employability / employment skills, an opportunity for HE / careers advice and guidance, and sporting / social activities. The vast majority of places are provided on a residential basis, although there are a number of non-residential places at some urban HEIs. All course and travel costs, as well as meals and accommodation, are provided free of charge to learners.
Participating students usually attend a university or college in their region and gain an introduction to the academic and social aspects of higher education. In some cases, subject to availability, it may be possible for learners to attend a summer school in other parts of the country.
Eligibility
Eligible students are usually identified by 14-19 or Aimhigher co-ordinators in schools, working closely with the summer schools co-ordinators in HEIs/FECs. As with other Aimhigher programmes and WP outreach activity, summer schools are targeted at learners from under-represented backgrounds, in particular those from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds.
Impact of summer schools
HEFCE has undertaken an analysis of beneficiaries who participated in the summer school programme from 2004-2008. The findings have been published in a report (March 2009), available from the HEFCE website.
In a review of widening participation undertaken by HEFCE in 2006, 71 out of the 90 institutions that responded (79%) included summer schools in their list of the five most important
Further information
The Action on Access summer school web pages are a resource for all widening participation summer school practitioners. As well as a directory of summer school providers in different parts of the country, and examples of good practice, it contains information about issues such as risk assessment and child protection.
Sector impact assessment
In developing the summer school programme, we have formally assessed its impact on the HE sector in terms of regulatory burden, equality and diversity, and sustainable development.
Contact HEFCE
Email Zoe Mackey or call 0117 931 7066.
Email Sian Griffiths or call 0117 931 7153.
Click here for information about summer school funding for 2008-10 and the online application system.
