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York recognised for its work supporting care experienced students

Posted on 30 May 2022

The University of York’s commitment and expertise in supporting care experienced students has been recognised by two external organisations.

York offers care-experienced students support before and during their studies.

The National Network for the Education of Care Leavers (NNECL) has awarded the University a Quality Mark, highlighting its commitment to supporting care experienced students, with all areas rated either 'enhanced' or 'exceptional' practice.

The Quality Mark was launched to provide universities with a framework to achieve the best outcomes for their care experienced students.

York’s current support offer to care experienced students includes a dedicated support worker, a financial package covering accommodation and other necessary costs, and support with graduation. Additionally, for those considering applying to York, there is support with travel and overnight accommodation.  

Report

In addition, the University’s work to support care experienced students was included in the final report of 'The Independent review of children’s social care’'.

In 2019, the government committed to reviewing the children’s social care system to make sure children and young people get the support they need, and announced an independent review of children’s social care in 2021.

York is included as a case study in support of the report’s strategic missions to double the proportion of care leavers attending university by 2026.

The report highlights York’s 'comprehensive package of support to care for experienced students through their whole student journey', including pre-application support and financial assistance, as well as practical help and support while at University.

Best outcomes

Professor Tracy Lightfoot, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Teaching, Learning, and Students, said in response to the Quality Mark: "The University of York’s values of community, equality, excellence, and opportunity for all is at the heart of everything we do. 

"That’s why we are committed to ensuring students from underrepresented groups, such as care experienced students, are fully supported to thrive and succeed at the University of York.

"The NNECL Quality Mark submission process has empowered us as an institution to review our current support offer, and to make robust future plans to ensure the very best outcomes for our care experienced students."

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