Over 7,000 people of school age have been inspired and encouraged to consider university when they are older through the support of the Government’s successful Aimhigher Associates mentoring scheme.  Aimhigher Associates was introduced to 17 areas of England last year, and is now to be rolled out to South London and 41 other areas across the country. It is anticipated that the scheme will benefit 244 people in the local area.

The scheme involves linking young people of school age with university students from a similar background, who can give them the benefit of their experience as the young people make decisions about their future education and careers.  Undergraduates are recruited to become Associates, and use their personal experience to encourage and support pupils as young as 14 to make the most of their talents. It is planned that these interactions will develop over time, typically involving 15-20 sessions per Associate per year.

David Lammy, Minister of State for Higher Education, said:

“University is a life-changing experience for many people, and it remains the case that a degree can add over £100,000 to a person’s lifetime earnings.

It’s no surprise then that over half of young people from all social groups aspire to go into higher education, and we are committed to making this a reality for those with the talent to succeed. University should be open to all, regardless of background, and we must make sure people know from a young age how they can prepare and apply for a place.

“This is where Aimhigher Associates is invaluable. Dedicated mentors working together with local schools, colleges and universities can offer an unprecedented level of support. We have already seen the scheme’s success in 17 pathfinder projects launched last year, and I look forward to seeing this grow following with the national roll-out.”  The £21 million scheme is part of the wider Aimhigher programme, which is aimed at students from less well-represented groups and involves tutoring, university visits and summer schools.  Aimhigher London South in partnership with Kingston University has recruited 49 undergraduates for its own Associates programme. These undergraduates will provide advice and guidance to a total of 244 school and college pupils in the area.

Kevin Maskell Director of Aimhigher London South, added: “The pilot phase of Aimhigher Associates demonstrated how successful sustained relationships between undergraduates and school and college pupils can be, especially when these individuals are from similar backgrounds.

“We are looking forward to training our Associates so that they can begin meeting with their young people and help them to meet their higher education potential.”

For more information please contact Kevin Maskell (07966171398 or k.maskell@kingston.ac.uk)