The Step-Up programme has been identified in an influential Universities UK report as an example of best practice in the area of widening participation. 

The report entitled, From the margins to the mainstream: embedding widening participation in Higher Education, highlights the activities of a small number of universities and colleges who are successfully facilitating the inclusion of underrepresented groups in Higher Education.

The report, which will serve to influence Widening Participation policy and practice throughout the UK was launched by the Secretary of State for Education and Skills Ruth Kelly MP in London this week.

Dr Damian O’Kane, Director of Access and Educational Partnerships, and former Step-Up students attended the launch met with Ms Kelly and Northern Ireland MP’s for discussions on the programme.

Dr O’Kane said: “It is an honour to be recognised once again by Universities UK as an example of best practice in the area of widening participation.  The report highlights our ongoing and unfaltering commitment to provide the best opportunities that we can for our young people.”

Catherine Feeney, a final year Physiotherapy student at the University of Ulster who went through the Step Up programme added:  “The Step-Up experience really encouraged me and gave me the confidence to study at University.  I never dreamt that I would be able to attain so much, but thanks to Step-Up I have.”

For further information, please contact:

Trina Porter
Telephone: 028 71675511
Email: Trina Porter