The University of Liverpool is one of the top in the Russell Group for Widening Participation, according to the latest figures from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA).
Indicators show that the proportion students from low participation neighbourhoods stands at 8.5%, against a benchmark of 7.3%, placing the institution first in the Russell Group, ahead of Newcastle and Sheffield.
The proportion of young new entrants from state schools at the University stands at 87.6% – above a benchmark of 82.6% – a figure that places Liverpool third in the Russell Group, behind Queen’s University Belfast and Glasgow.
Slight drop
There has been a slight drop in the percentage of first degree entrants from Socio Economic Classes 4, 5, 6 and 7 to 22%, meaning the University fell short of the benchmark score by 2.2%. This places Liverpool 4th in the Russell Group behind Queen Mary, Queen’s Belfast and King’s.
Commenting on the figures, Paul Redmond, Director of Employability and Educational Opportunities said: “The University of Liverpool remains committed to ensuring all students have access to a world-class education, regardless of background. Our performance against OFFA benchmarks is encouraging and clearly demonstrates this commitment.
But it doesn’t stop there. We provide a wide range of support to help less privileged students realise their potential, and to grow personally, as well as academically. Students are encouraged to make the most of their time at University by taking part in activities that will enrich their experience and equip them with the skills and confidence that will prepare them for the graduate jobs market.”
Liverpool works with schools where there is not a strong tradition of progression to higher education, and runs a varied outreach programme that includes; summer schools, study skills sessions, visit days, and aspiration raising activities with primary school children.
The University also co-sponsors three academies within the Merseyside region which are all sited in areas of economic deprivation.
