Events

Working with First Generation Students

Date: 03rd April 2025

Location: Online 1.00 - 3.30

Please note this event is for Members only

This event is part of our NERUPI series focused on the new specific student groups highlighted by the Office for Students through their Equalities of Opportunities Risk Register. The OfS identify that First Generation Students, sometimes referred to as first in family or no parental experience of HE, face risks in a number of areas:

  • knowledge and skills to be accepted onto suitable HE courses
  • access to appropriate information and guidance to support informed HE decisions
  • acceptance to some HE providers despite having appropriate qualifications
  • insufficient academic and personal support
  • cost pressures
  • access to appropriate employment or further study

These students can be less likely to access elite HEIs, to complete their degrees and progress to graduate level jobs. Research indicates that First Generation Students can feel isolated and culturally at odds at University, impacting on their mental health, continuation with their studies and attainment. As a result universities are exploring strategies to develop inclusive environments where all students feel they belong.

At this event Dr Jessie Abrahams University of Bristol, will provide valuable insights from her research in schools and universities about the experiences of First Generation Students in education. This introductory session will be followed by presentations from Dr James Watts, University of Bristol, Abigail Lewis and Andrea Lambell, Durham University and Dr Jummy Okoya from the University of East London.

There will be opportunities for questions and discussion including of how First Generation Students are categorised and of relevant approaches to planning and evaluating interventions to improve access, success and progression.

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