All News

International Day of Education: Widening Access in Lincolnshire

More Than a Moment: Reaffirming Our Commitment to Lincolnshire’s Learners on International Day of Education

Today, on International Day of Education, the world pauses to recognize the transformative power of learning. For us at LiNCHigher, this day is more than just a date on the calendar.

It is a moment to reaffirm our shared commitment to widening access to higher education and removing barriers to progression, and to celebrate the partners and practitioners who make inclusive, high-quality outreach a reality for every learner in Lincolnshire.

Whether you are a teacher, a careers advisor, or a parent supporting a young person's journey, today we celebrate your role in raising aspirations across our county.

LegoLincs Session

LegoLincs Session

Breaking Down Barriers: A Year of Impact

Education is a right, but access to Higher Education (HE) and Further Education (FE) pathways isn't always a level playing field. That is why the Uni Connect programme exists—to bridge the gap for underrepresented groups.

Looking back at our activity for the 2024/25 period, the data tells a powerful story of momentum and growth in our region:

  • Reaching More Students: We have seen a 58% increase in tracked students receiving individual activity delivery, reaching over 10,310 young people.

  • Targeted Support: Our commitment to inclusivity is stronger than ever. Engagement with "Strategic Learners"—including Free School Meals (FSM) recipients, Service Children, and Young Carers—has seen an incredible 84% increase, totaling 4,529 learners.

  • Real-World Experiences: From 12 HEI Campus Visits to 16 Transport Bursary applications approved, we are actively removing the physical and financial hurdles that stop students from exploring their futures.

  • 5 Fully Funded Events:
    • Creative Forces Day 11/24 at Lincoln College
    • Creative Forces Day 02/25 at Lincoln College
    • Lincolnshire Service Child Awards
    • Young Carers Festival 2025
    • Creative Forces Day 11/25 at Lincoln College

These aren't just numbers; they represent thousands of "lightbulb moments" where a student realized that university or higher training was a viable option for them.

 

Young Carers Festival

Young Carers Festival

Empowering Educators and Families

We know that schools are the frontline of this mission. To the teachers and advisors reading this: thank you.

Your collaboration has allowed us to deliver 434 distinct activities this year alone—a 7% increase from the previous year. You have welcomed us into your classrooms to deliver vital sessions on:

  • Interview Skills (25 sessions delivered)

  • Student Finance & Budgeting (21 sessions delivered)

  • Personal Statements (19 sessions delivered)

By equipping students with these practical tools, we are doing more than just inspiring them; we are giving them the roadmap to get there.

One Goal: Improving Access

As we look ahead, our goal remains singular and clear: Improving Access to FE and HE.

Whether it is supporting the 444 Service Children in our network or the 2,144 Pupil Premium students we have engaged with, our partnership of 11 team members and countless local educators is dedicated to ensuring no talent in Lincolnshire goes to waste.

On this International Day of Education, let’s continue to build a future where every student in Lincolnshire, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive.

Continue the Journey

Are you a teacher looking for classroom support, or a parent seeking guidance on university applications?

For more news like this, check out our news section.