At Arden University we are committed to removing traditional barriers to Higher Education so that our student body reflects the full diversity of modern society. We're working with schools, colleges and community groups to help break down barriers and create equal opportunities for all.
Our mission
We believe every individual, regardless of their background, deserves a chance to dream big and achieve their goals. We actively support schools, colleges and community groups in raising aspirations and supporting academic attainment, promoting informed decision-making and knowledge acquisition. We seek to break down barriers through collaboration and widen access to Higher Education.
Community Outreach Activities
Arden University is committed to actively engaging with schools, colleges, education providers, and community groups. Through a diverse range of activities for Key Stages 3-5, mature students, and teacher training, we provide tailored support both in-person and online. Our activities are specifically designed to empower groups traditionally under-represented in Higher Education, helping bridge the gap for students from diverse backgrounds and supporting their academic journey.
The following outlines a variety of tailored outreach activities that are available. We also offer bespoke talks and workshops, including academic subject masterclasses, upon request. While priority is given to Arden Aspire partners, we encourage all UK schools, colleges, and community groups to reach out and discuss your specific requirements. All activities must be delivered to a proportion of students from less advantaged backgrounds.
An introductory session exploring Higher Education (HE) study and the common myths, encouraging individuals to challenge their preconceived ideas around accessing HE.
This session can also be run with an additional insight into the social sciences. Click here for the session plan.
A session designed to guide post-16 and mature students through the wide range of courses and university experiences available, helping them make informed choices about their future in Higher Education.
A session focused on demystifying student finance, covering funding options, additional support, scholarships and bursaries, and how to make the most of available resources during university life.
Interactive group activities designed to encourage students to analyse and critique information produced by artificial intelligence. This will support students to critically evaluate information sources, credibility, and bias, applying this to education and daily life.
A selection of workshops that can be booked as a package or as a single workshop including Naming and Managing Emotions to Embracing Diversity and Building Great Friendships. Available for Primary and Secondary students.
Click here for further information.
This workshop provides an overview of Criminological research methods and which occasions these should be used with real life case studies. Students will also learn about identifying under-reported crimes and its consequences, real life statistics reporting as well as critical thinking and handling data.
Click here for the session plan.
This workshop lets students collaboratively develop a tailored rehabilitation plan for a young offender, developing analytical, presentation skills, and understanding youth justice work, whilst providing insight into higher-level Criminology studies.
Click here for the session plan.
A guest speaker shares their story of early signs of deviance, imprisonment at 20, the harsh prison conditions predating the Strangeways riots, and how they reconnected with education while incarcerated.
Click here for the session plan.
We will consider requests to support school, college and community careers and employability fairs. Subject to availability and widening access criteria. Please enquire with details about your event.
We offer tailored support and training to school, college and community staff. Please enquire with your training topics so we can best discuss your requirements.
In addition, we encourage school and college staff to consider studying the Postgraduate Certificate in Neurodiversity. Limited, fully funded places available for select schools via the Arden Aspire network.
Contact Us
If you're ready to explore these exciting opportunities or have any questions, please get in touch at outreach@arden.ac.uk. One of the team will be happy to assist and discuss your requirements.