University of Greater Manchester course ‘opens doors’ for disadvantaged learners looking for careers in care and community sectors

The University of Greater Manchester is urging students of all ages from disadvantaged backgrounds to consider applying for a free 10-week course which prepares them to take up a degree apprenticeship or study in Higher Education.

The Entry to Higher Education Apprenticeship Programme (EHEAP) will provide learners with skills in areas including:

• English for HE, academic writing and research

• Employability and careers development

• Sustainability and cultural capital

• Wellbeing, resilience and personal development

It provides a pathway into a career in the health, care, or youth and community sectors, with the aim of progressing into a degree apprenticeship.

Vanessa Peace, Outreach Practitioner for the University’s Apprenticeships, said that the programme was designed for those without Level 3 qualifications.

It aims to fully prepare learners to progress to a degree apprenticeship or further undergraduate study.

Every learner receives personalised guidance from a dedicated personal tutor and has access to student and wellbeing advisors.

Degree apprenticeships ideal for learners to progress onto include:

• Physiotherapy (new degree apprenticeship in development)

• Occupational Therapy (new degree apprenticeship in development)

• Public Health (new degree apprenticeship in development)

• Youth Worker

• Registered Nurse

The University offers a £300 bursary to help learners with costs while enrolled on the foundation course.

Vanessa said: “While we cannot guarantee acceptance into a degree apprenticeship, we aim to provide as much assistance as possible, including opportunities to interview for roles within the youth and community, health, or care sectors.

“Upon completion of the course, learners earn 60 credits, which enables them to progress with the University of Greater Manchester.”

At a recent EHEAP Open Event the programme’s impact was highlighted – the first cohort of seven learners have received conditional offers for undergraduate degrees in midwifery, physiotherapy, dental technology, and social work.

Vanessa said: “This is an incredible achievement and testament to their hard work and determination. We’re now looking ahead to welcoming our next cohort of around 30 learners in June, and can’t wait to see what they go on to achieve.”

Twenty year old Moroccan student Firdaus Amarsil’s ambition is to train as an orthodontist and is nearing the end of the EHEAP scheme.

She said: “I have always been passionate about medicine, especially in the field of dentistry, with a particular interest in becoming an orthodontist.

“This interest in helping others led me to enrol on the EHEAP programme, as it offers a clear pathway towards achieving my professional goals.

“The exposure, support, and opportunities the EHEAP course offers are unmatched, and I highly encourage anyone with big dreams to join."

Student Giedre Ferreira, 36, who came to the UK from Lithuania 14 years ago, said: “I initially enrolled in classes to improve my English. I got married, but I always wanted to continue my education.

“I dropped out of school when I was 16 but later returned and completed my education at 19. When I found the EHEAP course, I saw it as a great opportunity to take a step towards university.

“The amazing tutor and assistants helped me and now I know exactly what I want to study. I also get mentoring and coaching sessions and have access to all the student services available. I couldn’t be happier.”

For more information or to register your interest for EHEAP, please visit: EHEAP Programme | University of Greater Manchester