Telford College has been handed a prestigious award by the University of Wolverhampton as the institutions mark almost three decades of working together opening doors to higher education.
The Excellence in Partnership Award recognises outstanding collaboration and a shared commitment to student success, at a time when many are choosing to stay local and study nearer to home.
Telford College has witnessed a gradual upward trend in its students applying to study at the University of Wolverhampton, with more than 10 per cent of last year’s cohort submitting applications.
Channelle Nixon, Director of Safeguarding and Student Support at Telford College, said: “This partnership has been built over nearly 30 years and it really works for students, for the college and for the wider community. It keeps skills and student talent local which in turn supports the wider economy.
“It comes at a time when we have seen a real shift in priorities for a lot of students. Post-pandemic, students value family support and familiarity. The University of Wolverhampton’s partnership with the college gives them the chance to pursue a full degree without any pressures that can come with moving away.
“It opens the door for prospective students who may have decided against going to university, making higher education accessible for more students.”
Early years education is among one of the top progression routes for Telford College students – while the university’s motorsport engineering outreach programme has helped increase the number of automotive students applying for university.
Channelle said across some vocational courses such as early years, a foundation year model where students begin at Telford College before topping up to a full degree at Wolverhampton offered a flexible, affordable pathway for students who have financial concerns, or for those who wanted to take things a step at a time.
“Students also benefit from contextual offers, meaning they can apply to Wolverhampton with reduced UCAS points. It’s a crucial advantage for first-generation university students and those from areas where progression into higher education has historically been low,” she added.
The partnership between dates back to 1997, and Sarah Davies, Telford College’s Executive Director Employer Engagement & Partnerships, added: “Our ambition has always been to develop skilled, confident learners who are ready for the jobs market and our partnership with the University of Wolverhampton is a vital part of making that happen.
“For nearly 30 years we have worked together to make sure that where a student lives, how much money their family has, or whether anyone in their household has been to university before, does not limit what they can achieve.
Laura Janavicius, Recruitment Coordinator, at University of Wolverhampton added: “The strength of this partnership reflects a shared commitment to supporting students and widening access to higher education. It is a relationship we are incredibly proud of and one that continues to make a real difference to students across the region.”
