There is a stark divide in educational outcomes for different socio-economic groups. KS4 data for 2022 shows that only 47% of pupils eligible for FSM achieved a standard pass in both English and Maths GCSE compared to 75% their peers.

It is in this context that the OfS announced that one of its priorities for higher education is ‘to partner with schools and other local organisations to raise the attainment of young people’. While there is experience of attainment-raising outreach in higher education the OfS priority has resulted in the sector reviewing its offer and developing new provision. To be successful in supporting schools and their students we need a clear understanding of the factors that affect attainment to underpin the development of engaging and deliverable activities.

In this session we heard from Professor Paul Ashwin from Lancaster University, who explored approaches to teaching and learning. With a presentation from Annette Hayton and David Dobraczszyk exploring approaches to attainment-raising outreach and range of practice examples from NERUPI members we had an excellent day.