Online event
According to the National Institute of Economic and Social Research, the graduate premium fell from around 50% in 2007 to 36% in 2024. This, combined with a more competitive graduate job market, has called into question the so called “value” of having a degree. The graduate premium benefit that higher education providers have relied upon for many years no longer presents as compelling a reason for learners to consider higher education. However, there are still many benefits to studying for a degree that the education sector must learn to better articulate.
This one day, online, NEON Access and Success Academy training session led by Alex Holland-Leavens will consider what the actual benefits of studying for a degree are, debunking some of the widely held views perpetuated by the media, and considering the messages we should be conveying to learners.
This course will have particular relevance to:
- Senior Managers with responsibility for Recruitment and Admissions (UK);
- Senior Managers with responsibility for widening access and/or participation;
- Heads of Uni Connect partnerships;
- Recruitment and Admissions professionals;
- Widening access and/or participation professionals;
- Careers advisors in schools;
- Undergraduate ambassadors delivering or assisting with pre-entry outreach activities with learners.
By the end of the one-day course, you will be able to:
- Give an accurate picture of the graduate premium and understand why, whilst still an important area to highlight to prospective learners, should no longer be the main reason for someone to study for a degree.
- Consider the NEET figures for graduates and compare these to other stages of education.
- Explain a range of wider benefits of degree level study, both for the individual and society as a whole.
- Understand the importance of tailored information, advice and guidance for prospective learners.
- Understand the limitations of graduate apprenticeships, both in terms of availability and entry requirements.
- Adapt content depending on the audience.
- Prepare counter arguments to some of the pervasive messages around the “value” of a degree from the media and some political figures.
- Present accurate information to learners that convey a comprehensive picture of the benefits of higher education study.
About the facilitator:
Alex Holland-Leavens is a passionate and experienced widening access and outreach professional with nearly a decade of dedicated service to improving educational equity. His career reflects a deep commitment to social justice, youth empowerment, and collaborative practice. Alex’s work focuses on building resilience, reducing anxiety, and fostering engagement with education and future pathways. He has been involved in a variety of projects that have demonstrated positive impact and frequently collaborates with colleagues from across the widening access and participation sector. Additionally, Alex has started to adopt collective impact principles into his work, to further drive collaboration and long-lasting change within the sector.
Places are strictly limited and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Book early to secure your place.