NEON Widening Access Partnership Award – Commendation
An established consortium of higher education (HE) providers in West Yorkshire (six FE colleges with HE provision, and six universities), representing a diverse range of institutions offering a vast array of different courses, subjects, qualifications and modes of study; many are in competition with each other yet work together towards a shared goal that no one’s background should prevent them from accessing higher education if they are able to benefit from it. This is achieved through the consortium’s internal structures: each partner has representation on the Governing Board and two operational groups (the ‘Business Engagement’ and ‘Widening Participation’ Planning Groups) and contributes to the NCOP Steering Group.
The Board drives the strategic direction of the partnership and comprises senior members of staff from each institution with co‑opted members from the LEP and West Yorkshire Consortium of Colleges, to ensure a joined‑up approach and maximise partnership working opportunities.