Widening Participation

Lancaster has a committed approach to widening participation and understands that some students face a number of barriers and obstacles when considering university.

We know that for many students who come from a non-traditional university background, even thinking about applying to university is a big step. We want to ensure that future applicants to Lancaster are not held back by any barriers and that our student cohort reflects the diverse society that we live in.

Our Widening Participation team offer a variety of free activities for school and college groups both on and off campus and in schools including talks, workshops, Masterclasses and residential stays. All activities are aimed at students in Years 10 through to 13. We also work with teachers, parents and careers advisors to make sure that students receive the best information when researching their Higher Education options.

Campus Day Visits

Our campus day visits are designed to give a general introduction to higher education. Students will work with current Lancaster University students to discuss topics including Student Life, Student Finance and Barriers to Higher Education and will also work on UCAS and Personal Statements. The visit to Lancaster also includes a chance to see our first class facilities during a tour of the campus. Groups can participate in many academic taster sessions during their visit, giving the opportunity to experience a taste of studying at university.

Academic Masterclasses

Our academic masterclasses are designed to support academic excellence and provide students with the opportunity to spend a day working alongside academics and PhD students at Lancaster. Our Masterclasses provide specialist and expert teaching which can enhance learning alongside a student’s curriculum at school or college.

We are running free Masterclasses at convenient dates for teachers and students throughout 2012 in the following subject areas:

  • Biological Sciences
  • Economics
  • Film Studies
  • Mathematics & Statistics
  • Politics & International Relations
  • Business Studies
  • Engineering
  • Law & Criminology
  • Philosophy
  • Pre Medical Studies
  • Computing & Communications
  • Language & Creative Writing
  • Marketing
  • Physics
  • Psychology in Education

This activity can also be developed for gifted and talented groups, to stretch and challenge learners and provide them with an opportunity to experience learning at university level.

Masterclasses and campus visits can be booked at a time and date to suit you and a tailor made timetable will be created for each visit. To book any activity please contact the outreach team via outreach@lancaster.ac.uk or 01524 593030

Residential visits

For more information see our Summer Schools Page

For more information about outreach and widening participation please contact Leanne Bates – UK Student Recruitment Manager.