Paul Blagburn from the University of Warwick reflects on the university’s recognition as University of the Year at the 2024 Student Social Mobility Awards, and the powerful role of partnerships in widening access to Higher Education.
At the University of Warwick, we believe that talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. That is why we are particularly proud to have been named University of the Year at the 2024 Student Social Mobility Awards. This recognition celebrates our ongoing commitment to creating pathways into Higher Education and supporting students from all backgrounds to thrive. But it also shines a light on the vital role of collaboration. None of this work happens in isolation. It is powered by partnerships, and our relationship with IntoUniversity is one of the most impactful.
A Shared Mission
IntoUniversity’s mission is clear: to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to realise their potential. At Warwick, our widening participation and social mobility work is driven by the same goal. When we bring these missions together, the results are transformative.
Through our work with IntoUniversity Coventry and IntoUniversity Birmingham East, Warwick has been able to connect directly with students in communities where progression to Higher Education is lower than average. For many young people, university can feel distant, unfamiliar, or even unattainable. Our collaboration is about changing that perception and showing students that Higher Education is not only possible, but a place where they belong and can thrive.
The Difference Partnership Makes
Together, we have created experiences that make Higher Education tangible and exciting. Campus visits often act as turning points, helping young people picture themselves at university. Mentoring and Academic Support link them with Warwick students, key role models who share their journeys and offer encouragement through challenges.
This work is not just about raising aspirations. It is about equipping young people with the practical tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed. Whether that means guidance on subject choices, support with study skills, or understanding the application process, the Warwick-IntoUniversity partnership is helping to close the gap between ambition and achievement.
And the impact is clear. Students who have come through IntoUniversity Coventry are now progressing successfully into Higher Education, including at Warwick itself. Their journeys are powerful reminders of what can be achieved when universities and Third-Sector organisations work hand in hand.
As we celebrated the five-year anniversary of IntoUniversity Coventry, we reflected on the more than 4,300 students supported and 369 who have gone on to study at Warwick. Even more impressive is the 64% progression rate to higher education for Coventry students – double the local average.
But beyond the data, it is the personal stories that best capture the difference this work makes. At the launch of the Coventry centre in 2019, the sense of optimism from young people and their parents was unmistakable. Five years later, at the anniversary celebration, I met a parent who had also attended that launch. She spoke warmly about the positive impact the centre had made on her children and the wider community. For us, this is what partnership means: creating spaces where young people can thrive, and families feel supported and connected.
Partnership working also enables people to connect and innovate. Our staff benefit greatly by sharing insights, expertise and good practice with IntoUniversity colleagues, all of which enhances opportunities and experiences for students. Warwick students also speak passionately about supporting IntoUniversity activity, many of whom have progressed through the IntoUniversity journey.
Looking Ahead: Building on Strong Foundations
While we are proud of the progress so far, we know the work of social mobility is never finished. The challenges faced by young people from underrepresented backgrounds remain complex and evolving, and our response must be equally ambitious.
Looking ahead, there is huge potential to deepen our partnership with IntoUniversity. Together, we can reach more young people across the West Midlands, broaden the range of opportunities we provide, and strengthen the support that helps students succeed throughout their educational journey. We are exploring ways to embed even greater collaboration including shared evaluation that informs best practice and deeper parental engagement.
At the heart of this work is a shared belief: that every young person should have the chance to reach their full potential, regardless of background. By combining Warwick’s commitment to social mobility with IntoUniversity’s grassroots expertise, we can continue to remove barriers, unlock potential, and inspire the next generation of learners.
Our collaboration with IntoUniversity reminds us that the most meaningful achievements come through partnership, and that our collective impact is far greater than anything we can achieve alone.
