Clive Betts MP joins Sheffield Hallam University for school roadshow

3rd May 2016

Yesterday Clive Betts, MP for Sheffield South East, joined staff and student ambassadors from Sheffield Hallam University at Handsworth Grange Community Sports College, to help raise awareness of how higher education can expand horizons regardless of background.

Clive Betts MP took part in a 'roadshow' with a class of over 30 Year 8 pupils from within his constituency. The session is part of a programme of outreach events organised by Sheffield Hallam University right across the Sheffield City Region and beyond. The 'SHUTube' sessions involve Sheffield Hallam staff and student ambassadors working with pupils to give them the opportunity to create short videos on iPads within teams, recording their thoughts on topics including as careers, jobs and university life. The outreach events aim to break down barriers to university, particularly for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, by increasing awareness and understanding of higher education. Many of the events are targeted in neighbourhoods which have historically seen low numbers of young people going on to study at university. Clive Betts MP said: "It was a pleasure to join Sheffield Hallam's outreach team at Handsworth Grange School to talk with pupils about university and higher education. "It's extremely important that young people who come from families which have little or no experience of university know how they can benefit from higher education just like anyone else. Nicola Rawlins, Director of Admissions & UK Student Recruitment at Sheffield Hallam University, said: "As one of the UK's most progressive and innovative universities, expanding horizons and providing opportunities for people regardless of their background is in our heart. "I'm delighted that Clive Betts MP was able to support our roadshow. These outreach sessions are a great way to get out in the community and it's clear they are effective. "Last year we engaged with over 56,000 local students from neighbourhoods with historically low numbers going on to university. 70% of participants felt they knew more about higher education after taking part and over 62% felt more positive about going to university." Sheffield Hallam University is one of the largest universities in the UK with over 31,500 students. In 2014/15 41% of Sheffield Hallam's new young UK students were from low income backgrounds compared to the university average of 33%. Also, 18% were from neighbourhoods with historically low numbers going on to university compared to the sector average of 11%.