Swansea University has been shortlisted in the Outreach and Widening Participation Submission Award category of this year’s Whatuni Student Choice Awards.
Now in its tenth year, the Whatuni Student Choice Awards are based on the reviews of real students studying in the UK and provide prospective students with a unique and unbiased alternative to traditional university ranking systems.
This student-led approach to review collection and written submissions mean that shortlisted universities are recognised by students for delivering an exceptional experience.
Swansea University has been recognised for its Step Up to Swansea University programme, delivered online during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The programme is aimed at year 12 school and college students in South West Wales, who have the ability to succeed, but due to personal circumstances, experience barriers in progressing to higher education.
In response to the pandemic, Step Up to Swansea provided an increased focus on wellbeing.
Participants received self-care packs containing hot chocolate, cookies, sunflower seeds, mindfulness colouring packs, and positive affirmation post-it notes.
‘Student Buddies’ were also assigned, which involved weekly check-ins.
Professor Martin Stringer, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education, said: “I am delighted that Swansea University has been shortlisted in the Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2022.
“We are proud to be included in a category that acknowledges the comprehensive outreach and widening participation initiatives created for prospective students during the pandemic.
“This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our staff, who have worked hard to ensure our students continue to receive the amazing student experience Swansea is known for, despite these unprecedented times.”
The Whatuni Student Choice Awards, hosted by IDP Connect, is an annual event celebrating the hard work of higher education providers across the United Kingdom.
Simon Emmett, Chief Executive, IDP Connect, commented: “Being shortlisted for one of our Whatuni Student Choice Awards is exceptional. Institutions should be proud of making it to this stage in the process and should celebrate the experience they’ve delivered for their students over the past 12 months.”
This year’s Whatuni Student Choice Awards winners will be announced on Tuesday, 24 May 2022, at a black-tie awards dinner at the East Wintergarden, London, hosted by a well-known television personality.
Winners will also be published on the Whatuni website, with a complete breakdown of all categories, including how the rest of the university sector performed.