Edge Hill University
Supporting BTEC students to succeed
Students enter higher education with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and academic foundations. Nearly half of the Edge Hill University student population hold a BTEC or alternative level 3 qualification, other than A Levels and we recognise that exploring entry qualifications can provide insights into students’ prior knowledge, learning experiences, and preparedness for higher education. Understanding this enables identification of how to best support students with their transition into HE and once on programme to avoid gaps in continuation, awarding and progression.
This presentation led by Claire Swanwick from the Widening Access and Student Success team will highlight important considerations for teaching cohorts which include students who have BTEC or alternative level 3 qualifications and will focus on the findings from the project to date. Qualitative and quantitative insights including surveys and data, focus groups and discussions with educators and students, at level 3 and beyond will be presented and we will share our learning specific to areas such as assessment, support, belonging and motivation as well as showcasing the strengths BTEC learners bring with them for study in Higher Education. The presentation will also explore how the project addresses our Access and Participation Plan commitment to positively impact the gaps which exist in continuation and attainment between those who have studied BTEC and their A Level counterparts.