Nominations are now open for the Student Social Mobility Awards 2020/2021
Following a year of unprecedented challenges for undergraduates across the UK, it is more important than ever to celebrate student success. This is especially true when students have achieved against the odds. The pandemic has affected students from low socioeconomic backgrounds more than others, due to lost learning, unequal access to university and careers support, and employers reducing work experience and internship opportunities.
Research from the Sutton Trust shows that 76% of students are worried about not being able to gain the skills and experience needed for employment when they graduate. 1 Undergraduates from less-advantaged backgrounds often have inferior access to a professional network, and hence lack the role models and opportunities to develop the skills and experiences needed to achieve their full potential.
The Student Social Mobility Awards celebrate outstanding achievements of students, creating vital role models for those from less-advantaged backgrounds. The Awards also recognise teachers, mentors, employers and universities who have supported young people and helped advance social mobility during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Nominations are open until 8 June 2021.
John Craven, Chief Executive of upReach, said: “This year, the effects of the pandemic have exacerbated existing socioeconomic inequalities, making aspirational events like the Student Social Mobility Awards more important than ever before. The Awards shine a spotlight on inspirational role models who have often shown incredible resilience, determination and initiative to succeed despite the challenges of the pandemic, and often overcoming barriers linked with coming from a less-privileged background.”
Winners will be selected by an independent judging panel once initial shortlisting has been completed. The panel will comprise ten leading representatives from the fields of politics, academia, education and business, with significant youth representation. Three Awards will be determined by a student vote taking place from 16th – 30th July 2021.
For further information or to make a nomination, visit their website.
