The University of Chichester and Laser Learning Awards - Partnership Agreement

The University of Chichester and Laser Learning Awards – A Shared Commitment to Support Learners Progression.

A new partnership between the University of Chichester and Laser Learning Awards (LASER) is set to create broader opportunities for Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma students progressing into undergraduate study.

The Partnership Statement formalises a shared commitment between the two organisations to support adult learners in accessing University of Chichester education, recognising the Access to HE Diploma as a respected and high-quality route into higher education.

The agreement applies to students studying, or who have completed, a LASER accredited Access to HE Diploma at one of LASER’s approved colleges and who apply to the University of Chichester through UCAS. 

Supporting Student Success

At the heart of the partnership is a dedication to helping learners make a confident and successful transition into higher education. The University of Chichester and LASER will work together to ensure students receive clear guidance on progression opportunities, application processes, and the support available to them throughout their journey.

The partnership reflects a growing recognition of the valuable skills, resilience, and academic preparation that Access to HE students bring to University of Chichester study.

Under the agreement, the University of Chichester will provide full and sympathetic consideration to eligible applications, taking into account not only academic achievement but also personal statements and references. Students will also benefit from access to Open Days, information events, and advice tailored to mature and non-traditional learners.

Where applicable, eligible applicants may also receive contextual offers, helping to widen participation and support students from diverse educational backgrounds.

In addition, the University of Chichester will share information on scholarships, bursaries, and financial support available to Access to HE learners, helping students better understand the opportunities available to them. 

Strengthening Opportunities for Colleges and Centres

The partnership brings significant benefits for LASER-approved colleges and centres. By strengthening collaboration with the University, centres will gain clearer lines of communication with admissions teams and improved access to guidance that can help support learners through the UCAS application process.

A named admissions contact at the University of Chichester will work directly with LASER and its colleges, ensuring centres can access up-to-date advice and information to help students make informed choices about progression into higher education.

LASER will continue to promote the University of Chichester as a destination for Access to HE learners and ensure that approved colleges are equipped with accurate and current information relating to applications and diploma outcomes.

Creating Future Progression Opportunities

While the Partnership Statement provides a flexible framework for collaboration, both organisations have committed to reviewing the agreement annually and exploring opportunities to develop it into a fuller Progression Agreement in the future.

This could potentially lead to enhanced progression routes and additional admissions benefits for Access to HE students in the years ahead.

The partnership reflects a shared ambition to widen participation in higher education and ensure that adult learners are supported, encouraged, and empowered to achieve their academic and career goals.