Partnership aims to encourage more people into higher education

Two of York’s education providers are working together to offer a clear route for anyone wishing to enter higher education.

York St John University and York College have signed a partnership agreement that will enable the University to validate the Colleges programmes and formalise an existing relationship that will maximise opportunities for students, helping them  to achieve their goals, from basic skills to postgraduate degrees. 

Dr Alison Birkinshaw, Principal of York College comments:  "This is an exciting opportunity for York College to work with York St John University to build high quality higher education provision to suit local and regional needs, built upon the strong levels of expertise in both our organisations.  We are very much looking forward to working with York St John University, alongside our other HE partners, to the benefit of our students and their communities."

Professor David Fleming, Vice Chancellor of York St John University, said: “We are very passionate about making higher education an option for everyone.  This new partnership with York College is based on a shared vision to offer a clear progression route through to higher education and to help fill some of the skills gaps employers are looking for in York and the region.  We’ve already seen how successful we can be at working together to produce exceptional graduates and are looking forward to developing this further.”

Passing an access course at York College secured Joanne Sanderson a place studying Physiotherapy at York St John University.  Joanne has recently completed her first year at university, passing her Level 1 placement with distinction and excellent feedback from the placement provider in the form of a letter expressing how impressed they were with her.  

Joanne said: “Returning to full time education as a mature student was an exciting but daunting decision to make. Studying at York College enabled me to realise my potential while gaining valuable knowledge, skills and confidence in preparation for the transition to York St John University”.

To find out more about studying at York College or York St John University.