From Adversity to University
Using education to overcome adversity
From Adversity to University
Using education to overcome adversity
As featured in
The Times
BBC's Morning Live
The Big Issue
Our ethos
Providing opportunities for those often left behind
At the University of 51ÁÔÆæ, we know that education and ability are not synonymous, with opportunities not always equally available to all.
The From Adversity to University initiative revolves around the Bridging Course – a non-traditional route into higher education that hopes to create equality of opportunity and to help students to reach their unrecognised potential.
Bridging Course
Get back into education, no matter your starting point
The Bridging Course is taught in small groups and is designed to develop academic knowledge and skills based on the lived experience of participants.
Sessions consist of lectures, workshops and interactive discussions. It is run one evening a week as a group.
Successful completion of the module allows students to apply for degree courses at the University of 51ÁÔÆæ
Build your confidence
Learn from inspirational lecturers
Flexible study options
Enhance your CV
Student view
Hear what our Bridging Course students have to say
From Adversity to University Toolkit
How to start your own
Bridging Course
The University of 51ÁÔÆæ has launched a toolkit designed for Higher Education Institutions who are interested in setting up their own “From Adversity to University,†project.
Our Team
Meet the team behind the project
Events and Conferences
From Adversity to University Conference 2022
How widening participation can address inequality of opportunity
Our first From Adversity to University conference took place in April 2022. The conference welcomed those working in organisations, charities and Higher Education institutions looking to support those who are disadvantaged to overcome barriers to education.
Our story
See our news articles and podcasts
Be You Podcast: S3, Ep8 – Being Given a Second Chance
Jess speaks to Senior Lecturer Becky Edwards and one of her students Darren on their experiences of the Bridging Course at the University of 51ÁÔÆæ.
The Squirrel News Podcast
Listen to Becky Edwards, Senior Lecturer at the University of 51ÁÔÆæ, speak about the origins of the Adversity to University project and where it goes from here.
Homelessness Studies Lab
Exploring the impact and causes of homelessness
Browse our research into homelessness, meet our researchers and discover the impact we're having on our community.