Access to Leeds

Year 2 Geography with Transport Studies Student

Access to Leeds is a programme that supports students from disadvantaged backgrounds to apply for a place at Leeds. As part of the module I had to write an essay on a piece of media that was relevant to Geography, and analyse why it was relevant. This was a great opportunity for me to get feedback on my writing style from a specialist in my subject area. As well as this, upon completion, I was eligible for a two-grade reduction in my offer, which was a big relief to me! There were also opportunities on the module to meet other students and to learn key skills that you will need throughout university, such as referencing. By completing the programme, you’ll have a head start on your peers and hopefully make some new friends along the way! 

All Access to Leeds students are enrolled in a further programme of support called the Plus Programme upon entry to Leeds. The Plus Programme offers tailored support to students on a range of issues, including strategies on organisation and time management, careers advice and social events. Plus Programme students get unique offers that aren’t always available to other students, such as the opportunity to take part in a mock assessment centre run by the careers centre. I am such a big fan of the programme that I am now a Plus Programme Ambassador, so I get to run some of the support sessions which is great fun. I can’t recommend the Plus Programme enough! 

Year 2 Law Student

Access to Leeds (A2L) is a great opportunity for people from disadvantaged backgrounds to apply for a reduced offer (if eligible) from the University of Leeds.  I met the criteria and was accepted onto the scheme - it was a huge factor in why I choose Leeds. I attended an A2L induction event and I was given support on the different skills needed for university.  I met so many people from different backgrounds which made me feel much more comfortable about starting university. I made friends that I am still close to, two years later.

We had an essay we needed to write for our module which was due a few weeks after our A level exams so we had enough time to complete it. We could even send in a first draft and gain some feedback to ensure we were on the right path. The staff and mentors were all really supportive and the assessment aspect was surprisingly not stressful at all. Ultimately, I did end up meeting the original entry requirements for my course, but having that safety net really boosted my confidence and reduced my stress levels during my A level exams.

Year 2 Medical Student

Access to Leeds (A2L) is a widening access scheme for students applying to the University of Leeds.  It supports students whose studies have been affected by personal circumstances such as financial, social and health difficulties.  If you meet certain criteria you may receive a lower offer for your chosen course of study. I remember filling out an easy form in which I explained my circumstances and wrote why I believed I was eligible for a place on the A2L scheme.

Students accepted onto the scheme take part in a study module to help prepare them for university. I was required to complete e-learning activities regarding plagiarism and other university-related topics.  My final task was to write an essay, based on a topic related to the degree I had applied for.  My topic was regarding vaccines and I was given support with writing the essay by an academic professional in my area of interest.  It gave me an opportunity to show what research and referencing skills I had learned in the A2L module.

Now that I am at university, I have had support from the Plus Programme (an academic and social support scheme for students who come from backgrounds that are less represented at university).  The Plus Programme welcome event was fun and I met my best friend at this event!