We are pleased to announce that we have agreed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with University of Greenwich, that is set to strengthen links between further and higher education for our students.
The agreement sets out our shared commitment to supporting learner progression, enhancing the experience for our students and creating clearer pathways into higher education and their future careers.
The Memorandum brings together expertise from the college and the university to better prepare students for the transition to university-level study. The signing, which took place on Wednesday 22 April, was attended by Mark Andrews, Deputy Executive Principal (Curriculum & Strategy) at North Kent College and Stephen Corbett, Deputy Dean and Professor of Professional Development and Learning at the University of Greenwich, alongside students from courses set to benefit from the partnership.
A key feature of the agreement is the development of clear and accessible progression routes for North Kent College students. This includes opportunities for guaranteed interviews or offers for undergraduate courses at the University of Greenwich, once they have met key criteria such as academic performance and relevant experience.
The partnership will focus on curriculum areas including health and social care, early years, and sport; sectors where skilled professionals are in high demand.
A range of targeted activities designed to support students in progressing to higher education will be available including workshops and information sessions on higher education pathways, campus visits and immersive university experiences and support with making an application and writing a personal statement.
Working collaboratively with the University of Greenwich, the agreement is set to raise aspirations, build confidence and equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed at university and beyond.
Speaking at the signing, Mark Andrews, Deputy Executive Principal (Curriculum & Strategy) at North Kent College said, “This is a very important milestone to help us plan the next steps for students at the college, and, crucially, offers a guaranteed progression route to the University of Greenwich and courses within the faculty.
“It also reflects the wider context - highlighted in the recent Post-16 Education and Skills White Paper - of increasing collaboration between further and higher education. These relationships have always been important, but they are becoming increasingly so.
“Importantly, it recognises Greenwich’s ambition to open up pathways for people from diverse educational backgrounds, including those who may not previously have seen their courses as traditional routes into higher education.”
Professor Stephen Corbett, Pro Vice Chancellor for the Faculty of Education, Health and Human Sciences added, "We are so pleased to be working with North Kent College. The college facilities and staff expertise are enabling their students to become future professionals and practitioners. We are looking forward to welcoming North Kent College students onto our degrees at the University of Greenwich, Avery Hill Campus which is only 15 mins away from the College."
Stacie Collings, Assistant Principal at North Kent College, also commented: “We are delighted to formalise our collaboration with the University of Greenwich through this Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement reflects a shared commitment to creating clear and meaningful progression opportunities for our learners, supporting them to take confident steps into higher education. By working closely together, we can continue to raise aspirations, strengthen pathways, and ensure our students are well prepared for their future careers.”
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