Future Quest
Since 2016/17 we have been one of the key partners* in the Uni Connect Programme funded by the Office for Students, which aims to increase the number of young people from underrepresented backgrounds’ progressing to higher education.
94% of last years participants reported that taking part had helped them understand the HE opportunities available to them.
Making informed choices about higher education
A key part of Future Quest is our cohort programme which replaced the highly successful programmes – Ambitions and Marvellous Me. Future Quest aims to increase the number of young people entering higher education from currently under-represented wards. The programme also raises awareness of the wider benefits of higher education and supports young people to identify potential careers and the pathways into these.
Definition of higher education: higher education is an optional education pathway that includes university, college and apprenticeship study towards higher-level qualifications such as a degree. Higher education increases students’ chances of entering high skilled careers.
*In collaboration with the University of the West of England, University of Bristol, City of Bristol College and SGS College.
"Students were able to discuss their future plans and discover ways to find out how to get there. I have found the students have a clearer idea on what they are going to do after they finish their GCSEs and feel more confident to talk about it with their peers and teachers."
Teacher
Find out more about our Future Quest Programme!
What has the Future Quest programme given you?
“…confidence to talk to people”
“…opportunities in theatre, (jobs)”
“…to be interacting and interesting with others”
“…time to be me and know that that’s ok”
“Really enjoyed Future Quest, it’s helped me with many different skills which will help me in the future” FQ yr 9 student (SBCSS)
“Brilliant for the kids to get out of the classroom and developing skills they will use in their future!” Teacher on FQ trips (OAJW)
“The programme is fantastic at developing student confidence, awareness of post-16 options and get them better at understanding themselves” FQ Yr 9 Link staff member (APS)
“Future Quest has really made a difference to Blake’s focus on what he’d like to do in the future and what options can be available. FQ has been really eye opening for him and us, as parents. Thank you!” FQ Yr 9 parent (OAB)
“Really opened my mind to going to University; made me excited for future learning” Student
“The workshops gave me things to say about myself and gave me a good understanding of my personality in the ‘workplace’.” Student
“This is has been so beneficial for my son. Sadly, I feel I would’ve never looked at universities being an option for him. You have shown my son opportunities that I would never of thought of being possible for him. I appreciate all the effort and work you have put in. He has enjoyed all your trips and activities. Thank you. I hope it continues for other year groups” Parent
Previous activities have included:
Student and Parent Meetings
Psychometric Profiling Workshop
Bristol Old Vic Theatre School Workshop
Bristol Old Vic Winter Show
Future Skills Day
Speakers Trust Public Speaking Workshop
University Campus Visits
Mendip Activity Centre
London visit: Houses of Parliament, Walking Tour and River Cruise
Celebration Event
UCAS support and mentoring for post-16 students
Other Programmes
The Discover Maths programme was devised to enable students to gain a better understanding of how maths in the classroom links to maths in the real world.
Find out more
Improving confidence through speaking, listening and communication skills as part of drama, film, performance and presentation skills.
Find out more
