Everyone should have the opportunity to access to Higher Education and level up their career prospects. At Bradford College we developed The QUEST Team; a student-friendly service, supporting people from the community to access Higher Education opportunities within the college, regardless of the barriers they may face.
The QUEST Team supports groups of students outlined in the Bradford College Access and Participation Plan (APP) , including care experienced and estranged students. Access and participation plans are national initiative to support students through their education journey, helping them to access, succeed in and progress from Higher Education opportunities.
On track to completing the final year of her degree, one student from an estranged background, who utilised the support of the QUEST Team, shares her experience.
“I first heard about The QUEST Team shortly after applying to Bradford College. After finishing at Craven College, I was looking to complete my BA in Media Makeup and Special Effects. I was contacted after I applied by The QUEST Team. They explained who they are and what they could offer in terms of support for Estranged Students, and were extremely helpful in answering all of my queries.
“The QUEST Team looks to support students to complete their courses and ease some of the financial barriers that students can face. Bradford is a diverse area and the college is passionate about helping people from different backgrounds overcome any barriers they may face.
“Once I had enrolled at Bradford College and had my Student Finance in place, The QUEST Team arranged a meeting with me to discuss my circumstances, and to arrange some additional financial support in the form of applying for grants. This was a very simple and stress-free process, which is definitely good when you’re a 3rd year degree student! After filling out the forms and providing the necessary evidence, The QUEST Team very quickly provided a plan explaining when payments would be made throughout the year.
“I am receiving the Accommodation Grant as well as the Care Leavers/Estranged Student Grant, which has helped me massively overcome the usual obstacles I have faced as an estranged student. Due to the nature of my course I have even more financial outgoings, such as material costs and service costs when it comes to promoting myself as a trainee when I finish in May. Without these grants I could not do my course and also juggle the financial issues at home.”
“The QUEST Team are very friendly and definitely provide a safe space for students like myself, which really helps me get the best out of my studies. I would definitely recommend reaching out if you need help from The QUEST Team. They have definitely made my life easier and I have been able to study without as much financial worry, which has made a huge impact on my day to day life in the past. “
Amber, BA (hons) Make Up with Special Effects
You can read all about the support The QUEST Team offers on our website, or get in touch by emailing [email protected] to find out more.
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