What is Pioneers?

The Pioneers programme includes two strands designed to empower specific BAME students through interactive workshops, inspiring talks, and engagement with positive role models. One strand is focused on Black African/ Caribbean or mixed students and the other strand targets Bangladeshi/Pakistani or mixed female students. 

Pioneers in STEM

A STEM event designed to empower young people from Black African, Caribbean and mixed-race backgrounds, in year 9 and 10. Students have the opportunity to meet employers as well as STEM role models and university student ambassadors. This event is enables students to:

• Gain practical insights into STEM careers and roles.
• Build confidence and recognise their personal skills.
• Hear first-hand from BAME role models in higher education and the STEM industry.
• Discover pathways to rewarding STEM careers.

Date, location and registration information for 2024/25 coming soon.

South Asian Pioneers

A university campus event designed to inspire and empower year 10 Pakistani and Bangladeshi girls through a series of activities aimed at breaking down barriers, encouraging informed decisions about higher education options, self awareness and development of a growth mindset. This event is enables students to:

• Hear from ambassadors and individuals from their background.
• Gain insight into the benefits of higher education and courses available.
• Hear about the diverse routes into higher education.
• Become aware of the facilities and support available at university.

Date, location and registration information for 2024/25 coming soon.

Why Pioneers?

There is a pressing need for specific BAME programmes and activities to raise aspirations and encourage participation in higher education due to several key reasons:

Firstly, disparities in higher education access are evident. For instance, only 56% of Black students and 61% of Asian students progress to higher education, compared to 72% of White students. These programmes aim to bridge this gap by providing targeted support and resources.

Secondly, the representation of BAME students in higher education is crucial for promoting inclusivity. Currently, BAME students are underrepresented in many prestigious universities and courses. Specific programmes can help increase their presence and ensure a more diverse academic environment.

Additionally, the academic outcomes for BAME students tend to be lower. Data indicates that only 57% of Black students achieve a first or upper second-class degree, compared to 80% of White students. Targeted initiatives can provide the necessary support to improve these outcomes.

Moreover, there is a significant lack of representation of BAME individuals in specific job sectors, particularly in STEM fields. In the UK, only 9% of STEM professionals are from BAME backgrounds, despite these groups making up a larger share of the population. This underrepresentation highlights the need for programmes that encourage BAME students to pursue and succeed in these fields.

Lastly, research on the outreach needs of the Study Higher area further highlights the need to support BAME students, particularly Pakistani and Bangladeshi young people, those of mixed heritage as well as black Caribbeans.