Adversity to University programme receives High Sheriff award
The team behind the Adversity to University (A2U) programme at the University of Chichester was handed a High Sheriff’s award earlier this month.
The High Sheriff of West Sussex, Dr Tim Fooks, presented awards to organisations who make an outstanding contribution in the county, at a special ceremony at The Mellstrom Centre at Christ’s Hospital School on Thursday 12 March.
Becky Edwards and Chris Smethurst received the award for Adversity to University at the University of Chichester. It comes after Becky received an award from the previous High Sheriff last year for her work on the project.
A2U bridges the opportunity gap and offers second chances to those who would never have believed that university was a possibility. The 12-week course creates a non-traditional pathway into higher education and employment and bases the development of academic learning on lived experience. The team provides support to all participants, before, after and during their transition to university.
Since its inception it has made a difference to the lives of care leavers, refugees, asylum seekers, prisoners and ex-prisoners and those experiencing homelessness and addiction. Many graduates of the course have gone on to study undergraduate and postgraduate degrees at the university and progressed into careers helping others in similar circumstances.
Becky Edwards, who leads the A2U programme, said: “We are so grateful to Dr Tim Fooks for his ongoing support of our project. As High Sheriff he has met with many of our A2U students and presented awards at their certificate ceremonies. His words at the ceremony were moving and humbling and truly reflect what we are trying to achieve. Although Chris and I received the award, the honour is for the whole team. Without their passion, drive and hard work, A2U would not be where it is today.”
The High Sheriff of West Sussex, Dr Tim Fooks, said: “I am delighted to present one of my High Sheriff Awards to this inclusive and inspirational programme that embodies a deep, non-judgemental belief in the transformative power of education.
“From those who have experienced homelessness to individuals serving sentences at HMP Ford, the Adversity to University Programme offers hope, dignity, and a genuine second chance to all who seek a different future. It stands as a powerful testament to what can be achieved when opportunity is matched with acceptance, encouragement, and unwavering belief in human potential.”
