Impact stories
From innovative qualifications and community-led research to local learning opportunities and practical support, these stories show how our micro-campuses are creating opportunities while helping the University develop new ways of working with communities.
Skills and opportunity
Skills for a changing world: Micro-qualification
An innovative micro-qualification co-designed by employers, FE providers, community advocates and learners to create new pathways into higher education, skills development and employment.
I wouldn't be able to commit to a full-time course if it was at the university. Having it on my doorstep, it fits around my family life. It's really opened my eyes to things I can go onto once I finish this course and given me the skills I need to do that.
Education and lifelong learning
Little Library
A community-led library and learning space offering books, activities and events for people of all ages. Developed in response to local need, it supports literacy, learning and social connection while helping make university resources more accessible within the community.
Little Library activities range from language cafés to meet-ups for families with SEN. The sessions have supported literacy development, social connection and university applications.
I’ve got to have joyful and social things in my life…places where I can go and feel welcomed, and I do here.
Parent Power
Parent Power gives parents and carers practical knowledge about higher education pathways, student finance and future opportunities. It also helps them develop the skills and confidence to support and advocate for their children.
Attending Parent Power provided me with valuable information and real insight into student finance, the admissions process, and apprenticeships. It has helped me better understand the options available and how to support my child moving forward. This programme is much needed and has had a positive impact on our community, families are now having more open conversations about accessing higher education, and I feel more confident supporting my child in the future.
GCSE Tutoring
In partnership with Power Education, personalised tutoring helps young people improve attainment, build confidence and progress towards further education opportunities.
GCSE Tutoring has enabled EAL learners with initial working grades of 2-3 to achieve grades 4-9, with pass rates surpassing national averages in Maths and Science.
The collaboration between Power Education and the University of Bristol is reaping significant rewards, not just for the individual students attending tutoring, but for the community as a whole.
Research shaped by communities
Menopause cafe
The Menopause Café brings together local GPs and University researchers to support people experiencing menopause while contributing to research. It provides an informal space to learn, share experiences and access support.
Coffee mornings
Originally launched to support medical research, these community-led coffee mornings have secured new funding for the University and NHS while creating a trusted space for connection, friendship and support.
The impact of the coffee morning is huge. It’s a space where people can feel a sense of community, friendship, support each other. People can hear about local services and suggest ideas... We don’t want researchers to come and collect data and go... This is where the universities and the institutions have a role to play to give opportunities to the people who can also become an active partner.
Community support and wellbeing
Vet drop-in sessions
Delivered with the University of Bristol Vet School and Bristol Animal Rescue Centre, Vet drop-in sessions have supported more than 45 local pet owners with advice, guidance and essential supplies.