Preston careers service Future U has secured £850k in funding to extend a successful student programme.

Future U, which has offered advice to more than 25,000 young people across Lancashire, has been awarded £850,000 from the Office for Students to continue its careers support for an extra 12 months.

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The service works to increase career and higher education aspirations for young people. It encourages teenagers to think about their career aspirations and studying at university.

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Theo Blackburn, Future U Programme Manager, said: “We are very excited to build upon the successes of previous phases as we continue to support those that need this support now more than ever across Lancashire.

“The inclusion of adult learners this year is a welcome addition and opens up exciting opportunities. Our new website will play an important role as a one-stop-shop in supporting schools, colleges and other organisations to find crucial information as well as details on events and activities, all aiming to support progression to Level 4 study.”

The funding will allow the programme to continue to host events at schools and colleges across the county, supporting young people as they explore careers options and speak with leading employers. Young people can also find out about opportunities such as university courses and degree apprenticeships.

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It also supports families and young people in Preston, Chorley and Leyland underrepresented in higher education.

The funding will allow the programme to provide additional support to adult learners, children in care, young carers and students from military families.

Since 2017, Future U has delivered over 1,100 careers activities to 70 schools and colleges, in addition to creating many online resources.

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Future U is part of the national Uni Connect Programme, funded by the Office for Students. It involves institutions across the county, including the University of Central Lancashire, Lancaster University, Edge Hill University, and the University of Cumbria.

Future U works with a network of schools, colleges, higher education providers and local agencies.

For more information, visit – www.lancashirefutureu.org.uk

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