Open consultation Review of approach to Widening Participation in Higher Education

Summary

The purpose of this consultation is to seek views on a refreshed approach to widening participation (WP) in higher education. The proposals aim to ensure that every learner, regardless of background, identity, or circumstance, can access, succeed in, and benefit from higher education through a system that is more inclusive, collaborative, and responsive to need.

Stakeholder feedback will help shape a modern, evidence based approach that supports better outcomes for underrepresented learners and contributes to inclusive economic growth.

Documents

• Review to Approach to Widening Participation in Higher Education Adobe PDF (490 KB)
• Data Protection Impact Assessment Adobe PDF (322 KB)
• Privacy Notice for Widening Participation Consultation Adobe PDF (151 KB)
• S75 Screening Adobe PDF (265 KB)

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Consultation description

Widening participation refers to policies, initiatives, and actions designed to ensure that people from groups traditionally underrepresented in higher education have the opportunity to access, succeed in, and benefit from the opportunities and outcomes that higher education provides.

Widening participation is fundamental to delivering the Minister’s Economic Vision, which prioritises inclusive growth and equitable opportunity. By widening access to skills, knowledge, and opportunity, Widening Participation empowers individuals to improve their life chances. 

For the region, it helps build a more inclusive and resilient society, while supporting economic growth through the development of a broader and more skilled workforce. This in turn strengthens productivity, drives innovation, and underpins long‑term prosperity.

Why your views matter

This is your opportunity to hear about what is being proposed and to have your say. Your feedback will help us understand what the changes might mean for you and inform the final approach.

What happens next

All consultation responses will be summarised and evaluated, and a summary report will be published on the Department’s website.

Your views will help shape and refine the future approach to widening participation. Our goal is to implement actions that support priority groups throughout their journey into and through higher education, ensuring outcomes that are meaningful and successful for every learner.