Widening access scheme for veterinary science shortlisted for national award

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An innovative project focused on widening participation in medicine and veterinary science has been shortlisted for a National Education Opportunities Network (NEON) Award.

NEON champions access to higher education and social mobility across the UK. Its annual awards recognise outstanding initiatives that support learners from underrepresented backgrounds to progress into higher education.

The shortlisted project was a collaboration between Higher Horizons, Harper Adams University, and Keele University to tackle barriers faced by students aspiring to careers in medicine and veterinary science.

Research by the Sutton Trust highlights the scale of the challenge. In 2021, just five per cent of students entering medicine came from the lowest socio-economic backgrounds, while applicants from private schools were significantly more likely to receive offers than their peers from non-selective state schools.

A report from the Veterinary Schools Council points to similar inequalities in veterinary science, where applicants are predominantly white (95 per cent), female (80 per cent), and more likely to come from advantaged areas.

In response, partners developed two targeted programmes for Year 12 students: Steps2Medicine, delivered in collaboration with Keele’s School of Medicine, and Future Vet, run in partnership with the Harper & Keele Veterinary School.

The programmes - now shortlisted for NEON's Widening Access Partnership Award - are designed to break down barriers by offering campus visits, subject taster sessions, and vocational experiences across a range of settings, including clinical placements with local NHS partners. Students also benefit from tailored interview preparation. 

Participants who complete the programmes are guaranteed an interview when applying, and successful applicants may receive a contextual offer, including reduced grade requirements. The initiative supports students throughout their journey, from early outreach through to application and enrolment.

Ant Sutcliffe, Associate Director and Higher Horizons Lead, said: "We have strong evidence that these programmes are making a real impact. The latest HESA tracking data for the 2021 Steps2Medicine cohort shows that 16% progressed to a medicine, with a further 21 per cent going on to study medical sciences.

"Early results from the Future Vet programme are equally encouraging. In its pilot year, 11 students applied to the Harper and Keele Veterinary School. Seven received offers following interview, and four - around 36% of applicants - enrolled in September 2025.

"We are delighted to be shortlisted by NEON. Medicine and veterinary science remain among the most competitive and least accessible courses for students from widening participation backgrounds. This project demonstrates the power of partnership in breaking down those barriers and creating more equitable opportunities."

Award winners will be announced at the NEON awards ceremony on June 3 at the Palace of Westminster.