The programme recruits, trains and places PhD researchers in non-selective state schools to deliver university-style tutorials based on their own research to small groups. The year 10 students Liz Kendall met with are studying a course entitled' What Was It Like To Live In A Workhouse, C.1750-1834' with their tutor Joe Harley from University of Leicester. As part of the programme, the students will also visit two highly-selective universities, where they will receive information, advice and guidance about university life and making a successful university application. 

The Scholars Programme is run by The Brilliant Club, an award-winning charity whose aim is increase the number of students from under-represented backgrounds progressing to highly-selective universities. An independent evaluation by the Universities and Colleges Application Services (UCAS) showed that nearly sixty percent of students who complete the programme go on to attend a highly-selective university. For students on the programme who were eligible for free school meals, 58% progressed to a highly-selective university, compared to a national rate of 11%. 

Liz Kendall MP said:  “It was great to visit Fullhurst Community College today, and meet pupils taking part in The Scholars Programme. I was very impressed at how they engaged with such a complex and challenging academic topic. It just goes to show what young people from Leicester West can achieve if we give them the opportunity. I wish the pupils the very best for the future, and I encourage more schools to give their pupils the chance to benefit from this programme”. 

Steve Piggot, Principal said: “I was delighted to meet with Liz Kendall and show them the work pupils are doing in The Scholars Programme. I’m proud of the achievements of our students who are participating and am excited to see how their participation inspires their study and university choices.”

Dr Chris Wilson, CEO of The Brilliant Club said: “In Britain today, there’s an entrenched link between a young person’s background and their chance of education success. The Scholars Programme helps pupils develop the knowledge and skills necessary to fulfil their academic potential and secure places at highly-selective universities. We’re really grateful to Liz Kendall for taking time to come and see the great work that our PhD tutors and partner schools are doing, and the amazing things pupils are achieving.”