Event report - Access to HE Diploma Practitioner Group Meeting
The third and last Access to HE Diploma Practitioner Group meeting of the academic year was held online on the 15th May.
After a warm welcome from Andrew Jones, Linking London, we first heard from Ann-Marie Karadia, Access to HE Diploma Officer, QAA who presented giving an overview of Access to HE Diploma developments at QAA including upcoming regulatory changes, the revised grading scheme, learner demographic trends, the Nursing and Health professions subject descriptor pilot and what's next.
We then had a roundtable partner update providing an opportunity for partners to share the latest news from our college and university partners regarding Access delivery and HE outreach activities. Partners shared information on their Access offer and recruitment.
Following this, we heard from Penny Manning, Programme Manager, City of Bristol College who presented on City of Bristol College’s Access to HE provision, focusing on achievement outcomes, retention challenges, student support strategies, plans for future course development and HEI partnerships.
OCN London then gave a quick update on the successful implementation of the new grading scheme and outlined OCN London’s forward plans, including preparing diplomas to meet the new subject descriptor for Nursing, expanding online provision with new diplomas, and deepening partnerships with HEIs. Marisa Castellini announced she will be stepping down from her role as Head of Access at OCN London after over 20 years of service. Linking London and the group thanked her for all her contributions and expertise over the years and wished her the best for the future.
Lastly, Sarah Fisher provided an update on upcoming Uni Connect activity, including plans for an Access Fortnight from 13–24 October 2025, which will feature targeted support for Access and pre-Access learners through in-person sessions, webinars, and updated resources such as study skills guides, personal statement support, and a relaunch of the OCN London Access resource.
The next meeting will take place in the Autumn term, date and time TBC.
Further Information
RECORDING, SLIDES AND MEETING NOTE
This link will take you to the SharePoint Partner Area. You must be a Linking London member to access this website. If you do not have access or have any issues logging in, please email Linking London.