FASTRACK TO SUCCESS

9th August 2004

FASTRACK TO SUCCESS

The largest cohort of students to pass Edge Hill?s Fastrack programme picked up certificates of achievement at a special awards ceremony at the Ormskirk Campus.

Eighty-four people successfully completed the six-week intensive access to higher education course for mature learners, and now they?re prepared to start a range of degree programmes at Edge Hill in September.

Achievement awards were also presented to seven successful Fast Forward students - the first to achieve the free part time distance-learning course especially designed for those who don?t have the time to complete a full time access course, but are keen to enter higher education.

Rhiannon Evans, Director for Students and External Relations presented the certificates of achievement. She said: "To get to the standard that you have reached in only six weeks, or in the case of Fast Forward on a part time basis, is a fantastic achievement. I know that you have all had a huge amount of support from your families and friends, as well as Edge Hill staff and I?m sure you?d like to join me in thanking them for encouraging you throughout your studies."

Edge Hill has delivered the Fastrack programme for the last seven years and many students have progressed to a range of degree programmes at Edge Hill.

"Many who have completed Fastrack tend to outperform other degree students as they are often highly motivated and very well prepared." Said Rhiannon: "The Government is committed to ensuring that 50% of the population access higher education and the Fastrack course has been very successful in providing opportunities for those who may have missed out as school leavers."

Degree routes for Fastrack include Social Science subjects, Biological Sciences, Business Management, Communication and Media, Drama, English, Information Systems, Psychology, Critical Criminology, Sports Studies and Teacher Education.

ENDS

EDITOR?S NOTES: Fastrack is validated by the Merseyside Open College Network (MOCN) and successful students receive certification from MOCN (6 credits).

For further press information please contact: Roisin Rowley-Smith PR Manager Tel: 01695 584509 Fax: 01695 584355 E mail: rowlesr@edgehill.ac.uk or pressoffice@edgehill.ac.uk