Top Award for Careers Service

Edge Hill University's careers service has scooped a top national award in recognition of its commitment to diversity.

The department?s pioneering Outlook programme ? a collaborative scheme with University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores and Liverpool Hope University ? came first in the Diversity category at the Association of Graduate Careers Advisory Services (AGCAS) awards ceremony.

Outlook aims to boost the job prospects of black and Asian students, disabled students, mature students and students who are the first generation in their family to enter higher education.

Sue Hepworth, Edge Hill University's Outlook programme officer, said: "We are delighted to receive such a prestigious award that acknowledges our continued dedication to enhancing the career prospects of students from all backgrounds.

"Students have found the programme really useful as it makes the most of their skills and highlights areas that they need to strengthen. Putting students in touch with major employers in the region through the mentoring scheme is mutually beneficial and I?m sure the large number of people involved will only increase in the future."

The programme works by pairing a student with a mentor from a profession to which they aspire. Mentors regularly meet with their student to give them insight into their job role, as well as advice on interview techniques and CV preparation. This year, 85 students took part, working with professionals from leading organisations.