Widening Participation (WP) at Bishop Grosseteste University is about ensuring that all students, regardless of their background or personal circumstances, have the opportunity to access and succeed in higher education. We are committed to breaking down barriers to learning by providing targeted support, financial assistance, and inclusive programmes designed to empower underrepresented groups.
Our dedication to equality of opportunity reflects our belief that talent and potential should be the key factors in shaping a student’s future, not their starting point.
Who is Widening Participation for?
- Students who has been/currently are in care
- A student whose parents have served in the forces
- Young Adult Carers
- Students from black, Asian or minority Ethnic background
- Students who have physical, mental or learning disabilities
- Mature Students
- Students from lower socio-economic groups and neighbourhoods in which relatively few people enter higher education
*This list has been taken from the Office for Students website and is correct at the time of publishing.
Why is WP important?
Widening Participation programmes play a crucial role in creating fairer access to higher education by providing tailored support to students from underrepresented backgrounds. Through initiatives such as contextual offers and financial assistance, these programmes help to reduce barriers that might otherwise prevent students from pursuing university education.
Helpful Links
Find out more about Contextual offers
Details of BGU's undergraduate bursary scheme.
Find out more about Information For Schools (WP)

The Lincolnshire Children's University is a partnership between Bishop Grosseteste University and the University of Lincoln which aims to raise aspirations and help children explore new opportunities.
Find out more here.
If you are involved in the Children's University and are visiting our university campus for a campus tour (for yourself or with a family member/friend) you can use this for a stamp for your passport. Please email Gemma Gazi (Widening Participation Officer) on outreach@bishopg.ac.uk to collect digital stamp code.
Due to funding stipulations, we sometimes have to prioritise certain students over others. This means we use WP criteria and application forms to help us make our decisions about whom we invite to what events. If we are running WP events, the selection process will rarely be first come first served.
For more information, please call 01522 583658 to speak to our Widening Participation Officer directly.
Interested in joining us?
Browse our wide range of degree courses and find the perfect one for you.
Open days are the best way to find out what BGU has to offer.
Download your copy of our prospectus to find out more about life at BGU.