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Bath Spa University launches new ‘Breaking Down Barriers’ Impact Report
Tuesday, 20 May, 2025Bath Spa University has published its ‘Breaking Down Barriers for Inclusive Growth’ Impact Report in partnership with The Purpose Coalition at a Parliamentary Reception held in Westminster.
BSU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Georgina Andrews, welcomed guests along with the Chair of The Purpose Coalition and former Secretary of State for Education, Justine Greening. The official Parliamentary Welcome was given by Member of Parliament for Chippenham, Sarah Gibson MP.
The reception brought together education leaders, parliamentarians, local and regional government officials and key stakeholders to discuss the findings of the report, which explores Bath Spa University’s wider social impact and how the institution is using creativity and innovation to successfully address the key issues of our age. It also highlights how, through examples such as BSU’s leading teacher training provisions and varied skills delivery, including its innovative Short Course Unit, the University is breaking down barriers to education for all.
The event, held in The Thames Pavillion at the House of Commons, provided the opportunity for business leaders, representatives from the Third Sector, and invited guests from BSU’s cultural partners, Bath Spa University London, BSU students and members of the BSU Senior leadership team to network, share insights, and reflect on the role of universities in breaking down barriers and driving social mobility across the UK.
Professor Georgina Andrews said:
“Inclusion has always been a part of Bath Spa University’s DNA. Our deep roots go back over 170 years, through to more recently being named The Sunday Times University of the Year for Social Inclusion 2024, recognising the growing reach we have into often overlooked and disadvantaged social groups, accelerated with our work in London and other major English cities via our partners.”
She added:
“We believe that creativity is our human superpower, and Professional Creativity is at the heart of BSU’s purpose and planning, placing us as a leader for creativity and innovation in the West of England and more widely.
“Our work with The Purpose Coalition supports us to collaborate, partner and connect with likeminded businesses and organisations, so that we might all learn from each other to progress further opportunity for all. BSU and our partners are working towards similar aims and goals, to ensure that all members of our community are heard, seen and valued.”
Rt Hon Justine Greening, Chair of the Purpose Coalition, said:
"This report highlights the pivotal role Bath Spa University is playing as a purpose-led institution committed to driving social mobility and inclusive growth. Its work in teacher training, community-based skills delivery and innovative short courses reflects a deep understanding of the challenges facing both individuals and the wider South West region and, crucially, a determination to address them.
"The University’s ability to connect with underrepresented groups, remove barriers to opportunity, and equip learners with the skills they need for the future sets a powerful example for the sector."
Sarah Gibson, MP for Chippenham, and Liberal Democrat Spokesperson for Business said:
“Bath Spa University’s Short Course unit has delivered courses for over 1600 learners which is phenomenal. Those courses are designed in partnership with employers and delivered in an online and hybrid format breaking down barriers and enabling access across the South West.”
She added:
“If you live in a small rural town with appalling lack of public transport, the idea that you can do an online or hybrid course will make all the difference to you to be able to access this information and opportunities.”
Read the full Impact Report: ‘Breaking Down Barriers for Inclusive Growth.’