Keele shortlisted for national social mobility award

Keele University has been shortlisted for University of the Year at the Student Social Mobility Awards 2026, a national awards programme recognising institutions that improve opportunities for students from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

Organised by social mobility charity upReach, the awards recognise universities that are helping more students access higher education, succeed during their studies, and progress into graduate careers.

The shortlisting reflects Keele's commitment to widening participation and supporting student success through initiatives including Higher Horizons, a programme based on the University's campus that helps raise aspirations and increase progression into higher education.

Since 2017, Higher Horizons has supported more than 65,000 young people across Staffordshire, Cheshire and Shropshire. Recent data shows that 47% of participants go on to apply to university - around twice the rate of their peers.

Kulvinder Birring, Director of Student Futures at Keele, said: "We are delighted to be shortlisted for this award. It reflects the commitment of colleagues and partners across the University who work to create opportunities for students from under-represented backgrounds and support them to achieve their ambitions.

"Improving social mobility is central to our mission, and we are proud to help students access higher education, succeed in their studies and progress into rewarding careers."

Employability is a key part of the Keele student experience, with every undergraduate degree offering either a placement year or an integrated professional placement. These opportunities help students gain valuable industry experience, develop professional networks and enhance their career prospects.

This work is supported by the Keele Deals framework, which brings together local authorities, businesses and education providers to create pathways into employment. The University's Access and Participation Plan also provides a range of support measures, including academic skills support, financial assistance, wellbeing services and careers guidance.

Recent figures highlight the impact of these initiatives. In the 2026 Uni Compare rankings, published in June 2025, Keele was ranked among the UK's top 15 universities for graduate employability prospects and achieved a 97% student recommendation rate.

Financial support also remains a key part of the University's approach. Through its discretionary Access and Success Fund, students from underrepresented groups can receive up to £1,500 in each year to help them to get the most out of their time at the University.

Keele is shortlisted alongside the University of Warwick and Manchester Metropolitan University. The winner will be announced on July 8th.