We are delighted to share that our University has been awarded the National Network for the Education of Care Leavers (NNECL) Quality Mark, recognising the strength and impact of our provision for care-experienced and estranged students (CEES). 

The Quality Mark, launched in 2021, is widely recognised as the sector gold standard for CEES support. Accreditation requires institutions to demonstrate robust, embedded practice across key areas including financial support, accommodation, student belonging, transitions, careers guidance, and wellbeing. 

This recognition reflects a significant collective effort across the University. Our submission evidenced a holistic and student-centred approach, including: 

• Dedicated named contacts for CEES students 

• Financial bursaries and targeted support 

• Year-round accommodation 

• Tailored careers and progression guidance 

• Mental health and wellbeing provision 

• Opportunities to build connection, belonging and social capital 

The University was also recognised with enhanced ratings across a number of areas, highlighting both the quality of our existing provision and our strong commitment to continuous improvement. NNECL reviewers praised the University for its clear culture of compassionate practice, strong internal collaboration, and a genuine focus on improving outcomes for students. They also highlighted the University’s forward-looking approach, including plans to strengthen pre-entry support, deepen partnerships with local authorities, and enhance impact evaluation to further improve the student experience.

Emma Woozeer, Access Manager in the Widening Participation and Social Mobility directorate says:

“The process of undertaking the NNECL Quality Mark has allowed us to reflect on the great work that takes place across the institution to support our care-experienced and estranged students. The Quality Mark not only celebrates what we are doing well but, importantly, helps us identify where we can go further and develop future practice.” 

Deborah Gill, Vice-President Education and Student Experience, says:

“Achieving the NNECL Quality Mark is a significant milestone that reflects our long‑standing, student‑centred commitment to care experienced and estranged students. This recognition affirms the purposeful work happening across the University and supports our plans to ensure this high-quality support is fully embedded throughout the student journey”. 

This award recognises the dedication of colleagues across professional services and academic areas who contribute to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for CEES students. 

It also reflects the importance of listening to and working in partnership with our students, ensuring that our provision continues to evolve in response to their needs and experiences. 

We will continue to build on this strong foundation to ensure that care experienced and estranged students at Southampton are empowered to access opportunity, succeed in their studies, and progress confidently into the future.