University of the West of Scotland – a partner to public services

University of the West of Scotland’s (UWS) Foundation Academy is delivered to senior school pupils across the West of Scotland, providing them with the opportunity to experience studying at university level, develop key academic and personal skills, and prepare a strong university application. Since the Foundation Academy began in 2022, the University has enrolled over 1,000 pupils from over 33 schools in Ayrshire, Renfrewshire, Lanarkshire, Argyll and Bute, Glasgow, and Dumfries and Galloway.

The programme aims to raise both aspirations and awareness of HE opportunities available to pupils within their local community, offering guidance with study pathways, application processes, and required qualifications for students who may need additional support or whose qualifications may fall slightly short of typical entry requirements. Participants who successfully complete the programme can gain a qualification certificate worth 20 credits at SCQF level 7.