info@soarforaccess.ie
On February 5th 2025, the SOAR Project and TU Dublin hosted a very successful workshop to mark the launch of our research report Students with Care Experience & Higher Education: “Progression in life despite my circumstances”.
The research aimed to gain an awareness and understanding of the enablers and barriers for students with care experience in accessing higher education and to help determine effective responses and strategies to strengthen access, participation, and success across this group. The research was supported by community partners Empowering Young People In Care (EPIC), CareLeavers Network Ireland and the Irish Aftercare Network.
The workshop also showcased models of practice with presentations from:
- Paul Cassidy, Community Outreach Officer – Care Experienced Lead, Ulster University
- Betty Attwood, Educational Support Worker for Care Experienced, University of Galway
- Dr Patrick McGarty, MTU Kerry Campus
- Dr Danielle Douglas, SETU Waterford
Interactive discussions enabled attendees to reflect on the research findings and explore collaborative opportunities to enhance the participation of care-experienced students in higher education. A highlight of the event was hearing directly of the lived experience of students with care experience.
The full report is available here Students with Care Experience and Higher Education “Progression in life despite my circumstances”