Theory of Change Narrative: Supporting Mature Learners in accessing higher education through a Train the Trainer intervention delivered by Hepp

Hepp (Higher Education Progression Partnership) is a jointly funded initiative by Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield that provides impartial advice and guidance across South Yorkshire and North East Derbyshire. Hepp aims to encourage more children, young people and adults that have experienced personal, systematic, or cultural barriers to accessing higher education to consider it as a viable option. Hepp has identified target groups for activity based on their strategic approach, which includes mature students from underrepresented backgrounds. Hepp have limited contact with potential mature students but are in a position to draw on their strong ties across the region and share information and guidance about higher education through multiple stakeholder groups. This report provides a narrative and a Theory of Change model for a train the trainer activity, which aims to increase awareness and knowledge about higher education among Hepp’s stakeholders so that they realise higher education is an option for learners of all ages and can confidently advise prospective students or direct them to relevant guidance. An extensive literature review was undertaken to identify barriers that mature students experience when accessing higher education. The outcomes of this intervention, which are focused on the impact it will have on the stakeholders and their engagement and understanding of higher education, are articulated as short, medium and long-term outcomes. Within the intervention, there are three main activities that stakeholders will be able to engage with: video programme; live session; stakeholder engagement