Adults who never went to uni offered a free course to help them do it

It's aimed at people who don't have an academic background

Michael Berrisford graduated with first class honours
Author: Adam SmithPublished 25th Jul 2026

The University of Staffordshire is offering a free 10-week programme titled Step Up to Higher Education, designed for adults wanting to pursue degree-level study without needing an academic background.

This initiative helps learners by providing confidence and skills in areas like academic writing and research, aiming to assist those looking to retrain or develop new skills.

Michael Berrisford from Burslem utilised the course to begin a Law degree, later graduating with first class honours. Jonathan Hackney-Dubois from Norton Heights also completed the programme, continuing to a Social Work degree and securing a role at Royal Stoke University Hospital.

Applications are open for those interested in starting the programme this September.

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