Bridging the Gap Graduation Ceremony

Bridging the Gap graduates

On Monday 20th June staff at Manchester Metropolitan University Cheshire campus celebrated their fourth year of involvement with the Bridging the Gap project with a graduation day for six placement students from the scheme. The Provost Janet Haddock-Fraser led the ceremony, which was attended by family, friends and university staff and representatives from Cheshire East.

The service concluded with a vocal performance from the students which was met with rapturous applause.
Dave, Callum, Charlotte, Millie, Phoebe, and Kieran are all students at Springfield School, in Crewe, which specialises in helping young people with special needs.

Six-placement hosts supported the scheme- The Catering Department, Facilities, I.T Services, Student Union, Sports/Science Department and Library Services. With their commitment and dedication, the students have taken on responsibility, gained skills and independence. The Bridging the Gap programme was made possible because of the involvement of many people, those who welcomed the students onto the campus. The placement hosts have helped to make “Bridging the Gap” a reality and helped prepare our young students for the next step in their lives.
Nationally very few schools offer such opportunities that Bridging the Gap offers and it is because of this, it is an exciting and innovative project.

Dave Ellis has been part of the programme for four years and was awarded a bespoke certificate in Sports Science. This will allow him to lead inductions in the gym. The scheme has meant he has gained employment on a casual basis. Callum Burgess who has been on the scheme for one year has been offered an Apprenticeship in I.T with both Springfield School and the University.

Carol Langhorn, Bridging the Gap Placement Tutor explained "Less than 3% of young people who attend special schools go on to paid employment. This is a waste of talent and the University have done something about it. Inclusive education is very important to Manchester Metropolitan University. These students are a shining example of what can be achieved if you invest in young people from diverse backgrounds."