A new learning centre in Glasgow is set to help thousands of disadvantaged young people to achieve their academic and career ambitions.
The centre in Maryhill, which will provide after-school academic tuition, mentoring, workshops and work experience to young people aged 7-18, officially opened on Tuesday, 29 March.
Inclusive support
The project is a collaboration between the Universities of Edinburgh and Glasgow, and education charity IntoUniversity, to empower young people in areas traditionally associated with social deprivation.
It is the third centre to be opened in the last year, the first two centres launching in Govan, Glasgow and Craigmillar, Edinburgh.
The Maryhill centre is inclusive of all academic abilities and helps young people to achieve a university or college place, or another positive destination.
Once established it will support over 1,000 students per year.
The launch of the Maryhill learning centre marks a major milestone in helping us unlock and nurture the potential of young people, regardless of their background. This is an ambitious and important project, and we are proud to be part of it. The impact of the learning centre will create a wider benefit not only for the individuals, but also for their families and communities, the universities or colleges they might attend, and for society as a whole.
Professor Peter Mathieson
Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Edinburgh
Launch event
Around 20 students, their parents and guardians, and project partners and supporters attended an opening event at the centre on Tuesday, with some young people delivering speeches.
Students were given the opportunity to ask guests about their experiences in higher education and other learning and work destinations.
Melika, aged 14, said she is able to focus at the Maryhill centre more easily than at home.
When I leave school, I want to study law at university and become a lawyer. I think it is really good at this centre. It’s a place for you to come to concentrate on study. When I am at home, it is more difficult to study, as I am distracted by my phone and TV. Here I am able to focus on the work and staff are very helpful.Melika
CitatJohn Paul Academy pupil
Melika
CitatJohn Paul Academy pupil
We are delighted to have opened our latest learning centre in Maryhill in collaboration with the Universities of Glasgow and Edinburgh. It is wonderful to be able to celebrate the success of students so far, as well as looking forward to what they will achieve in the future.
Dr. Rachel Carr
Chief Executive and Co-Founder of IntoUniversity
