University of Sunderland named as the country’s ‘most inclusive’

The national honour recognises the university’s long-running success in attracting capable people into higher education, whatever their background or circumstances, and helping them to achieve their potential.

This is the third year in a row it has ranked in the top 20 of the unique social inclusion list, but the first time it has achieved the top prize.

In 2019, the university opened a new school of medicine which specifically aims for a more diverse intake.

Sunderland is one of a handful of universities where more than 60% of the intake are the first in their family to go to university, and more than 98% are educated in non-selective state schools.

The establishment also moved up six places from 109 to 103 in this year's guide, and their progress has been hailed by staff and students alike.

Chancellor of the University of Sunderland, multi-platinum singer Emeli Sandé, said: “Here at Sunderland our ethos is that of inclusivity, giving people the chance to reach their full potential.

"We want our graduates to go on and be a force for change.”

Sir David Bell, vice-chancellor and chief executive of the university, said: “Whether undertaking a foundation degree or studying in our medical school, students from all kinds of backgrounds have the opportunity to improve their career prospects and life chances when attending the University of Sunderland.

“With a long tradition of being an open and accessible institution, we are absolutely delighted to have been recognised as University of the Year for Social Inclusion.”

Alastair McCall, editor of the Sunday Times Good University Guide, added: “The sheer range of outreach and access work here makes an unanswerable case for making Sunderland our University of the Year for Social Inclusion.”

Georgios Vasilakis, 19, originally from Greece, arrived in Sunderland last September to study web and mobile development.

He said: “Everyone at the university, and in the city, has been very welcoming. From the very first day I felt right at home.

“Even though I came from another country and a totally different background, I never felt alone here, I always had someone to speak to.”

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