Supporting Care Leavers at UON
For some students, particularly those leaving care, the journey into higher education or employment does not always follow a traditional route. Transitions can feel uncertain, and confidence can be affected by a lack of tailored support or opportunities to develop key skills. At the University of Northampton, we recognise that potential comes in many forms and that students succeed best when they are supported in ways that reflect their individual experiences.
The ‘An Alternative Pathway to Career Progression’ module has been designed to provide a supportive and practical route for students who may not have followed a conventional educational pathway. It offers a structured opportunity to develop confidence, build essential skills, and prepare for the next step, whether that is university study, further training, or employment.
A course built around real experience
This module focuses on the development of essential and transferable life skills that support long-term progression. Students are encouraged to develop skills in goal-setting, communication, problem-solving, motivation, and resilience, all of which are vital both within education and beyond.
Alongside this, the course explores wellbeing, relationships, and the importance of social and practical support. These elements are embedded throughout the module to help students better understand how to manage challenges, maintain balance, and sustain progress over time.
Turning reflection into confidence
Reflection is a key part of the learning experience on this module. Students are supported to reflect on their own experiences, identify the strengths and skills they already possess, and develop confidence in communicating these in an academic or professional context.
The module also supports students to develop confidence in writing and structured reflection. This includes guidance on presenting personal experiences positively and purposefully, without feeling exposed or judged. By the end of the module, students will have produced a strong personal statement suitable for university, training, or job applications.
Teaching is delivered through a supportive blend of structured learning and practical support sessions, creating an inclusive environment where students are encouraged to progress at their own pace.
Meet the Programme Lead
The module is led by Dr Aman Asif-Malik, Programme Lead, who brings almost 25 years’ experience supporting learners across a range of educational and professional settings.
Dr Asif-Malik has worked extensively within higher education, as well as in probation services and secondary schools, providing him with a broad understanding of the challenges individuals can face when navigating education, work, and personal development.
His approach is supportive, inclusive, and student-centred, with a strong focus on helping students recognise their strengths, develop essential and transferable skills, and move forward with confidence. Learning takes place in a respectful environment where individual experiences are valued and students are supported to achieve their aspirations.
Information for college staff and advisers
For college tutors, advisers, and support staff working with care-experienced students, An Alternative Pathway to Career Progression provides a clear and supportive progression option.
The module is particularly suited to students who demonstrate motivation and potential but may benefit from additional support to build confidence, develop reflective and writing skills, or prepare for applications to higher education or employment.
By offering a structured, inclusive transition into the next stage of study or work, this module supports students leaving care to take meaningful and confident steps towards their future.
Find out more about how UON supports Care Leavers in Higher Education.
